Looking for the best kid-friendly restaurants in Boston? I’ve got you, and I promise these are spots where you’ll actually want to eat too.
Boston is one of my favorite cities to visit for many reasons, but one of the top is its food scene. It appeals to picky eaters (like my four-year-old), and offers great local options for foodie adults (like me!) too.
Some of my favorite Boston restaurants are where I can grab a bowl of creamy clam chowder and also trust that my son won’t leave still hungry. And bonus points if the restaurant has great views of Boston Harbor or is located in a historical building.
We’ve visited Boston a couple times as a family, and have tried restaurants all over the city, from Back Bay to the South End, and a few have really stood out to us as totally family-friendly.
I’m sharing the three spots that hit the sweet spot of great local food for adults and reliable options for picky little eaters — including our favorite for seafood, the best pick for a quick lunch, and one that’s steps away from the Boston Children’s Museum.
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: Joe’s Waterfront is one of my favorite kid-friendly restaurants in Boston because 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.
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. What really makes it stand out as one of the most kid-friendly restaurants in Boston is the extremely casual, laid-back vibe. 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: While Quincy Market doesn’t exactly qualify as one of the kid-friendly restaurants in Boston, it has dozens of food vendors under one roof, so 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.
If you’re looking for kid-friendly restaurants in Boston for your next trip, I’d highly recommend adding these three to your list. 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 these kid-friendly restaurants in Boston to your itinerary. Your kids will eat happily, you’ll enjoy fantastic New England cuisine, and everyone will leave satisfied.
