Best family restaurants in Boston

What’s better than pizza and bowling for a night out with the kids? Flatbread’s wood-fired pizzas are high quality, with local and organic ingredients, so parents can feel good about pizza night. Plus, the whole family can enjoy a round of candlepin bowling. Afterwards, kids will love desserts like Matt’s Maine Root Beer Float and Barbara’s Homemade Ice Cream Sandwich.

With its colorful decor and friendly vibe, this Cambridge joint always feels like a New England clam shack in the peak of summer. Fresh seafood dishes like wood-grilled lobster or fresh oysters will please parents, while kids can dig in to fish and chips, grilled cheese, or clam chowder. Grab a bucket of crayons and paper to keep them entertained. On weekends, look out for themed brunches like Star Wars or Superhero that feature plenty of activities for kids.

Comforting pub fare and drinks meet trendy decor at the Independent in Union Square. The roomy interior makes it comfortable for families, and kids eat free from 4:30-6:30pm Sunday to Thursday. Kid-friendly options include burgers, grilled cheese, and fish-and-chips.

This long-standing neighborhood favorite in Beacon Hill offers a kid-friendly, cafeteria-style breakfast spread that’s great for families. The special kids dinner menu includes standards like mac and cheese, pasta with butter, and chicken tenders. Plan ahead for Sunday brunch, when there’s always a crowd.

Legal Sea Foods’ flagship location has three floors, each with a different dining experience. The casual first floor dining area is the best bet for kids, with plenty of seating. They can wander outside to check out boats in the harbor or watch the shucking action at the oyster bar. The kids menu has staples like pizza and chicken fingers, but also more Legal fare like kid-friendly wood grilled seafood options.

The Friendly Toast has an eccentric, colorful dining space that will fascinate the kids. The whole family can find something satisfying on the large menu, and kids will love the breakfast options served any time of day. On Wednesdays, kids eat free after 4pm.

For a healthy, great-tasting meal, this eclectic cafe fits the bill. Even kids will enjoy smoothies, grain bowls, and fresh hummus. The Cambridge location has a colorful kids area, with small tables, chairs, and toys. It’s a great place to stop and refuel with a healthy treat while the kids stay entertained.