Family Travel

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23 BEST Kid-Friendly Restaurants In San Antonio (Parent Friendly too!)

Explore top kid-friendly restaurants in San Antonio! Enjoy family meals that delight both kids and parents at spots like Willie's Grill & Icehouse. Perfect for travelers.

Tobi Miles
September 15, 2022
23 BEST Kid-Friendly Restaurants In San Antonio (Parent Friendly too!)

Whether you are road-tripping through Texas or stopping by San Antonio to see some family, it is always a great idea to know of a few family-friendly locations to take the kids out. Ideally, these spots will have space for them to entertain themselves and some decent food that will satisfy you as well.

The city of San Antonio has a great food scene and plenty of kid-friendly options for the family. As the home of the Alamo, you will find many Latin restaurants and similar flavor influences in the surrounding area. There are also plenty of family-friendly American restaurants for the kids who refuse to eat anything but mac n cheese for lunch!

Finding these family-friendly spots that actually serve good food can feel like a little too much work sometimes. But we are here to make traveling just a bit easier. So follow along here to see the top-rated restaurants in San Antonio that will make both you and your kids full and happy!

1. Willie's Grill & Icehouse

Credit: Ripped Jeans and Bifocals

Address: 24200 W IH 10, Leon Springs, TX, 78257 | Phone Number: (210) 698-5337 |

For those looking for simple and delicious food with enough space for the kids to run free, Willies Grill & Ice House is a great option in San Antonio! This chain has several locations across the state of Texas, but this location has a great patio and sandbox for the kids to play in. The classic American-style food means the menu is kid-friendly too!

What to Eat at Willie's

The Buffalo Chicken Tenders are both delicious and convenient for parents and kids alike!

Why Should You Eat Here?

At Willie's, you will get fast and affordable food with a great outdoor space to enjoy. From chicken tenders to fried catfish, their food is highly rated and paired with delicious house margaritas. It has something for everyone in the family and is a reliable option for fast meals or a relaxed evening out!

  • Yelp Rating: 4 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Cheese Willie Burger
  • Cuisine: Traditional American, Seafood

2. The Point Park & Eats

Credit: do210

Address: 24188 Boerne Stage Rd San Antonio, TX 78255 | Phone Number: (210) 251-3380 |

Most families have dealt with the dilemma of every member wanting a completely different kind of food. The Point holds a great solution to this problem, with a large outdoor space and a variety of food trucks to choose from! The Point has two playgrounds, is dog friendly, and hosts a large selection of food trucks with highly rated dishes.

What to Eat at The Point

The food trucks parked at The Point change daily and seasonally, so it is hard to suggest a perfect dish! However, you can check their schedule on the website to see which trucks will be there during your visit.

Why Should You Eat Here?

With so many food options in San Antonio, picking just one to satisfy the family is tricky. At The Point, you can satisfy all kinds of preferences in a fun outdoor setting! You can try some innovative dishes or stick to the classics, making this spot very flexible and a favorite of locals and tourists alike.

  • Yelp Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Soft Shell Crab BLT
  • Cuisine: Food stands

Related Read: 10 BEST Mexican Restaurants in San Antonio

3.  The Dogfather

Credit: My San Antonio

Address: 6211 San Pedro Ave San Antonio, TX 78216 | Phone Number: (210) 481-4272 |

If the fun name is not enough to interest you, the Dogfather is the top Hot Dog house in San Antonio! A favorite spot of tourists and locals the Dogfather is sure to meet your expectations. With innovative combinations and irresistible fries, this spot is great for eating the most American food in the most American state in the country.

What to Eat at The Dogfather

If you are looking to truly indulge, you should certainly try the Tater Tot Hot Dog!

Why Should You Eat Here?

Located near the center of San Antonio, this spot is easy to reach if you are visiting the inner city. They have some vegan options and the menu is flexible which is great for those with some food restrictions. Hot Dogs are also an easy dish to sell to a picky eater, so you know your kids will be well fed and you get to try a new twist on this American food too!

  • Yelp Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Elote Hot Dog
  • Cuisine: Hot Dogs

4. Magic Time Machine

Credit: TripAdvisor

Address: 902 NE Interstate 410 Loop, San Antonio, TX 78209 | Phone Number: (210) 828-1478 |

The Magic Time Machine is one of those restaurants made for families. With funky decorative booths, servers dressed as popular characters from the past, and delicious steaks, this spot has entertainment around every corner! This restaurant has been a family favorite for over 40 years and a neat spot to add to your family vacation.

