15 Fun Restaurants to Take Kids To in San Diego

Ever tasted fried chicken so good that it’s got its own merch? I have, and I can say that it’s worth the hype!

You won’t want to miss out on a visit to The Crack Shack with your family. Not only is their chicken delicious, but everything on their menu is made with ingredients from local farms (including the shakes and cookies for dessert), making it a more nourishing alternative to processed fast-food fried chicken chains.

The original Crack Shack location is the one in Little Italy, but it’s since expanded to other locations in Southern California. You can find another shop in Encinitas by looking for the massive chicken statue outside, and there’s a new location coming soon to Pacific Beach slated for the summer of 2025.

Any location deserves a spot on our list of the Best Things to Do with Kids in San Diego.

My Menu Recommendations

You’ll find chicken sandwiches, bowls, and combo meals on the menu here, plus classic sides like slaw and fries.

But I think you can’t go wrong with a timeless bucket of fried chicken - plus kids can try a small portion of everything with the Lil Cluckers meal.

Take a trip back to the days of Rock N’ Roll at the Corvette Diner in Liberty Station. Stepping inside this diner transports guests right back to the 50s, complete with antique decor, golden oldies playing on the jukebox, and a menu full of classic diner staples.

There’s no better pairing than a burger and a milkshake, so stop by between 12pm and 8pm from Monday-Thursday or until 9 pm on Friday and Saturday.

The Corvette Diner isn’t just a place to grab a meal. It’s memorable for all generations thanks to its pervasive 50s theme and arcade. Parents and grandparents can feel nostalgic about the halcyon days of poodle skirts and checkerboard patterns, and kids are sure to find the throwback theme fun and exciting too!

You can also keep the fun going at the diner’s Gamer’s Garage, an arcade with over 60 games to play. Selections include arcade cabinets, skee ball, pinball, and air hockey alongside more recent releases common to boardwalk arcades.

My Menu Recommendations

Like any good diner, Corvette has a sizable menu with tons of options!

Though they might be called Ginormous Chicken Fingers, this kids menu staple is the popular choice for picky eaters across the country - just don’t forget to follow it up with one of their amazing shakes, offered in over two dozen different flavors.

I’m a resident of Pacific Beach, so Sauced Pizzeria is right in my backyard. That means you can trust me when I say that it really is one of the best pizzerias in the neighborhood that’s sure to please both kids and adults.

Here, you’ll find classic Italian fare: pizzas, salads, hot sandwiches, and of course, plenty of styles and sauces for their pasta dishes. There’s a ton of variety, which makes it easier to find something for everyone in the family.

Sauced Pizzeria is also unique as an Italian restaurant that’s committed to providing equally delicious vegetarian and vegan options. You can get vegan pasta, pizza, and even meatball sandwiches, which I haven’t had myself but have heard are just as tasty as their non-vegan versions.

The kids menu has everything from the charmingly-named “pasgetti” to lasagna and calzones. Though it’s also tempting to split a ‘build your own’ pizza with any toppings you like. And of course, don’t forget about dessert - the cinnamon sugar breadsticks are to die for!

My Menu Recommendations

It’s no surprise that the Chef’s Famous Garlic Noodles are by far the most popular thing on the menu - just one bite and you’ll see why! Add some chicken or shrimp and it’s a filling meal that’s the perfect amount of garlicky goodness.

There are plenty of options for outdoor dining in San Diego, from beachside patios to sidewalk cafes. If you’re looking for a restaurant with outdoor seating and classic pub-style eats, head over to Station Tavern in South Park.

Station Tavern’s menu is filled with American classics, from burgers and fries to salads, sandwiches, and quick bites. Vegan and vegetarian dishes are also available, plus the restaurant has a full bar complete with cocktails, beers on tap, craft beers, and wines.

You can bring the whole family, as pets are allowed in the outdoor dining area too! If you’re coming from Dog Run Beach at Coronado Island or staying at a dog-friendly hotel, Station Tavern is an excellent place to grab lunch where everyone is invited.

After you eat, you can let the kids run around in Station Tavern’s outdoor play area. The attached playground is within view of the patio, so you can chat over drinks while still keeping an eye on your little ones.

My Menu Recommendations

The burgers at Station Tavern really are unbeatable and I can’t recommend them enough!

Their classic hamburger or cheeseburger is one of the best I’ve had in all of San Diego County, and there are also turkey and vegetarian or vegan options for anyone with dietary restrictions.

