Going out for dinner as a family always promises to be a fun outing — though it can sometimes be challenging to find restaurants where you can comfortably bring your kids, as even a delicious menu with fresh ingredients may not appeal to some young children. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you — and Essex County is full of great, kid-friendly places to eat. No matter what you are in the mood to eat, these restaurants have menu options for children so you can happily dine as a family. From chicken fingers to grilled cheese, hibachi, and more across different cuisines, you can find something that will satisfy even the pickiest little eaters while enjoying great food yourself. Read on to learn about some of the best kids’ menus at local Essex County restaurants.
Basil Indian + Thai Grill | 117 Watchung Avenue, Montclair
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This restaurant is a great spot to go for those looking for elevated traditional kids’ menu items. For children who already like Indian and Thai food, or for those looking to venture out and try it, Basil combines well-known and beloved children’s dishes with bold, unique flavors. The chicken tenders and french fries are all seasoned with mild spices. Plus, it boasts a large and delicious menu full of Indian + Thai classics for the adults at the table.
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Cuban Pete’s | 428 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
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The entire family can indulge in yummy Cuban food at this spot. The kids’ menu at this lively hotspot includes Cuban dishes modified for tiny palettes, including Kids Frita Cubana, a mini burger with ground beef and pork, and Kids Platillo Voladores, Cuban grilled cheese. Its island vibe is fun for kids and adults alike — and for adults, Cuban Pete’s will make sangria with your own BYO wine.
Dough Artisan Pizza | 168 Passaic Avenue, Fairfield
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This warm + cozy eatery is known for its creative brick oven pizzas like the Summer Vibe Pie made with peached, homemade burrata. This spot makes some seriously delicious pizza, and since pizza is already a beloved children’s food, some pickier eaters may be willing to expand their horizons with different fun flavors and pies. But there are still plenty of choices on the kids’ menu for those not looking to try something new, including a plain pie, mac + cheese, and meatballs in a homemade marinara sauce — yum.
Kyoto Sushi III | 577B Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove
For all the sushi lovers out there looking to find a sushi spot that is also great for kids, Kyoto Sushi III is a great choice. Besides sushi and other Japanese offerings, this restaurant offers child-sized hibachi dishes for a flavorful + healthier option. Kids can choose chicken, steak, shrimp, salmon, or vegetables. All meals are served with clear soup, vegetables, and a choice of noodles, fried rice, or white rice.
Montclair Wings + Things | 33 Walnut Street, Montclair
In addition to the kids’ menu with options such as fish and chips, flatbread pizza, and hotdogs, Montclair Wings and Things also has children’s desserts like gelato and brownies — which is especially useful for the kids who have eyes that are bigger than their stomachs. Plus, if everyone in your family likes wings, you can order the family bundle with 30 boneless wings and fries for $50.
Tops Diner | 500 Passaic Avenue, East Newark
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This family-owned restaurant has been serving up delicious fare since 1942. Kids’ menus are usually limited, but not at Tops Diner. For kids, the menu offers an almost dizzying number of choices, ranging from fruity pebbles pancakes, to baby back ribs, to a chicken little sandwich. Tip: Reservations are suggested.
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Uncle Momo | 702 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
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This chic Lebanese-French fusion bistro has an extensive menu of delicious dishes for adults. Uncle Momo is a great option for kids who aren’t necessarily picky but just have a more limited appetite. There are smaller portions available for kids of some of the most popular meals, including lamb shish kebab, which is served with fries or a house salad. There are also grilled chicken cubes made with basil and garlic, as well as a regular pitza with tomato and cheese. Uncle Momo also has a Jersey City location.