What to Eat at Magic Time Machine

The kids' menu has an excellent portion of Sliced Brisket that is both affordable and delicious.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Magic Time Machine is a classic, family-friendly restaurant and a safe bet for taking the kids out for a meal. They may not have the most stellar food but the setting is fun and entertaining, in a quirky old fashioned way. It is also very close to the airport, which could be convenient for visiting before or after a flight.

  • Yelp Rating: 3.5 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: MTM 'Finally' Burger
  • Cuisine: Traditional American, Steakhouse

Related Read: 9 BEST Restaurants On San Antonio Riverwalk

5. La Gloria at Dominion

Credit: Chef Johnny Hernandez

Address: 21819 I-10, San Antonio, TX 78257 | Phone Number: (210) 265-3315 |

La Gloria at Dominion is a San Antonio chain restaurant serving delicious Mexican food in a mid-range setting. The Dominion location is praised for its beautiful outdoor space and reasonable prices on all the food items. It is a bit outside the central San Antonio area, but a great lunch option in you are up north!

What to Eat at La Gloria

The Salchicha is a Mexican-style Hot Dog wrapped in bacon and a delicious kid-friendly meal!

Why Should You Eat Here?

This location has a great outdoor space for the kids, which is why this spot is specified on this list against the other locations. They have both simple and complex Mexican dishes, so you will not be stuck eating a flavorless quesadilla! The food is also pretty cheap so you can feed the whole family on an easy budget.

  • Yelp Rating: 2.5 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Mexican Pizza
  • Cuisine: Mexican

6. Blanco BBQ

Credit: San Antonio Express News

Address: 13259 Blanco Rd., San Antonio, TX 78216 | Phone Number: (210) 251-2602 |

Nothing immerses you into a Texan culture quite like barbeque! Blanco BBQ is a favorite spot for families with quick and easy meals and a fantastic outdoor space. You can get family value platters for a simple and filling meal, or try something new like the Brisket Taco.

What to Eat at Blanco BBQ

No need to pick between chicken and brisket, you can have a taste of all the best meats and sides with the Mixed Meat Platter.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Blanco BBQ has a great breakfast menu and value menu, so it is versatile for all kinds of families and adventures. It is next to many of the other locations on this list on the north side of San Antonio. It is a great setting to enjoy the traditions of Texas!

  • Yelp Rating: 3.5 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Smoked Turkey Breast
  • Cuisine: Barbeque

Related Read: 25 BEST Things To Do In San Antonio, TX With Kids

7. Chicken n Pickle

Credit: Chicken n Pickle

Address: 5215 Utsa Blvd San Antonio, TX 78249 | Phone Number: (210) 874-2120 |

For those with older kids that are full of energy, Chicken n Pickle is a great place to visit! This pickleball/restaurant combo has great chicken dishes and several courts to work off the extra calories. It is a well-rated spot that is definitely one of a kind. Even if your kids are too young to play, there is a large outdoor space for them to run around.

What to Eat at Chicken n Pickle

The classic Fried Chicken and Waffles is perfectly soft, crunchy, and sure to be loved by your whole family!

Why Should You Eat Here?

As one of the most unique places on this list, Chicken n Pickle is a great way to try something new during your visit to San Antonio. Their menu has a good selection and other yard games to entertain the family. It is on the northern side of the city and definitely worth a visit.

  • Yelp Rating: 3.5
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Pickled Chicken
  • Cuisine: Traditional American

8. The Cove

Credit: Tripadvisor

Address: 606 W Cypress St., San Antonio, TX 78212 | Phone Number: (210) 227-2683 |

Vegetarian families will love The Cove in San Antonio for its kid-friendly atmosphere and delicious meat-free foods! With great veggie burgers and a large playground for younger kids, you can hang out and enjoy a nice meal while the kids entertain themselves.

What to Eat at The Cove

The Texas Burger can be made with real beef or a veggie patty to make a delicious protein-packed meal for meat lovers and vegans alike!

Why Should You Eat Here?

The Cove is sustainable and gets its food locally, so it is a healthy choice for you, your family, and the environment! The Cove has great food, drinks, and an outdoor area for you to enjoy. Making The Cove a perfect combination for a sustainably conscious family evening out.

  • Yelp Rating: 4 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Veggie Burger
  • Cuisine: Vegetarian, Burgers

9. Street Fare SA

Credit: Tripadvisor

Address: 1916 Austin Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78218 | Phone Number: (210) 737-6767 |

Food truck hotspots are a fun way to grab a quick meal and are great for satisfying picky eaters! Street Fare SA has tons of open space for food trucks to park and kids to run around freely. With different cuisines every day, you can find food of all flavors for reasonable prices alongside a great outdoor space.

