Chinatown Oakland, with its vibrant culture and delicious food, might seem intimidating for families with young children. But fear not! This bustling neighborhood offers a surprising number of kid-friendly restaurants, catering to diverse tastes and ages. This guide explores 18 of the best, ensuring your family's next Chinatown adventure is a delicious and memorable one. We've considered factors like atmosphere, menu options, high chairs, and overall kid-friendliness in our selection.
Finding Family Fun in Oakland's Chinatown: A Kid-Friendly Food Adventure
Oakland's Chinatown offers a unique blend of traditional and modern eateries. Many restaurants, while specializing in authentic cuisine, understand the needs of families with children. This isn't just about offering kid-friendly options on the menu; it's about creating a welcoming atmosphere where children feel comfortable and parents can relax and enjoy their meal.
Top Picks for Kid-Approved Eats in Chinatown
Here's a curated list of 18 restaurants that excel in providing a positive dining experience for families:
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Good Mong Kok Bakery: This isn't strictly a restaurant, but it's a Chinatown institution! Their delicious pastries and baked goods are perfect for a quick treat or a delightful snack for kids. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming.
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Henry's Hunan Restaurant: Offers classic Hunan dishes with some milder options perfect for picky eaters. Their portions are generous, easily sharable, and often come with rice, a kid favorite.
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Dragon Beaux: Known for its elegant setting and upscale Cantonese cuisine, Dragon Beaux might seem formal, but they’re surprisingly accommodating to families, offering high chairs and a generally relaxed atmosphere.
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New Saigon Restaurant: Vietnamese cuisine shines here. The pho is a comforting option, and many of the noodle dishes can be adjusted for milder spice levels.
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Sam Wo Restaurant: A Chinatown landmark famous for its robust Cantonese fare and no-frills atmosphere. While not specifically designed for kids, the excitement of a historical setting can be fun for older children.
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House of Nanking: Known for its legendary soup dumplings (xiaolongbao), this restaurant offers a unique culinary experience. While the dumplings might be tricky for very young children, older kids will love them.
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ABC Seafood Restaurant: Offering fresh seafood dishes in a lively environment, ABC Seafood provides a wide variety of options to please even the fussiest eaters.
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Hong Kong Flower Lounge: This restaurant offers delicious dim sum in a more relaxed, less formal setting than some of the others. The variety of dim sum means there's bound to be something your kids will enjoy.
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Dim Sum King: Another fantastic dim sum option, Dim Sum King provides a fun and bustling atmosphere with a diverse selection of dim sum dishes.
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Ocean Star Restaurant: Offers a large menu including American-Chinese staples alongside more traditional dishes, ensuring something for everyone.
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New Kam Long: A beloved local spot for classic Cantonese dishes, known for its generous portions and friendly service.
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Grand Seafood Restaurant: Offering fresh seafood dishes in a bright and spacious setting, Grand Seafood is a great choice for larger families.
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Great Eastern Restaurant: Famous for its Peking duck, this establishment also caters to families, offering a range of dishes suitable for children.
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East Ocean Restaurant: Serves upscale Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine. While more formal, their service is usually very attentive to families.
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Mott 32: Offers a modern interpretation of classic Cantonese dishes in a stylish environment. While pricier, the quality and ambiance might be worth it for a special occasion.
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Pho 888: While not strictly within Chinatown, this popular spot just outside the main area serves exceptional pho, a kid-friendly favorite.
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Little Skillet: Another slightly outside Chinatown but close enough, Little Skillet offers delicious comfort food, including pancakes and breakfast burritos, which are great for a brunch-time family outing.
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** Burma Superstar (Richmond, close to Chinatown):** Although not technically in Chinatown, this popular restaurant (requiring a wait most of the time) is known for its flavorful Burmese food and is a fun adventure. It's kid-friendly, with lots of shareable dishes.
Tips for Dining Out in Oakland Chinatown with Kids
- Call ahead: Many restaurants accept reservations, especially on weekends. This can significantly reduce wait times, especially for larger families.
- Check the menu online: Familiarizing yourself with the menu beforehand helps you choose dishes suitable for your children's tastes and dietary needs.
- Pack snacks: Having some snacks on hand can help tide over hungry little ones while waiting for your food.
- Bring entertainment: A small toy or book can help keep children occupied during the meal.
- Be prepared for crowds: Chinatown can be busy, especially on weekends. Be patient and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
This guide provides a starting point for your family's culinary adventures in Oakland Chinatown. Explore, discover, and enjoy the many delicious and kid-friendly options this vibrant neighborhood offers! Remember to check restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm hours, menus, and kid-friendliness. Happy eating!