A family vacation to Chicago might not be in the cards, but if you’re mostly interested in getting to try one of the country’s most unique styles of pizza, never fear - you don’t even have to leave San Diego!

At Lefty's Chicago Pizzeria, you can feel like you’re halfway across the country just by getting takeout.

This family-friendly restaurant is best known for its pizza, and it’s no surprise that you’re getting authentic Chicago-style pies here, since the owners grew up in the Windy City. They wanted to bring a slice of Chicago to the west coast, offering classic deep-dish alongside stuffed and thin pan pizzas.

If you’re not in the mood for pizza, there’s also burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, pasta, and Italian appetizers like fried mushrooms and garlic bread.

My Menu Recommendations

Even if you’ve never been to Chicago, I suggest you let Lefty’s be your first experience with this type of pizza.

You can get a whole assortment of toppings or choose from their list of specialty pies for something different. You’ll have to wait a little longer for them to cook, but I really like the stuffed pizzas here too!

San Diego’s year-round sunny weather makes it ideal for outdoor dining with views of the Pacific Ocean, especially in beachy neighborhoods like La Jolla. In fact, why not dine right on the beach? At The Shores restaurant, you and your kids can relax by the beach while eating breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

You can enjoy delicious seafood and Baja-inspired options with locally-sourced and farm-fresh ingredients. The Shores Restaurant’s seasonal menu ensures there’s always something new to try. Stop by for weekend brunch and treat your family to an upscale, hacienda-style dining experience.

Parents can enjoy a variety of drinks from the beachside bar including cocktails, wine, spritzers, and craft beer. You can try happy hour bites from 2-5pm each day or order off the full menu. There’s also a kids menu with child-friendly options and smaller servings.

The Shores is open daily from 7am until 8:30pm. And as a bonus tip from a local, if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, make a reservation for dinner in the early evening so you can watch the sunset over the beach.

My Menu Recommendations

The weekend brunch menu here is my favorite, as you get great food paired with an amazing view and atmosphere.

There’s a kid’s menu with some staples, but if your family is up for trying something different, I recommend splitting a shareable appetizer like the loaded asada fries.

Let’s just get right to it - this is in my opinion the best taco shop in San Diego!

Southern California’s shared border with Mexico and the state’s early roots as a Spanish colony have contributed to a lively Mexican culture in many cities. As a result, San Diegan neighborhoods like Mission Beach are a great place to get authentic Mexican food at spots like the La Playa Taco Shop.

You can eat delicious tacos made with delicious tortillas and filled with a variety of meats, cheeses, beans, and more at the La Playa Taco Shop. They also serve up Mexican favorites like burritos, quesadillas, chile relleno, nachos, and of course the classic breakfast burrito.

If you’re looking for a delicious and affordable place to eat with the family, La Playa Taco Shop is an excellent choice. It’s one of our picks for the Best Things to Do with Kids in San Diego because of its quality of food and its beachside location.

Plus, it’s also right near some excellent places to take the family, including the waterfront hotel The Dana on Mission Bay and the seaside amusement park Belmont Park. Save on the Belmont Park All-Access Combo Pass and other family attractions when you pick up a Go City San Diego pass, the best way to tour the area with the kids, and use our discount code GVSD5OFF to save even more when purchasing your pass.

My Menu Recommendations

What’s a trip to a taqueria without tacos?

The al pastor tacos are flavorful and so juicy, making them one of my favorite things on the menu - and of course, simple cheese or chicken quesadillas are a great pick for kids.

On a hot day, there’s nothing better than cooling off with a refreshing ice cream cone. If you’re in Pacific Beach and looking for something sweet, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Handel’s serves up a variety of ice cream flavors, from staples like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and Rocky Road to unique options such as Blue Monster, Horchata, and Taro. Their menu features over 100 different flavors that rotate seasonally, with both ice cream and sorbet options.

While you can get a classic cup or cone at Handel’s, many people like their Sundaes, Shakes or Hurricanes. When I’m not in the mood for a huge serving, I like to go for a Handel Pop myself, which is a chocolate, vanilla, or mint ice cream pop covered in chocolate.

My Menu Recommendations

My flavor of choice here really depends on what I’m in the mood for, and with more than 45 flavors available at once, it’s easy to pick something new each time I stop by.

If you want something rich and decadent, go for the Chocoholic Chunk. If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, try Lemon Bar or their ever-popular original Strawberry flavor which has been on their menu since opening in 1945.

