Daisies is where you head for seasonal, farm-fresh American cuisine in a chic venue. A recipient of a MICHELIN Green Star for sustainability in 2024, chef Joe Frillman’s seasonally inspired menu has kid-approved favorites like chicken parm sandwiches for lunch and stracci pasta with lamb sugo for dinner. Don’t skip out on the peanut butter-cookie dough-brownie gelato as you catch up with loved ones in a spacious booth in the space with exposed brick walls.

Avli on The Park is one of the best family friendly restaurants in Chicago located close to the Loop. The elegant space with floor-to-ceiling windows sets the stage for a family meal of Greek platters like moussaka, stuffed tomatoes and bell peppers, or smoky lamb chops. Try the baklava ice cream for dessert. Bonus points for the seasonal rooftop terrace.

Gather the whole family for a warm and welcoming meal at Cebu, where you’ll find modern twists on classic Filipino cuisine. Soft rattan pendant lighting, light wood, and exposed brick walls set the scene for a laid-back family meal. Kids will love the Filipino-style chicken barbeque skewers, while adults can savor the crisp-fried pork belly in the chef’s special sisig sauce. Share the flan-style cheesecake in a crisp churro cup for a sweet treat.

Step into Wildfire and settle into the sophisticated dining room, with its low lighting and smartly dressed servers, where fancy chophouse fare awaits you. This neighborhood favorite is where you go to celebrate a special occasion with the family. Add a signature blue cheese or horseradish crust to your favorite cut while the kids dig into classics like mac and cheese and chicken fingers from a dedicated menu. End on a sweet note with the warm chocolate chip cookie skillet.

Summer House has everything you’d expect from one of the best restaurants for kids in Chicago. The West Coast beach house-inspired spot is decked out with a retractable glass ceiling, an all-season courtyard, and a cookie bar for sweet treats. Catch up with family as you dig into crowd-pleasing dishes like a prime skirt steak taco platter or Hobbs pepperoni pizza. During the week, kids can craft their own pizzas tableside or with the chefs at the pizza counter.

Mercadito is a buzzy Mexican spot with a lively, laid-back atmosphere. A colorful mural, fun neon signs, and cozy booths make this one of the best Chicago restaurants for families. Order up some pineapple guacamole or mahi mahi ceviche to start your meal before sampling the standout chicken enchiladas and other Mexican hits kids will love. Tres leches cake awaits the crew for dessert.

Little Goat is where you go with the family for all-day breakfast options and American comfort food. The interior has serious retro vibes, thanks to the red-topped diner stools, mint-colored tables, and vintage decor. Explore a stellar menu of specialty pancakes, patty melt and reuben sandwiches, and hearty beef stew. Cap the meal with playful desserts like a chocolate-covered Cheez-Its sundae.

Check out R J Grunt’s, one of the best family friendly restaurants in Chicago to enjoy American family favorites and kick back in a relaxed place after a day at the nearby Lincoln Park Zoo. Cozy black vintage booths with wooden tables beg to be loaded up with burgers, triple-decker turkey clubs, and buffalo wraps. Pair your meal with classic sides like mac and cheese, sweet potato fries, and coleslaw. Finish off with hand-scooped milkshakes and root beer floats.

Join the scene at Thattu, where aromatic spices from the coastline of Kerala are the inspiration for the approachable, Indian-forward menu. The industrial-chic dining room is open, light-filled, and inviting. You’re here for the Malabar chicken biriyani and Kadala curry. Meanwhile, little ones can enjoy twists on familiar favorites like tater tots with house chaat masala and spicy beet ketchup. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are an added perk.

Head to Cira when you want to explore a Mediterranean-forward menu with all-day dining options in a refined venue. Located in the lobby of the Hoxton Hotel, the cheery space has blue velvet banquettes, an elegant bar, and private nooks for family gatherings. Come to experience made-for-sharing plates like goat cheese-stuffed dates or pistachio ravioli. Creative cocktails like the Friends and Family, made with rye, cacao, and walnut bitters, are an added plus for adults.