The 15 Best Family-Friendly Restaurants Near Disneyland
If you’re visiting Disneyland, finding a place to eat that’ll make both kids and adults happy is like looking for the perfect souvenir—exciting but difficult. With crowds and so many options, it’s a hassle to find a restaurant that can cater to everyone’s tastes and needs. But don’t worry! Whether you’re looking to fill up on a hearty breakfast before a day filled with thrills or snug after-hours of walking, there’s a table waiting for you nearby.
We’ve rounded up the best family-friendly restaurants near Disneyland that’ll make everyone in your crew smile, from nostalgic diners to lively themed eateries.
Plaza Inn
The Plaza Inn on Main Street, U.S.A., combines family-style meals with counter-service convenience. This spot is known for its fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy. It’s like a warm hug on a plate. The decor has a Victorian-inspired look and adds a touch of elegance to your park dining experience.
Carnation Café
If you’re in the market for an on-site dining option that offers charm and comfort, look no further than Carnation Café. This Main Street spot is famous for serving some of Walt Disney’s favorites: meatloaf, for example. The menu consists of hearty classics and lighter options, and so is a great choice for families.
Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen
Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen in Downtown Disney is a jazz and jambalaya world. There is a kid-friendly menu of chicken tenders and mac ‘n’ cheese, alongside Creole classics like gumbo and po’ boys. The beignets are a must-have: dusty, doughy, and downright delicious.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
If your family is all about seafood and you want a fun atmosphere, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is a no-brainer. Kid-friendly meals inspired by the beloved movie Forrest Gump are available at this restaurant. Parents get to enjoy Cajun shrimp or seafood gumbo while popcorn shrimp and mac n cheese is a dish for the kids. Entertainment is just as delicious as it gets, here, with themed décor and even interactive trivia games to play.
Mimi’s Café
Just outside of Disneyland is an amazing comfort food lovers’ haven called Mimi’s Café. French onion soup, kid-friendly pancakes, and mac ‘n’ cheese; the menu has it all. They have a great warm inviting atmosphere and make for a great spot to relax and refuel before you head back to the park.
Rainforest Café
Rainforest Café in Downtown Disney is a family classic, with animatronic animals, thunderstorms, and jungle greenery—it’s a fun experience to be immersed in. The menu is far-reaching, having something satisfying for adventurous eaters and those who only want to stick to the familiar. The “Volcano” chocolate dessert is a kids’ favorite.
Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar
At the Disneyland Hotel, Trader Sam’s is a whimsical tiki bar with all kinds of tropical-inspired dishes and drinks on its menu. It is known for its creative cocktails but there’s plenty for kids, including non-alcoholic drinks served in fun souvenir cups. The outdoor patio is festive too and often features live music.
Karl Strauss Brewing Company
A short drive from Disneyland, Karl Strauss Brewing Company has an excellent menu for both parents and kids. The children eat sliders, chicken strips, or mac ‘n’ cheese while the adults sip award-winning craft beers. It’s great for families, with outdoor seating and laidback vibe.
The Golden Horseshoe
Right inside Disneyland, The Golden Horseshoe is more than a meal, it’s an experience. This Old West-style saloon has all the classic Americana fare like chicken tenders, fish, and chips in a kind of charming rustic setting. Families can enjoy the comedy shows and the live performances while chowing down—making it the perfect break during a busy park day.
Jamba
A quick, nutritious pick-me-up is sometimes all you need. Jamba in Downtown Disney is a perfect place to go for smoothies, fresh juice, and bowls of fruits and granola. It’s a perfect crowd-pleaser for families searching for a light, refreshing snack without the fuss.
Goofy’s Kitchen
Goofy’s Kitchen is inside the Disneyland Hotel and is a favorite with kids and adults. It’s a breakfast, brunch, and dinner buffet with Disney characters running through the dining room. Kids can meet Goofy, Minnie, or even Chip and Dale, and parents get hearty foods like roasted meats and fresh seafood. Don’t forget the make-your-own dessert station, it’s the cherry on top of a magical meal.
The Pizza Press
For families on the go who need to eat something quick, the Pizza Press is just a few minutes’ walk from Disneyland. Choose your own toppings or try a signature pie named after historic newspapers. There’s something for everyone at The Press, including gluten-free and vegan options. Bonus: Kids love watching their pizza go from dough to delicious in mere minutes.
The Original Pancake House
Breakfast lovers, rejoice! What the Original Pancake House serves is fluffy pancakes that really taste like a warm hug on a plate. That famous Apple Pancake, caramelized to a nice burnt crisp is worth the trip. The restaurant is a great place for a pre-park breakfast or a relaxing brunch. Don’t forget to try their freshly squeezed orange as it’s the perfect juice to fuel you up for the day.
Napolini Pizzeria
In Downtown Disney, Napolini Pizzeria serves up a no-fuss, family-friendly experience of the classic build-your-own-pizza concept. Their pizza is baked to perfection and is the right fix if you want a quick bite. They can even be customized for the pickiest eaters. You can grab a table outside to enjoy the Disney vibes while you eat.
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes
Black Tap in Downtown Disney, known for its over-the-top milkshakes and flavorsome burgers, is a favorite for kids and parents. The Crazy Shakes are very whimsical and look like extremely edible works of art filled with candy, cookies, and whipped cream. Meanwhile, their burgers and chicken sandwiches cater to all appetites.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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