If you’re heading to Times Square with your family and want to avoid the usual chain restaurants that feel like a trip to the suburbs, I’ve found some really great options. It can be a challenge to find places that are both kid-friendly and offer good food in such a busy area, but there are definitely spots that capture the spirit of New York City. Whether you’re catching a show or just exploring, these restaurants are worth considering for a tasty and enjoyable family meal in 2026.
Family Eats in Times Square
Best Burger Spots
For a casual and fun meal, Bareburger is a good choice. Even though it’s a chain now, its focus on organic ingredients and a festive atmosphere makes it a strong contender for families after a Broadway show. They offer classic kid-friendly options like burgers and hot dogs, with a kids’ menu that includes all the basics. Sharing some fries or onion rings is always a hit, and their milkshakes are a sweet finish.
Schnipper’s Quality Kitchen is another excellent option if you need a quick and easy meal. I like it because it’s cafeteria-style, which means faster service than some other burger joints. The menu is quite large, featuring not just burgers but also sloppy Joes, mac and cheese, and tuna melts. You order at the counter, find a seat at the communal tables, and your food is brought out quickly. It’s a great way to get a tasty meal without a long wait, which is always a plus when traveling with kids.
Thinking about quick bites around Times Square? Visiting family dining options in NYC can help you plan your meals efficiently.
Italian Family Favorites
Carmine’s offers a true family-style Italian dining experience, making you feel like you’re gathered around grandma’s table. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for sharing large platters of classic dishes. The menu has familiar favorites that even picky eaters will enjoy, and the communal dining style can encourage kids to try new things. It’s a place where sharing food is part of the experience.
Tony’s Di Napoli is very similar to Carmine’s, also serving Italian food family-style. The portions here are generous, with each entree designed to serve 2 to 3 people, making it ideal for larger groups. They have a special theater menu and good lunch specials. Don’t forget to save room for their desserts; the cheesecake is often a highlight.
Global Flavors for Everyone
For a taste of Cuba, Havana Central is a lively choice. While it can be busy, making a reservation, even on the same day, has been manageable. The Cuban appetizer sampler is a great way to start. Beyond the standard kids’ menu items like mac and cheese, they offer simple Cuban dishes like chicken and rice, or rice and beans that appeal to younger palates. Adults can enjoy more complex dishes like paella or Cuban sandwiches.
Ippudo Westside serves delicious ramen, which is often a safe and reasonably priced meal for families. This location is conveniently within walking distance of Times Square. While the ramen is the star, their appetizers, especially the pork buns, are also very tasty. You can even peek into the downstairs kitchen to see the noodles being made, which can be a fun distraction for kids. It’s a good idea to plan ahead as they now accept reservations.
If your group has diverse tastes, Gotham West Market is a hip, casual food-court-style market that truly has something for everyone. You can sit at long communal tables, or grab your food to go. A milkshake from Creamline is a popular choice. The portions are large, and the menu changes, keeping things interesting. It’s a hit with both kids and parents, though it can get crowded.
Healthy and Fresh Choices
The Little Beet is a fast-casual spot near Rockefeller Center that focuses on fresh, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients. The menu can change, but the quality is always high. You can choose from chef-made bowls or create your own by combining a protein with vegetables on a base of grains or greens. It’s a good option if you’re looking for something a bit lighter and healthier.
Friedman’s at The Edison Hotel offers a great all-day breakfast, which is always a win with families. They have options like mac and cheese, fried chicken and waffles, and blueberry pancakes available all day. A bonus is that most of their menu can be prepared gluten-free, which is helpful for families with dietary needs. It’s a straightforward and satisfying choice.
Pizza Perfection
When you need reliable pizza, Don Antonio Pizza by Starita is a solid choice. While there are many pizza places in Times Square, this one offers quality Neapolitan-style, wood-fired pizzas. The service is quick and friendly, and the prices are wallet-friendly. They also make all their pizzas gluten-free, which is a great feature for families with those requirements.
Classic American and Pub Fare
McHale’s Bar and Grill is an NYC classic, known as a famous Irish pub in the city. It’s been a popular spot for theater-goers since 2012. You can find classic pub food here. It’s advisable to go upstairs if you have young children, as the downstairs area has more of a bar vibe. The upstairs offers a slightly more refined experience perfect for a family dinner.
Westway Diner is an old-school, no-frills eatery that offers a wide menu. You can find all-day breakfast, Greek specialties like souvlaki, pasta, burgers, and salads. Kids’ meals typically include a drink and dessert. It’s known for being quick, so you can get in and out easily. It’s a place that feels authentic to the city.
Bacall’s Family Steakhouse offers a traditional New York City dining experience. While it’s a steakhouse, their kids’ menu includes favorites like spaghetti with red sauce and chicken fingers. They also serve old-school desserts, like a Hungarian pull-apart cake. It’s a place that caters to both traditional tastes and family-friendly needs.
Barbecue and Sides
Virgil’s Real Barbecue is a fun spot for families, even if barbecue isn’t your usual preference. They serve all the barbecue standards like ribs and pulled pork, along with popular sides that kids often love, such as mac and cheese, baked beans, and mashed potatoes. While it can be loud and busy, it’s a worthwhile experience, and they provide crayons and coloring pages for the children.
Looking for more dining ideas in the area? You can find additional recommendations for family-friendly dining in NYC to help you explore further.
Sweet Treats After Dinner
Cookie Creations
Schmackary’s is a delightful dessert spot that specializes in cookies. They offer over 75 varieties, ranging from classic chocolate chip to more unique flavors like maple bacon. They also have brownies and ice cream sandwiches, making it a perfect place to grab a sweet treat for the whole family after a meal.
Bakery Delights
Amy’s Bread is more than just its name suggests; it’s a cafe with a variety of baked goods. You can find scones, muffins, biscuits, doughnuts, and cupcakes. While seating is limited, it’s a good option for taking treats to enjoy at a nearby park. They also offer pizza and quiche if you’re looking for something savory.
Junior’s Restaurant is famous for its cheesecake. While the sit-down restaurant can be very crowded, especially for small parties, the bakery next door is a great place to pick up a slice of their signature cheesecake, along with muffins and cookies. If you do want a full restaurant experience, there’s another outpost on 49th Street that might offer more space.
When I think about planning a trip, I always look for places that make eating enjoyable for everyone. For instance, seeing a place like Bareburger offer organic options and engage kids with crayons makes me feel more confident about bringing Emma and Sofia. Similarly, a family-style Italian restaurant like Carmine’s or Tony’s Di Napoli creates a relaxed atmosphere where we can all share dishes, which often leads to Sofia trying something new. Even though I’m preparing this guide for you as I plan for 2026, I often reflect on ways to make our family travels smoother and more enjoyable. It’s about finding those spots where the food is good, the environment is welcoming, and everyone feels comfortable.
Choosing a restaurant in a busy area like Times Square can feel overwhelming, but there are many family-friendly places that offer more than just the typical chain fare. From delicious ramen at Ippudo Westside to the varied options at Gotham West Market, you can find cuisine that reflects the diversity of New York City. These spots focus on good food and a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for your family.
