Long Beach, with its vibrant coastline and diverse neighborhoods, offers an abundance of dining experiences. But when you’re navigating mealtime with little ones in tow, finding a spot that delights both adults and kids can feel like a quest. The good news? Long Beach truly shines with its family friendly restaurants Long Beach with kids, blending delicious menus with atmospheres that welcome even the wiggliest patrons. No more sacrificing flavor for comfort – here, you can have both.
At a Glance: Your Family Dining Playbook
- Understand What "Kid-Friendly" Really Means: It’s more than just a kids' menu; consider space, noise level, speed of service, and atmosphere.
- Discover Top Long Beach Spots: Explore specific restaurants categorized by vibe, from interactive seafood shacks to cozy breakfast nooks.
- Match Your Mood & Moment: Learn how to pick the perfect restaurant based on your kids' ages, the occasion, and your family's cravings.
- Beyond the Booth: Explore general family-friendly dining environments like food halls and beach cafes.
- Master Dining Out with Kids: Get practical tips to make every family meal a success.
Beyond the Menu: What Makes a Restaurant Truly Family-Friendly?
Before diving into specific recommendations, let's define what truly makes a restaurant welcoming for families with children. It's not just about chicken nuggets; it's about the overall experience. A genuinely family-friendly restaurant offers:
- Space to Breathe: Enough room between tables for strollers, high chairs, and kids to navigate without feeling cramped. Outdoor patios are a huge plus.
- Noise Levels That Work: A lively, slightly bustling atmosphere can be a blessing, as it masks typical kid noises. Pin-drop silence, while lovely for adults, can make parents stressed.
- Flexible & Accommodating Staff: Servers who understand that kids might need their food first, or that an extra napkin is always appreciated.
- Kid-Centric Menu Options: Beyond the basics, think about healthy choices, customizable dishes, or even smaller portions of adult meals.
- Engaging Atmosphere: Themed decor, something interesting to look at, or even simple crayons and coloring pages can make a huge difference.
- Speed of Service: Kids aren't known for their patience. Restaurants that can deliver food relatively quickly, especially appetizers, score big points.
When considering your broader options for dining out, remember that the best experiences are often those perfectly matched to your mood and occasion. For a deeper dive into how to align your dining choices with any specific vibe you’re aiming for, explore our comprehensive guide on Dining choices for every mood.
Top Picks for Every Family Vibe in Long Beach
Long Beach boasts an impressive array of family friendly restaurants suitable for kids of all ages. We've scoured the local scene to highlight those that consistently deliver on both delicious food and a welcoming environment for your entire crew.
Interactive Fun & Casual Vibes
Sometimes, you just need a place where kids can be kids and still enjoy a great meal. These spots prioritize a relaxed atmosphere and often offer an element of fun or unique interaction.
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.: At 87 Aquarium Way, this "Forrest Gump"-themed seafood restaurant is practically a playground for the imagination. With its fishing-boat decor, harbor views, and outdoor dining, it’s a full experience that keeps kids engaged. The service is friendly, and the seafood-focused menu offers plenty of kid-friendly options.
- The Crab Pot Restaurant & Bar: Famous for its "SEAFEAST," this laid-back spot turns dinner into a spectacle. Large steamed buckets of crab, fish, and other seafood are dramatically dumped onto paper-covered tables, complete with bibs and mallets. It’s messy, it’s loud, and kids absolutely love the interactive nature.
- Islands Restaurant Long Beach Pike: This gourmet burger chain brings a laid-back, beachy vibe perfect for families. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious burgers and tropical drinks, it’s a reliable choice. Happy hour deals on sliders are a bonus for families looking for value.
- Simmzy's Restaurant: A neighborhood institution, Simmzy's offers a coastal-chic pub experience that is notably family-friendly and even dog-friendly on its patio (complete with water bowls!). Their menu features crowd-plepleasers like burgers, tacos, pizzas, and salads, served with excellent service in a relaxed setting.
- Rasselbock Kitchen & Beer Garden: In Bixby Knolls, this spacious indoor and outdoor venue offers a unique German experience. With traditional and contemporary German cuisine (think sausages and schnitzel), an extensive beer selection for adults, and a large, open space, it's great for families who appreciate a lively atmosphere where kids have room to move.
