If you’ve ever been to the North Shore, the entire area is steeped in centuries of history and plenty of fun things to do, making it the perfect spot for everything from a day trip to a week-long stay.
Part of enjoying any visit to the Boston area includes stopping at one of the many unique restaurants dotting the region. But for families with kids, especially little ones, knowing where to go can be the difference between a relaxing meal and a temper tantrum waiting to happen.
But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! As a parent who has been living in the North Shore for years, I’ve found some great restaurants everyone can enjoy. From arcades and magicians to chicken fingers and pizza, I’ve scoured the North Shore area to find six of my favorite family-friendly restaurants.
Let’s dive in!
Sylvan Street Grille - Peabody, MA
This eatery has a little something for everyone!
There’s plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, and the staff has experience dealing with families, including those with small children. The kids’ menu has the usual suspects like hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken fingers, but also has elevated options for tiny, sophisticated pallets, including steak tips and salmon.
They also know to take care of mom first! My family went there recently, and our server immediately asked if I wanted a beverage and if she could put in the kids’ meals straight away for me. I really appreciated it! And they split the kids’ meal onto two plates without me even asking.
Village Tavern - Salem, MA
This 14,000-square-foot restaurant has plenty of things to do, featuring 3 bars, a full game room, and even nightly entertainment. It truly has something for everyone!
The atmosphere is family-friendly, with great food and a variety of things for everyone to do. Once you’re ready to eat, the menu takes on what the Village Tavern calls “a tale of two taverns,” sporting a gastropub and steakhouse menu.
For the kids, Village Tavern sticks to the greatest hits, with grilled cheese, burgers, pasta, chicken fingers, and fish nuggets. And for dessert? The kids’ cone is always a good choice!
Appleton Farms - Ipswitch, MA
Though it’s not technically a restaurant, this sprawling farm features hundreds of acres of pastures and crops on one of the nation’s longest operating farms.
Why do we call this place family-friendly? There are events held year-round, including cooking classes, tasting menus for different holidays (they just did an AMAZING Mother’s Day event featuring quiche, panini, cocktails, and cookies for dessert), and how can you say no to petting the farm’s many animals? Plus, on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, you can get one of the farm’s seasonal wood-fired pizzas!
Between pizza, trails, animals, story hours, and play groups, it’s easy to see why Appleton Farms made the list!
Kowloon - Saugus, MA
This huge restaurant always seems to have something going on. From bands and comedy nights to appearances from former WWE stars, the Kowloon Kalendar keeps you in the loop.
Families going to Kowloon have plenty to look forward to, including fountains and colorful lights for the kids to enjoy alongside large family-style meals.
As for the menu, there are dozens of sushi and nigiri options alongside an expansive list of beef, chicken, and veggie options.
Prince Pizzeria - Saugus, MA
Who doesn’t love a little entertainment during their dinner?
The family-owned eatery has all your classic pizza place favorites, with mini pizzas, chicken fingers, and pasta for the kids, and every Thursday evening from 5-7pm, guests are treated to a free magic show by Johnny Pizzi. There’s also a comedy club for those nights when a much-needed mommy-daddy date is long overdue.
What do others think? The Yelp reviews are pretty good! Swati M. recently said, “Simply the best. High quality pizza and food with excellent service. Has not changed in 25 years.” Other reviewers agreed, giving high marks for the pizza, the restaurant’s attentiveness to allergy concerns, and their friendly staff.
Casa Tequila - Salem, MA
It wouldn’t be called Casa Tequila if it didn’t have an extensive and impressive tequila menu! With 12 different levels of tequila available, you’re certain to find the margarita of your dreams.
But what makes this a family-friendly establishment? The restaurant has a beautiful outdoor patio seating area facing the heart of Salem, making it easy to people-watch - especially during Halloween.
There’s also a kids’ menu, with most meals priced at only $6.99. You’ll find plenty of your favorite Mexican classics like tacos and burritos alongside hot dogs and hamburgers for pickier eaters.
The Best of the Best
There are hundreds of great restaurants around the North Shore and across the U.S., but the best are the ones you call yours!
Whether it’s your favorite local dive, or the upscale eatery across town, finding a place with good food, drinks, and things to do will keep you and your kids happy.
Now get out there and dine confidently!
