Finding the perfect spot for lunch or dinner with the family can be tough. Catching up with friends, entertaining the kids and enjoying a delicious meal are all tough things to get right at the same time. Thankfully Melbourne is full of kid friendly pubs that are perfect for that lunch or dinner you’ve been looking to organise. There are also plenty of restaurants with playgrounds in Melbourne as well, so no matter what kind of meal you’re planning, there is an option for you. For the best kid friendly Melbourne restaurants, try any of these amazing choices.
Stomping Ground Brewery in Collingwood
The Stomping Ground brewery in Collingwood is an icon, and is the perfect spot for a few beers, lunch and has plenty to offer the whole family. For the adults, there are over 30 beer taps of popular and unique brews that Stomping Ground is known for. For the kids, this is a restaurant with an indoor playground in Melbourne. Stomping Ground has a split level cubby house for the kids to play and let their imaginations run free while the oldies catch up.
With a full food menu, this is the perfect kid friendly pub in Melbourne. Beer isn’t the only option on the drinks menu as well, Stomping Ground has wines, soft drinks and spirits for those who aren’t necessarily beer fans. If you’re looking for a spacious spot to have lunch and catch up with the whole family, Stomping Ground is a perfect option.
Secret Kitchen Restaurant in Doncaster & Chinatown
If you’re looking for an interactive meal that grabs the kid’s interest and keeps it, then look no further than this Melbourne Yum Cha gem. Secret Kitchen is one of those staple kid friendly Melbourne restaurants, offering kids the chance to pick their own meals and even theming the food to keep lunch or dinner exciting. Choose from the goldfish-shaped dumplings or the piggy custard buns for dessert. One thing is for sure, the kids won’t be bored when the trolleys make their way from table to table.
Don’t fret parents, there is much more to Secret Kitchen yum cha than just ocean animal dumplings. Crispy pork belly Peking duck and much more are on the menu for the parents. If you’re looking for an interactive meal that gives your kids the chance to choose their own adventure, then Secret Kitchen is for your family.
The Boathouse Melbourne
This is truly one of the most kid friendly cafes in Melbourne that you could have hoped for. Positioned perfectly on the banks of the Maribyrnong, The Boathouse is a contemporary restaurant that offers plenty for both parents and kids. We love kid friendly Melbourne restaurants, but LOVE spots that come with a playground right next door, meaning the kids can burn off energy before and after their meal.
Located in Moonee Ponds, The Boathouse offers a diverse menu with plenty of choices for the kids as well as the parents. Renowned for their wood-fired pizzas, they also offer options fresh off the grill, burgers and salads. No matter what your chasing, you and the kids will enjoy your meal at The Boathouse. The Boathouse is conveniently located next to parklands where there is a playground for the kids. Be sure to book a table and when you do, ask for a view of the playground so you can keep an eye on the kids as well.
First and Last Hotel
If a classic pub is what you’re looking for, then look no further than the First and Last Hotel. This pub is an ideal restaurant with an indoor playground in Melbourne. This means, rain, hail or shine, the kids can enjoy their time on the playground while you catch up with friends and family. Offering up all the pub classics, the First and Last Hotel is a great place for a casual lunch or dinner for a small or large group.
The playground is a fun and unique design, encased in a glass pyramid shape meaning the kids can play and watch the cars go by on Sydney Road. The hotel is perfectly located in Coburg North, has a huge car park and is very close to public transport as well. If you’re looking for a great pub to enjoy lunch or dinner with the whole family then look no further, the First and Last Hotel is one of the best kid friendly pubs in Melbourne.
What to look for in kid friendly Melbourne restaurants
Finding the best kid friendly pubs in Melbourne or kid friendly restaurants in Melbourne isn’t just about the amenities. It’s about what the pub or restaurant can offer in other areas of the experience. Some of the more important things to look out for:
- High chairs – if your kids are young enough, check if the restaurant or pub has high chairs. The best family friendly restaurants in Melbourne will almost certainly have these for you
- Kids menu – this may seem strange to mention, but not all restaurants or pubs have a kids menu. Be sure to check if the restaurant or pub you’re heading to has a kid’s menu and is truly kid friendly.
- Safety – restaurants and pubs can sometimes be located in high traffic areas. A great thing to look out for is how safe the venue is. Kid friendly Melbourne restaurants should have fenced-off areas or the ability to keep kids safe. Be wary of venues that are not fenced and next to roadways or waterways.
There are so many kid friendly Melbourne restaurants to choose from when it comes to having lunch or dinner with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for an interactive menu, a playground or play centre or an entire dining experience, there are so many choices. Next time you’re looking for a great lunch or dinner spot with the kids, try these venues.
Know of other amazing kid friendly spots in Melbourne? Let us know in the comments!
