Top 13 kid-friendly restaurants in Downtown Ithaca

Discover our curated list of top-ranked kid-friendly restaurants in Downtown Ithaca, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Moosewood, Ithaca Ale House, Red's Place, Waffle Frolic, Hawi. Let's explore together!

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1. Moosewood

Committed to sustainable, organic, and local ingredients

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1120 Review by google)
  • Address:

    215 N Cayuga St, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers vegetarian and vegan options, established for over 40 years, warm and inviting atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Cash-only, no reservations, parking can be challenging
  • Popular Menu:

    Vegetable Lasagna, Wild Mushroom Ravioli, Moosewood's Black Bean Burger
  • Price Range:

    $10-$20
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in a culinary treasure with the elusive Moosewood Katzen, Mollie First Edition - a highly sought-after American cookbook shrouded in mystery, with no known copies existing in libraries. Discover the charm of the rare self-published gem, limited to a mere 800 copies. The Moosewood Cookbook stands as a culinary masterpiece that revolutionized whole foods vegetarian cuisine, captivating hearts with each turn of its pages... Own a piece of culinary history for $5,000. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable dining experience at this iconic Ithaca institution embraced by locals. Step into a welcoming ambiance exuding warmth, complemented by a delightful array of foodie finds. Savor the irresistible hummus that beckons the taste buds with its unrivaled flavor. Delight in vegetarian delights that redefine the art of plant-based gastronomy, from the vibrant kale salad to the aromatic Moroccan chickpea stew that dances on your palate. Relish each bite as you bask in the culinary symphony of flavors.

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Mid-Range
  • Dinner

2. Ithaca Ale House

Over 60 beers on tap and a relaxed atmosphere

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1716 Review by google)
  • Address:

    301 E State St Suite 1, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of beers on tap, friendly atmosphere, delicious pub food
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded during peak hours, limited vegetarian options, service can be slow
  • Popular Menu:

    Burgers, wings, mac and cheese
  • Price Range:

    $10-$20
Phone Directions Website
Nestled in the heart of Ithaca, the iconic Ithaca Ale House beckons with its inviting ambiance and impressive array of locally brewed beers. Situated in the vibrant Streatery at the east end of the Commons, this establishment strikes the perfect chord with its delectable food offerings and extensive beer selection, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. From the generous portions of French Onion Soup to the mouthwatering Buffalo Egg Rolls, the appetizers tantalize the taste buds, setting the stage for a culinary journey like no other. For lunch or dinner, the menu boasts an array of spectacular dishes, including salads, burgers, and pizzas that are sure to satisfy any palate. And let's not forget Mrs. O'Leary's heavenly cookies, a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with a glass of milk, leaving a lasting impression of comfort and indulgence.
My recent visit to Ithaca Ale House left me thoroughly impressed with its warm hospitality and impeccable service. The friendly waiter guided us through the impressive selection of beers on tap, setting the stage for a delightful culinary experience. Opting for a selection of appetizers, each dish surpassed expectations, tantalizing our senses with exquisite flavors and generous portions. The seamless dining experience, coupled with the reasonable pricing, made it a standout choice for our group lunch meeting, effortlessly accommodating our needs and preferences. As I look forward to my next visit, I am already planning to delve into their tempting array of main dishes, eager to explore more of what Ithaca Ale House has to offer.

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • American Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots

3. Red's Place

Featuring a rotating selection of 20 craft beers on tap

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (578 Review by google)
  • Address:

    107 N Aurora St, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of craft beers, cozy atmosphere, knowledgeable staff
  • Cons:

    Prices can be slightly higher than average, limited vegetarian options, cash-only policy
  • Popular Menu:

    Burgers, wings, mac and cheese
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website
Red's Place awaits, where flavors dance and memories are made. Picture this: a hidden gem snuggled in the heart of town, painted with the warmth of home and the promise of culinary delights. It's where the aroma of sausage and kale soup whispers tales of comfort, and macaroni and cheese with chicken appetizers beckon you to flavor paradise. Embrace the joy of accidental discoveries and let Red's Place weave its magic on your taste buds, one delectable bite at a time. Join us, as we unmask this culinary sanctuary and savor the essence of good food, great company, and unforgettable experiences.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Vegan Options
  • Downtown Spots

4. Waffle Frolic

Artisanal waffle shop with innovative flavors

  • Rating: 4.2/5 (516 Review by google)
  • Address:

    146 E State St, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of waffle options, cozy atmosphere, catering services available
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, cash-only payments, may have long wait times during peak hours
  • Popular Menu:

    Liege Waffles, Churro Waffles, Waffle Sundaes
  • Price Range:

    $6-$12
Directions
Indulge in the delectable delights of Waffle Frolic, where each bite of their waffles justifies the slightly higher price point. Their extensive menu caters not only to vegetarians and vegans but also to those craving a truly satisfying meal. Despite the occasional brusqueness of staff, the impeccable breading on the chicken and exquisite espresso more than make up for it. For a truly unforgettable waffle experience, Waffle Frolic is the ultimate destination.

5. Hawi

Authentic Hawaiian cuisine in upstate New York

  • Time:

    3 to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (456 Review by google)
  • Address:

    113 S Cayuga St, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of dishes, vegetarian and gluten-free options, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited parking, may have long wait times during peak hours, cash only
  • Popular Menu:

    Hawi bowl, kalua pork, loco moco
  • Price Range:

    $10-$20
Phone Directions Website
Located in the vibrant heart of Ithaca, Hawi is a remarkable Ethiopian restaurant offering a diverse menu appealing to both vegetarians and omnivores alike. Indulge in the Ethiopian peanut drink and the mouthwatering mixed meat combination served on traditional teff injera bread, with extra injera on the side. The vegetarian options are equally delightful, while the expertly cooked and seasoned lamb dishes are a true standout. Complemented by exceptional service, a visit to Hawi promises a memorable culinary experience.

