Looking for amazing places to eat in Raleigh, North Carolina? Find out our picks for the best kid friendly restaurants in Raleigh NC the whole family will love!
Hungry? Our Top Picks for Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Raleigh NC!
As I’m sure y’all know by now, we live about an hour east of Raleigh, North Carolina in Rocky Mount. We aren’t locals, but we spend a lot of time in the Triangle area (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill).
And I’m sure y’all also know by now that we love to eat! There’s no shame in my game! LOL.
There are so many awesome things to do in Raleigh, and one of our favorite things is trying new restaurants. But, we don’t always love to try somewhere new when we have the kids with us.
And I don’t know about you, but when I’m away from home, I am NOT eating fast food or the same boring places that I can find at home. We’re looking for restaurants that have something different to please the parents AND will make even the pickiest children happy too!
And, let me tell you…Raleigh has a lot of awesome restaurants to tempt your inner foodie!
Top 10 Kid Friendly Restaurants in Raleigh NC You Need to Try
We happen to think Raleigh is one of the best weekend getaways in North Carolina. So whether you’re a local looking for somewhere new or visiting Raleigh, I’ve compiled a list of the best family friendly restaurants in Raleigh NC that we return to time and time again to satisfy all our foodie desires AND our picky children.
Some of these restaurants may not seem super kid friendly at first, but one of our big goals when eating out is to find restaurants that please every member of the family. So, stick with me!
Be forewarned: This is the South y’all!
1. The Pit Authentic Barbecue
North Carolina is known for barbecue, which is why The Pit Authentic Barbecue is our top recommendation for this famous southern fare and when looking for kid friendly restaurants in Raleigh.
We love this place! With some very basic options like chicken tenders and french fries, our kids are happy…and we’re happy too. Pro Tip: They can get busy- make a reservation in advance! Vegetarians don’t be scared off…there are plenty of options here for you too!
Our top menu picks:
- seasonal cornbread with homemade butter (just OMG).
- fried chicken – the best I’ve ever had.
- pimento cheese balls with spiced pepper jelly – seriously delicious.
- BBQ, brisket, and BBQ chicken are my husband’s usual.
- fried okra and mac & cheese – our go to side dishes.
- dessert- all of them are amazing! Seriously.
Insider Tip: When you’re done eating at the Pit, walk across the street to the Videri Chocolate Factory! Take a tour, sample the chocolates, and try the soft serve.
Do they have a kids menu? Yes, The Pit does have a dedicated kids menu.
If you love BBQ, you should also check out Prime BBQ in Knightdale, The BBQ Lab at North Hills, Clyde Cooper BBQ (for eastern NC style BBQ) and Sam Jones BBQ. We kinda love barbecue, so we’ve tried them all.
2. The Cowfish Sushi & Burger Bar
Cowfish is my number one pick for fun places for kids to eat in Raleigh that parents will love too! Cowfish isn’t unique to Raleigh…they actually have several other locations in the US, but the food is fantastic and the atmosphere will keep kids entertained for the entire meal.
Design your own burger from beef to grilled chicken to lamb, try their top notch sushi or sashimi bowls, or opt for BOTH and try their “burgushi” a combination of both!
But don’t despair if you’re not feeling burgers or sushi, they also have a variety of fun appetizers, salads, and really yummy hand-spun milkshakes too! A kids menu, vegetarian, and gluten free options are available as well.
Kids meals are super fun and come with orange slices and “kid sushi” AKA a Rice Krispie treat with a Swedish fish on top.
Do they have a kids menu? Yes, Cowfish does have a kids menu.
Insider Tip: Kids will LOVE the giant fish tank in the center of the restaurant featuring real cowfish. Cornhole and other games outside too! After you’re done eating, go across the street for some fantastic shopping at North Hills or bowling and games at Kings.
3. The State Farmer’s Market Restaurant
If you’re looking for that true southern experience, this is it! I mean…c’mon, their website is realbiscuits.com!! For real!
Attached to the NC State Farmer’s Market, you can enjoy local, fresh, and authentic southern food daily until 3 pm. Featuring many “Got to be NC” products, kids will be delighted by the farm style decor perfect for playing I Spy, the overalls clad servers, and the huge kid friendly menu.
Do they have a kids menu? Yes! The State Farmer’s Market Restaurant has a “Little Farmer’s” menu.
Be sure to save time to wander through the farmer’s market when you’re finished with your meal!
4. Morgan Street Food Hall
Morgan Street Food Hall is one of the best family restaurants in Raleigh for two reasons: 1. there’s literally something for everyone since there are actually over 20 restaurant options here and 2. they’re super fast which is always good for kids. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, and dairy free options are available at specific vendors.
(Insider Tip: Don’t call this a food court…they’re real funny about that!)
Some highlights include:
- Ilya’s Southern Kitchen (our fave!)
- Cousins Maine Lobster
- Bella’s Wood Fired Pizza & Tapas
- Makus Empanadas
- The Bowls
- Cowbar Burger & Fries (seriously delicious burgers!)
Morgan Street Food Hall is open Sunday- Thursday 8 am to 10 pm and Friday & Saturday 8 am to 12 am (individual vendor hours vary).
Do they have a kids menu? Each vendor has a separate menu, however most do not have designated kids menus.
Pro Tip: I would NOT recommend going here on a Friday or Saturday night with children, it’s definitely a more adult atmosphere with a lot of drinking and dancing during those hours.
If you love a food hall like we do, you should absolutely check out Transfer Co. Food Hall too. We think it’s another winner for kid friendly restaurants in Raleigh NC!
Do you love street art? This area of downtown is also home to several amazing Raleigh wall murals.
5. Big Ed’s City Market
Big Ed’s is like going to grandma’s house for breakfast. I mean… their slogan is “country cookin’ at its best” for a reason!