What to Eat at Street Fare SA

As another food truck area, you never quite know what menus will be available to you. If you'd like to visit you can check out the Street Fare website to see which trucks will be parked during your stay.

Why Should You Eat Here?

With a wide variety of cuisines, this food truck conglomerate allows you to take food from around the world! With a large playground and even some sports TVs, the whole family will be entertained with full bellies at Street Fare. It is a casual place where you can have a drink and the kids can burn off some energy in northeastern San Antonio.

  • Yelp Rating: 4 stars
  • Cost: $
  • Cuisine: International

Related Read: 70 BEST Things To Do in San Antonio, TX

10. Tycoon Flats

Credit: San Antonio Express News

Address: 2926 N Saint Marys St San Antonio, TX 78212 | Phone Number: (210) 953-1401 |

This family-friendly bar spot is a great place to get unique yet delicious American food! With fried pickles, tacos, burgers, soups, and salads you are sure to find something that will satisfy your cravings. If you are looking for a great quality burger joint with excellent craft beers and some space for the kids, this is the place for you!

What to Eat at Tycoon Flats

If you are in the mood for a burger but want to try an innovative version of this classic dish, try the Fried Avocado Burger.

Why Should You Eat Here?

You will likely enjoy the great food and drinks available at Tycoon Flats, and your kids will have a relaxed garden to move around in. This restaurant is very central in San Antonio and nearby the zoo, so it is a perfect spot to visit after a zoo day! It has got innovative dishes and American classics to satisfy everyone in the family.

  • Yelp Rating: 4 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Roasted Garlic Signature Burger
  • Cuisine: Traditional American

11. The County Line

Credit: The County Line

Address: 111 W. Crockett St. #104, San Antonio, TX 78205 | Phone Number: (210) 229-1941 |

Located in downtown San Antonio, The County Line is where you will find the best Texas BBQ in the area. As it is practically the only thing on your menu, this place is solely for barbeque lovers. Ribs, sausages, and brisket are just a few of the perfectly crafted meats available to you at this restaurant.

What to Eat at The County Line

When the red meat feels a bit too heavy, try their soft and juicy Peppered Turkey Breast.

Why Should You Eat Here?

This spot has a great location and has perfected the craft of Texas barbeque. They have a great outdoor patio space, an all-you-can-eat option, and live cameras on their website to see how busy they currently are. The County Line is a great place to visit if you are craving some Texas traditions in downtown San Antonio.

  • Yelp Rating: 3 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Turkey Baby Backs
  • Cuisine: Barbeque

12. Zocca Cuisine D'Italia

Credit: Open Table

Address: 420 West Market Street, San Antonio, TX 78205 | Phone Number: (210) 444-6070 |

If you are looking for great Italian food in an upscale and kid-friendly setting, you should definitely try out Zocca Cuisine D'Italia in downtown San Antonio! The patio area is right beside the Riverwalk, so you get nice sunlight and views of the water. The pasta is incredible and they even have pizzas if your kids prefer simple foods.

What to Eat at Zocca

When you try the Antipasto you will find a great selection of meats and cheeses to snack on before your meal!

Why Should You Eat Here?

This spot is great if you are looking for a nice night out with the family, while still being sure your kids are welcome! The food is amazing and set at a great price. Additionally, the location is set in the heart of San Antonio which makes it accessible and convenient.

  • Yelp Rating: 3.5 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Lump Crab Pasta
  • Cuisine: Italian

13. Magnolia Pancake Haus

Credit: San Antonio Current

Address: 606 Embassy Oaks, San Antonio, TX 78216 | Phone Number: (210) 496-0828 |

Magnolia Pancake Haus is one of the best breakfast spots in San Antonio! It is a great kid-friendly spot that offers great traditional breakfast dishes with a German twist. They have world-famous buttermilk pancakes and a variety of other breakfast options that are sure to make your mouth water.

What to Eat at Magnolia

The Apple Cinnamon Waffles are delicious, simple, and will be beloved by yourself and kids alike!

Why Should You Eat Here?

This is the first breakfast spot on the list, and it may be one of the most enticing restaurants in the city! The menu selection is wide and very kid-friendly, so you won't hear any complaints after enjoying your meal. There are four restaurants spread across San Antonio, so you will surely be able to check this place out during your visit!

  • Yelp Rating: 4 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Authentic Apfel Pfannekuchen
  • Cuisine: American Breakfast

14. Hops & Hounds

Credit: My San Antonio

Address: 13838 Jones Maltsberger Rd San Antonio, TX 78247 | Phone Number: (210) 592-9400 |

Hops & Hounds is a dog-friendly beer garden that has great appetizers and simple American foods. The neat restaurant is surrounded by open space and a dedicated children's area, making it an easy place for you to relax and your kids to use up some energy.

