11 Best Places to Eat with Kids in Washington D.C.

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When traveling with kids, finding a restaurant that keeps everyone happy can be a challenge. Washington, D.C. offers a variety of dining spots that cater to families, where the food is both delicious and the atmosphere is fun for all ages. Whether you’re exploring the National Mall, wandering around Capitol Hill, or just looking for a place where both kids and adults can unwind with skyline views, these family-friendly restaurants promise a meal that everyone will enjoy.

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Ok … On to the list

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Our 11 Favorite Family Friendly Restaurants in DC

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Old Ebbitt Grill

Families looking for a blend of American history and great food should visit this iconic D.C. restaurant, the city's oldest saloon, established in 1856. Located near the White House, Old Ebbitt Grill serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering family-friendly dishes like macaroni and cheese topped with Goldfish crackers. While adults indulge in the raw bar and gourmet burgers, kids can enjoy a spacious, stroller-friendly dining experience.

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Open City

Located near the National Zoo, this popular Woodley Park café is an ideal choice for families looking for a relaxed brunch spot. Known for its all-day breakfast and free Wi-Fi, it’s perfect for both kids and adults. The kids' menu features favorites like pancakes, challah French toast, and scrambled eggs with home fries. The overall menu has a subtle Southern American Comfort theme, with chicken and waffles, fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and more. Don’t miss the bakery, a local favorite for freshly baked croissants, pie, and sweet potato cinnamon rolls.

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The Hamilton

Just a short walk from the White House, The Hamilton offers a uniquely DC dining experience with a menu that combines seasonal American dishes, nontraditional sushi, and charcuterie, all crafted with fresh, local ingredients. Despite its large size and prime location, which might give off tourist trap vibes, the food is both delicious and generous. The kids' menu is equally diverse, featuring burgers, chicken tenders, mac and cheese, mini cheese pizzas, and pasta, making it a great choice for families.

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Joia Burger

Joia Burger in Mount Pleasant offers a fun and flavorful family meal with its kids’ special, Liam’s Lunch Box, which includes a cheeseburger, fries, and purple ube soft serve for dessert (a flavor similar to vanilla). Known for its Filipino-American twist on burgers, the small restaurant specializes in wagyu beef smash burgers, as well as creative vegetarian options like the vegan bean burger topped with papaya slaw. Joia Burger also adds a unique flair with house-made sriracha sauce and diced burger fixings, combining traditional American comfort food with Southeast Asian-inspired flavors for a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

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Carmine's

For generous portions of Italian fare in the heart of D.C., Carmine’s is the spot. Located in Penn Quarter, this location of the New York staple is just as popular in D.C., serving up the same family-style platters. The menu covers all the red sauce classics, from a variety of pastas and to calamari and Chicken Marsala. The sames true for the dessert menu, letting you cap off your meal with cannoli, tiramisu or Italian cheesecake. Known for its huge portions at reasonable prices, it’s perfect for big families or large travel groups. With a casual vibe and a lively atmosphere, Carmine’s brings big flavors and a great time for all.

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Union Market + Hi-Lawn Rooftop

A must-visit for families, Union Market is a vibrant food hall featuring over 40 local vendors offering a variety of cuisines, from Asian-inspired tacos to Chesapeake oysters. The Hi-Lawn rooftop bar offers family-friendly fun with seasonal fare, creative cocktails, and a spacious, stroller-friendly atmosphere (including an elevator). You can even bring food from downstairs vendors and enjoy it while soaking up the rooftop views. The rooftop also hosts Weekday Recess and Weekend Playdate happy hours, making it a great destination for kids and adults alike.

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Ted's Bulletin

For a nostalgic diner experience, head to Ted's Bulletin, where oversized pastries and cinnamon rolls make breakfast fun. The kids' menu features the creative option of “Mr. Breakfast” pancakes with a face made of bacon, bananas, and berries, as well as picky eater favorites like pasta with butter, grilled cheese, and PB&J. For the adults, there are Ted’s Boozy Shakes with a wide range of milkshake flavors to choose from. Ted’s is also known for its homemade "Ted’s Tarts" toaster pastries in flavors like s’mores, cinnamon and strawberry which look quite a bit like gourmet PopTarts. With its proximity to Eastern Market and the Capitol, Ted's Bulletin is the perfect family-friendly spot to start your day in D.C.

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Mitsitam

For families visiting the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, Mitsitam Café offers a unique and educational dining experience with a variety of indigenous foods. Located on the lower level of the museum, it’s a great spot for a quick, flavorful meal while staying on the Mall. The menu features a mix of dishes inspired by Native American tribes, including cedar-planked wild salmon, buffalo burgers, fry bread drizzled with honey, and a wild rice salad from Minnesota’s Red Lake Nation. Mitsitam is perfect for families exploring the museum’s exhibits, offering everything from kid-friendly fry bread to more adventurous options like braised pork shanks. With its colorful, regional flavors, this café makes for an easy and delicious break without having to leave the museum complex.

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We, The Pizza

Located just a short walk from the United States Botanic Garden, We, The Pizza offers a wide variety of kid-friendly options like the Buffalo Chicken slice, topped with crispy chicken and buffalo sauce, and the Bacon Me Crazy with DC Mambo Sauce. You can grab a slice or two from their extensive selection, along with homemade sodas like Raspberry Peach Twist and Sassy Sarsaparilla. For a sweeter treat try their gelato-based milkshakes, and for the adults they also have beer on tap. It's a perfect stop for families looking for a casual and tasty meal in the heart of Capitol Hill.

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Pinstripes

For a family day trip to Georgetown, Pinstripes offers a unique combination of bistro dining, bowling, and bocce. During Sunday brunch, kids eat for half price and can enjoy a dedicated buffet area with favorites like chicken tenders, mac and cheese, and even a chocolate fountain. The large outdoor patio with a fire pit adds to the fun, making Pinstripes a great option for family-friendly entertainment and eating.

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Firefly

Located in the Hotel Madera near Dupont Circle, Firefly offers a fun and interactive dining experience for families. Kids can decorate their own sugar cookie while they wait for their meal, which is then baked and served fresh as a warm dessert at the end of the meal. The kids’ menu features favorites like chicken tenders, mac and cheese, and chicken and waffles. While the little ones enjoy their creative activity, adults can indulge in Southern-inspired dishes and cocktails. Firefly’s inviting atmosphere, complete with a swing on the porch, makes it a great spot for families.

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Our team of local Experience Designers has collaborated with travelers from around the world to help them discover hidden gems and plan the best attractions. We’ve built a wide range of plans for family trips, anniversaries, birthdays, and other special occasions, even for solo travelers. Each plan is built with a 3-step process: 

Step 1: Bucket your must-see attractions 

Step 2: Add in restaurants, rooftops & other hidden gems 

Step 3: Create a custom map and provide transportation tips, so you know the best way to navigate the city. 

Click here to have our team tailor your New York trip itinerary today or check out a few of our sample plans here.

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