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots

6. Luna Inspired Street Food

Fusion of Asian and Latin American cuisine in a street food setting

  • Time:

    11 AM to 11 PM

  • Rating: 3.8/5 (701 Review by google)
  • Address:

    113 N Aurora St, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of unique and flavorful dishes, friendly service, great ambiance
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded during peak hours, limited seating, may have long wait times
  • Popular Menu:

    Asian-style tacos, ramen bowls, bao buns
  • Price Range:

    $ - $$
Phone Directions Website
Luna Inspired Street Food serves up fresh and flavorful tacos, with standout options like the tomato and mahi mahi varieties. While the sweet potato taco may fall short on taste, the speedy service from a one-man operation is commendable. However, recent visits suggest a decline in food quality, with complaints about skimpy shrimp fritters. Yet, the indulgent duck fat fries remain a consistent highlight on the menu, preserving some of the eatery's former glory.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Downtown Spots

7. Lev Kitchen

Lev Kitchen uses locally sourced and organic ingredients, and offers a unique and delicious Mediterranean-inspired menu.

  • Time:

    9 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (218 Review by google)
  • Address:

    222 E State St, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

  • Pros:

    Lev Kitchen offers vegetarian and vegan options, caters to dietary restrictions, and has a cozy and comfortable atmosphere.
  • Cons:

    Limited parking, occasional long wait times during peak hours, and cash-only policy may be inconvenient for some customers.
  • Popular Menu:

    Lev Kitchen's popular menu items include their Falafel Sandwich, Hummus Plate, and Shakshuka.
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
Lev Kitchen is a true oasis offering a refreshing escape on a scorching day. The impeccably fresh fattoush salad was a delightful choice, bursting with flavors and served with a side of hospitality. The homemade bread wrap and flavorful falafel were simply outstanding, paired perfectly with a delightful kombucha. It's a place where great food meets excellent service, making every visit a memorable experience.

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Downtown Spots
  • Social Gatherings

8. Cafe Dewitt

Local and independent coffee shop with a community feel

  • Time:

    8:30 AM to 2:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (192 Review by google)
  • Address:

    215 N Cayuga St, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of food and drink options, cozy atmosphere, friendly staff
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, can get crowded during peak hours, prices slightly higher than some competitors
  • Popular Menu:

    Cappuccino, Avocado Toast, Grilled Cheese
  • Price Range:

    $2-$15
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots

9. Angelhearts Diner

Committed to sustainable and local food

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (184 Review by google)
  • Address:

    401 E State St Suite G-2, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide vegetarian and vegan options, cozy atmosphere, friendly service
  • Cons:

    Limited hours, small portions, can be pricey for some
  • Popular Menu:

    Vegan Mac and Cheese, Tempeh Reuben, Avocado Toast
  • Price Range:

    $10-$20
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Vegan Options
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots

10. The Strand Cafe

Phone Directions Website

324 E State St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA (607) 277-0230 Visit website Open in Google Maps The Strand Cafe, located inside the Canopy by Hilton Ithaca Downtown at 324 E State St, Ithaca, NY, presents a delicious afternoon tea experience that highlights the best of local ingredients and artisanal creations. When I entered the cafe, I was immediately captivated by the warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect place to relax in the afternoon. The tea service exceeded my expectations with its carefully crafted range of sandwiches, scones and sweets. Every bite was a delicious fusion of flavors and I could clearly taste the freshness of the locally sourced ingredients. The attention to detail in the presentation of the food was evident, reflecting the care and passion of the culinary team. To complement the delicious offerings, The Strand Cafe offers a wide selection of beverages. I opted for a tasty tea blend, which paired wonderfully with the spread. However, for those looking for something different, the café also offers a variety of beers, wines and mixed drinks to satisfy different palates. What truly sets The Strand Cafe apart is its commitment to providing a memorable experience. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable and attentive throughout the afternoon, making me feel at home. The friendly atmosphere and exceptional service made afternoon tea at The Strand Cafe a truly enjoyable and relaxing experience. Overall, I recommend The Strand Cafe to anyone looking for a delicious afternoon tea in Ithaca. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, this hidden gem within Canopy by Hilton Ithaca Downtown will leave you with a lasting impression and a desire to return for more artisanal delights.


TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Downtown Spots
  • Happy Hours

11. Gorgers

Offers vegetarian and vegan options, unique fusion cuisine

  • Time:

    11 AM to 8 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (495 Review by google)
  • Address:

    116 W State St, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of dishes, cozy atmosphere, great for groups
  • Cons:

    Prices can be a bit high, hit-or-miss service, limited parking
  • Popular Menu:

    Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese, Korean BBQ Tacos, Falafel Salad
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Vegan Options
  • Budget-Friendly Eats

12. Monks on the Commons

Committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing

  • Rating: 3.7/5 (163 Review by google)
  • Address:

    120 S Aurora St, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options, cozy and unique atmosphere, knowledgeable and friendly staff
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, can be noisy at times, hit-or-miss service
  • Popular Menu:

    Miso Soup, Pad Thai, Dragon Bowl
  • Price Range:

    $10-$20
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • American Cuisine
  • Dinner

13. Lou's Street Food, Center Ithaca

Directions

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots
  • Lunch