Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Philly You Wouldn’t Expect

Philadelphia is a foodie-focused town, for sure, but even with all the James Beard Award winners, celebrity chef-owned restaurants and internationally inspired cuisine, this city is still shockingly family friendly. Diners of any age and appetite can find something to enjoy at these top eateries you may not have expected.

Enjoy wood-fired fare and an array of pizza, salads and eclectic bites at 24. The Italian-inspired meets modern industrial vibe is perfect for all ages including a children’s menu, crayons and spacious quarters boasting grand views of the Schuylkill River. The kids can entertain themselves without feeling like they need to be hushed as this space is quite large. Parents, you will not need to compromise, as the drink menu is as creative as it is extensive and kitchen specialties include Italian olives, lamb sausage pizza and oven-roasted branzino.

Recent buzz and acclaimed reviews for Hungry Pigeon would have you believe this locale is too buzzy for families, but, luckily, it’s actually the opposite. Hungry Pigeon’s Queen’s Village location is a hip, but residential neighborhood in Philadelphia perfect for foodies, families and everyone in between. This all-day bistro offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert with elevated options for everyone, including banana bread sticky buns, friend chicken, burgers, fries, avocado toast and even a peanut butter and jelly and fried Lebanon bologna sandwich.

New kids on the block, Cheu Fishtown cornered the market in Fishtown as an Asian street-food inspired dining venue in a former stable — it doesn’t get much more “Fishtown” than that. The renovated space is long, narrow and a lot of fun. The menu boasts a wide variety of unique dishes, including pastrami bing buns, Bubbie Chow’s brisket and tofu rice cakes. As some items may be a bit foreign or spicy to the young foodie’s taste, Cheu’s accommodating kitchen is able to adjust any level of spice for the little ones.

Recently nominated for a James Beard Award, Vedge is worth the fuss. Located on the quiet and picturesque Locust Street, Vedge is a vegetarian restaurant offering a vibrant menu of crafty plant-based creations that can accommodate any dietary restriction or allergy. Adults, enjoy an inspired cocktail while the kids nosh on seasonal vegetables transformed into something far beyond peas and carrots, like the rutabaga fondue served with a soft pretzel for dipping. Save room for dessert as the strawberry sorrel bread pudding with saffron ice cream is a must try.