Finding family-friendly restaurants that cater to both parents and kids can be a challenge. Atwater Village, a charming neighborhood in Los Angeles, offers a surprisingly diverse range of options. This guide highlights 15 of the best kid-friendly restaurants in Atwater Village, ensuring your next family meal is a delightful experience. We've considered factors like kid-friendly menus, ambiance, pricing, and overall family-friendliness.
Top Picks for Family Dining in Atwater Village
This section dives into our top choices, providing detailed information to help you choose the perfect spot for your family. We've organized them by cuisine type for easier navigation.
Casual & Kid-Approved Favorites
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The Original Farmers Market: While technically not solely in Atwater Village (it's on the border), it's a must-mention. The Farmers Market boasts an incredible variety of food stalls, ensuring there's something for every picky eater. From pizza to tacos to fresh fruit, even the fussiest kids will find something they love. Plus, the lively atmosphere and outdoor seating create a fun, family-friendly environment. Pro tip: Check their website for special events and kids' activities.
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Cafe Gratitude: Known for its positive affirmations and healthy, plant-based options, Cafe Gratitude surprisingly caters well to kids. While the menu is primarily vegetarian, they offer kid-friendly staples like mac and cheese and pizzas, made with wholesome ingredients. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a comfortable place for families to relax and enjoy a meal together.
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HomeState: This Texas-style eatery serves up delicious tacos and Tex-Mex comfort food. Kids will love the simple, flavorful options, and the casual atmosphere is perfect for families. They're known for their generous portions – plenty for sharing or leftovers!
Upscale but Still Family-Friendly
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Little Dom's: This Italian restaurant offers delicious pasta dishes and pizzas in a warm and inviting atmosphere. While perhaps a bit more upscale than other options, Little Dom's is still welcoming to families. Their kid's menu is simple but satisfying, and the shared plates allow for family-style dining.
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The Trails Cafe: This neighborhood gem offers a more refined dining experience, but still keeps families in mind. Their menu features fresh, seasonal dishes, many with kid-friendly options. The outdoor patio provides a relaxed space for families to enjoy their meal.
Quick Bites & Casual Eats
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The Pie Hole: This beloved bakery and cafe offers delicious pies, pastries, and sandwiches. Perfect for a quick lunch or a sweet treat after a day of exploring Atwater Village. Kids will love the fun and colorful treats.
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Salt & Straw: Indulge in unique and artisanal ice cream flavors at this popular ice cream shop. While not a full meal, it's a great option for a sweet treat or a quick dessert.
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Tacos Tu Madre: A favorite amongst locals for its authentic and delicious tacos. It's casual, affordable, and kids typically enjoy the simple, flavorful tacos.
Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Family
Choosing the right restaurant depends on your family's preferences and the occasion. Here's a quick guide to help you decide:
| Restaurant | Cuisine Type | Atmosphere | Price Range | Kid-Friendliness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Original Farmers Market | Diverse | Lively, Bustling | $-$$ | Excellent |
| Cafe Gratitude | Vegetarian/Vegan | Relaxed, Casual | $ | Good |
| HomeState | Tex-Mex | Casual | $-$$ | Excellent |
| Little Dom's | Italian | Warm, Inviting | $$ | Good |
| The Trails Cafe | American/Californian | Relaxed, Upscale | $$ | Good |
| The Pie Hole | Bakery/Cafe | Casual | $ | Excellent |
| Salt & Straw | Ice Cream | Casual | $ | Excellent |
| Tacos Tu Madre | Mexican | Casual | $ | Excellent |
Note: Price ranges are approximate and may vary. $ indicates moderate pricing, and $$ indicates higher pricing.
Beyond the Food: Things to Consider
Remember to check each restaurant's website or call ahead to confirm things like hours of operation, kids' menus, high chair availability, and outdoor seating options. Many restaurants also offer takeout, which is a great option if you're looking for a more relaxed meal at home.
Exploring Atwater Village with Kids
Atwater Village offers more than just great restaurants. Consider incorporating a visit to the Los Angeles River bike path, Griffith Park, or a stroll through the charming streets of the neighborhood to make it a full family outing.
This guide offers a starting point for exploring the kid-friendly culinary scene of Atwater Village. With a little planning, you can ensure your next family meal is both delicious and memorable. Remember to check reviews and menus before visiting, and most importantly, have fun!