Global Flavors for Adventurous Eaters
Introduce your children to a world of flavors at these Long Beach eateries, which manage to serve authentic international cuisine in family-friendly settings.
- Lola's Mexican Cuisine- 4th Street: This vibrant and festive restaurant serves home-cooked Mexican dishes rooted in family recipes, like their famous green salsa and birria. The lively atmosphere and delicious, accessible dishes make it a great option for families eager for a taste of Mexico.
- Enrique's Mexican Restaurant: A beloved spot for over two decades, Enrique's offers classic Mexican dishes in generous portions. Its welcoming atmosphere and cozy, art-adorned dining space feel like dining in a family home, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.
- George's Greek Cafe: Step into a vibrant atmosphere with murals and blue-and-white checkered tablecloths. George's is known for its generous portions of Greek classics like grilled lamb chops, making it a lively and engaging spot for a family meal.
- P.F. Chang's: A well-known family-friendly chain, P.F. Chang's offers innovative Asian cuisine, including hand-rolled sushi, classic Chinese dim sum, and their famous Lettuce Wraps. The vibrant setting and diverse menu cater well to varied family tastes.
- A&J Seafood Shack: A hidden gem offering Cambodian seafood dishes like salt & pepper shrimp and grilled oysters. While it's in a strip mall, its fresh fish and pan-Asian bites provide a unique, casual culinary adventure that older kids might enjoy exploring.
- Phnom Penh Noodle Shack: A long-standing noodle house run by the second-generation Tan family, this spot serves hearty portions of authentic Cambodian cuisine. Specializing in customizable breakfast soups and a house special with pork and shrimp, it offers a distinct, comforting experience.
Waterfront Dining with a View
Long Beach's stunning coastline offers breathtaking backdrops for family meals. These restaurants combine delicious food with fantastic views and often ample outdoor space.
- Boathouse on the Bay: An upscale bar and eatery on Alamitos Bay, this spot boasts stunning water views and al fresco dining. While slightly more upscale, the beautiful setting and fresh seafood and prime steaks make it perfect for a special family occasion, especially with older children who appreciate the ambiance.
- Gladstone's Long Beach: Overlooking the harbor, marina, Lions Lighthouse, and Queen Mary, Gladstone's offers an upscale seafood experience with outdoor patio seating. Its scenic views are a draw, and the specialty shellfish might appeal to adventurous young palates.
- Parkers' Lighthouse: Located in Shoreline Village, this restaurant offers mesquite-grilled seafood, sushi, and steaks in a relaxed atmosphere. The stunning marina views, live music, and weekday happy hour specials create an enjoyable experience that can be adapted for families.
- Schooner Or Later: A local marina fixture since 1985, this spot serves American breakfast and lunch fare with scenic Pacific Ocean views from its spacious patio on the Long Beach waterfront. It's a perfect casual choice for a family breakfast or lunch with a view.
- Belmont Brewing Co: As the oldest brewpub in Los Angeles County, established in 1990, it offers American cuisine, ocean views, and an outdoor patio. The casual brewpub atmosphere and diverse menu make it a comfortable choice for families, especially if parents enjoy craft beers.
- Tequila Jack's Restaurant & Cantina: With a waterfront deck offering harbor views, Tequila Jack's provides a refined Mexican dining experience. Known for its enormous margaritas (for the adults!), traditional Mexican dishes, and homemade sauces, it's a vibrant spot for a family dinner.
Comfort Food & Classic American Favorites
Sometimes, nothing beats a classic. These spots deliver comforting, familiar American dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que: This regional chain specializes in slow-cooked meats and Southern-style dishes, including tender ribs and delicious sides. The inviting atmosphere and warm towels upon arrival set a welcoming tone for families.
- Naples Rib Company: A family-owned establishment renowned for its prime ribs and BBQ, Naples Rib Company features an extensive menu with appetizers, smoked ribs, and BBQ platters. Outdoor seating and live music on weekends add to the enjoyable family dining experience.
