Fun Family Restaurant Ideas in the Chicago Suburbs

Are you a parent on the lookout for the perfect dining spot in the Chicagoland area where good food meets great entertainment for your little ones? I understand that finding family-friendly restaurants WITH kid entertainment or ambiance can be a challenge, but fear not! I’ve compiled a list of 13 Chicago and Chicago Suburban eateries that not only serve delicious meals but also offer fantastic entertainment for kids. These spots are the cream of the crop when it comes to combining tasty bites with fun activities.

I realize you guys likely are already aware of Chuck E. Cheese, Enchanted Castle, and Dave & Busters. These ideas below are meant to inspire new ideas for you to take your families. I challenge restaurant entrepreneurs to create more restaurants with good food and kid entertainment - if you build it, we will come!

1) Jojo's Shake Bar - Naperville & Chicago IL

Nestled in Naperville, Jojo's Shake Bar is a delightful haven for families. Their menu boasts mouthwatering shakes and delectable burgers, while kids can revel in the on-site play area. It's the perfect blend of great taste and endless fun for the little ones. The also have free arcade games for your kits to play and an outdoor tree house area to dine during the warmer months. The outdoor area is open during winter, too, as they enclose the space and add heaters.

Pro tip - the Jojo shakes are huge and delicious. I tell out kids let’s start with one, share it, and if we want another, we can order a second. We are usually good with one, and less food waste is left behind.

2) 2 Toots Train Whistle Grill - Glen Ellyn and Bartlett, IL

All aboard! 2 Toots Train Whistle Grill takes dining to a whole new level with its train-themed atmosphere. Situated in Bartlett, this family-friendly gem allows kids to watch model trains chug along the tracks while enjoying classic American fare.

3) Papa Passero's Pizza + Kids Arcade - Westmont, IL

For a family dining experience that ticks all the boxes, head to Papa Passero's Pizza in Westmont. Beyond their mouthwatering pizza offerings, they feature a kids' arcade, ensuring your little ones stay entertained throughout your meal (or before and after!)

4) Sugar Factory - Rosemont, IL and River North

Indulge your sweet tooth at Sugar Factory in Rosemont. Beyond the delectable desserts, this restaurant is a feast for the eyes with its vibrant, candy-themed decor. Kids can't resist the allure of the candy wall, making it a whimsical experience for the whole family.

5) Pilot Pete's - Schaumburg, IL

Take your family dining experience to new heights at Pilot Pete's in Schaumburg. This aviation-themed restaurant features a real airplane and a diverse menu. Kids can play "pilot" while enjoying delicious dishes.

6) Putt Shack - Oak Brook, IL

Mini golf meets mouthwatering meals at Putt Shack in Oak Brook. This family-friendly spot offers a dynamic dining experience with its indoor mini-golf course. Perfect for families looking for a unique blend of recreation and gastronomy. Check your reservation time - the last tee-time is 7 pm for those under 21. After 8 pm, the establishment becomes 21+.

7. The Choo Choo - Des Plaines, IL

For a touch of nostalgia, The Choo Choo in Des Plaines brings the charm of a classic diner with a train twist. Families can enjoy comfort food while the kids delight in the model trains that circle the dining area.

8) American Girl Cafe - Chicago, IL

Create lasting memories at the American Girl Cafe in Chicago. This iconic dining spot offers a delightful experience for kids with special themed menus and the chance to dine alongside their favorite dolls.

9) Suzette's Crêperie - Wheaton, IL (Suzette's Christmas Tea starting November 24th 2023)

Embrace the holiday spirit at Suzette's Crêperie in Wheaton. Starting November 24th, indulge in Suzette's Christmas Tea, a festive experience combining delicious crêpes with a magical atmosphere. They recommend you call for a Christmas Tea reservation.

10) Enterrium - Schaumburg, IL

Entertainment meets dining at Enterrium in Schaumburg. This family-friendly destination features a variety of games and activities, ensuring that kids of all ages stay engaged while you enjoy your meal.

11) Kings Dining and Entertainment - Rosemont & Lincoln Park, IL Experience the royal treatment at Kings Dining and Entertainment in Lincoln Park. With a menu fit for kings and a bowling alley for the little ones, it's a regal dining experience for the whole family.

12) Chocolate Sanctuary - Gurnee, IL

Indulge in a chocolate-filled paradise at Chocolate Sanctuary in Gurnee. This family-friendly restaurant offers divine chocolate-infused dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

13) Fat Rosie's - Naperville, IL

For a vibrant Mexican-inspired experience, head to Fat Rosie's in Naperville. With its lively atmosphere and flavorful cuisine, it's a top pick for families seeking a festive dining adventure.

14) Main Event - Warrenville & Hoffman Estates, IL

For a one-stop destination that combines fantastic food with a plethora of family-friendly activities, look no further than Main Event in Warrenville. This entertainment complex offers a diverse menu featuring everything from handcrafted burgers to shareable appetizers. What sets Main Event apart is its array of attractions, including bowling, laser tag, arcade games, and more. The state-of-the-art arcade is a haven for kids, providing hours of entertainment while parents can unwind or join in the fun. With a welcoming atmosphere and a variety of activities, Main Event in Westmont ensures that families can enjoy a delightful dining experience coupled with an abundance of entertainment options for all ages.

15) Pinstripes - Oak Brook, South Barrington, Northbrook, IL

For a blend of gourmet dining and family-friendly fun, Pinstripes stands out as a top choice. Beyond their delectable Italian-American cuisine, Pinstripes offers a unique experience for kids with their bowling lane reservations. Imagine the excitement on your child's face as they roll the ball down the polished lanes, creating lasting memories with family and friends. Pinstripes combines the joy of bowling with a sophisticated dining atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families looking for a seamless fusion of gourmet meals and recreational entertainment. The dedicated bowling lane reservations for kids ensure that the little ones have a ball, literally, while parents can savor their meals in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.

These Chicago suburban restaurants go above and beyond to cater to families, ensuring that both parents and kids leave with full bellies and smiles on their faces. Whether you're craving burgers, salads, pizza, apps, or sweet treats, these spots guarantee a memorable dining experience for the whole family.

For SEO: Discover the ultimate guide to the best kid-friendly restaurants in the Chicagoland suburbs! From delightful themed eateries like Jojo's Shake Shack in Naperville to the immersive experience of Sugar Factory in Rosemont, explore a curated list of family-approved dining destinations. Whether you're seeking pizza and arcade fun at Papa Passero's in Westmont or a unique bowling experience for kids at Pinstripes in Northbrook, our list ensures a perfect blend of delicious food and entertaining activities. Dive into our comprehensive guide to find the ideal spot that caters to both discerning young palates and parents seeking a stress-free, enjoyable dining experience. Unlock the secrets to family culinary adventures in the Chicagoland suburbs with our expertly curated selection of kid-friendly restaurants.