What to Eat at Hops & Hounds

The Boneless Wings wings are a great meal for a kid or an appetizer for the family.

Why Should You Eat Here?

This is a very casual and kid-friendly spot in northern San Antonio with a special area for kids to play. There are plenty of food options for the kids and some great beers on tap. It is a great place to relax a bit and let the kids play as you enjoy a cold drink.

  • Yelp Rating: 4 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Texas Grilled Shrimp
  • Cuisine: New American

15. Mariscos El Paisa

Address: 29094 U.S. Hwy 281 N, San Antonio, TX 78258 | Phone Number: (830) 980-1724 |

Mariscos El Paisa is a quaint Mexican restaurant that has cheap and simple seafood meals that are perfect for feeding a family on a budget. As the least expensive place on this map, Mariscos is a hidden gem tucked away from the busy city. It is an easy place to visit if you are coming to San Antonio from the north and craving a bit of Mexican seafood!

What to Eat at Mariscos

The Fried Shrimp Plate is cheap and easy, making it a great option for kids and adults who love 'Camarones'!

Why Should You Eat Here?

The main reason to stop by is to enjoy some simple, affordable, and delicious seafood, likely when you first enter or before you leave the city. There is also a patio space and some refreshing drinks to pair with your fresh fish. You may not think much of this spot when you walk in, but the food and the price are very hard to beat.

  • Yelp Rating: 3.5 stars
  • Cost: $
  • Specialty Dish: Caldo de Paisa
  • Cuisine: Mexican Seafood

16. La Haciendo de Los Barrios

Credit: My San Antonio

Address: 18747 Redland Rd., San Antonio, TX 78259 | Phone Number: (210) 497-8000 |

La Haciendo de Los Barrios is a bright Tex-Mex eatery that has all the simple foods to fill up kids who will only eat beans and rice! This classic Spanish-style restaurant has a great outdoor space and plenty of kid-friendly food options to make the whole family happy. It is located pretty north of central San Antonio but is a great dinner or lunch option if you are in the area.

What to Eat at La Haciendo

The Puffy Tacos are a fun and delicious option for your kid to enjoy during your visit!

Why Should You Eat Here?

La Haciendo is a reliable Mexican restaurant that has a menu large enough to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. The outdoor space is a nice way to get the kids outside, and the food is simple yet satisfying. It is mostly a solid family-friendly restaurant that is a convenient place to stop if you are in the northern San Antonio area.

  • Yelp Rating: 3 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Tortilla Soup
  • Cuisine: Mexican

17. Earth Burger

Credit: Yolo TX

Address: 818 NW Loop 410, San Antonio, TX 78216 | Phone Number: (210)5241086 |

Earth Burger is one of the world's first plant-based fast food restaurants established in the country and now has over four locations in San Antonio. With all the classic American diner foods created with vegetarian supplements, this unique spot is a delicious, healthy, and easy family food option!

What to Eat at Earth Burger

A delicious twist on the classic American dish, the Roasted Quinoa Burger is a great burger option that *almost* tastes better than beef!

Why Should You Eat Here?

Nearby the international airport and the local zoo, Earth Burger is in a great location for tourist families! The vegan food options are delicious, affordable, and kid-friendly. On top of all this, it is one of the top-rated locations on this list! Even if you are not a vegan family, this place is still worth checking out.

  • Yelp Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Coconut Soft Serve Ice Cream
  • Cuisine: Vegan Burgers

18. Antlers Lodge

Credit: Zomato

Address: 9800 Hyatt Resort Drive, San Antonio, Texas, United States, 78251 | Phone Number: (210) 520-4001 |

The Antler Lodge is the main restaurant in the Hyatt Resort, so if this is your hotel it is probably the most convenient place to grab food! It is more upscale than the other restaurants on this list but still very accommodating to children. They have great food that you are sure to enjoy which makes this a great spot for a nice family dinner.

What to Eat at Antlers Lodge

The Bison Meatballs are a great appetizer that the whole family is sure to enjoy!

Why Should You Eat Here?

If you are staying in this hotel, the convenience is a huge reason to visit here. But the food itself is some of the best on this list, allowing you to have a great meal as well as one your kids will enjoy.

