Top 12 kid-friendly restaurants in Downtown Rochester
Discover our curated list of top-ranked kid-friendly restaurants in Downtown Rochester, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like The Pizza Stop, Bill Gray's Strong Museum, Palermo’s Market, Drifters, Squatcho's. Let's explore together!
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1. The Pizza Stop
Open until 3 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, Caters to large orders, Provides online ordering

Indulge in the vibrant pizza culture of Rochester, NY with a visit to The Pizza Stop, a local gem highly recommended by the Rochester Pizza Guy. Dive into a slice of New York-style thin-crust perfection, topped with flavorful sauce and baked to crispy, cheesy goodness. The simplistic menu offers a handful of irresistible options, each showcasing the pizzeria's dedication to quality and taste. While the wait for a fresh slice may be a tad longer, the end result is undeniably worth it, guaranteeing a satisfying culinary experience that will have you coming back for more.
Immerse yourself in the charming ambiance of The Pizza Stop and savor the experience of choosing from an array of delectable pizza varieties, ranging from classic favorites to innovative creations. With a keen focus on delivering top-notch thin-crust pizzas, this eatery prides itself on providing not just a meal, but a delightful journey for your taste buds. The friendly staff adds a welcoming touch to the dining experience, making each visit a memorable one. For pizza enthusiasts in the Rochester area, The Pizza Stop is a must-visit destination, promising a mouthwatering selection of handcrafted pies that will leave you craving another slice.
Immerse yourself in the charming ambiance of The Pizza Stop and savor the experience of choosing from an array of delectable pizza varieties, ranging from classic favorites to innovative creations. With a keen focus on delivering top-notch thin-crust pizzas, this eatery prides itself on providing not just a meal, but a delightful journey for your taste buds. The friendly staff adds a welcoming touch to the dining experience, making each visit a memorable one. For pizza enthusiasts in the Rochester area, The Pizza Stop is a must-visit destination, promising a mouthwatering selection of handcrafted pies that will leave you craving another slice.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
2. Bill Gray's Strong Museum
Home to the National Museum of Play and the International Center for the History of Electronic Games

Nestled beneath the exhilarating ropes course at Bill Gray's Strong Museum lies a beloved local gem recognized for its classic American fare. Whether you're a Rochester native or a curious traveler, the enticing aroma of sizzling burgers and hot dogs promises a satisfying experience. Despite the hustle, the efficient staff ensures swift corrections and attentive service, guaranteeing a seamless meal. At this family-friendly eatery, the straightforward menu caters perfectly to little ones, offering ample portions of chips with their meals, much to the delight of young patrons. The highlight, undoubtedly, is the mouthwatering sausage burger adorned with onions, peppers, and gooey cheese—an unforgettable culinary delight that leaves taste buds craving more.
Step into a world where nostalgia meets culinary excellence at Bill Gray's, a renowned haven for burger enthusiasts in the heart of Rochester. As a cherished local haunt, this inviting eatery captivates visitors with its steaming hot offerings and commitment to impeccable service. Tucked away below the thrilling ropes course at the Strong Museum, it serves as the ultimate lunch spot for families seeking a delectable yet fuss-free dining experience. The menu, refreshingly simple, caters effortlessly to the younger crowd, generously pairing kids' meals with a plentiful serving of crispy chips. Witness the sheer joy on children's faces as they savor every bite, with the signature sausage burger stealing the show with its flavorful combination of onions, peppers, and melted cheese—a true masterpiece that elevates the humble burger to new heights of culinary perfection.
Step into a world where nostalgia meets culinary excellence at Bill Gray's, a renowned haven for burger enthusiasts in the heart of Rochester. As a cherished local haunt, this inviting eatery captivates visitors with its steaming hot offerings and commitment to impeccable service. Tucked away below the thrilling ropes course at the Strong Museum, it serves as the ultimate lunch spot for families seeking a delectable yet fuss-free dining experience. The menu, refreshingly simple, caters effortlessly to the younger crowd, generously pairing kids' meals with a plentiful serving of crispy chips. Witness the sheer joy on children's faces as they savor every bite, with the signature sausage burger stealing the show with its flavorful combination of onions, peppers, and melted cheese—a true masterpiece that elevates the humble burger to new heights of culinary perfection.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
3. Palermo’s Market

