Family-Friendly Restaurants on the Upper West Side

By Melissa A. Kay January 28, 2016

Spending the day exploring the American Museum of Natural History or the Children's Museum of Manhattan can really work up an appetite. After a day of marveling at the dinosaurs, space exhibits, and butterflies, you will want to find the best places for you and your family to chow down. Here is a selection of family-friendly restaurants on the Upper West Side that will surely delight your taste buds as much as the museum captivated your imaginations.

Alice’s Tea Cup
102 W. 73^rd St.

This quaint café and shop is perfect for a light bite and a sweet to follow it up. Enjoy mini sandwiches, scones, pastries, and of course, tea! Bring home some fragrant tea for another relaxing afternoon.

Isabella’s
359 Columbus Ave.

If Mediterranean fare is up your alley, Isabella's is a popular spot where you can see and be seen. They’ve even got a kids menu with favorites like mac & cheese, mini burgers, and grilled cheese. Sit outside when the weather permits.

Peacefood Café
460 Amsterdam Ave.

Vegans and non-vegans alike will enjoy the scrumptious vegan menu at this laid-back kitchen and bakery. The casual eatery offers salads, soups, pizzas, sushi, and an all-vegan dessert menu. The kids will go nuts over the chickpea fries!

Uno Chicago Grill
432 Columbus Ave.

A tried and true chain like Uno is always a hit with the kids. Along with their famous deep dish pizza, the menu also offers sandwiches, steaks, seafood, a special kids menu, and even gluten-free options. The busy atmosphere is perfect for kids and adults alike.

Pappardella
316 Columbus Ave.

Italian food is sure to fill those grumbling bellies after a day at the museum. The eatery is casual yet boasts authentic Italian fare, specializing in pasta. The kids will adore their pizzas too. Gluten-free? They’ve got a full menu to satisfy any craving.

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Gray’s Papaya
2090 Broadway

Looking for a quick bite on the go? Head over to the long-standing Gray’s Papaya and grab a few frankfurters and one of their refreshing fruit smoothies. Eat ‘em standing up inside the establishment or take a stroll along the Upper West Side.

Planet Sushi
380 Amsterdam Ave.

Do your kids love a California Roll or some long Asian noodles? Try Planet Sushi for an assortment of sushi dishes, noodles, soups, and entrees. The ambiance is nice and inviting for kids of all ages. When the weather warms up, take a seat on their outdoor patio to people watch while you eat.

Patsy’s Pizzeria
61 W. 74^th St.

Since 1933, Patsy’s has been a New York pizza landmark. Along with their brick-oven pizzas, enjoy calzones, pastas, heros, and more. The kids will love the food and you’ll love the history (and the food too!). You know a place is worth trying if it’s been around as long as Patsy’s.

Big Nick’s
70 W. 71^st St.

For a super-casual atmosphere with food that’s kid-approved, Big Nick’s is a great option. Part of the establishment is a pizzeria and the other half is a diner with lots of burgers and gyros. They are open late if you’ve spent all day at the museum!

Good Enough to Eat
520 Columbus Ave.

New York's go-to spot for classic comfort food. The all-day breakfast is sure to delight the hungriest tummies. Diners can also fill up on classics like mac and cheese and the popular turkey and meatloaf dinners.

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