Indianapolis is a city that embraces families with open arms, offering a variety of family-friendly restaurants where both kids and parents can enjoy delicious meals in a relaxed environment. Whether you’re looking for interactive dining experiences, comfort food, or healthy options, Indy has plenty of choices that cater to young diners while providing tasty dishes for adults. Here’s a roundup of the best family-friendly dining spots in Indianapolis.
1. The Eagle’s Nest
- Cuisine: American, Southern
- Vibe: Fun, Scenic
- Highlights: Located atop the Hyatt Regency, The Eagle’s Nest offers stunning panoramic views of downtown Indianapolis, making it a unique and fun dining experience for the entire family. Known for its Southern comfort food, the restaurant serves up dishes like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and tasty shrimp and grits. The restaurant’s revolvi ng floor adds an element of excitement, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to enjoy a meal while taking in the views. It’s a great spot for families who want to try something different while dining out.
2. Milktooth
- Cuisine: Brunch, American
- Vibe: Casual, Trendy
- Highlights: Milktooth is a popular brunch spot in Indianapolis, offering a creative take on classic breakfast and brunch dishes. The menu includes options like gourmet pancakes, sweet potato hash, and eggs benedict, along with a selection of fresh pastries and juices. While the vibe is casual and welcoming, it’s also trendy enough to make the experience special for parents. With a relaxed atmosphere, Milktooth is a great option for families who want to start the day with a delicious meal in a cozy setting.
3. The Ram Restaurant & Brewery
- Cuisine: American, Pub Food
- Vibe: Family-friendly, Lively
- Highlights: The Ram Restaurant & Brewery is a well-known spot for casual family dining. With a large menu filled with burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and hearty entrees, there’s something for everyone, including picky eaters. Kids can enjoy their own special menu with kid-friendly options like chicken tenders, pasta, and mini pizzas. Plus, the brewery setting allows adults to enjoy locally brewed beers while the kids relax with their meal. The fun and lively environment make it an excellent choice for families looking for a casual dining experience with great food.
4. Giordano’s
- Cuisine: Italian, Pizza
- Vibe: Relaxed, Cozy
- Highlights: Giordano’s brings a taste of Chicago to Indianapolis with its famous deep-dish pizza. The family-friendly restaurant offers hearty portions of pizza, pasta, and other Italian favorites, making it the perfect place for a family meal. The relaxed atmosphere and spacious seating make it easy for families to enjoy their meal comfortably. Kids love the giant pizzas, and adults can savor the delicious flavors of fresh Italian ingredients. It’s a great spot to share a meal with your loved ones and enjoy some pizza together.
5. Napolese Pizzeria
- Cuisine: Italian, Pizza
- Vibe: Cozy, Modern
- Highlights: Napolese Pizzeria offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a focus on fresh, authentic Neapolitan pizzas. The kids can enjoy a build-your-own pizza experience, allowing them to create their own personal pizzas while parents can relax and enjoy the restaurant’s wine and craft beer selections. The wood-fired pizzas, along with salads, pastas, and savory appetizers, offer a taste of Italy in a welcoming, cozy setting. With a relaxed environment and a menu that appeals to all ages, Napolese Pizzeria is a great choice for families.
6. Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
- Cuisine: American, Pub Food
- Vibe: Lively, Relaxed
- Highlights: Another great option for casual family dining in Indianapolis is Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery. The restaurant offers an extensive menu that includes everything from burgers and sandwiches to salads and seafood. Kids can enjoy a selection of kid-friendly items such as chicken tenders and mac and cheese. The vibrant, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place for families to enjoy a meal while adults can sip on locally brewed craft beers. It’s a fun spot where everyone can enjoy a hearty meal.
7. The Melting Pot
- Cuisine: Fondue, American
- Vibe: Interactive, Fun
- Highlights: The Melting Pot provides a truly interactive dining experience for families. The fondue-based menu allows diners to cook their own meal by dipping bread, vegetables, and meats into pots of melted cheese, broth, or chocolate. It’s a fun and engaging way for families to bond over their meal, and kids love the hands-on nature of the dining experience. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance and wide array of options make it a great choice for families looking to enjoy a fun and unique meal together.
8. Shapiro’s Delicatessen
- Cuisine: Deli, American
- Vibe: Casual, Classic
- Highlights: Shapiro’s Delicatessen is an Indianapolis institution known for its classic deli fare. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty pastrami sandwich, a delicious matzo ball soup, or freshly baked desserts, Shapiro’s offers a menu that pleases all tastes. The spacious and casual dining room provides plenty of room for families to sit together and enjoy their meals. With generous portions and friendly service, Shapiro’s Delicatessen is a family-friendly spot that brings comfort and flavor to the table.
Conclusion: Dining Out with the Family in Indianapolis
Indianapolis has a wealth of family-friendly restaurants that cater to all tastes, whether you’re craving comfort food, fresh pizza, or something interactive. From the exciting atmosphere at The Melting Pot to the classic deli experience at Shapiro’s, there are plenty of options for families to enjoy a relaxed and delicious meal together. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a casual night out, these family-friendly restaurants in Indianapolis ensure that both kids and adults will leave satisfied.
Also Read: Casual Dining in Tampa: 8 Top Spots for Relaxed Yet Delicious Meals
