Eating out with kids is so much easier when you know you’re heading somewhere that actually welcomes families. From high chairs and kids’ menus to a bit of space for buggies, a genuinely child-friendly restaurant makes all the difference to how relaxed your meal out feels.
We’ve rounded up parent-recommended, family-friendly spots to eat across the Midlands — covering Offaly, Laois, Kildare, Westmeath and Longford.
Jump to:
- [Offaly](#offaly)
- [Laois](#laois)
- [Kildare](#kildare)
- [Westmeath](#westmeath)
- [Longford](#longford)
- [FAQ](#faq)
A quick tip before you head out: buggy access varies a lot from restaurant to restaurant, and it’s not always guaranteed. If you’re dining with a young baby, it’s worth bringing the car seat as a backup. For older babies and toddlers, most family-friendly restaurants will have high chairs or booster seats on request — just worth checking when you book if you can. For more on what to look for, read our guide on what makes a restaurant child-friendly.
Offaly
Sirocco’s Restaurant on Patrick Street is a longstanding favourite with local parents. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a relaxed, family-welcoming meal out in the county.
Laois
Two spots that regularly come recommended by parents in Laois are Stradbally Fayre Café & Food Hall in Stradbally, and Caffe Latte at the Dunamaise Arts Centre in Portlaoise — both easy-going options for a family bite.
Kildare
In Kildare, Harte’s Bar and Grill in Kildare town and Fallon’s Café & Bar in Kilcullen are popular picks with families, thanks to their relaxed atmosphere and welcoming approach to kids.
Westmeath
Westmeath has plenty of choice for families, including The Olive Grove in Athlone, the lovely CaToCa Courtyard Café at Belvedere House, Dominik’s in Mullingar, and Mullingar Greyhound Stadium — a fun, casual option if you fancy combining dinner with an evening out.
Longford
The Courtyard Café and Bakery is a well-loved choice for families in Longford, offering a relaxed setting that suits a meal out with kids in tow.
FAQ
What makes a restaurant genuinely child-friendly?
Look out for high chairs or booster seats, a kids’ menu (or the option to order smaller portions), space for buggies, and staff who are relaxed about a bit of noise or mess. Quick service can also make a big difference with younger children.
Should I book ahead when eating out with kids?
It’s a good idea, especially at weekends or in the evening. A quick call ahead also lets you check on high chair availability and buggy access, so there are no surprises when you arrive.
What if my child has allergies or dietary needs?
Always mention allergies or dietary requirements when booking or ordering, and ask staff directly about ingredients rather than assuming from the menu alone.
Related Articles
- How to Survive Eating Out with Kids
- 13 Fun Games to Play with Kids in a Restaurant
- 100 Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Ireland
Have a favourite family-friendly spot in the Midlands that we haven’t mentioned? We’d love to hear about it — let us know in the comments below.
Keep the Ideas Coming
Enjoyed this? Sign up for our free newsletter for more family days out ideas, parenting tips and things to do with the kids, delivered straight to your inbox every week. Sign up here.
