Dining out with children in United Kingdom requires a bit of tweaking at first, but soon it becomes much smoother. Here's what realistically helped our family, what to anticipate in restaurant family sections, and how to steer clear of common beginner mistakes.
Understanding Family Areas in Restaurants
Numerous eateries in United Kingdom feature distinct family and single sections. Sometimes the entrances are separate; other times it’s merely a partition. The arrangement varies greatly by venue.
The good news for families is that family sections tend to be quieter, more private, and better suited for children.
- Greater privacy and calmer seating
- High chairs and essential kid-friendly amenities are more commonly available
- Staff are typically more prepared to assist children
- Often more comfortable for longer visits
Learn From Our Mistakes
One of our initial “family-friendly” dinners showed that a family area doesn’t automatically guarantee a child-friendly experience. Accessibility, seating, lighting, and menu choices—all of these matter.
Takeaway: call ahead and ask a handful of targeted questions (stairs or elevator, high chairs, available space, noise level).
Restaurants That Actually Work
After much trial and error, these kinds of venues tend to be the most dependable for families:
Casual family chains (multiple locations)
Reliable menus, booth seating, and staff who’ve dealt with everything. Not always exciting—but often the least stressful option with kids.
Special-occasion dining (reservations recommended)
For birthdays and celebrations, seek venues with private family rooms. They tend to be more comfortable and forgiving with children.
Reliable mid-range favorites
When you discover a location that's consistently clean, quick, and welcoming—stick with it. Regular spots form the backbone of family life abroad.
Local food with strong family seating
Local dining with solid family-friendly seating is often excellent: generous portions, shared dishes, and many familiar choices for picky eaters.
Actual Pricing: What to Expect
Food prices in London vary widely. Typical ranges include:
The Atmosphere Factor
Dining can be slower and more relaxed than newcomers expect — which can be a big advantage for families. It also means you may need to ask for the check and plan for longer waits at peak hours.
- Service can feel slower during peak times
- You often need to ask for the bill
- Rush hours can bring long delays without reservations
What the Kids Will Eat
Child-friendly local dishes that frequently work well:
- Shawarma: a familiar wrap-style choice.
- Rice and chicken dishes: easy and predictable.
- Hummus with bread: simple snack-style eating.
- Falafel: surprisingly kid-approved in many families.
- Local desserts: a reliable win.
- Fresh juices: usually better than boxed options.
Practical Tips We’ve Picked Up
- Call ahead. Inquire about stairs/elevators, high chairs, and family seating availability.
- Plan around routines. Some venues pause service briefly at certain times.
- Prefer booth seating when possible. More space and less stress.
- Bring along a backup activity. Coloring or a small toy can save a meal.
- Peak evenings are busy. Reserve or go earlier.
- Delivery service can be excellent. Great for tough days.
Final Thoughts
Family dining in United Kingdom becomes easier once you discover dependable spots. The family seating arrangement may feel odd initially, but it usually makes meals with kids more relaxed.
Questions about restaurants in London? Contact us — or call +44 20 7946 0123.