Best of 29 family restaurants in Chicago
Family restaurants in Chicago are a must-visit for anyone seeking a cozy, welcoming dining experience. These establishments offer menus that cater to all ages and tastes, with many featuring classic American or international cuisine. With a friendly atmosphere and affordable prices, family restaurants in Chicago provide the perfect setting to create lasting memories. Be sure to check out these local gems during your next visit to the Windy City!
- 1. Eleven City Diner
- 2. Lou Mitchell's
- 3. Crosby's Kitchen
- 4. R.J. Grunts
- 5. Greek Islands
- 6. The Chicago Diner, Logan Square
- 7. Top View Restaurant
- 8. Nookies on Wells
- 9. Honey Butter Fried Chicken
- 10. Luella's Southern Kitchen
- 11. Maggiano's Little Italy
- 12. Tempo Cafe
- 13. Huck Finn Restaurant
- 14. Eggy's Diner
- 15. The StopAlong
- 16. Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe
- 17. weber's grill
- 18. Sunny Side Up Breakfast & Lunch
- 19. Yolk - South Loop
- 20. Smoque BBQ
- 21. Cantón Regio
- 22. Ed Debevic's
- 23. Gordon Ramsay Burger
- 24. Big Jones
- 25. Pinstripes
- 26. Doc B's Restaurant (Gold Coast)
- 27. Ever Restaurant
- 28. Roots Handmade Pizza - South Loop
- 29. T J's Family Restaurant
1. Eleven City Diner
Open late, traditional Jewish deli classics, house-made pastries

The business ambiance is consistently described in glowing terms, with users praising its amazing, nice, and pleasant atmosphere. The service offered by the business has received exceptional comments, with customers raving about its awesome, amazing, fantastic, and exceptional quality. The staff are also highly regarded, with users noting their nice, kind, and accommodating demeanor.
The diner offers a simple yet enjoyable dining experience, transporting customers back to a different era. The food served at the establishment is solid and generous in portion size, with a wide variety of options to choose from. The French toast, in particular, was noted for its potential to be crispier, indicating that there is still room for improvement in some areas.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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2. Lou Mitchell's
Free doughnuts and milk for customers while they wait, a classic Chicago diner

Lou Mitchell's, a popular dining destination in Chicago, recently hosted a visit from two grandchildren and their family on a Sunday afternoon. Upon arrival, they were met with a long line that moved quickly. As they waited, the establishment offered complimentary doughnut holes and Milk Duds to passing patrons, which were well-received.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Breakfast
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3. Crosby's Kitchen
Uses locally-sourced ingredients, offers brunch on weekends

The first individual had an exceptional experience at CK, highlighted by delicious and flavorful chicken. This was their initial visit to the restaurant, making it a significant occasion as they were reuniting with a friend they hadn't seen in 23 years. They were pleased with the high-quality food and service and are looking forward to visiting again in the future.
Another person enjoyed a perfect dining experience at the same restaurant, taking advantage of the outdoor seating on a beautiful afternoon. They praised the accommodating and attentive waitstaff, which contributed to the great atmosphere. The food received high marks for perfection, and they were thrilled to have chosen this excellent local establishment for their meal. They plan to return in the future.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Breakfast
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4. R.J. Grunts
Features a fun atmosphere with a 70's inspired decor

A fantastic family dinner was had at this location, where the staff went out of their way to be accommodating to the whole family. The food served during the dinner was delicious, making it a highly recommended spot for family outings.
This place is an excellent choice for families with children, as the kids will surely enjoy the burgers offered on the menu. Additionally, the salad bar features a wide variety of options, ensuring that everyone will find something they like.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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5. Greek Islands
Authentic Greek cuisine, live music, and outdoor seating.

Greek Islands, a renowned restaurant in Chicago, is celebrated for its authentic Greek cuisine. The establishment offers a variety of standout dishes, including grilled octopus, lamb, and fresh fish. With convenient valet parking, wheelchair accessibility, and a kid-friendly atmosphere, Greek Islands caters to a wide range of patrons. Moreover, the restaurant offers vegetarian options highly praised for their freshness and flavor. The exceptional service and welcoming atmosphere of Greek Islands continue to impress diners, including families who have been visiting the establishment for over two decades.
A recent family visit, commemorating a birthday, proved to be a memorable experience at Greek Islands. The food quality lived up to their expectations, while the quick and attentive service made their meal enjoyable. The atmosphere was further enhanced by the manager, who went out of his way to acknowledge a birthday gift, gifting the celebrant a piece of cake, and leading the group in a birthday song. This special treatment made the family feel unique and appreciated, adding to the overall outstanding reputation of Greek Islands as a great dining destination.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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6. The Chicago Diner, Logan Square
Serves breakfast all day, popular with both locals and tourists, offers a wide variety of comfort food dishes

