Finding a restaurant that caters to both adults and children can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack, especially in a bustling metropolis like New York City. Have you ever wondered where you can enjoy a delectable meal while your little ones have a blast in a dedicated play area? The challenge lies not only in satisfying a grown-up palate but also in ensuring that children are entertained. Here’s a carefully curated list of 10 restaurants across various neighborhoods in New York City that offer play zones for children, making dining out a delightful experience for the entire family.
1. The Little Gym Café
Address: 96 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (212) 529-1000
Website: www.thelittlegym.com
This vibrant destination blends fitness with dining. With an adjacent play area for toddlers featuring soft play structures and interactive games, parents can relish a nutritious meal. They offer various healthy options, ensuring even the pickiest eaters are satisfied.
2. Brooklyn Children’s Museum Café
Address: 145 Brooklyn Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213
Contact: (718) 735-4400
Website: www.brooklynculture.org
Tucked within the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, this café invites families to dine surrounded by creativity and education. The play area is designed to encourage imaginative play. Enjoy a selection of organic snacks while your children explore learning stations crafted just for them.
3. Kidville
Address: 90-37 33rd Ave, Queens, NY 11372
Contact: (718) 793-1100
Website: www.kidville.com
Kidville merges children’s classes with a cheerful eatery. The play area is equipped with toys and climbing structures, serving as an oasis for kids to explore. Meanwhile, parents can indulge in a variety of café offerings from artisanal coffee to fresh pastries.
4. The Grey Dog
Address: 244 W 13th St, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 924-5525
Website: www.thegreydog.com
Famed for its welcoming atmosphere, The Grey Dog provides a playful corner for kids within its restaurant. Parents can relish the extensive menu featuring comfort food favorites, from burgers to salads, all while keeping an eye on the little ones exploring the play nook.
5. Ditch Plains
Address: 100 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 200-3972
Website: www.ditchplainsnyc.com
Emulating a beachside eatery, Ditch Plains has a small but engaging play area. The menu is seafood-centric, with fresh catches prepared daily. Parents can enjoy a relaxing meal, knowing their children are entertained within sight.
6. Alice’s Tea Cup
Address: 102 W 73rd St, New York, NY 10023
Contact: (212) 799-3006
Website: www.alicesteacup.com
This whimsical tea shop is a favorite for those seeking an enchanting dining experience. The play area, complete with books and toys, is a perfect complement to the imaginative theme. Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea — a treat for all ages — as the children engage in creative play.
7. The Playroom
Address: 145 E 43rd St, New York, NY 10017
Contact: (212) 818-8388
Website: www.theplayroom.com
Enclaved in a quaint spot, The Playroom offers a space where imagination thrives. Featuring a colorful play area filled with toys and games, it’s an ideal environment for young adventurers. Parents can select from a menu laden with seasonal ingredients and dishes designed for family dining.
8. Serendipity 3
Address: 225 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022
Contact: (212) 838-3531
Website: www.serendipity3.com
Known for its extravagant desserts, Serendipity 3 also features a playful space for children. While families enjoy quirky dishes and desserts that tantalize the taste buds, kids can engage in a vibrant play area filled with a kaleidoscope of activities, fostering creativity and fun.
9. Pizza Park
Address: 873 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 245-0900
Website: www.pizzaparknyc.com
This pizzeria isn’t just a spot for delicious slices; it also incorporates a playful area for little ones. Known for its diverse pizza options, parents can enjoy their favorite flavors while kids can immerse themselves in games and activities designed to keep them happy and engaged.
10. Jungle Café
Address: 456 E 2nd St, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (646) 590-0350
Website: www.junglecafenj.com
With an exotic décor reminiscent of a rainforest, Jungle Café offers a playful atmosphere. The dedicated play area, along with a kid-friendly menu filled with nutritious blends, makes this café an excellent choice for families looking for a unique dining experience.
In conclusion, dining out with children doesn’t have to be a logistical puzzle. Whether you are craving seafood, pizza, or a delightful high tea experience, these ten restaurants, with their designated play areas, ensure that your dining experience will be enjoyable for both adults and children. So, the next time you think about a family outing, consider these spots where fun meets fabulous food.
