Atlanta has no shortage of family-friendly places to eat, whatever the occasion. Whether you’re after a relaxed lunch with a kids’ menu and a play corner, or a special sit-down dinner the whole family will remember, there’s something here to suit. Many of these spots also cater well for gluten-free diets, which is a welcome bonus if that’s a consideration for your family. Here’s our pick of the best restaurants in Atlanta for kids.
#1. The Sun Dial Restaurant
For a more memorable dining experience, head to the top of the Westin Peachtree Plaza for the Sun Dial Restaurant. This is a more formal option than others on this list, so it works best for lunch or an early dinner. The restaurant rotates slowly — gently enough that no one will feel dizzy — giving you a sweeping view of the city as you eat. The menu covers steaks, pizza and salads, and the service is excellent throughout.
#2. The Fickle Pickle
The Fickle Pickle is a charming Victorian house serving casual favourites like sandwiches and burgers. The “Little Gherkins” kids’ meal comes with a sandwich, a drink, a cookie and a choice of chips, fries or mandarin oranges. The patio opens onto a large outdoor space that kids love to run around in.
#3. Chick a Biddy
If you’re shopping at Atlantic Station, Chick a Biddy is a great stop for farm-fresh chicken and sides. Think tasty chicken sandwiches, chicken burgers and quesadillas, with plenty of gluten-free options if you need them. The Thai Chili and Peanut Wings with sweet potato fries are a firm favourite.
You might also like our guide to 10 Free Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids.
#4. Blue Moon Pizza
For some of the best pizza in Atlanta, try Blue Moon Pizza. Everything is made with fresh ingredients, and the menu includes fun options like Jerk Chicken with Cayenne-Candied Bacon or the Santa Fe, a spicy ranch pizza topped with chicken. The kids’ menu offers a chicken option as well as pizza, with a drink and ice cream included.
#5. Souper Jenny!
Souper Jenny! serves simple, wholesome food — a rotating range of soups, sandwiches, salads and baked goods. It’s popular with locals and can get busy, but the team keep things moving quickly. Many of the servers also work in local theatre, so don’t be surprised if a warm welcome comes with an impromptu song or a few dance steps.
#6. Dakota Blue
Dakota Blue sits in a quiet corner of Atlanta with outdoor seating for good weather. It’s especially popular for brunch, but works just as well for lunch or dinner, with a menu of family favourites. There’s a full kids’ menu, plus a toy area where children can play and burn off some energy while you relax.
#7. South City Kitchen Midtown
South City Kitchen pairs imaginative, well-prepared food with genuinely good service, making it a must-visit while in Atlanta. Described as “gourmet Southern,” the menu includes local specialities like she-crab soup, pulled pork and a Catfish Reuben. A separate gluten-free menu is also available.
#8. The Varsity
The Varsity has been serving Atlanta since 1928 and remains a true local institution. This traditional American diner serves burgers, hotdogs and fried pies, all cooked to perfection. Local legends include the chili-cheese-slaw dog, the Frosted Orange, and fried peach pie with ice cream — a must-try for the whole family.
If you’re visiting other US cities, you’ll find more great family ideas here:
- Free Things to Do with Kids in Los Angeles
- Free Things to Do with Kids in New York
- Free Things to Do with Kids in Dallas
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these Atlanta restaurants have kids’ menus?
Yes — most of the restaurants on this list, including Blue Moon Pizza, Dakota Blue and The Fickle Pickle, offer a dedicated kids’ menu with drinks and sides included.
Are there gluten-free options at any of these restaurants?
Several do cater for gluten-free diets, including Chick a Biddy and South City Kitchen Midtown, which offers a separate gluten-free menu.
Which restaurant is best for a special family occasion?
The Sun Dial Restaurant, with its rotating city views atop the Westin Peachtree Plaza, is a good choice for a memorable family lunch or early dinner.
Is there anywhere on this list with space for kids to play while parents relax?
Yes — Dakota Blue has a toy area on-site, making it a good pick for families with younger children.
More Family Days Out
Looking for more ideas for your Atlanta trip? Check out our guide to 10 Free Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids, or browse our other US city guides for Los Angeles, New York and Dallas above.
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