Finding a restaurant in London that makes everyone happy isn't always easy. Parents want somewhere with good food, a pleasant atmosphere and a menu that feels worth the money. Children, meanwhile, might be perfectly happy with pizza, pasta, pancakes or a plate of chicken and chips.
The challenge is finding somewhere that brings both together.
You don't necessarily want to spend a fortune on a family meal, but you also don't want to settle for a place that feels like a quick stop when you're hoping to enjoy a proper outing. A restaurant with attractive interiors, welcoming staff, a good children's menu and something interesting for the adults can make all the difference.
Fortunately, London has some excellent options. From riverside restaurants and colourful Mexican dining rooms to Italian pasta spots and places where children can enjoy their own little dining experience, there are plenty of choices worth considering.
Here are 11 restaurants in London where parents and children can enjoy eating together, with a focus on atmosphere, food choices and value for money.
1. Giraffe Southbank – A little something for everyone
If you want one restaurant where different family members can order completely different things, Giraffe at Southbank is a sensible place to start.
Located behind the Royal Festival Hall, this branch sits right beside the Thames and is particularly convenient if you're spending the day around the South Bank. You can combine lunch with a visit to the London Eye, SEA LIFE London Aquarium or a walk along the river.
The menu brings together dishes inspired by different cuisines, so adults aren't limited to the usual children's favourites. Younger diners have a dedicated menu for children under 10, with familiar options such as fish fingers and sausage with beans.
The children's menu is particularly appealing from a budget perspective. South Bank London's current guide lists it from £6 for a main course and two sides, with a drink and dessert available for £1.50 each.
The riverside setting is another reason to visit. On a pleasant day, the outdoor terrace makes a family meal feel like part of the outing rather than simply a place to stop for food.
Why families should consider it: A varied menu, a reasonably priced children's meal and a location close to some of London's biggest attractions.
Location: Royal Festival Hall, 337–338 Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX.
2. PizzaExpress – A reliable choice for the whole family
Sometimes you don't need to experiment. You just want somewhere everyone recognises, where the children can choose their favourite pizza and the adults can enjoy a relaxed meal.
PizzaExpress is a dependable option for exactly that.
Its restaurants are spread across London, making it easy to find a branch near shopping areas, theatres and popular attractions. The interiors are generally bright and comfortable, and the menu offers pizzas, pasta, salads and familiar sides.
The biggest attraction for families is the Piccolo children's menu. As currently advertised by PizzaExpress, it costs £8.50 and includes dough balls, a choice of pizza, pasta or salad, dessert, a Bambinoccino and an activity pack. The restaurant recommends it for children aged 12 and under.
There is also an After School Club advertised at £5 per item, Monday to Friday between 3pm and 5pm. Check the applicable terms and branch participation before planning a visit around that offer.
For parents, there are plenty of familiar pizzas and other dishes, so nobody has to compromise on what they want to eat.
Why families should consider it: A clearly priced children's meal, familiar food and plenty of locations around London.
Location: Multiple branches across London. Check the individual restaurant before visiting.
3. Pizza Pilgrims – For a fun, relaxed pizza outing
Pizza Pilgrims is a good choice if your family enjoys pizza but you want somewhere with a little more character than a standard chain restaurant.
Known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas, the restaurant has a lively atmosphere and an open-kitchen feel at many locations. Watching the pizzas being prepared and cooked can make the meal more interesting, particularly for younger children.
There are several central London branches, including locations around Covent Garden, London Bridge, Soho and King's Cross. This makes it easy to fit into a family day out.
The menu includes familiar pizza combinations alongside more adventurous toppings. Children aged 12 and under can also choose from the restaurant's kids' meals, making it easier to keep younger diners happy.
Adults can enjoy the pizzas, salads and sharing sides, while younger family members can stick to something simple.
Why families should consider it: A lively setting, freshly made pizza and a children's option that makes the experience more family-friendly.
Location: Multiple London branches, including London Bridge, Covent Garden and King's Cross.
4. Wahaca Southbank – Colourful Mexican food beside the Thames
If you want a restaurant that feels a little different, Wahaca's Southbank branch is worth considering.
The restaurant is made up of colourful, converted shipping containers arranged across different levels, with an outdoor terrace overlooking the surrounding South Bank area. It is certainly more distinctive than a typical casual dining space.
The menu features Mexican-inspired dishes such as tacos, quesadillas, burritos and sharing plates. This gives adults plenty of options, while children can choose from a dedicated menu.