San Diego County is highly culturally diverse with influences from around the globe. Nowhere is that easier to see than in Little Italy, where families can feel like they’re really walking through the streets of Italy, all without ever leaving the country. We’ve got lots of recommendations for things to do in Little Italy, but if you and the kids are hungry and in the mood for Italian, head to Filippi’s Pizza Grotto.

Filippi’s Pizza Grotto is part of a family-owned line of businesses that date all the way back to the 1950s. There are 10 locations around San Diego but the Little Italy location is the best in my opinion. This restaurant chain is currently owned by family members of the original founders, so you can be sure you’re getting authentic Italian recipes that have been passed down through the generations!

Kids can try real authentic Italian pizza with an array of toppings sure to catch the eye of even the pickiest eaters. Other tasty options on the menu include pasta, sandwiches, and salads, plus Italian desserts like cannolis and tiramisu.

Filippi’s Pizza Grotto is open Sunday-Thursday from 11am until 9pm and Friday-Saturday from 11am until 10pm.

My Menu Recommendations

You can’t go wrong with a simple Margarita pizza or perhaps one with a selection of your favorite vegetables.

If you're feeling like something other than pizza, Filippi’s menu proudly proclaims their lasagna to be “Mamma’s Recipe,” and it’s easy to taste why this recipe has been passed down through the generations to find a permanent home at the Pizza Grotto. On the kids menu, the raviolis are always a popular choice.

It’s always time for dessert at Moms Pie House! With two locations in Julian, California, this quaint bakery has made a name for itself with its delicious pastries, pies, cakes, and other desserts. You can stop in after dinner to satisfy your sweet tooth, or pick up something to go that you can enjoy later.

All of the desserts at Moms Pie House are made with high-quality ingredients, including fresh, locally-sourced fruits. Their famous apple pies are baked with apples grown right in Julian. Additionally, full lists of ingredients for each dessert can be found on their website, so parents of children with allergies can dig in without any worries.

While they have a variety of options, pies are the star attraction here, with both full pies and slices available. Most days, you can even see the owner rolling out a homemade pie crust from the front window.

There are plenty of other confections available here too, plus coffee, tea, and fresh-pressed cider. Lunch options including chicken pot pie, sandwiches, and soup are also offered for dine-in meals.

My Menu Recommendations

Apple pies have helped put the town of Julian on the map and made it one of our top picks for a day trip from San Diego. While slightly beyond San Diego, I think it’s well worth a trip to the area, especially during the fall when you’ll find colorful leaves and pumpkin patches. The fall also happens to be the middle of apple season!

And trust me, whether you prefer a crumbly or flaky pie, you won’t want to walk out of Moms Pie House without one of their apple pies.

Solana Beach surfers know that when they’re in the mood for pizza, Pizza Port is the place to go!

This pizzeria serves up classic California-style pizzas with dozens of topping combinations to choose from, including a specially selected pizza of the month. They also offer salads and munchies like mozzarella sticks and mac and cheese bites.

What makes Pizza Port a favorite among families is its dedication to exceptional customer service. This is reflected in its motto of, “Good food and good beer bring good cheer!” Whether you choose to visit the original Pizza Port or any of its four other locations across Carlsbad and Ocean Beach, good vibes are ahead!

The Carlsbad location in particular is one of our favorites as it’s not far from great shopping in Carlsbad, LEGOLAND California and a fantastic San Diego water park we love, that of LEGOLAND® Water Park!

Parents are sure to enjoy Pizza Port just as much as the kids do, especially for fans of San Diego’s craft beer scene. This pizza place has its own brewery, Port Brewery, and it’s some of the best beer San Diego has to offer. You can wash down your pizza with ice cold beer on tap, or pick up a few cans for home.

Pizza Port is open 11am until 9 pm Sunday through Thursday and 11am until 10pm on Friday and Saturday.

My Menu Recommendations

Feeling adventurous? Pizza Port features a unique Pizza of the Month 12 times a year.

This is a great way to encourage kids to try something new and get out of their usual comfort foods, but you’ve still got classics to fall back on if the current month’s pizza doesn’t appeal.

Hodad’s is a beloved burger joint that’s been in operation in the San Diego area for over 50 years. Originally opened in 1969, the restaurant has remained a family business passed down to its current third-generation owners.

Through the years, Hodad’s has remained a local favorite, serving hot and juicy burgers alongside cold, refreshing milkshakes to thousands of loyal customers. If you think you may have heard of Hodad’s, that might just be because it was featured on Food Networks Drive in Diners and Dives with host Guy Fieri!

