Washington D.C., the vibrant capital of the United States, is a city brimming with history, culture, and, of course, delectable food. But when you’re traveling with kids, finding a restaurant that caters to both their picky palates and your desire for a memorable dining experience can be a challenge. Fear not, fellow parents! This comprehensive guide will unveil the best places to eat in Washington D.C. with kids, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and satisfied.
Kid-Friendly Classics: Where Comfort Food Reigns Supreme
Sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most satisfying. For those days when your little ones crave familiar favorites, D.C. offers a plethora of restaurants serving up classic comfort food with a twist.
Pizza Perfection
Pizza is a universal crowd-pleaser, and D.C. boasts some exceptional pizzerias that cater to families.
- &pizza: This fast-casual chain allows kids to customize their own pizzas with a wide array of toppings, ensuring a personalized and fun dining experience.
- Pizzeria Paradiso: With multiple locations throughout the city, Pizzeria Paradiso offers a more traditional pizza experience with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- 2 Amys: This cozy pizzeria specializes in wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings, including some kid-friendly options like cheese and pepperoni.
Burger Bliss
From juicy beef patties to crispy chicken sandwiches, D.C. has a burger for every taste bud.
- Shake Shack: This popular chain serves up classic burgers, fries, and shakes in a casual setting.
- Ted’s Bulletin: This retro-themed diner offers a variety of burgers, including some unique creations like the “The Ted” with bacon, cheese, and a fried egg.
- District Taco: While known for its tacos, District Taco also serves up delicious burgers with a Latin twist.
Mac & Cheese Mania
Macaroni and cheese is a childhood favorite, and D.C. has several restaurants that elevate this classic dish to new heights.
- The Cheesetique: This gourmet cheese shop offers a variety of mac and cheese creations, including some with unique toppings like lobster or truffle oil.
- Founding Farmers: This farm-to-table restaurant serves up a comforting mac and cheese made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Farmers Fishers Bakers: This waterfront restaurant offers a classic mac and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Adventurous Eateries: Exploring Global Flavors
D.C.’s diverse culinary scene offers a fantastic opportunity to introduce your kids to new and exciting flavors from around the world.
Asian Adventures
From sushi to noodles to dumplings, Asian cuisine is a delicious adventure for the whole family.
- Toki Underground: This popular ramen spot serves up flavorful bowls of ramen with a variety of toppings.
- Daikaya: This Japanese restaurant offers a wide range of dishes, from traditional sushi and sashimi to more adventurous options like yakitori and ramen.
- Busboys and Poets: This bookstore-cafe chain has several locations throughout the city and offers a diverse menu that includes Asian-inspired dishes like pad thai and bao buns.
Mediterranean Delights
Mediterranean cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and healthy options. (See Also: Where to Eat in Marietta Ga? Foodie Finds)
- Zaytinya: This upscale restaurant serves up traditional Mediterranean dishes with a modern twist.
- Falafel Inc.: This casual spot offers delicious falafel, hummus, and other Middle Eastern favorites.
- Taverna Cretekou: This Greek restaurant serves up classic dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and gyros.
Latin American Flavors
From tacos to empanadas to ceviche, Latin American cuisine is bursting with flavor and spice.
- El Chucho: This upscale Mexican restaurant serves up innovative dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
- Thip Khao: This Laotian restaurant offers a unique and flavorful menu that includes dishes like larb, papaya salad, and khao soi.
- Oyster Oyster**:** This seafood-focused restaurant also offers a variety of Latin American-inspired dishes, like ceviche and empanadas.
Sweet Treats: Indulging in D.C.’s Dessert Scene
No meal is complete without a sweet ending, and D.C. has a plethora of dessert spots that will satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.
Ice Cream Extravaganza
D.C. is home to numerous ice cream shops, each offering its own unique flavors and creations.
- Dolcezza Gelato**:** This local chain serves up artisanal gelato made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams**:** This popular chain offers a wide variety of creative and unique ice cream flavors.
- Ted’s Bulletin**:** This retro-themed diner serves up classic milkshakes and ice cream sundaes.
Pastry Perfection
From croissants to cupcakes to macarons, D.C.’s pastry shops offer a delightful array of treats.
- Baked & Wired**:** This cozy coffee shop also serves up delicious pastries, including croissants, muffins, and scones.