The Chicago Diner's newest location offers a fresh and modern dining experience, differing from its original location's established design while still maintaining the same level of excellence. The new decor reflects the surrounding restaurants in the area, providing a welcome change to the 29-year-old original location.
Being a vegetarian all my life, I can attest that the Chicago Diner never fails to deliver delicious and satisfying meals for vegetarians like me and my children. Contrary to popular belief, vegetarian food is not limited to just salads; even meat-eaters can find delicious options here. The Chicago Diner continues to provide a much-needed variety of meals for vegetarians, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking tasty and healthy food options.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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7. Top View Restaurant
Offers a beautiful skyline view of Chicago while dining

The service at this establishment is highly regarded by guests for its friendliness, helpfulness, and speed. Guests have consistently remarked on the excellent quality of service provided.
In terms of the food, guests have raved about its quality, taste, and use of fresh ingredients. Among the menu items, the pizza stands out for its sweet sauce, and the lobster ravioli is considered to be exceptional.
TOPICS
- Breakfast
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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8. Nookies on Wells
Offers cookie decorating classes and events

Considering a place for a tasty and quick breakfast or brunch with your family? Look no further. This restaurant offers super fast service and delicious food that will satisfy everyone's cravings. The blueberry pancakes are a must-try, as they are arguably the best I've ever had. My son also raved about his omelet, claiming it to be the best he's ever had.
This establishment is perfect for family outings. Not only is the food delicious, but the service is friendly and efficient, making it an enjoyable dining experience for all. Whether you're in the mood for a family breakfast or late morning brunch, this place has got you covered.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
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9. Honey Butter Fried Chicken
Known for delicious fried chicken and unique honey butter

The staff at this establishment are exceptional; they are attentive, professional, friendly, courteous, and always make sure customers are satisfied and well taken care of. They assist customers with their orders, ensure cleanliness, and go above and beyond to make sure every customer is happy.
The chicken, biscuits, and side dishes are highly praised for their flavor, seasoning, and tenderness. Some customers enjoyed the chicken sandwiches with a saucy texture, while others preferred it with a biscuit bun. The ordering process is easy, with staff eager to accommodate special requests. It is noted that the staff is well-compensated for their excellent service.
In summary, this is a must-visit destination for chicken lovers, with delicious and fresh food, exceptional staff, and an easy ordering process, all contributing to a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
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10. Luella's Southern Kitchen
Homemade desserts, family recipes, picnic table seating

Luella's Bar-B-Que is a fantastic restaurant, offering amazing food that is not to be missed. I am surprised that I have never ordered from or dined at this establishment before, given that I live in the area. It is a shame that they will be closing, as I will miss out on the opportunity to enjoy their delicious offerings regularly.
Luella's offers a wide variety of dishes, but some of the standouts include hoppin johns, fried and jerk chicken, mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread. The owner is incredibly kind, and the staff is always friendly and attentive. On a recent visit, our guests were blown away by the quality and flavor of the food, and they raved about it all night long. Luella's was the perfect addition to our small family party, elevating the meal and making it an unforgettable experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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11. Maggiano's Little Italy
Family-style servings, Warm and inviting atmosphere, Wine selection and Happy Hour menu

Maggiano's, a chain restaurant, offers Family Style Dinners for groups of four or more and provides an excellent dining experience. During a weeknight holiday, my wife and I enjoyed dinner at an outside table with a wonderful atmosphere and family-style service. The food was delicious, and the experience was made even better by the attentive and efficient staff.
During our visit, we were impressed with the holiday decor and quick and courteous valet service. We had a reservation, and we were promptly seated within a minute of our designated time. The polite desk staff and efficient seating process added to the overall positive experience of our meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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12. Tempo Cafe
Provides outdoor seating, casual atmosphere, specialty coffee drinks

This establishment is an excellent choice for a family breakfast. The kids are sure to enjoy the pancakes, which are a popular menu item. The staff is also very accommodating, making for a pleasant dining experience.
If you're looking for a great place to take the family for brunch, this is the spot. Generous portions are offered, and the atmosphere is very welcoming for children. This is an ideal location for families to enjoy a meal together.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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13. Huck Finn Restaurant
Southern cuisine, serves alcohol, live music on weekends

There is a popular late-night food spot in the McKinley Park neighborhood that has been a favorite for over a decade. This establishment is known for its friendly staff and fair prices, making it a go-to destination for many locals.
The restaurant is always impeccably clean, and the pork tenderloin is a standout menu item. In addition to the delicious food, the staff is also exceptional, providing excellent service to guests. Another highlight of this spot is their donuts, which are a must-try for anyone visiting. Overall, this establishment offers a great dining experience, with delicious food and outstanding service.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
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14. Eggy's Diner
Uses locally sourced ingredients, Offers gluten-free options