In addition to its classic and specialty burger menu, Hodad’s also brews award-winning craft beer. Parents can chat over ales, hard ciders, and lagers while kids sip shakes made with heaping scoops of ice cream.

Hodad’s original location is in Ocean Beach, but there are also locations in Downtown San Diego and in Snapdragon Stadium. There’s even a Hodad’s in PETCO Park, so you can watch a ballgame or take the Petco Park tour before grabbing a burger.

Consider picking up a Go City San Diego pass to save on the park tour. With the pass you’ll also receive admission to dozens of other nearby family-friendly attractions such as the USS Midway Museum and Maritime Museum, both right along San Diego Bay!

My Menu Recommendations

If you ask me what to get at Hodad’s, one of their juicy burgers is at the top of my list every time.

Pile it high with bacon, cheese, onion, lettuce, and tomato, then serve it up with potato wedge fries or tower of onion rings, and you really can’t go wrong.

Big Kitchen Cafe in South Park has all the hallmarks of a hidden gem of a diner: great food and even better company!

This cozy cafe has won recognition as one of San Diego’s best restaurants and is a solid choice for families. It’s been featured on the Food Network and named as one of the best breakfast spots in San Diego by multiple magazines.

While the food is outstanding, that’s not all this spot has to offer. Big Kitchen has become a hub for the community, with a welcoming atmosphere of camaraderie that invites people of all ages and backgrounds to dine together. Its local fame has even made it the inspiration for its own performance, Big Kitchen: A Counter-Culture Musical back in 2015.

Big Kitchen Cafe is open Thursday to Monday from 8am until 2pm and closed on Tuesdays and Wednsdays. If you’re looking for some entertainment while you eat, plan to stop by on the weekends, as Big Kitchen Cafe has live bands in the outdoor seating area on Saturdays and Sundays.

My Menu Recommendations

Big Kitchen Cafe makes a great grilled cheese, and best of all you can customize it with additional toppings - make it a turkey melt, add sausage and mushrooms, or have it classic with a few slices of melty cheese.

The Big Kitchen meatloaf sandwich is another lunch menu staple that I’d highly recommend.

Many of San Diego’s best hotels, especially the best picks for families, offer guests complimentary breakfast! But if your hotel doesn’t offer this amenity, or you’re looking for a change of pace, there are few better ways to start the day than with a heaping stack of pancakes at Richard Walker’s Pancake House.

The Pancake House is a family-owned and family-operated business that prides itself on serving up an array of breakfast staples, from their famous baked pancakes and french toast to omelets and hash browns. Light lunch fare including sandwiches, salads, and quiches are also available.

Richard Walker’s Pancake House has 6 locations in total, 4 of which are located in San Diego. These can be found in La Jolla, Del Mar, Carlsbad, and the Gaslamp Quarter close to Downtown San Diego.

All locations are open daily from 6:30am until 2:30pm. Both breakfast and lunch are served from open to close, so even picky eaters will have no problems.

My Menu Recommendations

It probably won’t surprise you to hear that one of my favorite things to order at this pancake house is its pancakes.

Anything from the gourmet griddle cakes section of the menu is delicious, but the thick, fluffy 49ers flapjacks really take the cake.

I just couldn’t complete my list of the best kid friendly restaurants and places to eat in San Diego without including one of the most uniquely named establishments in Southern California.

The gelato shop on Adams Avenue is in a historic building from 1934. The owners wanted to pay homage to the history by not changing the name. So with that, today An’s Dry Cleaning serves some of the best gelato in San Diego.

The chef has 13 years of experience hand crafting unique flavors with even more unique names such as ‘Leather’ which is a brown butter and chocolate chip cookie mixture. The combination is gluten free and absolutely delicious.

Other standouts include ‘Canvas’, a rosemary and olive oil infusion and ‘Melton’, a mango and peach sorbet that is as refreshing as it sounds. I think kids will enjoy the variety and adults surely will appreciate the creativity of flavors.

As if one location wasn’t enough, you can also find An’s Hatmaker’s in Del Mar and An’s Athletic Field Services at PETCO Park. An’s Electronic’s Repair is coming soon to Ocean Beach!

An’s Dry Cleaning in North Park is open daily from 12pm until 11pm daily.

My Menu Recommendations

It’s hard for me to make a recommendation here so I’d say just ask the staff as they know much better than me.

I would say that the ‘Termeh’ is pretty awesome though. The gelato includes a vanilla base with pistachios and saffron.