The Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in San Diego
San Diego has more than earned its reputation as a foodie paradise. Gourmands of all stripes can always find something on the menu at the wide variety of restaurants in America’s Finest City.
Of course, not every restaurant is necessarily ideal for budding epicureans. So if you’re looking to tuck in to a plateful of family-friendly fare and a welcoming ambience, you’ve come to the right pace.
Read on for our guide to San Diego’s best family-friendly restaurants.
Bunz (just steps away!)
While here, you won’t have to go far to find a plate that will please even the most persnickety palate. Our own on-site gourmet burger joint Bunz offers delicious top-shelf burgers, all made from fresh, local ingredients like organic veggies and all-natural beef. Choose from delicious chef-prepared options, or build your own. And you won’t want to miss out on our delicious desserts, either — including thick, creamy shakes and concretes.
475 Hotel Circle South San Diego, CA 92108
Casa de Reyes (2.1 miles from the hotel)
It’s a fiesta every day at Casa de Reyes in Old Town. If you’re in the mood for fantastically flavorful south-of-the-border favorites, Casa de Reyes plates tacos, burritos, tostadas, and other classics that are fantastic even by San Diego’s standards for Mexican food. You’ll want to stick around after you’ve finished dessert, too — Casa de Reyes has an on-site stage with a full live (and lively!) entertainment schedule.
2754 Calhoun St, San Diego, CA 92110
Grater Grilled Cheese (2.1 miles)
All grilled cheeses are good. But some are just “Grater” than others! Grater Grilled Cheese serves up the classic grilled cheese you (and your kids) know and love, plus a whole host of tasty twists on the formula. Ever had a lobster grilled cheese? You can here. How about a Cordon Bleu with chicken, ham and swiss? It’s on the menu. Add in expanded offerings like mac & cheese, fries and a full burger menu, and there’s truly something for everyone.
5618 Mission Center Rd #1002, San Diego, CA 92108
Working Class (3.6 miles)
Upscale diner fare with a blue-collar attitude is the order of the day at Working Class. Kids will love the deep and delicious menu of sandwiches, sliders, wings, rings, fries and mac & cheese, and their taller traveling companions can dig into all of the above, plus salads, all-day breakfast and a bull draft beer list.
4095 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
Corvette Diner (4.9 miles)
Rev up the time machine, and take a trip back to a classic ‘50s diner. The era of sock hops, giant milkshakes and poodle skirts never really ended — it’s on the menu here. So are all the classic kid-favorite classics like onion rings, chili, burgers, fries, shakes, and much more. Wear your saddle shoes, fire up the jukebox and bring your camera — take a family photo in their neon-and-chrome-accented period décor.
Station Tavern (8.4 miles away)
All aboard! Station Tavern not only has a kids’ menu full of favorites perfectly-portioned for younger diners, but their outdoor play area is a great way for them to work up an appetite. Big kids and parents will find lots to like, too — the classic pub-grub offerings include burgers and giant sandwiches, salads, sides, and a full beer list. Be sure to order extra tater tots!
2204 Fern St, San Diego, CA 92104
Pacific Beach Fish Shop (6.9 miles away)
Some of the best seafood in town can be had at this shanty-style eatery on Pacific Beach. You can choose a fish, pick your preparation, and Pacific Beach Fish Shop will fix it up fresh. Parents love the variety and reasonable pricing, and kids will love the coloring-book menus, tasty tacos, popcorn shrimp, chicken fingers, and fruity juice-box drinks.
1775 Garnet Ave San Diego, CA 92109
BO-Beau Kitchen + Garden (10.1 miles away)
La Mesa’s BO-Beau is notable for fantastically contemporary twists on American classics, unique decor, and their kid-friendly environment. Eclectic epicureans and persnickety palates alike will find much to love on the restaurant’s deep menu, while a garden area featuring flame pits, picnic-style seating, and even a decommissioned school bus will give kids plenty of reasons to want to come back.
8384 La Mesa Blvd. La Mesa, CA