Eggy's Diner is a welcoming restaurant that provides a homey atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families. The menu at Eggy's Diner features familiar dishes that are often associated with home-cooked meals, such as pancakes, grilled cheese sandwiches, and burgers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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15. The StopAlong
Vegan-friendly options, Cozy and stylish interior

The ramen restaurant offered a fantastic dining experience with delicious food and rich flavors that were unlike anything we had ever tried before. The pork in the ramen was particularly phenomenal and plentiful, and we found ourselves devouring every last bite. We also ordered a variety of appetizers to taste and take home, but they were all so good that we ended up finishing everything. The poke bowl with rice was another highlight, and it may even be gluten-free, although it's best to check with the servers.
Overall, we had such a great time that we're already planning our next visit. However, we do want to warn others that parking may be a bit difficult, so it's a good idea to come early or be prepared to wait a bit. But trust us, any wait is definitely worth it for the incredible food and amazing flavors. We highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who loves ramen or is looking to try something new and delicious.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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16. Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe
Seasonal menus with locally sourced ingredients, extensive gluten-free and allergy-friendly options

The restaurant is a great location for families, known for its friendly staff and tasty food. It provides a welcoming atmosphere for both adults and children. During our visit, our kids enjoyed themselves and the food.
As a perfect spot for a family breakfast, the restaurant offers a wide-ranging menu with generous portions. The berry bliss pancakes were a hit with our kids, who loved the delicious and filling meal. Overall, it is an excellent choice for families seeking a satisfying breakfast experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Breakfast
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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17. weber's grill

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Happy Hours
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18. Sunny Side Up Breakfast & Lunch
Offers both indoor and outdoor seating with a cozy ambiance

A delightful family meal was enjoyed at this location, known for its friendly service and delicious food. The restaurant provided a comfortable atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a family gathering.
This location is perfect for a cozy family brunch, with a varied menu that caters to everyone's tastes. The friendly service and comfortable ambiance make it a popular choice for families looking to enjoy a meal together.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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19. Yolk - South Loop
Modern Korean restaurant with unique decor and rooftop seating

A delightful family dining experience is offered at this establishment, known for its generous portions and family-friendly atmosphere. The generously sized helpings ensure that everyone leaves feeling satisfied and content. High chairs and a kids' menu are available, making it an ideal location for families with young children.
For a successful family brunch, this location is highly recommended. The diverse menu accommodates various dietary preferences, and the staff consistently provides warm and attentive service. Younger diners are well taken care of, with a menu just for them, and parents can enjoy their meal in a welcoming and relaxed setting.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Breakfast
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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20. Smoque BBQ
Authentic Texas-style BBQ, Slow-smoked meats, Homemade sauces

Smoque BBQ is a popular choice for BBQ lovers in the city's North Side, offering a wide variety of options such as pecan bread pudding and BBQ ribs. The restaurant has received high praise for its excellent sauces and perfectly prepared meats, as well as its tasty sides and perfect portion sizes. However, there is room for improvement in terms of flavor consistency and service.
As of February 2020, Smoque BBQ stands out as the best BBQ option in the North Side, with a solo diner praising its exceptional quality. The meats are prepared to perfection and the sauces are highly complementary. The sides are also delicious, and the portions served are just right. Its location near the 90/9
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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21. Cantón Regio
Wide tequila selection, lively atmosphere, friendly service

Cantón Regio, situated in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, provides a delightful Mexican dining experience, with standout dishes including carne asada and shrimp tacos, served with homemade tortillas. The restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere, with a hearty ambiance, friendly service, and a meal often beginning with good soup, crispy chips, and fresh salsa.
As a family-owned and operated establishment, Cantón Regio specializes in serving homemade, authentic Northern Mexican cuisine. Upon being seated, diners can expect quick and attentive service, accompanied by a complementary basket of warm corn tortilla chips and two types of homemade salsas, setting the stage for an enjoyable and satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Hidden Gems
- Cheap Eats
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22. Ed Debevic's
50's diner theme with sassy waitstaff

The author and their group had an enjoyable experience at the establishment, particularly appreciating the lively atmosphere created by the servers. This is described as an ideal place for families with younger children.
The servers are dressed in 1980s-style clothing and interact with guests in a unique and entertaining way. They engage with customers in a playful manner, providing amusing comments and instructions. This includes jokingly telling guests not to ask any menu questions and to make their food orders quickly. Overall, the establishment is recommended for those seeking a fun and unconventional dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Cheap Eats
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23. Gordon Ramsay Burger
Features gourmet burgers and exclusive sodas on tap