The Southbank branch also lists baby-changing facilities, accessible toilets, step-free access, outdoor dining and a children's menu among its facilities.
It works particularly well alongside a day out around the river. You could visit the London Eye, walk along the South Bank and then stop for a meal without travelling far.
Wahaca is not necessarily the cheapest restaurant on this list. Its group-sharing menus start at £22.50 per person, but that is a separate group dining option rather than the price of a regular family meal. Check individual menu prices when planning your visit.
Why families should consider it: A distinctive setting, sharing-friendly food, children's options and a location close to riverside attractions.
Location: Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX.
5. Pastaio – For fresh pasta in a stylish setting
For families who love Italian food, Pastaio is a lovely alternative to the usual pizza restaurant.
Situated on Ganton Street in the Carnaby area, Pastaio focuses on fresh pasta and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant has a lively, contemporary feel, making it a good option when parents want somewhere that feels a little more special.
Its children's menu is designed for younger diners under 10. Visit London's 2026 family restaurant guide describes it as including half portions of fresh pasta, a vegetable pot and soft-serve ice cream.
That is a thoughtful approach to children's dining: smaller portions of proper food rather than a menu that relies entirely on chips and fried snacks.
Adults can choose from the wider pasta menu, including dishes that change with the seasons. The restaurant also offers vegan and gluten-free options.
Its central location makes it easy to combine a meal with shopping around Carnaby, Oxford Circus and Regent Street.
Why families should consider it: Fresh pasta, a dedicated children's menu and a stylish but relaxed atmosphere.
Location: 19 Ganton Street, Carnaby, London W1F 9BN.
6. Flat Iron Southbank – When parents fancy a steak dinner
Not every family outing has to revolve around pizza or pasta. Sometimes the adults want a proper steak dinner, and Flat Iron offers a more grown-up restaurant experience without the atmosphere of a formal steakhouse.
The restaurant is known for its signature flat iron steak, with sides that can be added to complete the meal. Its Southbank branch is particularly suitable for families because it offers a dedicated children's menu.
There are also a few details that make the experience more enjoyable for younger diners. Flat Iron is known for its complimentary soft-serve ice cream, and the Southbank location offers high chairs and colouring sheets.
The setting is casual enough for children while still feeling like somewhere adults can enjoy a proper meal.
It is important to be realistic about the budget, though. Flat Iron is better described as good value for a steak restaurant than as a cheap family restaurant.
Why families should consider it: A more grown-up meal for parents, a children's menu and a relaxed setting near the river.
Location: Unit 3, Southbank Place, London SE1 7NJ.
7. The Breakfast Club, London Bridge – For a cheerful family brunch
Who says a family meal has to be dinner?
The Breakfast Club at London Bridge is a good option for a relaxed morning or brunch before exploring the city. Its bright, colourful interiors and generous breakfast dishes give it a welcoming atmosphere.
The menu includes pancakes, eggs, breakfast plates and other familiar brunch favourites. The London Bridge branch also has a children's menu, with smaller versions of classic dishes and a pick-and-mix option for children who prefer choosing their own food.
The location is particularly convenient. Borough Market, Tower Bridge and the riverside are all within reach, making it easy to turn breakfast into a full day out.
It is worth remembering that brunch can become expensive when everyone adds drinks, sides and extras. Check the current menu before visiting if you're working to a strict budget.
Why families should consider it: A cheerful atmosphere, sweet and savoury breakfast choices and a convenient location for sightseeing.
Location: 11 Southwark Street, London SE1 1RQ.
8. Wagamama – For noodles, rice bowls and family-friendly choices
If your family enjoys Asian-inspired food, Wagamama is a useful alternative to the usual pizza and burger restaurants.
Its menu includes ramen, noodles, rice bowls, katsu dishes and other familiar favourites. The children's menu offers smaller meals and gives younger diners an opportunity to try different flavours.
The build-your-own Bento approach is particularly appealing for children who like having a little choice over what goes onto their plate.
The atmosphere is informal, and the restaurants are designed for casual dining rather than a long, formal meal. This can work well when you're eating with younger children.
There are numerous branches around London, so you can choose one close to your day's plans. The Southbank branch is particularly convenient for families visiting the riverside attractions.
Why families should consider it: A varied menu, children's meal choices and an informal dining experience.
Location: Multiple London branches, including the South Bank.