  • Yelp Rating: 4 stars
  • Cost: $$$
  • Specialty Dish: Blackened Texas Red Fish
  • Cuisine: Traditional American, Steakhouse

19. The Shack

Credit: The Shack

Address: 7431 NW Loop 410 Ste 115 San Antonio, TX 78251 | Phone Number: (210) 375-4097 |

If you are looking for the best classic all-American diner in San Antonio, it is probably The Shack! Located in the western part of the city, the Shack is a quick and easy spot to get a delicious burger or a simple hot dog for the kids.

What to Eat at The Shack

The classic Grilled Meat and Cheese is a delicious sandwich every kid is sure to love!

Why Should You Eat Here?

The Shack is a favorite among local San Antonians, which is why it has such a great rating. It is a quick and easy spot that actually has very delicious menu options. The ice cream and milkshakes offered are excellent, so this can also be a dessert stop!

  • Yelp Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: The Shack Burger
  • Cuisine: Hot Dogs/Burgers

20. Backyard On Broadway

Credit: Backyard On Broadway

Address: 2411 Broadway St San Antonio, TX 78215 | Phone Number: (210) 634-1405 |

San Antonios Backyard on Broadway has a very literal name, and it sits on Broadway street and is decorated as a family's backyard! During the late evenings, this spot is definitely more of a bar, but during the day and dinner time, it is a great restaurant to bring the kids and let them play for a bit while you can have a few relaxing drinks.

What to Eat at Backyard on Broadway

The Cousin Vinny Sandwich is a fun and delicious sandwich, fit for kids and adults alike.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Backyard on Broadway has an incredible play space for the kids. With a small play set and several yard games, it is a great place to let the kids run free as you enjoy a nice evening drink. The food options are quite diverse and the drink menu is even better

  • Yelp Rating: 3.5 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Sweet & Salty Pizza
  • Cuisine: New American

21. Elsewhere Garden

Credit: Elsewhere Garden

Address: 103 E Jones Ave San Antonio, TX 78215 | Phone Number: (210) 446-9303 |

The Elsewhere Garden is the perfect spot to take a break and grab a great snack in downtown San Antonio. With a large garden area and delicious boozy lemonade, this is a great spot to relax and let your kids explore during a warm summer day.

What to Eat at Elsewhere Garden

The Cauliflower Wings are deceivingly delicious and good enough to trick your kids into eating their vegetables!

Why Should You Eat Here?

The menu is not extensive, which means they make every dish really well! They have a kid-friendly menu as well as some quirky items if you are craving to eat something new. The outdoor space is nice and relaxing, making this a great place to break up the day with a nice snack and a quick drink.

  • Yelp Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: PB&J Burger
  • Cuisine: Mexican American

22. Bier Garten Riverwalk

Credit: Tripadvisor

Address: 126 Losoya St River Level San Antonio, TX 78205 | Phone Number: (210) 212-7299 |

This German-themed restaurant is a great spot to stop when the kids get a bit hungry and you could use a refreshing beer! The Bier Garten has open space, live music, and dressed-up waiters to give a unique family experience. Their food is also very good, from the pretzel to their German burgers you will not be disappointed!

What to Eat at Bier Garten

The NuremBerger is one of their specialty items, as a sausage burger covered in cheese and placed on a delicious pretzel bun!

Why Should You Eat Here?

The great food and great outdoor space make this restaurant worth a visit in you are in the central part of San Antonio. You and your family will enjoy the drinks and ambiance, even if it is just for a quick snack!

  • Yelp Rating: 4 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Sausage Paddles
  • Cuisine: German

23. Rainforest Cafe

Credit: 360zone

Address: 110 E Crockett St., San Antonio, TX 78205 | Phone Number: (210) 277-6300 |

Although at the bottom of this list, the Rainforest Cafe in San Antonio is a perfectly acceptable and reliable kid-friendly restaurant. With souvenir cups, your kids will love and a theme they will love, this restaurant is designed to accommodate children and families to ensure they have a great time.

What to Eat at Rainforest Cafe

The Blue Mountain Chicken Sandwich is the most unique menu item, with zesty lemon flavors, bacon, and red bell peppers to bring the sandwich together.

Why Should You Eat Here?

The Rainforest Cafe is a reliable and consistent restaurant most parents are familiar with. Your kids will love the ambiance of the decorations which is the main pull of this franchise. This location is central to downtown, easy to access, and has predictable food your kids will eat. It may be a bit overrated for you, but your kids will surely love it!

  • Yelp Rating: 2.5 stars
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Aloha Salmon and Shrimp
  • Cuisine: Traditional American

Tobi Miles
Article updated:
March 28, 2024
A nomadic wordsmith savoring the world's flavors and penning stories that turn every journey into an epic.
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