A London dining guide to the best places to eat with kids
Find calm, reliable places to eat with the family in central London. This London dining guide points you to family friendly restaurants London that balance location, quick service and kid friendly menus. Head out to riverside spots and busy food markets for casual meals, or choose bright, easygoing restaurants with space for prams and family seating. Start your day with a relaxed brunch, or sit down for pizza and sharing plates after sightseeing. Read quick tips on booking, peak times and child friendly facilities to plan ahead, and make mealtimes easy, comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.
The Food Market
Image / CK Travels
Global flavours, local hangout
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What to expect
A compact entrance opens onto a roomy hall of independent food stalls. Expect a mix of quick bites and chef-led dishes, a deli corner with Italian produce, a bakery counter with large croissants, and a bar serving cocktails. Vendors are friendly and many run daily offers, so take time to browse before you order.
Plan your visit
Go with a small group to sample several stalls and share plates. Look for stall specials and the ‘make your lunch special’ sign. Bring a reusable bag if you plan to buy deli items. Seating is communal, so be ready to share a table at peak moments.
Pizza Pilgrims Waterloo
Image / Pizza Pilgrims - Teamtailor
Neapolitan pizza with a lively South Bank buzz
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What to expect
Fresh, thin-crust pizzas cooked to order. A compact menu with a mix of classics and signature toppings, plus simple sides and a dessert pizza. Friendly, fast service and a noisy, social atmosphere. Tables turn quickly, so the place feels lively most evenings.
Plan your visit
Book if you can, especially for evenings and weekends. If you walk in, arrive early or be prepared to wait. Share two or three pizzas and a couple of sides for a group, that gives variety without overspending. Try the hot honey pepperoni and save room for the chocolate pizza with ice cream.
Giraffe, Southbank
Image / Indoorfish
Bright riverside dining with friendly service, ideal for families and groups near South Bank.
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What to expect
A casual, colourful dining room with a lively riverside vibe. Staff are friendly and focused on service, making it easy to dine with children or a mixed group. Food covers a broad range of familiar favourites, served promptly. The space suits brunches, relaxed lunches and casual dinners. It can get busy and there is occasional background noise from the active skate area outside, so request a window table for a quieter experience.
Plan your visit
Head there after a riverside wander or a museum visit, book ahead at peak times to avoid a wait. Ask for a window table for river views and request high chairs or simple swaps for children. Order from staff if table tech feels fiddly, and enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly meal before continuing to explore the South Bank.
Art Yard Bar & Kitchen
Image / Web
A lively Bankside spot for polished plates, crafted cocktails and warm, attentive service.
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What to expect
Expect an all-day neighbourhood favourite that shifts from relaxed morning coffee to an energetic evening bar. Cocktails are thoughtfully prepared, plates arrive with bold flavours and portions that satisfy, and staff are attentive and courteous. Occasional timing or temperature issues can occur, so ask for any elements to be served on the side if preferred. The interior feels contemporary and welcoming, making it suitable for casual lunches, after-work drinks and relaxed dinners.
Plan your visit
Book ahead for busier evenings and request seating preferences when making a reservation. Combine the visit with a stroll around nearby galleries for a full Bankside outing. For a lighter experience, ask for dressings or sauces on the side, and mention accessibility needs if relevant.
Locale Southbank
Image / Web
Italian comfort on South Bank, steps from the London Eye, friendly service and open-kitchen theatre.
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What to expect
A warm, unfussy Italian spot with consistent service and a relaxed atmosphere. Tables spill outside on sunny days, and an open kitchen lets guests watch dishes being prepared. Staff are attentive and familiar with dietary requests, making this a solid pick for families, couples, friends and solo diners. Portions are well plated, and the location keeps the energy lively without feeling rushed.
Plan your visit
Find Locale after a riverside stroll, the perfect pit stop between attractions. Head out early for outdoor seating on warm days, or choose a table by the open kitchen for theatre. Good for casual meet-ups, post-museum lunches or business catch-ups. Book ahead on busy weekends, or arrive mid-afternoon to avoid the peak rush.
Fifth Element - Mediterranean Tavern - Bar and Kitchen Waterloo
Image / S. Papadakis
Cosy Mediterranean tavern on the South Bank, perfect for relaxed nights and great cocktails.
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What to expect
Find a warm, intimate room with low lighting and comfortable tables, plus a compact bar that serves standout cocktails. Service is attentive and personable, making this a good pick for dates, post-theatre drinks and small gatherings. The menu is focused and well executed, the vibe is lively without being loud, and staff go the extra mile to make guests feel welcome.
Plan your visit
Head out from Waterloo or the South Bank for an easy walk to this tucked-away tavern. Ideal for a pre- or post-theatre stop, or a relaxed evening with friends. Book ahead for weekend nights and larger groups. For a quicker visit, choose bar seating and enjoy cocktails at the counter.
Cubana Restaurant Waterloo
Image / Cubana Waterloo
Bold Cuban flavours, colourful murals, cocktails and music in the heart of Waterloo.
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What to expect
Step inside for bright murals, upbeat music and a buzzy bar atmosphere. Staff are welcoming and service is efficient, so expect a smooth, sociable experience. Cocktails take centre stage, and the layout suits pairs and small groups, with bar seating for solo visitors. Noise levels rise after dark, creating a fun, party feel rather than a quiet dining room. Good for nights out, casual dates and group get-togethers.
Plan your visit
Head out from Waterloo station, it’s an easy walk from the river and theatres. Book ahead for weekend evenings or larger groups, or drop in earlier for a calmer table. Dress casually smart and pair the meal with a riverside walk or a show nearby to make an evening of it.