8 Unique New York City Restaurants to Visit with Kids

Every family planning a trip to New York City is consumed with researching the many wonderful attractions and activities. But don’t forget you have to take breaks in between to eat! We asked our group contributors to share their suggestions for unique New York City restaurants to visit with kids. Your family will not be disappointed eating at any of these choices! Warning – many are overpriced and will require reservations in advance, so pick one or two to add onto your itinerary for the unique experience they offer. 

Alice’s Tea Cup

Known as New York’s most whimsical tea house, this restaurant has two locations and one to-go spot. The tea menu alone has over a hundred different options. You can enjoy breakfast and lunch here, or fill up on delicious scones and other nibbles. Parents and kids will both love this experience!

Max Brenner’s

In the mood for chocolate? You can’t leave New York City without a stop at Max Brenner’s. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate in their “hug mug” or a milkshake in their Alice cup, treat yourself to their decadent waffles and crepes, and don’t forget a slice of chocolate pizza. They do have regular food as well, but it’s really all about the chocolate here!

Sarabeth’s

With five locations across New York City, Sarabeth’s has become a landmark restaurant in the city. The restaurants offer classic American food for breakfast, lunch and dinner but are most widely known for their brunch. Their Central Park South location is across the street from the park and walking distance to many great attractions so you can easily fit it into your itinerary. 

Hard Rock Cafe

If you’re looking for a destination in the heart of Times Square, Hard Rock Cafe should be on your list. The restaurant has over 700 seats and a large store with authentic Hard Rock merchandise. You’ll find memorabilia and costumes from legends like Nirvana, Billy Joel, Elvis Presley and Madonna throughout the restaurant. You can’t go wrong with a meal and entertainment all in one!

Sugar Factory

With two locations in New York City, and many more across the world, Sugar Factory has made a name for itself with the trendy, younger generation. The NYC restaurants serve meals all day and late at night, but are known for their expansive dessert menu and celebrity favorite specialty drinks and couture pops. If you have teens, they may want to stop here just for the gram! 

Shake Shack

You can find a Shake Shack burger in many locations across the country now, but you can’t miss the spot where the burger was born. You’ll find long lines at the popular spot located right inside Madison Square Park. Great for a summer day!

Ninja New York

This entire restaurant is set up as a ninja’s lair, including dark corridors, drawbridges and ninjas jumping out to scare you as you walk to your table. The servers are dressed in black robes and perform tricks throughout your meal. The meals are expensive, but the experience may be priceless if you think your children would be impressed with the ninja setup and eating in “dungeons.”

Ellen’s Stardust Diner

Kids and parents will love this kitschy 1950s themed diner in the middle of Times Square. It’s known as one of the best theme restaurants in the city. The decor and food are great, but the singing waitstaff are what make this experience so memorable. 

Dining at any of the above options will leave you with a great story to share with friends once you’re back home. Pick the one that would most impress your littles ones and add it to your list! Let us know if we missed any unique New York City restaurants you would recommend in the comments below.

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