Nestled in the heart of Rochester lies Palermo's Market, a culinary oasis delivering on the promise of picture-perfect dishes. From the moment your meal is placed before you, the resemblance to the menu's enticing visuals is uncanny, leaving your taste buds tingling with anticipation. This hidden gem stands out with its delectable offerings, showcasing a commitment to sourcing the finest local ingredients that burst with flavor in every bite.
Prepare to be captivated by the gastronomic delights that Palermo's Market has to offer. As you take your first bite, a symphony of flavors dances on your palate, a testament to the culinary expertise and dedication to quality that permeates every dish. Each bite is a culinary journey through locally sourced ingredients that come together harmoniously to create a dining experience that is as unforgettable as it is delicious.
Prepare to be captivated by the gastronomic delights that Palermo's Market has to offer. As you take your first bite, a symphony of flavors dances on your palate, a testament to the culinary expertise and dedication to quality that permeates every dish. Each bite is a culinary journey through locally sourced ingredients that come together harmoniously to create a dining experience that is as unforgettable as it is delicious.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
4. Drifters
A hidden gem with a speakeasy vibe and live music

Drifters boasts an exceptional bartender who alone makes the trip worthwhile. The menu does not disappoint, with highlights such as the enticing BLT flatbread and delicious chicken tenders served with crispy fries. With a diverse selection of at least five to six beers on tap, Drifters is a definite must-visit for any food and drink enthusiast.
During our stay at the Hilton Garden Inn, we sought out a quick meal and refreshing drinks, and Drifters delivered beyond our expectations. The food arrived promptly, served hot and bursting with flavor. Our experience was elevated by the outstanding service of Courtney, our attentive waitress who impressed us with her swift refills and charming demeanor.
During our stay at the Hilton Garden Inn, we sought out a quick meal and refreshing drinks, and Drifters delivered beyond our expectations. The food arrived promptly, served hot and bursting with flavor. Our experience was elevated by the outstanding service of Courtney, our attentive waitress who impressed us with her swift refills and charming demeanor.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
5. Squatcho's

Squatcho's serves up sensational pizza and irresistible garlic knots. The marinara sauce accompanying the knots is a burst of freshness, with just the right amount of seasoning. The impeccable service only adds to the overall outstanding experience, leaving me eager to return for more culinary delights! As a semi-vegan, discovering this gem was like finding a slice of heaven.
6. Galleria Pizza
Using fresh ingredients and homemade dough daily

Galleria Pizza offers exceptional service and delectable food that surpasses expectations. Frequented by my wife and her colleagues for a quick lunch break, they appreciate the variety of options available in the federal building vicinity. Tony, the owner, goes above and beyond with his warm hospitality. Despite occasional crowds, the efficient staff ensures a prompt and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
7. House of Whacks

"Indulge in a delightful dining experience at House of Whacks, where mouthwatering pancakes, chicken, and waffles await. The confident owner promised a memorable taste adventure - one bite of their split cake and I was hooked! The diverse menu offers freshly made delights, leaving you spoilt for choice."
"Embark on a culinary journey at this hidden gem, boasting a welcoming atmosphere and stellar service. The amiable owners ensure a memorable visit, serving up delectable dishes that exceed expectations. Don't miss out on the opportunity to savor their offerings - a visit to House of Whacks promises a gastronomic delight like no other!"
"Embark on a culinary journey at this hidden gem, boasting a welcoming atmosphere and stellar service. The amiable owners ensure a memorable visit, serving up delectable dishes that exceed expectations. Don't miss out on the opportunity to savor their offerings - a visit to House of Whacks promises a gastronomic delight like no other!"
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Corporate Events
- Affordable Nightlife
8. BROTH on main

Quick Service Vietnamese Pho Restaurant.Located in a public square for lunch so plenty of seating around.I really enjoyed the simple menu and the taste was excellent.I would definitely come back for more!
Absolutely delicious!I'm so glad I found this place!I will definitely return.I ordered Thai tea with boba.
Absolutely delicious!I'm so glad I found this place!I will definitely return.I ordered Thai tea with boba.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
9. bite rochester

10. T's Eats

11. POP ROC
Offers unique Taiwanese cuisine in Rochester, NY

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
12. The Street Craft Bar & Cocktails