Huge portions of delicious home-style cooking on their signature red and white checked table cloths are sure to please the entire family. Big Ed’s original location is downtown and is only open for breakfast and lunch…but now you can enjoy their southern hospitality and dinner too at their other two Raleigh area locations. Be sure to try a hot cake…similar to a pancake but twice the size!
Do they have a kids menu? No, there is no designated kids menu.
Insider Tip: Follow up your meal with a visit to Marbles Kids Museum or catch a movie at the IMAX- they’re less than a quarter of a mile walk from Big Ed’s and one of the best things to do in Raleigh with kids!
6. Relish Craft Kitchen
Relish Craft Kitchen in Raleigh, NC, is a hidden gem that specializes in elevated comfort foods. Nestled in a cozy corner of the city, Relish Craft Kitchen prides itself on offering a menu with a “new southern style” without the upscale attitude or price.
From their signature grilled cheese sandwiches to salads to their famous mac-n-cheese skillets, Relish Craft Kitchen provides a wide variety of options for all members of the family!
Relish also has a large kids menu with options like burgers, chicken tenders, grilled chicken or fish, and mac n cheese. And of course you can’t pass up the ridiculously good desserts. (We can’t resist the banana pudding!)
Do they have a kids menu? Yes!
7. The Station at Person Street
I tend to think of The Station in downtown Raleigh as a hidden gem for kid friendly restaurants in Raleigh because I never hear anyone else talking about it.
So, Shhh….don’t tell anyone!
They don’t actually have a kids menu, but my kids have never had an issue finding something they’ll eat. From popcorn shrimp to loaded tots or a BLT, my family always leaves happy. When we’re dining with kids in Raleigh, we typically like to go for lunch, brunch, or an early dinner.
The Station at Person Street also has a great outdoor dining area that makes for a comfortable and casual meal.
With its impeccable service, mouthwatering dishes, and charming ambiance, it’s no wonder The Station Restaurant has become a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.
Do they have a kids menu? No, there is no kids menu at The Station.
8. Beasley’s Chicken and Honey
Beasley’s Chicken and Honey is a fantastic destination for families looking to enjoy a delicious meal together in Raleigh, NC. With its cozy and welcoming atmosphere, Beasley’s offers a family-friendly environment where both kids and adults can feel comfortable and have a great time.
Again, there is no kids menu. However, there are so many amazing menu options that will satisfy everyone in the family. Our go-to menu favorites are the fried chicken (duh), chicken biscuit, and the smash burger. We are also in love with their weekend brunch menu!
Do they have a kids menu? No, there is no designated kids menu.
If you’ve been wanting to try one of the famous award winning Ashley Christensen restaurants, Beasley’s Chicken & Honey is my pick with kids. But…be ready to wait…this place is popular!!
(No kids? Try Poole’s Diner!)
9. Tazza Kitchen
At first glance, Tazza Kitchen isn’t probably somewhere you’d think belonged on a list of kid friendly restaurants in Raleigh. But it’s one of those restaurants that makes everyone in my family happy time and time again.
From tacos to wood fired pizzas to brussell sprouts and a nice glass of wine, we all love Tazza!
Tazza Kitchen has a trendy yet casual atmosphere, making it a great spot for a relaxed dining experience for families. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and attention to detail are evident in each dish, leaving guests satisfied and craving more.
Do they have a kids menu? No, there is no kids menu.
Pro Tip: We always like to get a table outside when dining with our kids.
10. Driftwood Cantina
Our family LOVES Mexican food. It is always a dinner choice we can agree on.
Driftwood Cantina in Raleigh is a wonderful choice for a family outing, offering a dining experience that caters to all ages. This family-friendly restaurant combines a lively atmosphere with a diverse menu that is sure to please every member of the family.
The Cantina’s extensive selection of Mexican-inspired dishes ranges from flavorful tacos and burritos to fresh salads and sizzling fajitas. We personally love the Al pastor tacos, marinated steak burrito, and my kids go-to is always some kind of quesadilla.
With it’s wide variety of menu choices and friendly service, Driftwood Cantina is definitely a top pick for best family restaurant in Raleigh in our book!
Do they have a kids menu? No, they do not have a designated kids menu.
More Kid Friendly Restaurants in Raleigh NC
If you’ve already sampled all our favorite fun restaurants for kids in Raleigh…here are a few more options we love:
- Oak City Meatball Shoppe – a great kid friendly downtown Raleigh eatery specializing in meatballs.
- Metro Diner – We love the brunch at Metro Diner- you’d never know this was a chain restaurant!
- BarTaco – What can I say, we love Mexican food!
- Fresh or Two Roosters – Our top picks for where to go for fresh, local, delicious ice cream!!
- Sola – A coffee shop I’m happy to take my kids to!
- Kings Dining & Entertainment – looking for fun while you eat, try King’s (bowling, arcade, and food).
- Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen – a delicious family friendly restaurant in Raleigh’s Village District.
- Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery – A Raleigh institution. Pro Tip: get the cake!
Raleigh, NC offers a variety of kid-friendly restaurants that provide delightful dining experiences for the whole family, combining delicious food, welcoming atmospheres, and attentive service. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food, international cuisine, or unique culinary creations, these establishments cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. From Big Ed’s to The Pit to Driftwood Cantina, local families and visitors to Raleigh can enjoy memorable AND delicious meals together.
The only decision now is which family friendly restaurant in Raleigh are you going to next?
About The Author
Julie is the founder and author of the lifestyle and travel blog, More than Main Street. Always exploring, she and her family have traveled to 38 US states, over 20 countries, and feels fortunate to call North Carolina home. Julie’s all about gratitude, mindset, self love, seeking out new experiences, and living life to the fullest. Read more about Julie HERE.
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