Sydney has been repeatedly voted as one of the most liveable cities in the world, and it makes perfect sense that families thrive in this environment. It has great schools, a subtropical climate, a prosperous market, as well as a diverse and inclusive social and cultural attitude.
So, with all that sitting well on the soul, the question is, where best to bring the little ones when eating out? Here are the top family-friendly restaurants in Sydney.
Kokoroya
Restaurant
This chic Japanese restaurant is designed with parents in mind while remaining cool and contemporary alike. Boasting an authentic menu of Japanese fare, using only the best, fresh ingredients, Kokoroya‘s food speaks for itself. Saying that, kids seems to love the place for all it has on offer for them, too. Not only is there a safe, enclosed play area within eyesight of the dining space, there are also plenty of high chairs and a simple, nutritious and very reasonably priced kids menu.
Coogee Pavilion
Bistro
This three-floor contemporary bistro is one of Sydney’s prime places to bring kids and adults alike. With a menu of traditional Mediterranean fare, ranging from freshly shucked oysters, salads and steaks for the grown-ups, and a kids menu to suit even the pickiest of eaters, there’s something for everyone. A playing area featuring oversized retro games such as Scrabble, a ping-pong table, and even an in-house theatre means hours of non-stop fun for all ages.
Duck Duck Goose
Duck Duck Goose is one of the ultimate family-friendly restaurants in Sydney. The space has been designed with the family as a priority, not an afterthought. With a simple and effective play area featuring a large chalkboard and a variety of toys, the kids will be kept nice and busy as a relaxing breakfast, lunch, or dinner ensues. Duck Duck Goose also has a terrific children’s breakfast menu featuring boiled eggs and soldiers and smoothies, as well as an early children’s dinner.
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Sydney Tower Buffet
Bistro
Sydney Tower Buffet is a fun new way to experience dining with the family, soaring high above the city. Added bonus: it’s 100% family-friendly. Not only will the kids be blown away by the view of the city from exceptional heights, but they’ll also love the spread of fresh bistro fare – it’s perfect for picky eaters! On top of that, the young ones eat for free every Monday and Tuesday, as well as Mondays to Thursdays during New South Wales school holidays, for lunch and dinner. Couldn’t get any better? Throw your kid’s birthday party at Sydney Tower Buffet and all children eat for free (aged 3-12 years old) – they’ll even get a free professional photo of the party as well as a Busy Nippers Activity Box for each guest.
North Bondi Fish
Bistro
This little seafood bistro located at the world-famous Bondi Beach is the perfect place to bring the kids. Ideally located just moments from the sand, the brood will love messing about amid nature as adults enjoy al fresco dining, tremendous fresh seafood, and breathtaking views of the surf, sea and sand. With a fantastic kids menu and all-round family-friendly atmosphere, this is sure to be the next family favourite.
The Henson
The Henson is a chilled little neighbourhood spot, perfect for an evening meal or afternoon lunch with the family. Boasting a gorgeous open-air back garden and a chic courtyard for sunnier days, as well as a simple and safe play area, both adults and children will be seduced by The Henson. A nod to its locale (Marrickville), the venue is very on-trend and a bit grungy, but adults will be able to relax and let the wee ones play about in its safe and enclosed dining and play area. Throw in a kids menu featuring blue slushies and you will have to drag the young ones away from this hip hangout.
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This little gem in Randwick has been a favourite of families around Sydney since it opened its doors back in 2011. There’s not only a cosy inside cafe for cooler afternoons, but also an open-air courtyard for those golden days. There is a great little ‘kids corner’, too, which will keep the little ones occupied whilst mum and dad delve into delicious dishes of pumpkin omelette, eggs benedict or corn and zucchini fritters. Should the brood get peckish, there’s a miniature menu featuring avocado toast, a chicken wrap and cheese toasties.
This spot is arguably the crème de la crème of family-friendly restaurants in Sydney. Set on the grounds of a charming old pie factory, The Grounds at Alexandria, is more of an experience than a restaurant. Fusing food, coffee, atmosphere and experience into one stunning Pinterest-worthy package, The Grounds at Alexandira takes the concept of family-friendly to a whole new level. The chic and rustic venue is floral-clad with wholesome and honest fare in abundance. For the kids, there is an impressive amount to see and do. Whether they are getting creative in the chalk-filled playhouse, barreling down slides, running around the white picket-fenced garden or getting friendly with resident pig, Kevin Bacon, The Grounds at Alexandria certainly won’t disappoint.
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