- Jongewaard's Bake n Broil: A true Long Beach institution, this family-owned eatery serves homestyle classic fare and desserts. Famous for made-to-order holiday pies and cranberry orange glaze muffins, it's a comforting and nostalgic choice for any family meal.
- Outback Steakhouse: A lively Australian-themed chain, Outback is known for its consistently excellent steaks, seafood, and hearty steakhouse cuisine. Efficient service ensures a smooth family dining experience.
- The Promenade Cafe (Queen Mary): Located on the iconic Queen Mary, this cafe offers a relaxed dining experience with ocean views. Serving American comfort-food classics like gourmet burgers and prime rib buffets (on Fridays and Saturdays), it combines a unique setting with familiar favorites.
- The Potholder Cafe Downtown: One of four Long Beach locations, this lively, SoCal beach-themed spot is popular for American and Mexican comfort foods and is famous for serving breakfast all day – a huge win for families!
Breakfast & Brunch Boosters
Start your family's day right with these delightful breakfast and brunch spots, perfect for morning gatherings.
- Creme De La Crepe Long Beach: This charming French bistro in Downtown Long Beach offers a wonderful breakfast selection, including French toast, waffles, omelets, and a wide variety of sweet and savory crepes. The complete breakfast crepe is a popular choice for all ages.
- La Creperie Cafe: With a cozy, bohemian vibe, this delightful French eatery is popular for its extensive menu of sweet and savory crêpes like the Rusticana and Royal. It’s a lovely, relaxed spot for a family breakfast or brunch.
- The Omelette Inn: Specializing in omelets, this nautically themed spot serves breakfast and lunch. Its picturesque patio provides a pleasant setting for a family meal to start the day.
- The Breakfast Bar: Founded by locals, this beloved breakfast and lunch spot boasts a stylish, cozy interior. Offering creative dishes, mimosas, and Bloody Marys (for adults!), it's a great choice for a modern family brunch.
Choosing Your Adventure: A Quick Decision Guide
With so many fantastic family friendly restaurants in Long Beach, how do you pick the right one? Here’s a simple framework to guide your decision:
- Consider Your Kids' Ages:
- Toddlers & Preschoolers: Prioritize places with high chairs, ample space, noise (to mask tantrums!), quick service, and simple menu items (Bubba Gump, Islands, The Potholder, Lucille's).
- Elementary School Kids: Look for interactive elements, fun themes, or places with outdoor space. Kids' menus are still key (The Crab Pot, Rasselbock, Lola's, Bubba Gump).
- Tweens & Teens: They might appreciate more sophisticated flavors, trendier spots, or places with great views and good "Instagrammable" potential. Good burger joints or international cuisine often fit the bill (Boathouse on the Bay, Parkers' Lighthouse, P.F. Chang's, Simmzy's).
- Match the Occasion:
- Casual Weeknight Dinner: Islands, Enrique's, Outback, CPK.
- Special Celebration: Boathouse on the Bay, Gladstone's, Parkers' Lighthouse, Fuego Restaurant & Bar (especially with the hawk demonstrations!).
- Lazy Weekend Brunch: Schooner Or Later, The Breakfast Bar, Creme De La Crepe.
- Factor in the Mood:
- Lively & Energetic: The Crab Pot, Bubba Gump, Rasselbock.
- Relaxed & Scenic: Schooner Or Later, Gladstone's, Parkers' Lighthouse.
- Cozy & Comforting: Jongewaard's Bake n Broil, Naples Rib Company.
- Think About Specific Cravings:
- Burgers: Islands, Simmzy's, Promenade Cafe.
- Seafood: Bubba Gump, The Crab Pot, King's Fish House, Pier 76 Fish Grill.
- Mexican: Lola's, Enrique's, Tequila Jack's.
- BBQ: Lucille's Smokehouse, Naples Rib Company.
- Breakfast/Crepes: Creme De La Crepe, La Creperie Cafe, The Omelette Inn, The Potholder Cafe.
Beyond the Restaurant Walls: Other Family-Friendly Environments
Sometimes, a traditional sit-down restaurant isn't the best fit. Long Beach offers other dining environments that are incredibly accommodating for families:
- Food Halls: These cater to diverse tastes, allowing adults to enjoy gourmet options while kids choose familiar foods, all within a communal dining space. This minimizes arguments and ensures everyone finds something they love.
