Top 30 kid-friendly restaurants in Ithaca
Discover our curated list of top-ranked kid-friendly restaurants in Ithaca, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like The State Diner, Texas Roadhouse, The Boatyard Grill, Ithaca Ale House, Moosewood. Let's explore together!
- 1. The State Diner
- 2. Texas Roadhouse
- 3. The Boatyard Grill
- 4. Ithaca Ale House
- 5. Moosewood
- 6. Chili's Grill & Bar
- 7. Old Mexico
- 8. MIX
- 9. Viva Taqueria & Cantina
- 10. Saigon Kitchen
- 11. Ithaca Bakery
- 12. Maxie's Supper Club & Oyster Bar
- 13. Maru Ramen
- 14. Sunset Grill
- 15. Milkstand Restaurant
- 16. Tamarind
- 17. Taste of Thai Express
- 18. Lincoln Street Diner
- 19. Red's Place
- 20. Wings Over Ithaca
- 21. Gorgers
- 22. Circus Truck
- 23. Cafe Dewitt
- 24. Taste of Thai
- 25. De Tasty Hot Pot Restaurant
- 26. Hawi
- 27. Northstar Public House
- 28. The Rook
- 29. Luna Inspired Street Food
- 30. Sangam Indian Cuisine
1. The State Diner
A long-standing Ithaca institution with a dedicated local following

Step into a culinary haven where every bite is a journey to flavor paradise. With a knack for serving up quick and delicious meals, The State Diner is a top pick for those seeking quality comfort food. From the crispy home fries to the loaded meat lovers omelet, each dish is crafted with care and precision. The attentive service and inviting ambiance add an extra layer of charm to your dining experience. And with convenient street parking options available, you can focus on savoring every moment without any hassle.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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2. Texas Roadhouse
Hand-cut steaks, fresh-baked bread, fun and lively atmosphere

Embark on a culinary adventure at Texas Roadhouse Steakhouse in Ithaca, NY, where every dish is crafted to perfection and every visit promises a delightful experience. Dive into the sumptuous flavors of the Porterhouse Steak, expertly prepared to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Savor the delightful combination of flavors as you enjoy a side of rice and a fresh salad, each bite a symphony of taste and texture. Whether dining with loved ones or friends, Texas Roadhouse never fails to impress with its warm hospitality and exceptional cuisine, making each visit a cherished memory to be savored.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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3. The Boatyard Grill
Offers a unique dining experience with stunning views of Cayuga Lake

Upon arriving a tad early to The BoatYard Grill, I was promptly seated amidst a burgeoning crowd, the bustling ambiance signaling its popularity. Despite a minor hiccup with the hostess, the efficient manager swiftly resolved the issue, imbuing the experience with a welcoming atmosphere. As I awaited my meal, the amiable and attentive waitress ensured our gathering flowed seamlessly. It soon became apparent that this establishment is a weekend hotspot, as reservations aren't accepted, requiring eager patrons to call ahead and join the waiting list for a chance to relish in the exceptional dining experience that awaits them.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- Waterfront
4. Ithaca Ale House
Over 20 beers on tap, including many local and regional choices

During my visit to the Ithaca Ale House, I was greeted by a friendly waiter who guided us through the impressive beer selection. Opting for appetizers, we were delighted by the flavors that danced on our palates. The reasonable prices made it a perfect spot for a group lunch, with prompt seating for our party of 11. Whether passing through or looking for a meeting spot, this gem is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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5. Moosewood
Iconic vegetarian restaurant with a loyal following since 1973.

Step into a charming oasis where captivating ambiance meets exceptional service. Indulge in delectable dishes, with the hummus standing out as a revelation. Dive into the culinary tradition of this esteemed Ithaca establishment, savoring exquisite vegetarian fare like the kale salad and Moroccan chickpea stew. Every bite bursts with rich flavors, creating a dining experience like no other.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
6. Chili's Grill & Bar
Southwestern-inspired dishes and drinks in a fun and relaxed setting

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
- Social Gatherings
7. Old Mexico
Authentic Mexican food in a friendly atmosphere

At Old Mexico, impeccable service and charming ambiance set the stage for a memorable dining experience. Despite a hiccup with the tacos on Tuesday, the attentive staff and delicious dishes like the Burrito Cochino showcase the restaurant's dedication to serving up a feast that will have you coming back for more.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
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8. MIX
Family-owned restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine since 1993

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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9. Viva Taqueria & Cantina
Authentic Mexican food with a modern twist

TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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10. Saigon Kitchen
Authentic Vietnamese cuisine with fresh ingredients

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
11. Ithaca Bakery
Freshly baked goods using quality ingredients

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
- Breakfast
12. Maxie's Supper Club & Oyster Bar
Classic supper club with live music and retro decor

Seafood, Bar, BBQ · $$ 635 W State St, Ithaca, NY Closed · 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 pm. 4.6 (878 reviews)
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Dinner
13. Maru Ramen
Authentic Japanese ramen experience in Ithaca

Ramen, Asian, Japanese · $$ 512 W State St, Ithaca, NY Closed · 11:30 a.m. m. - 9:00 p.m. m. 4.6 (803 reviews)
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
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14. Sunset Grill
Features a spacious deck for outdoor dining and live music on weekends

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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15. Milkstand Restaurant
Known for its unique milkshake flavors and homemade ingredients

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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16. Tamarind
Authentic Thai and Asian cuisine with a modern twist

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Dinner
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17. Taste of Thai Express
Family-owned Thai restaurant serving bold, flavorful dishes

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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18. Lincoln Street Diner
Homemade food with local ingredients, Diner with a twist

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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19. Red's Place
Cozy atmosphere with multiple TVs for sports viewing

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
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20. Wings Over Ithaca
Offers catering and delivery services

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
21. Gorgers
Sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, focuses on healthy and nutritious meals

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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22. Circus Truck

August 30, 2018 This week, we are on the west end of Ithaca visiting the Circus Truck. On a lot on West Green Street, this one-man, weekday food truck is both a gourmet Italian restaurant and a burger joint at the same time. [...]
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
- Lunch
23. Cafe Dewitt
Local art displays and events

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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24. Taste of Thai
Authentic Thai cuisine using fresh ingredients

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Kosher Options
25. De Tasty Hot Pot Restaurant
Interactive and customizable dining experience

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Social Gatherings
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26. Hawi
Local favorite for healthy, flavorful meals

TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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27. Northstar Public House
Cozy, industrial-chic tavern offering a variety of comfort foods and craft beers

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
28. The Rook
Unique fusion of Southern and Asian cuisine

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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29. Luna Inspired Street Food
Innovative fusion of Asian and Latin American cuisine

TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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30. Sangam Indian Cuisine
Family-owned restaurant with a focus on traditional dishes

TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Kosher Options