Dining out in London with kids doesn’t have to mean compromising on quality or settling for the usual chains. Central London is packed with family-friendly restaurants that offer both delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian pizza, British classics, or something more adventurous, these top 10 restaurants for families promise to keep both grown-ups and little ones happy. Expect engaging menus, friendly staff, and fun settings where everyone can enjoy a great meal together.
1. Dishoom, Covent Garden
A favorite among Londoners of all ages, Dishoom brings the flavors of Bombay to Central London in a lively, atmospheric setting. The kids' menu, "Childrens' Menu of Happiness," includes smaller versions of Dishoom’s signature dishes like pav bhaji and chicken tikka, while adults can feast on their famous black daal and house chai. With its buzzing vibe, Dishoom is perfect for families looking for a unique dining experience where everyone can explore new flavors.
Location: 12 Upper St Martin’s Ln, Covent Garden
Best for: Flavorsome Indian food in a lively, child-friendly atmosphere.
Don’t miss: The bacon naan roll for a breakfast treat or the fun mango kulfi on a stick for dessert.
2. Pizza Pilgrims, Soho
When it comes to pleasing the whole family, Pizza Pilgrims is a no-brainer. Famous for their Neapolitan-style pizzas with pillowy dough and fresh toppings, this spot in Soho offers a laid-back, fun environment for families. Kids will love watching the pizzas being made right in front of them in the open kitchen, and there’s a special kids' menu with smaller portions. The upbeat, colorful decor and quick service make it a great option for a casual family meal.
Location: 11 Dean St, Soho.
Best for: Fun, casual pizza dining with an authentic Neapolitan twist.
Don’t miss: The Nutella pizza ring—a sweet treat that the kids will love.
3. Rainforest Café, Piccadilly
For a dining experience like no other, Rainforest Café in Piccadilly will captivate the kids with its jungle-themed interior complete with waterfalls, tropical fish tanks, and animatronic animals. The menu is packed with crowd-pleasers like burgers, pasta, and grilled chicken, and there’s a dedicated kids’ menu with options like dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets. The immersive setting makes it a fun adventure for younger diners, while parents can relax and enjoy the spectacle.
Location: 20 Shaftesbury Ave, Piccadilly
Best for: An immersive, themed dining experience that will delight younger children.
Don’t miss: The volcano dessert—a showstopping sweet treat served with a sparkler.
4. Wahaca, Covent Garden
For families who want to add a bit of spice to their meal, Wahaca is the perfect spot for fresh and flavorful Mexican street food. With a casual vibe and colorful decor, the restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for kids. The kids’ menu offers options like mini tacos, quesadillas, and churros, while adults can indulge in tacos, burritos, and fragrant margaritas. The variety of small plates makes it easy to share, so everyone can try a bit of everything.
Location: 66 Chandos Pl, Covent Garden
Best for: Fun, casual Mexican dining with kid-friendly options.
Don’t miss: The plantain tacos for adults and the churros for a sweet ending.
5. Giraffe, Southbank
Located right on the lively Southbank, Giraffe offers a global menu designed to please both kids and adults alike. The relaxed, colorful setting makes it a welcoming spot for families, and there’s a great kids' menu with everything from mini burgers to pasta and fish fingers. With panoramic views of the Thames and an easygoing vibe, Giraffe is a great choice for a family meal before or after exploring the sights of the Southbank.
Location: 337-338 Belvedere Rd, Southbank
Best for: Casual, kid-friendly dining with river views.
Don’t miss: The grilled halloumi flatbread and banana split sundae for a fun dessert.
6. Homeslice, Neal’s Yard
For families who love pizza, Homeslice serves up giant 20-inch pizzas that are perfect for sharing. Located in the picturesque Neal’s Yard, this laid-back spot offers both classic and creative toppings, from Margherita to BBQ beef brisket with béarnaise sauce. The relaxed, no-fuss vibe is ideal for families, and the big, shareable pizzas make it easy to keep everyone satisfied. Best of all, slices can be ordered individually, so kids can mix and match.
Location: 13 Neal’s Yard, Covent Garden
Best for: Oversized pizzas in a fun, family-friendly setting.
Don’t miss: The garlic bread and the wild mushroom and ricotta pizza.
7. The Parlour at Fortnum & Mason, Piccadilly
For an indulgent, family-friendly dining experience with a touch of elegance, The Parlour at Fortnum & Mason is the perfect place to treat the kids. Known for its amazing ice cream sundaes and sweets, The Parlour offers a whimsical dining experience in one of London’s most iconic department stores. While the kids enjoy sundaes, milkshakes, and hot chocolates, adults can indulge in scones, finger sandwiches, and a traditional afternoon tea. The bright, cheerful decor adds to the sense of occasion.
Location: 181 Piccadilly, St. James's
Best for: A special treat with a focus on ice cream and sweets.
Don’t miss: The showstopping Knickerbocker Glory or the traditional afternoon tea for a classic British experience.
8. The Ivy Market Grill, Covent Garden
A refined yet relaxed spot, The Ivy Market Grill in Covent Garden offers a mix of British classics and international dishes that appeal to both parents and kids. The restaurant’s chic interior and lovely terrace make it a beautiful spot for family dining, while the Ivy Kids' Menu features options like mini sausages, grilled chicken, and fish fingers. The grown-up menu includes everything from shepherd’s pie to steak, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Location: 1a Henrietta St, Covent Garden
Best for: Upscale family dining in a beautiful setting.
Don’t miss: The Ivy Shepherd’s Pie and the indulgent chocolate bomb for dessert.
9. Caravan, King’s Cross
Located in the trendy Granary Square, Caravan King’s Cross is a spacious, industrial-chic venue that’s perfect for a family meal. The menu focuses on global flavors, with small plates and larger mains that are ideal for sharing. There’s a kids' menu with healthier options like grilled chicken and avocado or cheese toasties, while the adults can enjoy inventive dishes like baked eggs and spiced lamb flatbreads. The relaxed atmosphere and outdoor seating by the fountains make it a great choice for a sunny day out with the kids.
Location: 1 Granary Square, King’s Cross
Best for: Trendy, global dishes with a laid-back family vibe.
Don’t miss: The buttermilk pancakes for brunch or the wood-fired pizzas.
10. Byron Burger, Soho
For families looking for a casual meal in Central London, Byron Burger is always a reliable choice. Known for its gourmet burgers, Byron offers a kids' menu with mini versions of its signature burgers, fries, and milkshakes. The friendly, no-fuss atmosphere makes it a great spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner, and the variety of burger options—from classic cheeseburgers to vegan beetroot burgers—means there’s something for everyone in the family.
Location: 97-99 Wardour St, Soho
Best for: Classic burgers in a relaxed, family-friendly environment.
Don’t miss: The Byron Classic with fries, and the Oreo milkshake for dessert.