Today we are taking you to the hub of our nation, Washington D.C.
This buzzing city is full of politicians and policies, not on the top of the list as one of America's most kid-friendly cities for sure.
In all it's choices of eateries, most seem very professional, busy, and adult-focused, but if you look hard enough you will find plenty of great kid-friendly eateries. These spots serve kid favorites like grilled cheese, pizza, burgers, and ice cream and provide extras like coloring sheets, toys, or cooking opportunities. Several even offer kids-eat-free options!
Here are our top choices for Best in Town, Markets, Kid Classics, Just Desserts, and Kids Eat Free!
Best In Town -
Founding Farmers - This farmer-owned DC favorite eatery is great for adults and youngsters alike, offering up dishes from 7 Cheese Macaroni with Chicken Tenders to Glazed Cedar Plank Salmon. A common kid-favorite always seems to be the hot dog selection, including Chicago Dogs, Ball Park Dogs, Philly Cheese Dogs, and Texas Chili Dogs.
View this post on Instagram
Old Ebbitt Grill - Visit one of Washington D.C.s most popular eateries with your kiddos and you will find oysters, adult drinks, and gourmet dishes for adults, and kid classic dishes, coloring pages, and friendly service for the kiddos. Try the kid's mac and cheese topped with goldfish crackers and green peas!
View this post on Instagram
Ted's Bulletin - Bring your young ones in for a city-wide favorite, Mr. Breakfast (pancake with a happy face, bacon, and fruit), Mr. Healthy Habits (teriyaki salmon), or classic kid favorite PB&J, grilled cheese, or homemade pop tart. Parents will love the cocktail and soul food choices as well. Be sure to ask for a peek inside the toybox while here, the eatery offering kids a borrowed toy to enjoy during your visit.
View this post on Instagram
Markets -
Union Market - Union Market in D.C., previously known as Terminal Market, is always an excellent option for families and groups with kiddos. You will be able to please even the pickiest of eaters here at the market, the massive food court area holding foods kids love, foods you love, and foods you've probably never tried! Take the kids to the Village Cafe for a fancy grilled cheese sandwich, Red Apron Butchery for a hot dog, or Trickling Springs Creamery for a scoop!
View this post on Instagram
Eastern Market - This marketplace in D.C's historic Capitol Hill neighborhood provides a handful of onsite eateries and food trucks that we think are great for groups or families with young ones needing some food on the go. Try IceGreen Snowballs, Eastern Market Crepes, In a Pickle, or our favorite, the Freshmobile!
View this post on Instagram
Kid Classics -
Bolt Burgers - This D.C. burger classic allows you and your kiddos to enjoy 'exceptional flavors beyond what you expect from the typical burger, fries and soft drink.' Build your own burger, from protein to toppings, or grab a kid's meal classic grilled cheese or chicken nuggets.
View this post on Instagram
Shake Shack - Featuring all the best burgers, fries, and frozen custards, Shake Shack is one of the most kid-friendly chains in America, and D.C's locations are no exception. Try a flat top dog, classic crinkle-cut fries, chicken sandwiches, grilled cheese, or a ShackBurger. Grab a shake or frozen custard before you go!
View this post on Instagram
We, The Pizza - At We, The Pizza you and your children can enjoy classic pies, creative new pizzas, and homemade sodas, with flavors to please any palate! Try Buffalo Chicken Pie, Colletti's Notorious BBQ Pie, Simple Cheese Pie or the Capital Supreme (or all of them in one pie) and pair it with soda flavors like Pineapple, Sasparilla, Egg Cream, and Coconut. There are also wings, salads, and 'knots' available.
View this post on Instagram
GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar - Loaded tater tots, bacon grilled cheese, and lobster mac and cheese...oh my! The GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar is conveniently located just a half a block from the White House and offers guests of all ages the comforting option of building their own grilled cheese sandwich or trying their own cheesy concoctions like the Kim-Cheese-Steak, French Onion, and Young American grilled cheese.
View this post on Instagram
Just Desserts -
Baked By Yael - All your child's cakepop desires will be fulfilled here at Baked By Yael, the D.C. bakery that provides fresh, delicious cake creations sure to please every palate. Try classic flavors like red velvet, birthday cake, cookies n cream, chocolate, lemon, and raspberry, as well as other bakery goods like bagels and Challah.
View this post on Instagram
Firefly - Firefly D.C. provides guests with comfort food classics, a fun kids' menu, and our personal favorite, tableside cookie decorating. The little ones will love playing with their food while waiting for the main dish, and the cookie they create will be baked fresh for dessert later! Atlantic Salmon, Steak Frites, and Rigatoni Bolognese will please the parents, and grilled cheese, burgers, and chicken sandwiches will please the kids!
Pittango Gelato - 'Pure and wholesome' gelato awaits at Pittango Gelato, the D.C. desert mecca that prides itself on local, fresh, un-tainted creamery products! All the dairy used to make the gelato here comes from Pennsylvania’s Spring Wood Organic Farm! Try the classic Croccantino or Bacio gelato, adventurous Sesame or Black Tea gelato, or Pear or Strawberry sorbet! Of course, you will find your favorite flavors like milk chocolate, coconut, and vanilla as well.
View this post on Instagram
Kids Eat Free -
Pinstripes - Bowling and Bocce, Burgers and Beverages...Pinstripes is the perfect place for both parents and kids to go and not only eat great food but have a great time as well. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas, classic beef burgers, and pasta dishes at Pinstripes, then head over to do some bowling or bocce!
Kids eat for half-price from the Kids Menu every Sunday after 5 pm with the purchase of an adult entree!
View this post on Instagram
Toro Toro - Toro Toro is a delicious culinary experience that allows you to savor dishes such as Ceviche Peruano, Tempura Fish Tacos, Tostones en Chipotle, and so much more! One of the coolest things about this restaurant is their 'bottomless brunch, lunch, and dinner' options. Eat a meal family-style for one reasonable price!
Kids (ages 10 and under) eat free every day! Limit two kids.
View this post on Instagram
Surfside - Enjoy 'the best tacos in D.C.' here at Surfside, the Glover Park eatery serving up tasty tacos, burritos, and fresh-Mex creations. Try a Maui Taco, Bonaire Burrito Bowl, or Acapulco Quesadilla. Surfside Taco Stand in Dupont Circle serves the same fares and is open 24/7!
Kids eat free with the purchase of one regular adult entree each Monday night from 5 to 9 pm.
View this post on Instagram
Brookland Pint - A bar or pub is probably not the first place you think of to get great deals on meals for the kiddos, but Brookland Pint in D.C. should be an exception. This eatery serves up gourmet burgers and brews and also offers a pretty extensive kids menu with options such as BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders, Spaghetti, and Grilled Cheese!
Kids under 12 eat free each Tuesday, with the purchase of adult entree. Limit 2 kids.
View this post on Instagram
*For more detailed information on KEF locations in Washington D.C. check out our sister site's blog dedicated to Kids Eat Free in Washington D.C.
