One of the things I love most about Birmingham is our vibrant culinary scene. Even though our metropolis is relatively small compared to the larger, more well-known “foodie” magnets, we aren’t playin’ around. For goodness’ sake, we’ve got the 2018 James Beard Most Outstanding Restaurant in America winner up in here, y’all!!
But today, we are sharing our top picks for the tiniest foodies in our lives. Going out to eat is such a special outing for families, but it can also be very stressful for the momma in the bunch. Questions such as: Will there be clean bathrooms? Are their kid-friendly options on the menu? Will it matter if my child screams his head off for 75 % of the dining experience? can prevent us from taking the leap and getting out of the house at times if we can’t track down the answers quickly. Forget about that fear, Mom! Because from now on, you can consult this handy dandy guide of the top family-friendly restaurants in Birmingham for all the tips and tricks you need to plan your next family meal out!
Kid-Friendly/Entertainment for Kids
One of the most disappointing things when planning for a meal out is getting all excited about trying out a new restaurant only to arrive and get those “What are you doing here?” looks once the little ones become visible behind the hostess desk. The following restaurants will never kick you out, Girl. In fact, call ahead now and book your next night out for some fun!
Ashley Mac’s {Multiple Locations} – This mom-owned and mom-run restaurant is a mother’s dream! Boasting a fully-stocked kids menu with all the traditional faves (I see you, perfectly-put-together PB&Js), they also include healthy options, too! Your child can select from several choices including grilled chicken, fresh fruit, and their recently added kiddo favorite: macaroni and cheese! Kids receive Wiki Stix to play with as a free add-on to their meals as well as a perfectly sized brownie to encourage happy plates! Then, on your way out, don’t forget to stop by the cases of ready-to-serve meals, appetizers, side dishes, and desserts available for quick pickup if you are in a hurry or need to pack some food on your way out of town. As an added bonus, Ashley Mac’s offers family meals every weeknight for takeout all around $35 to feed a family of four! You can’t beat that price for the quality you receive!
Chuy’s {The Summit} – Offering a super cool view from the top of The Summit, Chuy’s has a cool vibe perfectly suited for families in all stages of life. The food is affordable and the environment is fun!
Dave’s Pizza {Homewood} – Offering 17+ unique pizza selections, this place is sure to have what your pizza lovin’ tot is looking for. Their caprese stuffed mushrooms sound like a literal dream come true for us mommas, too. As a random side note, they boast having the “Best Chicken Salad You’ve Ever Had or It’s On Us!” So, yeah, I’m willing to check that out for sure!
Davenport’s Pizza {Mountain Brook & Vestavia} – A Mountain Brook staple since 1964, this homegrown pizza shop offers delicious pizza and a game room for kids and adults!
East 59 Cafe {Hoover, 2 locations}- This spot is so kid-friendly, they have a location inside the Hoover library and a library drop-off in the Lee Branch location! If you want to have a low-key lunch date with your littles, this is the place to be. Their kids’ menu items include a grilled cheese, hot or cold sandwich, and the perennial favorite, a snack plate! Finish out your meal with a coffee for mom and a non-caffeinated kids’ frappe or a smoothie. Who doesn’t love a fancy drink with their meal?
First Watch {Multiple Locations} – Have any chocolate chip pancake lovers in your house? If one of your kids is hankering for some hotcakes, make a date at First Watch! They also have fresh fruit crepes for kids that will put a smile on any momma’s face.
Five Guys {Multiple Locations} – Not only do they have some of the best burgers in town, Five Guys manages to make each dining experience special as well. The Brookwood Mall location uniquely has a second story, which always thrills kids to climb to the top to enjoy their burger!
Front Porch {Hoover} – Calling all Ross Bridge residents! If you aren’t already aware, you have a dynamite little spot right at the front of your neighborhood that offers fun and affordable fare with menu options to please all ages and tastes. From pizza to sandwiches to a banana pudding that finds its way into my dreams at least once a week, this place should be your new weekly spot. Fun Factor: It’s so cool to watch all the golf carts arrive beginning at 5:00 p.m. each day.
Full Moon BBQ {Multiple Locations} – Providing you a BBQ experience quintessential to the South, Full Moon also treats their youngest patrons with a lot of love. Each kids meal comes with a moon-themed temporary tattoo and a half-moon cookie. With prices under $5 and a family-friendly environment, you can’t go wrong with the Moon!
Gilchrist {Mountain Brook} – An old school pharmacy/soda pop shop, Gilchrist is another Mountain Brook staple. Their meals are very inexpensive, but they leave you begging for more of the amazing taste. Kids will also love that they offer milkshakes, too. Stop in for a fun lunch on your way to or from the zoo!
Homewood Gourmet {Homewood} – For delicious and healthy food in a kid-friendly atmosphere, look no further than Homewood Gourmet. Plus, don’t forget to check out their fully stocked coolers to find a plethora of pre-cooked scrumptious-ness, including full family meals, to enjoy later at home!
Jason’s Deli {Hoover} – This place is stocked with healthy options for your kiddos and a cute ice cream station for good eaters! They offer coloring books for your children to enjoy while waiting, and all of their sandwich meat is nitrite/nitrate free. Pro Tip: The crowds are very slim at dinner, so if you are looking for a fast dining experience with little ones, check out Jason’s next time!
Jim ‘n Nicks {Multiple Locations} – Calling all macaroni and cheese lovers, this place is your dream land. Offering BBQ to make any Southerner proud and a mac and cheese dish that deserves a spot on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, this place is a must-visit. Kids are treated to coloring pages and a fully stocked menu to please most all preschool palates. Plus, the cheese biscuits that you are treated to are enough to add it to the monthly circulation!
