Finding family-friendly restaurants in a bustling downtown area can be a challenge. Downtown Rochester, however, offers a surprising variety of options catering to both parents and their little ones. This guide highlights twelve of the best kid-friendly restaurants, ensuring your next family outing is a smooth and enjoyable experience. We've considered factors like atmosphere, menu options, amenities, and overall kid-friendliness in compiling this list.
Kid-Approved Cuisine: Diverse Dining Options
Downtown Rochester boasts diverse culinary options, perfect for picky eaters and adventurous palates alike. From classic American fare to international flavors, there's something for everyone in your family. Let's explore the top choices:
Casual & Comfortable: Family Favorites
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The Red Osier: A Rochester institution, The Red Osier is known for its classic American menu and family-friendly atmosphere. Kids love the burgers and fries, while parents appreciate the relaxed setting. They often have specials geared towards families.
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Salvatore's Old Fashioned Pizzeria: What kid doesn't love pizza? Salvatore's offers a wide variety of pizzas, along with pasta dishes and other Italian-American staples. Their large portions are perfect for sharing, and the lively atmosphere is generally welcoming to children.
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The Cub Room: This restaurant offers a unique experience. They've designed a space specifically with families in mind offering delicious burgers and fun games to keep the children entertained.
Upscale with Kid-Friendly Options
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The Three Heads Tavern: While slightly more upscale, The Three Heads Tavern offers a surprisingly kid-friendly menu with options that appeal to younger palates. Their outdoor patio is a plus for warm weather dining.
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Good Luck Restaurant: This popular spot has a creative menu, and while it might not be entirely dedicated to kids' food, they're generally accommodating and often have dishes that younger children enjoy.
International Flavors for Adventurous Families
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Don Tequila: This Mexican restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere and a kid-friendly menu featuring milder options, such as quesadillas or chicken fajitas.
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Tahini: A middle eastern restaurant, known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine. While not explicitly designed for kids, the menu is flexible enough to accommodate younger palates.
Sweet Treats & Special Occasions
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Sweet Surrender: This ice cream parlor is a perfect stop after a meal, offering a wide array of delicious ice cream flavors to satisfy any sweet tooth.
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Rochester Brainery: While not a restaurant, this is a great place to go before or after dinner. Kids love the brain teasers and fun atmosphere.
Unique Experiences
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The Genesee Brew House: This brewery offers a family-friendly atmosphere, especially during the day. While it is not primarily a kid's restaurant, many families enjoy the spacious setting and varied menu options.
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Bahn Mi Zest: Known for its delicious and authentic Vietnamese sandwiches, this eatery is kid-friendly if you order something simple like their chicken or tofu options.
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Marge's Lakeside Inn: Though a bit further from the strict downtown area, Marge's offers beautiful lake views and a relaxing environment, making it perfect for a special family outing. They have a kids menu and generally welcoming atmosphere.
Tips for a Smooth Dining Experience
- Call ahead: Check if the restaurant offers high chairs, booster seats, or kids' menus.
- Plan your visit: Consider the restaurant's atmosphere and menu to ensure it aligns with your family's preferences.
- Pack snacks: Having a few snacks on hand can help prevent meltdowns if your child gets hungry between meals.
- Bring entertainment: Consider bringing a book, coloring book, or small toys to keep your child occupied.
This guide provides a starting point for planning your next family meal in Downtown Rochester. Remember to check restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm hours, menus, and any special accommodations for children. Happy dining!
