We’ve been asked to put together a best kid-friendly restaurants in Vancouver list from many of you, so it’s time! We hunted down trusty sources (local in-the-know moms and dads who haven’t given up on going out) to get their favourite family-friendly dining spots. Yes, there are lots of options aside from White Spot (read: not a knock on WS, you know those pirate packs are multi-generational staples). Here are the top recommendations with kid menus, crayons, change tables, stroller space, patient servers (very key), and the whole laundry list of kid-oriented requirements.
Downtown
Bistro Verde Take a breather from shopping and head up to the 3rd floor of Nordstrom for locally-inspired eats. Great kids menu ($8), crayons, spacious, accessible bathrooms, and convenient elevator access to Howe Street when you have to leave quickly (we love this secret elevator escape). Nordstrom, 799 Robson St, Vancouver
Cora A colourful and fun place to brunch with kids. With pancakes, waffles, eggs, fresh fruit and more, the menu is made for families. The kids menu has smaller portions and comes with a drink. 1368 Robson St, Vancouver
Moxies Both downtown locations are family-friendly. Steaks, pizza, burgers, wings, and all the classic comforts. Kids menu has a good selection ($10.50) with unlimited drink and dessert. Side note: the ice cream dessert involves dry ice – always a mega hit with the kids. Sandman Hotel, 180 W Georgia St, Vancouver | 1160 Davie St, Vancouver
Urban Fare These grocery stores have quick hot buffets, healthy smoothies, and ample seating. Plus, washrooms with change tables that we’re well familiar with. Good stops before hopping on local transit and Canada Line as well. 1133 Alberni St | 305 Bute St | 177 Davie St, Vancouver
Yaletown
Keg Steakhouse Consistent experiences across locations built to host family gatherings. Colouring, high chairs, boosters, change tables, and a meaty kid menu ($13 for generous portions). 1011 Mainland St, Vancouver
Provence Marinaside While they don’t have a specific menu for the little ones, ask about the off-menu kid-friendly items. Can’t beat the patio views, too! 1177 Marinaside Crescent, Vancouver
WildTale Very kid-friendly restaurant (both locations) with generous portions. The halibut poppers are popular with the littles. 1079 Mainland St, Vancouver
Yaletown Brewing Company Friendly staff who know how to accommodate families. Good kids menu ($12) and the restaurant is nice and spacious if you’ve got a stroller. 1111 Mainland St, Vancouver
Olympic Village
Craft Beer Market Casual, lively place for the whole family. Their Half Pints (Kids) menu has a few ($8) items to choose from, including weekend brunch options. Pro-tip: Have a stroller? Go in through the west side doors (no stairs) – just get someone to let you in because it only opens from the inside. 85 West 1st Ave, Vancouver
De Dutch This Olympic Village location has a separate eating area for families with a play area (can’t ask for more). And their whole menu is pretty much kid-friendly. 410 West 2nd Ave, Vancouver
Milestones All-around family-friendly joint with a sizable kids menu: mini burgers, chicken fingers, grilled salmon and more, plus a kids brunch menu on weekends. Pro-tip: Sign up for their newsletter for a free appy. 2425 Cambie Street, Vancouver
Tap and Barrel It’s always boisterous in here so no one will notice if your kids are noisy. There’s plenty of space (inside and out on the deck), and they have crayons, colouring sheets, and a $9.95 kids menu. 1 Athletes Way, Vancouver
Urban Fare These grocery stores have quick hot buffets, healthy smoothies, and ample seating. Plus, washrooms with change tables that we’re well familiar with. Good stops before hopping on local transit and Canada Line as well. 1688 Salt St, Vancouver
WildTale Very kid-friendly restaurant (both locations) with generous portions. The halibut poppers are popular with the littles. 165 West 2nd Ave, Vancouver
Kitsilano
Bibo Pizzeria con Cucina Mouthwatering Italian food, friendly staff, super kid-friendly. They have a kids’ pizza and pasta option that’s perfect for the little ones. 1835 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver
Burgoo Delicious, hearty meals for all ages – comfort food at its best. Crayons, high chairs, and a really good kids menu ($6-$8). Their mac and cheese (oh-so-gooey) is legendary. 2272 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver.
Fable Kitchen Popular brunch spot in the area – get there early. The food and staff come highly rated. Colouring for the kids, fresh squeezed orange juice, and a lovely menu. 1944 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver
Local Public Eatery This Kitsilano eatery has beaches and playgrounds next door, so it’s not unusual to find a few little ones in the bar. No specific menu for kids, but the staff are friendly and very accommodating. Wide booths make for extra space for toddlers without blocking the walkways. 2210 Cornwall Avenue, Vancouver
Rocky Mountain Flatbread A favourite for all parents. Love this kids menu (they even have a 3-course one for $12.95). They also have an awesome weekend brunch. 1876 West 1st Avenue, Vancouver
Sunshine Diner A good old-fashioned diner is the definition of family-friendly fun. Lots to choose from on their kids menu (from $6.95). 2649 West Broadway, Vancouver
Trattoria Can’t go wrong with fresh pizza and pasta. The Bambini menu (8 & under) is $7.95. Colouring, big bathrooms, and everything your kid might need. 1850 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver
Granville Island
Edible Canada Delightful Canadian cuisine, welcoming service, well-priced kid options. Their fish and chips is a long-time fave. 1596 Johnston St, Vancouver
Keg Steakhouse Consistent experiences across locations built to host family gatherings. Colouring, high chairs, boosters, change tables, and a meaty kid menu ($13 for generous portions). 1499 Anderson St, Vancouver
The Sandbar Good choice for a more upscale vibe. Great views and ambiance, and comfortable for kids of all ages. The’ve got colouring and a kids menu of trusty favourites (chicken fingers, fries, etc.) 1535 Johnston St, Vancouver
Mount Pleasant & Main Street
Burgoo Delicious, hearty meals for all ages – comfort food at its best. Crayons, high chairs, and a really good kids menu ($6-$8). The patio facing Main is great for fresh air and people-watching. 3096 Main St, Vancouver
Chickpea Lively, casual ambiance and a killer menu – plant based comfort food with a Mediterranean twist. Their menus are made from old hardcover children’s books, which will keep your kids entertained for a good portion of your stay. 4298 Main St, Vancouver
Rocky Mountain Flatbread A favourite for all parents. Love the kids menu (there’s even a 3-course option for $12.95). Great for relaxed weekend meetups, there’s a play area in the corner to keep the little ones entertained. 4186 Main St, Vancouver
Sal Y Limon Casual counter-service spot for fantastic tacos, tortas, burritos – their menu has it all. Enjoy the vibrant art and let the kids loose in the kids area. 701 Kingsway Street #5, Vancouver
Commercial Drive
Cafe Deux Soleils Playdate central during lunch/brunch. Kids love hanging out on their open stage (used for live music, poetry slams, and other shows in the evening). Affordable menu options including kids grilled cheese and mini burgers ($4). 1393 Commercial Dr, Vancouver
Commercial Street Cafe – The most adorable independent neighbourhood cafe. Plenty of space, toys for sharing, good coffee, delicious crepes – can’t ask for more. 3599 Commercial Street, Vancouver
Tangent Cafe This friendly neighbourhood joint opens at 8am daily (the earliest start in and around Commercial Drive). Perfect for early risers and super convenient booth seating for the littles. 2095 Commercial Dr, Vancouver
Any other kid-friendly restaurants?
The ones listed came most highly recommended; we’re sure to have missed a bunch. Feel free to comment below with your favourite, or give us a nudge on social media (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook), so we can add it to the list.