Looking for somewhere that is baby-friendly, toddler-friendly or child-friendly can prove difficult for many parents. We want healthy option menus for the kids, space for a buggy, baby changing facilities and if possible, a play area or even a box of crayons to keep the kids entertained.
Looking for somewhere that is baby-friendly, toddler-friendly or child-friendly can prove difficult for many parents. We want healthy option menus for the kids, space for a buggy, baby changing facilities and if possible, a play area or even a box of crayons to keep the kids entertained. We have a huge range of dining options here in Ireland at our fingertips but not all offer the extra family-friendly experience. In no particular order here are my families favourite tried and tested restaurants that are not afraid of a bit of noise and cook up some delicious dinners for the whole family that won't break the bank.
No 9 Cafe. Waterford
The multi award-winning No.9 Cafe located on Barronstrand Street has a dedicated baby and children’s menu alongside a superb play area for smallies to enjoy. They have a unique service that attracts parents from all over the country complete with a wholesome delicious menu including Chicken Licken Casserole, Beef Ragu, Lamb Stew and Macaroni Bolognaise. With its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff. It is a must see eatery.
The Counter
Let the kids get creative at The Counter customizing their own burger on a checklist-style clipboard menu or browse the mouth-watering kid's menu boasting grilled cheese with sourdough, grilled veggie skewers and of course, an old favourite - hand-breaded in-house chicken tender. A super friendly relaxed atmosphere with crayons and a menu that transforms into a playful book to keep them occupied.
Sol Rio, Westport
Multi-award winning Sol Rio, in the heart of Westport has established a reputation for excellent food over the years with an added value for money in a friendly atmosphere. The kid's menu has a great variety of choices including seafood chowder, Caesar salad and steak with the option to have half sizes of adult portions on the menu. One to put on the list for your visit to Mayo.
Wagamama
Wagamama welcome little noodlers with open arms to explore their fantastic range of mini Japanese dishes. With a buzzy atmosphere, open plan authentic ramen bars and fresh, cheap and delicious foods on offer - its sure to an all-round crowd pleaser. Wagamama eateries can be found at Blanchardstown, Dundrum and South King Street.
La Bucca Restaurants, Meath
These restaurants in Ashbourne, Ratoath & Dunboyne, have won best casual dining in Meath Award for a reason. Winner of the 'Best chicken wings in Ireland' 2015. We recommend you try them. These lively restaurants are a great place to bring the kids. They have an extensive children's menu with fresh pasta and pizzas and free drinks for kids with limitless top-ups.
These restaurants in Ashbourne, Ratoath & Dunboyne, have won best casual dining in Meath Award for a reason. Winner of the 'Best chicken wings in Ireland' 2015. We recommend you try them. These lively restaurants are a great place to bring the kids. They have an extensive children's menu with fresh pasta and pizzas and free drinks for kids with limitless top-ups.
Box Burger, Wicklow
If you are planning a trip to Bray this weekend ditch the fish and chips and give this new (ish) super stylish restaurant a whirl. If burgers ain't your thing, don't fret its sister restaurant Pizza Platform sits right next door and you can order between the two. A buzzing atmosphere from start to finish with super cool staff who really like kids. Box Burger and Pizza Platform are booking out days in thanks to its busy location right on the waterfront. It's a must-see, personally one of my favourite kid-friendly restaurants.
Nando's
A good old reliable expanding restaurant chain that never fails to disappoint. A super relaxed, spacious eating house with staff who are not afraid of a bit noise. The Nandinos menu for smallies is super affordable packed with delicious foods to keep little taste buds happy. The kid's menu transforms into a fun pack filled with entertaining games, colouring, finger puppets and origami.
Momo's Restaurant, Waterford
At Momo they understand all about looking after your little ones. Their award-winning kid's menu will delight your little people. You’ll be happy too because as parents themselves, they know how important it is to feed your kids good food. They have designed their children’s menus to be delicious and healthy. Not to mention, great value!
Milano's
With 15 restaurants in Ireland openly known to be always rammed with kids, Milano’s is a family favourite for pasta and pizza lovers serving delicious, fresh handmade pizza. Its fantastic Piccolo menu for younger pizza lovers continues to be voted one of the top kid's menus in Ireland packed full tasty choices including a ‘Create Your Own’ pizza with three mini-courses and a Bambinoccino to finish, it's perfect for pint-sized appetites.
Overends Restaurant at Airfield Estate, Dundrum
Airfield Estate, Dublin's only urban farm, is a fun day out where children get involved on a real working farm. The chefs create delicious meals and treats, with some of their own produce like vegetables, fruit, eggs & milk making it a perfect farm to fork experience that the kids will love. The warm hospitality of their staff and the view of the pool, kitchen field and animals grazing makes it a worthwhile trip.
Luigi Malones, Cork
A great spot for a delicious value lunch. With outlets in both Cork and Dublin, this popular restaurant is a big hit with families. They provide a colouring desk with pictures and crayons to keep the little ones entertained while they wait for their food. Friendly and efficient staff serve everything from chicken wings and mussels to burgers and fajitas.
Written by Kellie Kearney staff writer at FFHQ who also blogs at www.mylittlebabog.com.
