Looking for a great place to eat with the whole family in Evanston? We’ve got you covered! Whether you’re dining with toddlers, teens, or everyone in between, this guide highlights the best family-friendly restaurants in town.
From kid-approved menus to cozy, welcoming atmospheres, these spots make it easy to enjoy a meal out with your loved ones. Dive in and discover your next favorite family dining destination in Evanston!
The Lucky Platter
The Lucky Platter is an Evanston favorite for made-from-scratch, hearty dishes. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes are eclectic and include options like Pickle Fries, Pork Tacos, and the juiciest Gouda Burger you’ll ever sink your teeth into! After your meal, visit the Platter Pantry to bring a few dishes or ingredients home with you!
Hoosier Mama Pie Company
Hoosier Mama Pie Company is an eatery that the kids will beg to visit. The shop is open daily and you can count on Hoosier Mama to serve up fresh pies every day of the week! Daily specials are posted on the company website; you’ll find unique treats like Sour Cream Dutch Blueberry and classics like Chocolate Cream. Stop in and find the “secret patio” while you pick up a tasty dessert.
Firehouse Grill
Make a reservation, book a private party, or just bring your whole crew in to dine at this family-friendly restaurant in Evanston. Firehouse Grill features menu options such as a vibrant New Mexico Salad, rich Homemade Chili, and even Spicy Thai Wraps! For the kids, you can’t go wrong with a freshly baked pizza and an Oreo Cookie Shake.
Frio Gelato
Very little can beat the summer heat better than a gelato, but there’s something comforting about the frozen treat even in the cold winter months! Thankfully, Frio Gelato is open year-round. Stop in for an authentic Argentine gelato or sorbet; we love the Pina colada flavor served in a cucurucho, but you may prefer a simple sundae. Allergen-free gelatos are available.
La Principal Evanston
Mexican cuisine has become an American staple, and you won’t find better Mexican food than at La Principal Evanston. Do handmade tortillas sound appealing? How about achiote-seasoned pork? You’ll find these options (and a few choices for the kids) on the La Principal Menu.
Trattoria D.O.C.
Seasonal, local, and environmentally sustainable food is at the heart of Trattoria D.O.C.’s palate-pleasing menu. The restaurant is family-friendly but the fresh dishes are a bit spendier than some other local eateries. That said, we promise your meal will be worth every single penny. Opened in 2006, Trattoria D.O.C. has become a southern Evanston favorite for pizza, wine, and scrumptious desserts.
Paragon
Paragon is one of the most unique on our list of family-friendly restaurants in Evanston. You’ll find everyone’s faves on the menu, from Kung Pao to Mu Shu, but the sushi and sashimi menu is quite extensive! So, what’s unique? Well, Paragon serves a majority of their exquisite dishes family-style. You can opt to share a main dish while each family member is served a side of rice.