Watching children eat can help adults remember that food is fun! Little ones often get excited about exploring different textures, tastes, and new cuisines. While all children have their favorite foods, venturing out to a restaurant can introduce your child to new flavors and dishes. Parents are always on the lookout for a family-friendly restaurant with an atmosphere that is welcoming to children. Restaurants that have a kid’s menu or flexible options are always appreciated.
Check out a few family favorites in Lincolnshire, IL!
Buffo’s in Highwood
People know Buffo’s as a friendly neighborhood restaurant where children and their families are treated like V.I.P.s. Beyond great service, Buffo’s menu is crafted with quality ingredients and features several award-winning Chicago-style pizzas that are sure to satisfy everyone. Children can find a comprehensive kids’ menu full of Italian-American classics. For food-sensitive adults and children, a gluten-free crust can be substituted on any pizza.
Lazy Dog (Vernon Hills)
Lazy Dog brings fresh creativity to midwestern classics, making guests of all ages feel like they’re sitting down to be served at a friend’s house. Ordering food for the whole family is easy and affordable with their hearty family-style menu items that serve 4-5 people. Children love menu items like the pull-apart pizza sticks, and they can choose from a full children’s menu that includes a drink and a side.
Lindy’s Landing
Take in stunning lakefront views while you eat at Lindy’s family-owned restaurant and marina. Choose from an array of their well-known surf and turf menu items alongside burgers, sandwiches, and pastas that range from creative to classic. Young guests have plenty of options, too, with a children’s menu that hits all the standards. For a special treat, families love Lindy’s Friday fish fry for lunch or dinner!
Wildberry Pancake
Taking inspiration from memories of homemade waffles, french toast, and pancakes on lazy weekend mornings, Wildberry serves up traditional recipes made with quality ingredients to create meals that make families feel at home. Generous portions, fast and friendly service, and plenty of creative menu items make this spot a favorite for Lincolnshire parents. Not to mention, children 12 and under can choose from a long list of kids’ menu items, including plenty of Wildberry’s specialty pancakes.
Magnolia Cafe & Bakery at Lambs Farm
Magnolia Cafe is one of several thriving businesses within Lambs Farm, an organization that serves as both a residential home and vocational service for people with developmental disabilities. A visit to Magnolia Cafe is a great way to enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch while also supporting a community-oriented organization and fostering principles of respect and care for people with different abilities. Not only that, Magnolia Cafe might just win the prize for the best children’s menu in town. With selections that range from hand-dipped french toast to mini corn dogs, spaghetti with garlic toast, and their signature farm burger made small for little hands, this spot takes the cake for variety, quality, and a mission that supports the community.
Photo by Magnolia Cafe & Bakery at Lambs Farm
Cafe Zupas (Wheeling)
Cafe Zupas serves up made-from-scratch meals in a homestyle kitchen to bring families health-conscious dining that doesn’t compromise on deliciousness. Parents love that this spot boasts no hidden ingredients and makes it easy to find meals that fit specific dietary needs. Their menu helpfully points out vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options to help parents make choices that fit their lifestyle. Children can choose from a selection of kid favorites made with just as much care!
Fat Rosie’s Taco & Tequila Bar
Fat Rosie’s is a loving homage to Mexican cuisine and culture. Piñatas swing from the ceiling as guests dig into well-known favorites like enchiladas de mole, fajitas, and Rosie’s nachos, as well as lesser-known regional dishes like tampiqueña and cochinita pibil. Creative decor and an exciting, delicious menu make Fat Rosie’s a Lincolnshire family favorite to return to again and again.
Port of Peri Peri
It’s not easy to find restaurants that truly offer healthy, nutritious options for young children. That’s why parents love Port of Peri Peri, a restaurant inspired by Portuguese food traditions and dedicated to creating healthy foods that pack a flavorful punch. Succulent marinated grilled chicken is their specialty, and all sauces are made with attention to food allergies, free of gluten and nuts. Whether you’re hot for habañeros or prefer a milder strategy, Peri Peri offers preparations for every palate ranging from plain to extra hot.
Lincolnshire Families Love The Gardner School
The Gardner School of Lincolnshire is committed to keeping children healthy and happy. We use a variety of learning tools to help children understand the importance of balanced eating during the school day. We offer cooking enrichment classes and help our students learn about health and nutrition. In the Kids Café, children develop good eating habits in a space that is set apart just for them.