Melbourne has many of the best restaurants Australia has to offer. Combined with coffee that makes up for the cold weather there is no doubt that Melbourne is a playground for food lovers. While child-friendly cafes are seemingly everywhere it can be trickier to find a family friendly dinner experience. Importantly Melbourne restaurants have not forgotten the youngest family members. Regardless of where you are based in there are top-rated, family friendly restaurants in Melbourne that can provide a fantastic dining experience for all members of the family – without the standard nuggets and chips!
East – Sofias in Camberwell
Family is at the heart of Italian culture so it should come as no surprise that your family will receive a warm welcome at Sofias. The staff are professional and super friendly, bringing food out quickly while still having time to make the kids smile. The portions are generous and delicious – a good value combination. High chairs are available for little ones. Remember to leave room for their unbelievable gelato towers.
North – Otsumani in Northcote
Otsumani is a fun family dining experience for those who love home-style Japanese food. The restaurant has a cosy interior with two floor seating areas at the rear, perfect for families with little ones who have trouble keeping still on a chair. The restaurant has a casual, relaxed vibe while serving delicious portions of food. The menu offers a balanced selection of well known Japanese favourites as well as new food adventures for little ones with a more adventurous palate.
West – The Boathouse, Moonee Ponds
Built overlooking the Maribyrnong River, the Boathouse is a beautifully designed restaurant which is perfect for either a special occasion or weekend meal and welcomes all the family. The result of a collaboration between Steve Bogdani and Masterchef Judge Gary Mehigan, the restaurant is large and spacious with a deck overlooking the river. There is plenty of parking and is located right near a bike track and playground. Kids have their own menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner and the child-changing facilities are top notch. The Boathouse has a fantastic family vibe and highlights how well family dining can be done. Booking is recommended.
South – Jimmi Jamz, Elwood
Jimmi Jamz is the perfect relaxed meal after a family day out at the beach in Melbourne. The spacious, on-trend interior is a stark contrast to the interior of most family friendly establishments. The courtyard and playground keeps the kids so busy it is almost like eating sans children. While there is no specific kids menu there are so many simple, delicious options that there shouldn’t be any difficulty pleasing even the fussiest taste buds. Kids love it for the playground while parents love it for the happy hour and delicious cheap pizza. Jimmi Jamz will have the whole family smiling.
CBD – Tutto Bene, Southbank
If dining with the family overlooking the Yarra sounds like what you had in mind, then Tutto Bene is the perfect spot. Tutto Bene is a fine dining Italian restaurant where children are welcomed. Located in South bank this is a great choice for a meal with a view and unlike other establishments are more than happy to locate a family at their ‘best table’. Highchairs are available if requested at time of booking. Allergies and GF meals are well catered for here.
Michelle is a travel loving, bike riding mum to two who loves to blog over at Gee You’re Brave about living life and parenting with an adventurous spirit. Michelle has a Masters in Special Education, currently works at an Art Teacher for children with an intellectual disability and is passionate about helping children express themselves and reach their full potential. Michelle would love to connect with you Facebook.
