3 family favorites (that parents love too!)

Planning a family trip to Boston and wondering where to eat with kids? Finding restaurants that satisfy picky eaters while still serving quality food for adults can feel impossible. After exploring Boston with my four-year-old, I’ve discovered three genuinely family-friendly restaurants where everyone leaves happy. And I’m excited to share them with you!

When we travel as a family, we look for casual spots with delicious local food for the adults and reliable kids’ menu options that my son will actually eat. The good news? Boston makes this easy! As one of America’s most family-friendly cities, Boston offers plenty of welcoming restaurants where kids can be kids and parents can enjoy excellent seafood and harbor views.

During our recent Boston family vacation, three restaurants stood out as the perfect combination of kid-accommodating and parent approved. We’re already planning a return trip to discover more!

1: Joe’s Waterfront

best for: Sunset views & fresh seafood

Location & accessibility: Joe’s Waterfront sits on Boston’s historic waterfront in the North End steps from Faneuil Hall. The harbor side location means you’re dining with stunning water views and watching boats drift by.

Why kids love it: The children’s menu offers both familiar favorites and adventurous options for curious eaters. Every kids meal includes a dessert sundae, which was really helpful in getting my son to eat his healthy food! If your children get restless, Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park playground is directly across the street. It’s perfect for burning off pre- or post-dinner energy.  

Why parents love it: Here’s my insider tip: book a dinner reservation at sunset. The golden hour views over Boston Harbor are absolutely spectacular! Also, Joe’s sources ingredients from local New England vendors, creating a “nice-casual” atmosphere where you can enjoy high-quality food without worrying about formal dining expectations with young children.

What to order at Joe’s Waterfront: We had crispy Brussels sprouts for an appetizer, and I couldn’t stop eating them. The sauce was amazing! For my entree, I ordered sesame-crusted tuna (with a glass of white wine, of course). The tuna was so fresh! I can always taste when restaurants prioritize high-quality ingredients.

Pro tip: Request patio seating if weather permits. Enjoying the sunset while your kids point out boats creates those special family vacation moments you’ll remember long after you get home, and I promise you’ll get some incredible photos too.

Want more planning tips for visiting Boston with kids? Check out my full travel guide for hotel, restaurant and activity recommendations! 

2: The Barking Crab

Best for: Casual seafood & waterfront charm

Location & accessibility: On the Fort Point Channel, near the Boston Children’s Museum. The Barking Crab is perfectly positioned for families exploring the Seaport District.

Why kids love it: They have a great kids menu. If your kids like hot dogs as much as my son does, they’ll be thrilled. The kids meal hot dog comes with two hot dogs on delicious buns. The extremely casual, laid-back vibe means kids can relax and be themselves without parents feeling self-conscious. And, it’s a short walk from the Boston Children’s Museum so makes for a great stop after a day of hands-on exhibits and play. 

Why parents love it: This is the spot to order appetizers to share, especially if you’re a seafood lover! The restaurant embraces its casual, family-friendly identity completely, has a bustling atmosphere (and great cocktail menu). The energy is fun, not stuffy.

What to order at The Barking Crab: We ordered an appetizer spear to share: grilled littleneck clams, hot crab dip and Peruvian ceviche. Every dish was delicious, and I can confirm a margarita pairs perfectly with New England seafood. 

Pro tip: Combine your visit here with a day at the Boston Children’s Museum. Even better, if you’re doing the Old Town Trolley hop on-hop off tour, one stop is right nearby. There’s also a playground in between the Boston Children’s Museum and The Barking Crab. We didn’t get to stop there, much to my son’s disappointment. I wish we would have had time to because it looked like a great one! Plan ahead and build in playground time.

3: Quincy Market

America’s original food hall

Location: Part of Faneuil Hall Marketplace in downtown Boston. As the country’s largest and oldest food hall, it’s a Boston landmark worth visiting for the atmosphere alone.

Why kids love it: With dozens of food vendors under one roof, every family member can pick exactly what they want. From pizza to pretzels to ice cream, the variety means even the pickiest eater will be able to find something appealing. The casual, walk-around format keeps kids engaged rather than stuck at a table.

Why parents love it: Because it’s a food hall, it’s SUPER casual and affordable for family travel. There’s plenty of spots to sit and eat together, and it’s quick so no worries about kids getting antsy at a more formal restaurant. The quick service format also makes Quincy Market perfect for days when you’re trying to maximize sightseeing time.

What to order at Quincy Market: Honestly, whatever you’re craving, Quincy Market probably has it! We stopped here on our last day before heading to the airport. I had a final clam chowder from Boston & Maine Fish Company, and it absolutely lived up to Boston’s clam chowder reputation. It was creamy, had generous chunks of clam and that perfect New England flavor. 

Pro tip: Plan your Quincy Market visit for a day when you know you’ll need a quick lunch. The grab and go options are excellent, so could be a great option if you want to bring a meal back to your hotel or while walking around the historic marketplace.

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These three restaurants represent what makes Boston such a wonderful family destination. Each offers something slightly different. Joe’s for that special dinner with views, The Barking Crab for casual seafood and a fun atmosphere, and Quincy Market for variety and convenience.

The common thread? All three welcome families genuinely, serve delicious food that parents will enjoy, and understand that dining with young children requires flexibility and patience.

Whether you’re visiting Boston for the first time or returning to explore more of this historic city, add those restaurants to your itinerary. Your kids will eat happily, you’ll enjoy fantastic New England cuisine, and everyone will leave satisfied.

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