- Breweries (with Open Space): Many breweries, especially those in areas like Bixby Knolls, feature a casual atmosphere and open dining areas, often with outdoor patios. Rasselbock Kitchen & Beer Garden is a prime example. They can be surprisingly kid-friendly during the day, offering space and a relaxed vibe.
- Beach Cafes: Dining close to the beach (like Schooner Or Later or some spots in Belmont Shore) allows children to play nearby before or after the meal, burning off energy and enjoying the coastal environment.
- Food & Arcades/Entertainment Complexes: Combine dining with entertainment, perfect for high-energy kids. While specific examples aren't listed in the ground truth, this is a general category to keep an eye out for in Long Beach's shopping centers or entertainment districts.
- Shopping Centers: Places like The Pike Outlets and Shoreline Village (where CPK, Islands, Bubba Gump, Parkers' Lighthouse, and The Crab Pot are located) offer a variety of restaurants alongside open areas for children to move around.
The Practical Playbook for Dining with Kids
Even the most family-friendly restaurant can be a challenge without a few strategies up your sleeve.
- Call Ahead for Reservations (or Wait Times): Especially for dinner or weekend brunch, a quick call can save you a long, painful wait with hungry children. Inquire about high chairs or booster seats if needed.
- Timing is Everything: Aim to dine slightly before or after peak hours. This means less crowded restaurants, quicker service, and a calmer experience for everyone. Early dinners (around 5 PM) or late lunches often work best.
- Pack Smart: Bring a small bag of essentials: coloring books, small toys, wipes, and a few emergency snacks. These can be lifesavers during waits or if food takes a little longer than expected.
- Involve Your Kids: Let them help choose from the menu (within reason), or ask them what they liked best about the restaurant afterward. This makes them feel invested in the experience.
- Manage Expectations: Understand that dining out with kids rarely goes perfectly. There might be spills, loud moments, or unexpected demands. The goal is to enjoy the shared time, not perfection.
- Utilize Outdoor Seating: When available, patios and outdoor dining areas often provide more space, a more relaxed atmosphere, and the ability for kids to feel less confined. Many Long Beach restaurants, especially those near the water, offer excellent patio options.
Quick Answers to Common Family Dining Questions
Q: Are there any upscale restaurants in Long Beach that are still good for families?
A: Yes, with a caveat. Restaurants like Boathouse on the Bay, Gladstone's Long Beach, or Parkers' Lighthouse offer upscale menus and beautiful settings. They are generally better for older children who are comfortable with a more refined dining experience, or for special occasions where you want to expose younger kids to a nicer ambiance (with a plan to keep them engaged).
Q: What if my child is a very picky eater?
A: Many family-friendly restaurants offer basic kid's menus with universally accepted items like chicken tenders, fries, or pasta. Places like Islands Restaurant (burgers), California Pizza Kitchen (pizza), or The Potholder Cafe (breakfast all day) have broad appeal. Don't hesitate to ask if they can simplify a dish for your child.
Q: How can I keep my kids entertained while waiting for food?
A: Pack a small "entertainment kit" with crayons, a mini-notebook, small Lego figures, or a quiet puzzle. Some restaurants (like Bubba Gump) provide coloring pages or activities. Engaging them in conversation about their day or what they're looking forward to eating also works wonders.
Q: Are there options for families seeking healthy food?
A: Absolutely. Many restaurants offer grilled fish, fresh salads (you can ask for dressing on the side), or vegetable sides. Pier 76 Fish Grill, for instance, focuses on healthy grilled seafood options. Even places with more indulgent fare usually have lighter choices or customizable items.
Memorable Meals Await
Long Beach truly is a treasure trove for families looking for delicious food without compromising on a welcoming environment for kids. From lively, interactive seafood shacks to cozy breakfast nooks and international flavor adventures, the city caters to every family's dining preference. By understanding what makes a restaurant truly family-friendly and employing a few smart strategies, you can transform every meal out into a cherished memory. So go ahead, explore Long Beach's incredible culinary scene with your little ones – your next favorite family dining spot is waiting!