- Buttercream Bake Shop**:** This bakery specializes in cupcakes, cakes, and other sweet treats.
- Paul Bakery**:** This French bakery offers a variety of classic pastries, including croissants, pain au chocolat, and macarons.
Chocolate Indulgence
For the ultimate chocolate experience, head to one of D.C.’s many chocolate shops.
- Chocolate Works**:** This local chocolatier offers a variety of handcrafted chocolates, truffles, and other chocolate treats.
- Georgetown Cupcake**:** This popular cupcake shop also offers a variety of chocolate cupcakes and other chocolate-themed desserts.
- M.A.D. Chocolate**:** This artisanal chocolate shop offers a unique selection of chocolates made with high-quality ingredients.
Dining with a View: Restaurants with Scenic Backdrops
Combine a delicious meal with stunning views at one of D.C.’s restaurants with breathtaking panoramas.
Rooftop Delights
Enjoy a meal with a bird’s-eye view of the city skyline from one of D.C.’s many rooftop restaurants.
- POV at the W Hotel**:** This upscale restaurant offers panoramic views of the city from its rooftop perch.
- Top of the Gate**:** Located atop the historic Watergate Hotel, this restaurant offers stunning views of the Potomac River and the Kennedy Center.
- The Rooftop at the Embassy Row Hotel**:** This stylish rooftop bar and restaurant offers views of the city and the surrounding monuments.
Waterfront Dining
Indulge in a meal with a picturesque view of the Potomac River at one of D.C.’s waterfront restaurants. (See Also: Where to Eat in Castle Combe? Foodie Guide)
- Farmers Fishers Bakers**:** This waterfront restaurant offers stunning views of the Georgetown waterfront.
- The Hamilton**:** This upscale restaurant offers panoramic views of the Potomac River and the Kennedy Center.
- Clyde’s of Georgetown**:** This classic American restaurant offers waterfront dining with views of the C&O Canal.
Kid-Friendly Amenities: Making Dining Out a Breeze
When dining with kids, certain amenities can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
High Chairs and Booster Seats
Most restaurants in D.C. offer high chairs and booster seats for younger children.
Kids’ Menus
Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus with smaller portions and familiar dishes.
Play Areas
Some restaurants have dedicated play areas for children, allowing them to burn off energy while parents relax and enjoy their meal.
Outdoor Seating
Outdoor seating is a great option for families with young children, as it provides a more relaxed and spacious dining environment.
Where to Eat in Washington Dc with Kids?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some kid-friendly restaurants in Washington DC?
Washington DC has a plethora of kid-friendly restaurants! Some popular options include &pizza, Shake Shack, Pizzeria Paradiso, Ted’s Bulletin, and Founding Farmers. These restaurants offer a variety of classic comfort foods, as well as some more adventurous options, that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Where can I find restaurants with outdoor seating in Washington DC?
Many restaurants in Washington DC offer outdoor seating, especially during warmer months. Some popular choices include Clyde’s of Georgetown, Farmers Fishers Bakers, and The Hamilton. These restaurants offer beautiful views and a more relaxed dining experience for families with children. (See Also: Where to Eat in Saint Tropez? Ultimate Guide)
Are there any restaurants in Washington DC with play areas for kids?
Yes, there are a few restaurants in Washington DC with dedicated play areas for kids. Some options include Busboys and Poets and Ted’s Bulletin. These restaurants allow children to burn off energy while parents enjoy their meal.
What are some good places to take kids for dessert in Washington DC?
Washington DC is a dessert lover’s paradise! For ice cream, check out Dolcezza Gelato, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, or Ted’s Bulletin. For pastries, Baked & Wired, Buttercream Bake Shop, and Paul Bakery are excellent choices. And for chocolate, visit Chocolate Works, Georgetown Cupcake, or M.A.D. Chocolate.
Where can I find restaurants with kids’ menus in Washington DC?
Most restaurants in Washington DC offer kids’ menus with smaller portions and kid-friendly options. When making a reservation or checking a restaurant’s website, look for information about their kids’ menu offerings.
Dining out with kids in Washington D.C. can be a delightful experience. From classic comfort food to global flavors, the city offers a diverse range of options to satisfy every palate. With a little planning and consideration, you can create memorable dining experiences for your family that are both enjoyable and stress-free.