Kool Korner Sandwiches {Vestavia} – A beloved spot in Vestavia, Kool Korner offers a litany of delicious sandwiches. Tiny mouths will love the fresh meat and laid back vibe!
Little Donkey {Homewood & Inverness} – Little Donkey is a delight for the youngsters. Between the outdoor seating, yummy food, and creative coloring pages, Little Donkey won’t disappoint.
Melt {Mountain Brook & Hoover} – Once a foodtruck, now a brick-and-mortar powerhouse, Melt is where it’s at. The food is dynamite and the environment could not be more inviting. Each table has games for kids (and adults) to enjoy before, during, and after the meal.
Moss Rock Tacos {Hoover} – Children are greeted with smiling faces and coloring sheets galore. Moss Rock Tacos offers a wide variety of taco options as well as unique appetizers. Plus, their bathroom murals are a must see.
Mr. Chen’s {Homewood} – Offering “authentic Chinese cooking,” Mr. Chen’s is a warm and welcoming environment for families. Another huge perk: you can order online!
Olexa’s {Mountain Brook} – Calling all #GirlMoms! If you are looking for a quaint little spot to take your Princess(es)-in-training, Olexa’s is the perfect place for you! I take my girls there for “tea parties” on the regular and we are always welcomed with arms wide open. Their kids’ meals offer hearty portions and they offer mandarin oranges as a side. Don’t forget to try a piece of their locally famous vanilla buttercream cake before you head out the door!
Paramount {Downtown} – Why not take the kids downtown for a special night out? Paramount offers a wide variety of “grub” as they refer to it and even have a fully stocked arcade room. Sounds like a fun night out for the whole family!
Pizitz Food Hall {Downtown} – For all you McWane Center lovers, this place is about to be your new lunch time jam. Located directly across the street from the McWane Center, Pizitz offers every possible option your culinary tastebuds could imagine. From ramen to ice cream to cocktails, they have it all!
Pizzeria GM {Homewood} – Ok, Birmingham locals, this one’s for you! If you have ever eaten the majesty that is Gianmarco’s, you will adore this place because it is owned by the same family! The pizzas are so unique and so delicious you will feel like you’ve been transported to Italy! As an added bonus for families, there is a lot of outdoor seating and the restaurant is conveniently located right next door to a public park. Pizza and a park? Sounds like a winner!
Post Office Pies – {Avondale & Mountain Brook} – Another spot offering you the fun chance to “build your own pie,” Post Office Pies provides fresh ingredients in a trendy spot.
Real and Rosemary {Homewood, Summit, Mountain Brook} – This healthy eating spot is full to the brim with sneakily good-for-you nourishment. They offer tons of fresh veggie options for your little ones. They even have “Feasting Thyme” meals for families of four available to pick up after 3:00 p.m. for an easy dinner at home. Plus, they have a toddler toilet in the women’s restroom . . . I mean, thank you from every mother everywhere!
Soho Social {Homewood} – With a large area located just outside (perfect for kiddos to run the “sillies” out), this restaurant is ideal for a quick bite with friends. Tell the mini corndog lover in your life that he has found his home away from home. Kids can also choose from fries or mini “cutie” oranges as sides.
Sol Azteca {Vestavia} – This place is just plain fun for the whole family! The staff plays live music for birthdays or special events (complete with the sombrero, of course), and have an extensive menu particularly great for pleasing the picky eaters in your life. The atmosphere is very welcoming and comfortable for families of all sizes.
Taco Mama {Multiple Locations} – With locations all over town, this taco joint is the perfect spot for moms-on-the-go. With super fast service, kid-friendly atmosphere and budget-friendly priced fare, this will become your new go-to in no time. Side note: please live your best life and try their Watermelon Margarita — you will not regret it!
Taziki’s {Multiple Locations} – Even though every single resident of Birmingham will protest until the end of time to have the Weekend Special added to the permanent menu, the food offered on their daily is equally as delicious! They have several healthy options for children and the environment is extremely welcoming for families of all sizes. Plus, if you are ever in a pinch for dinner, definitely give one of their family feasts for four a try! You will receive SO much food — enough for delicious leftovers to enjoy throughout the week.
TopGolf {Downtown} – If you are looking for a night to remember for your kids, don’t look further than our newest hot spot: TopGolf! Between the thrill of the bright lights and chance to hit some balls, kids will love this unique night out. They offer all the delicious fare that is sure to bring smiles to the little ones’ faces including burgers, mini-hot dogs, and chicken tenders all for $6 each!
Tropical Smoothie Cafe {Inverness} – Kids’ meals come with smoothies, that . . . wait for it . . . can be made without added sugar! Hallelujah! This fun spot also offers wraps and baked chips for healthier options as well.
Urban Cookhouse {Multiple Locations} – Kids are greeted with the friendliest smiles and immediately set up with coloring sheets and bowls of Cheerios to munch on until their delicious grilled chicken and mac ‘n cheese arrive! The outdoor seating is where it’s at when dining at this neighborhood favorite.
Vecchia {Hoover} – Located just beside a gorgeous, grassy lawn in the Preserve, Vecchia boasts some of the most delicious pizza in the city. Their brick oven brilliance is bar none. The restaurant is open and very kid-friendly. The kitchen is surrounded by glass, so children will love watching their pizza being made right in front of them! There is a wrap-around patio with comfortable outdoor seating as well. Added bonus: kids eat free on Tuesday nights!
Zoe’s {Crestline} – A mom hot spot, Zoe’s offers some of the healthiest and most delicious grab-and-go fare in town. The restaurants are all kid-friendly and the food is sure to be served up within minutes of ordering. Plus, don’t forget to check out their family meals for four available for takeout. What a mom win!