9. BrewDog Waterloo – For a meal with games and activities
This is a slightly different suggestion, but one worth considering if you're visiting London with older children.
BrewDog Waterloo at The Sidings is not simply a restaurant where you sit down, eat and leave. The venue offers activities including duckpin bowling, ping-pong and a large indoor slide, making it more of an entertainment stop.
The food menu includes burgers and other casual favourites, while the children's menu offers familiar dishes such as cheese toasties, macaroni cheese and breaded chicken strips.
Children are permitted inside until 8pm, according to the South Bank's family dining guide. This is an important detail to check when planning an evening visit.
It is not the quietest choice for a relaxed family dinner, but it can be a fun option when you want the children to have something to do beyond waiting for their food.
Why families should consider it: Food, games and activities in one location, particularly useful for families with older children.
Location: The Sidings, Waterloo Station, London SE1 7BH.
10. Where The Pancakes Are, Battersea Power Station – For a fun pancake experience
If your children love pancakes, this is one restaurant worth adding to your family day out.
Where The Pancakes Are at Battersea Power Station offers both sweet and savoury pancakes, making it a good choice for breakfast, brunch or a casual meal.
The children's menu includes a build-your-own pancake option, allowing younger diners to choose how they want their meal. High chairs are available on request, and colouring sheets can help keep children occupied while waiting.
The restaurant is also in a particularly attractive location. Battersea Power Station has plenty to explore, from shops and riverside walks to other places to eat and drink.
You can make a whole afternoon of the visit, with a pancake meal followed by a walk around the development.
Why families should consider it: A fun menu, a build-your-own experience and a location that offers plenty to do after eating.
Location: Battersea Power Station, Circus Road South, London SW11 8BZ.
11. Dishoom Covent Garden – For a memorable Indian family meal
For families who enjoy Indian food, Dishoom offers a dining experience that feels a little more special.
Inspired by the Irani cafés of Bombay, its restaurants are known for their distinctive interiors, warm lighting and lively atmosphere. The Covent Garden branch is particularly attractive if you're spending the day around the West End.
The menu includes Indian comfort food, grills, curries, biryanis, breakfast dishes and smaller plates. Adults have plenty to explore, while younger diners can choose less-spicy options from the children's menu.
One of the reasons Dishoom works for families is that the restaurant doesn't feel like a place designed exclusively for children. Parents can enjoy a proper meal in an interesting setting while the younger members of the family are still catered for.
However, Dishoom is not a budget restaurant. It is better suited to families looking for a more memorable meal and willing to spend a little more. The restaurant is also popular, so queues can form during busy periods.
Why families should consider it: Distinctive interiors, a broad Indian menu and children's choices that make it easier for younger diners to enjoy the food.
Location: 12 Upper St Martin's Lane, London WC2H 9FB.
A few tips before taking the family out to eat in London
A little planning can make a big difference to how much you spend and how enjoyable the meal becomes.
Check children's menu prices: Some restaurants include a drink and dessert, while others charge separately. Look at the complete meal rather than just the advertised main-course price.
Visit outside peak hours: Lunch before the main rush or an early dinner can make busy restaurants easier to enjoy.
Choose the restaurant around your plans: A restaurant near the London Eye, Battersea Power Station or Covent Garden can save you extra travel and make the meal part of a bigger day out.
Check accessibility: If you're travelling with a buggy or need step-free access, check the exact branch rather than relying on information about the restaurant chain as a whole.
Ask about dietary requirements: Menus and allergen procedures can change. Contact the restaurant if anyone in your family has a food allergy or specific dietary needs.
Check offers before travelling: Children's meal deals and promotions can have time restrictions, exclusions and participating-branch conditions.
Final thoughts
A good family restaurant in London should give everyone a reason to enjoy the visit. Parents should be able to sit down, enjoy their food and appreciate the surroundings, while children should have enough choice to find something they genuinely like.
For a straightforward and affordable family meal, Giraffe Southbank and PizzaExpress are strong starting points. For pizza lovers, Pizza Pilgrims is a great casual option. If you're after something a little more memorable, Wahaca, Pastaio and Dishoom offer distinctive settings and menus that adults can enjoy too.
And if you want to turn lunch into an activity, BrewDog Waterloo and Where The Pancakes Are at Battersea Power Station are worth considering.
You don't have to book an expensive restaurant to make a family meal in London feel special. Sometimes all it takes is a welcoming place, good food and a table where everyone is happy to sit together.
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