Gordon Ramsay, known for his high-quality service and food, recently opened a new burger restaurant in Chicago. Upon visiting on a Saturday night, the restaurant was buzzing with energy and packed, reflecting the popularity of the celebrity chef. Despite the hour-long wait without a reservation, I was excited to see what Ramsay had created in terms of burgers.
At Gordon Ramsay Burger, diners can choose from a range of classic to unique Ramsay-style premium burgers, fries, hot dogs, and milkshakes. The lively atmosphere and variety of offerings make it an ideal spot for dining with family and friends.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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24. Big Jones
One of the only restaurants in Chicago specializing in Southern cuisine, Uses local and sustainable ingredients

Big Jones is a must-visit restaurant in Chicago, known for its delicious brunch and dinner options. The main dishes, such as the fried chicken, are standouts – crispy and full of flavor. However, some of the sides, like the grits and cornbread, are less impressive. The staff is friendly and welcoming, but the service can be slow at times.
During breakfast, the Southern-style offerings are particularly delightful. The Simple Southern Breakfast, which includes a buttermilk biscuit and orange mint tea, is a favorite among regulars. The ambiance of the restaurant adds to the overall enjoyable experience. Despite minor issues with the side dishes and service speed, Big Jones remains a highly recommended spot for anyone looking to enjoy some authentic Southern cuisine in Chicago.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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25. Pinstripes
Live music, craft cocktails, and artisanal pizzas

This venue is perfect for a night out with family or friends, offering a variety of activities and delicious Italian cuisine. The meatballs and polenta are particularly noteworthy, as they taste just like homemade dishes from Aunt Minnie.
During a recent lunch visit, the food was delicious, and three games of bowling were enjoyed in just one hour. The wait service was exceptional for both the meal and bowling experience. In addition to the great food and bowling, this location provides a lively urban atmosphere for dining and drinking in a downtown setting, making it an ideal spot to have fun and be merry.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Corporate Events
- Lunch
- Dinner
26. Doc B's Restaurant (Gold Coast)
Seafood-focused menu, Historic Chicago building

The service and food at this establishment are consistently excellent, providing a positive dining experience. The knowledgeable and attentive staff cater to customers' needs, ensuring satisfactory service. The food served is always delicious and skillfully prepared, with a variety of options to suit different tastes and preferences.
In terms of service, the staff go above and beyond to make customers feel welcome and valued. They are attentive and proactive in ensuring that guests have everything they need, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience. The food is always a highlight, as the skilled chefs use high-quality ingredients to create flavorful and well-presented dishes. Overall, the combination of excellent service and delicious food makes this dining establishment a standout choice.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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27. Ever Restaurant
Unique wine list, rustic Italian dishes, cozy ambiance

Ever is a highly regarded restaurant in Fulton Market, known for its exquisite tasting menu. The restaurant is ideal for special occasions and fine dining, but may not be the best fit for families. The establishment offers an upscale and sophisticated atmosphere, which may not be appealing to young children.
Ever is more suited for a grown-up night out or a celebration of a significant event. The restaurant's ambiance and food are tailored to provide a memorable dining experience for adults. Therefore, if you're looking for a family-friendly restaurant, Ever may not be the best choice. However, for those seeking a fine-dining experience, Ever is an excellent option.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Celebrations
- High-End
28. Roots Handmade Pizza - South Loop
Handmade pizza with locally-sourced ingredients

Sofi Restaurant offers a decent dining experience, with some standout dishes such as their lamb chops and seafood. The pasta is cooked to an al dente texture and has a satisfying balance of sauce and meat. The service at Sofi Restaurant is consistently praised for being attentive, friendly, and impeccable.
Gino's East is famous for its deep dish Chicago-style pizza, which can take up to 45 minutes to cook. The pizzas are made from scratch, with a variety of toppings such as Hot and Spicy, Italian Beef, Veggie, Burger & Fries, and Spinach Margherita. While the food at Gino's East is generally considered good, some reviewers note that the deep dish pizza can sometimes be undercooked and take a long time to arrive. Despite this, some have claimed that it serves the best pizza in Chicago.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
- Vegetarian Options
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29. T J's Family Restaurant
Full bar available and offers a variety of daily specials

T J's Family Restaurant is a small, family-owned diner with a welcoming atmosphere. The breakfast offerings are consistently tasty, with appropriate portion sizes. Service is usually satisfactory, although there can be delays due to language barriers and occasional errors in orders. Additionally, some desserts may not always be available.
However, food quality varies, with some guests praising it and others criticizing it as bland, cold, or unappetizing. Service is similarly inconsistent, with some guests reporting fast and friendly service, while others find it slow and inattentive.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
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