When you have a younger kid, you know all about the stress of bringing them to a restaurant. Not only are you trying to keep them entertained so they aren’t running rampant, but you are also dealing with limited selections for your picky eater. If you don’t feel like being stuck with take-out for the next five years, you need a list of kid-friendly restaurants in San Diego, and I would love to be the one to help you out! As a San Diego family photographer, I get lots of recommendations from families across the area. Here are some of my faves! 

Take The Stress Out Of Eating Out With These Kid-Friendly Restaurants In San Diego

Piper

105 Mission Avenue, Oceanside, California 92054

It’s my firm belief that you shouldn’t have to give up fine San Diego restaurants once you have a child, and Piper is here to serve as kid-friendly proof! The restaurant was founded by Chef Chris Carriker and uses farm-fresh ingredients to provide some of the best food in the city. They offer breakfast tacos, waffles, and pasta. Kids will have their own choice of breakfast and dinner. 

The Plot Restaurant

1733 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, California 92054

The Plot offers three locations across the city to make sure you’re never too far away from a divine meal! The restaurant has a menu that is completely plant-based, and they take a zero-waste approach in all their locations. Check out salads, sandwiches, and savory entrees from across the globe. 

Smiling new mom and dad stand holding their sleeping newborn baby in a white swaddle

Campfire

2725 State Street, Carlsbad, California 92008

Campfire is a Michelin Star-awarded kid-friendly restaurant started in San Diego by Chef Eric Bost. They draw inspiration from across the state of California to deliver a meal unlike anything else. They believe in hospitality and have a spot for everyone at their table! Check out octopus, crudo, lamb belly, brisket, and, of course, smores. 

Viewpoint Brewing Co.

2201 San Dieguito Dr, Suite D, Del Mar, California 92014

Viewpoint Brewing Co. is a kid-friendly, dog-friendly spot that seeks to be a third place for you and your friends. While their beer is pretty fabulous (they have over 20 taps and NA options!), their food is unforgettable. They have sandwiches, flatbreads, salads, and pure Americana goodness. Kids can find staples, including chicken nuggets and mac and cheese. 

A newborn baby sleeps under a knit blanket on their tummy before visiting Kid-Friendly Restaurants in San Diego

Buona Forchetta

2865 Sims Rd, San Diego, California 92106

Buona Forchetta has been voted one of the top kid-friendly pizza and pasta restaurants in all of San Diego. They packed their menu with lovingly made pizzas and other Italian staples. You can also build your own pasta using their handmade egg pasta. 

Corvette Diner

2935 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, California 92106

Corvette Diner is a wonderfully kitschy place that will transport you to the best parts of the 1950s. The restaurant offers burgers and shakes served up by sassy waitresses in poodle skirts. Once your child finishes their meal, you can head over to the arcade to enjoy over 60 games.

Happy new parents stand in a studio cradling their sleeping newborn baby against their chests before visiting Kid-Friendly Restaurants in San Diego 

Your Family Will Love A Fun Night Out At Wonderful Kid-Friendly Restaurants In San Diego

With these kid-friendly San Diego restaurants, you can break out of your routine and try a new place without the stress. If you want to make more memories with your child, just let me know! I am a San Diego family photographer, and I adore working with families to plan sessions that let them freeze time right in its tracks. I would love to sit down and have a conversation so you can decide if my style matches yours. Let’s chat soon!