Finding family-friendly dining options in a bustling city like Chicago can be a challenge. But fear not, parents! Streeterville, a vibrant neighborhood known for its stunning lakefront views and high-rise buildings, also boasts a surprising number of restaurants that cater to both adults and children. This guide highlights 18 of the best kid-friendly restaurants in Streeterville, ensuring your next family meal is a delightful experience. We'll cover a range of cuisines and price points, making it easy to find the perfect spot for your family.
Kid-Friendly Eats: Diverse Options in Streeterville
Streeterville's diverse culinary scene extends to its family-friendly establishments. Whether your kids crave pizza, pasta, or something more adventurous, you'll find it here. The key features of these kid-friendly restaurants often include:
- High chairs and booster seats: Essential for comfortable dining with little ones.
- Kid-friendly menu options: Beyond just chicken fingers, many offer creative and healthy choices.
- Relaxed atmosphere: No stuffy formality here; these restaurants embrace the energy of families.
- Convenient locations: Many are located near attractions, making mealtimes easy to incorporate into your itinerary.
Casual Dining Delights for Families
1. RPM Italian: While known for its upscale ambiance, RPM Italian offers a surprisingly kid-friendly experience. Their pasta dishes are always a hit, and the service is generally accommodating to families.
2. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria: A Chicago institution, Lou Malnati's is a must-try for deep-dish pizza lovers. Kids will adore the cheesy goodness, and the casual atmosphere makes it perfect for a family meal.
3. Giordano's: Another Chicago deep-dish pizza powerhouse, Giordano's provides a similar experience to Lou Malnati's - delicious pizza and a relaxed atmosphere. They're known for their stuffed pizza.
4. Portillo's: While not strictly a sit-down restaurant, Portillo's is a Chicago classic. Their Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and chocolate cake shakes are a fun treat for the whole family. You can easily grab food to go and enjoy it at a nearby park.
Upscale Dining with Kid-Friendly Touches
5. Sunda: This stylish Asian-fusion restaurant is surprisingly accommodating to families. While it's upscale, the diverse menu offers options for even picky eaters.
6. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: This steakhouse offers a sophisticated ambiance but welcomes families. The extensive menu caters to a wide range of palates.
7. The Purple Pig: Known for its Mediterranean-inspired small plates, The Purple Pig offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu with plenty of kid-friendly options. Shareable plates make family-style dining a breeze.
Quick Bites and Cafes
8. Starbucks: A reliable option for a quick coffee and a snack for the adults, and plenty of pastries and kid-friendly drinks are available.
9. Pret a Manger: A great choice for a quick and healthy meal. Sandwiches, salads, and yogurt parfaits are popular options.
Restaurants with Outdoor Seating
Enjoying a meal outdoors is often a plus when dining with kids. Streeterville offers several options with patios or outdoor seating areas:
10. North Pond: Offers beautiful outdoor seating overlooking a pond, creating a magical setting for a family meal.
11. River Roast: This restaurant boasts stunning river views. While more upscale, it's a great choice for a special occasion family meal with amazing city views.
Family-Friendly Hotel Restaurants
Many hotels in Streeterville include restaurants that are kid-friendly:
12. The Signature Room at the 95th: This restaurant offers incredible panoramic views of the city. It's special occasion-worthy but can be a memorable experience for the family.
13. Other Hotel Restaurants: Many hotels like the Peninsula Chicago and Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park offer restaurants with casual and family-friendly options. Check their menus before your visit.
Focusing on Specific Dietary Needs
14. Restaurants with Vegetarian/Vegan Options: Several restaurants in Streeterville cater to various dietary needs. Research restaurants ahead of time and look for menus that clearly show vegetarian and vegan options.
15. Restaurants with Gluten-Free Options: Similar to vegetarian/vegan options, check menus in advance to confirm the availability of gluten-free choices.
Sweet Treats
Don't forget dessert! Streeterville offers many options for satisfying your family's sweet tooth:
16. Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop: A classic choice for ice cream and chocolate treats.
17. Magnifico's: A great spot for gelato.
A Hidden Gem
18. [Insert a local, less-known but kid-friendly restaurant here if you have a specific recommendation]: Add a locally loved restaurant that might be less known but offers a great experience for families. Local knowledge is key here!
Tips for Dining Out with Kids in Streeterville
- Make reservations: Especially during peak hours and weekends, reservations are highly recommended.
- Check menus beforehand: This allows you to select dishes suitable for your kids’ tastes and dietary needs.
- Pack snacks and drinks: Having a few snacks and drinks on hand can prevent meltdowns before your meal arrives.
- Bring entertainment: Books, tablets, or small toys can keep kids occupied while waiting for food.
- Be prepared for spills and messes: It's part of the experience!
Streeterville offers a delightful range of dining options for families, ensuring a memorable meal for everyone. Remember to check menus, make reservations when needed, and enjoy the experience!
