Traveling with kids means meals need to be more than just delicious—they need to be strategic. You're looking for wiggle-friendly seating, menus that satisfy both picky eaters and grown-up palates, and maybe a little space to roam when the inevitable "I can't sit still anymore" moment strikes.
Here's where Salt Lake shines: with the youngest average population in the country and the largest household sizes, this city practically invented the family-friendly dining scene. (Just a heads-up: bars are no-go zones for the little ones, but nearly everywhere else? The welcome mat is out.)
If your family finds that everyone is craving something different, Salt Lake has the answer for you. Food Halls —a step up from the mall food court —combine a variety of locally-owned options so everyone is satisfied. At Gateway’s HallPass enjoy authentic Greek gyros alongside Nashville Hot Chicken with a scrumptious salad from SkinnyFats. Woodbine Food Hall takes you around world with everything from pizza to tacos to ramen or southern grub alongside a specialty coffee for energy to keep up with the kids.
We've hand-picked Salt Lake's most family-approved restaurants where the smallest diners are treated like VIPs. Whether you're craving mountainside views, a quick refuel between adventures, or an upscale meal where nobody gives you the side-eye for bringing a toddler, we've got your table ready.
Outdoor Dining with Kids
What beats eating out? Eating outside—especially when you've got kids who need room to breathe. Even better when there's a view that makes adults happy too.
Ruth’s Diner
4160 Emigration Canyon Rd, Emigration Canyon | Open Thursday – Monday, starting at 8 AM
Perfect for families because: Kids will be captivated by the vintage trolley car setting, stretch their legs on the spacious patio, and find comfort in homestyle dishes that taste like a hug when you're far from home.
Why parents will look forward to it: Those biscuits aren't just good—they're transcendent. Add live music during summer months and a dash of historic charm, and you've got a meal that feels like an event.
Pro Tip: The patio is where you want to be—arrive early (they don't take reservations) to snag prime spots. They're closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so plan accordingly.
Silver Fork Lodge & Restaurant
11332 Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd, Brighton
Perfect for families because: The rustic cabin atmosphere turns breakfast into a mountain adventure, even if you're just stopping for pancakes. The outdoor patio gives restless legs some freedom, and the kids' menu offers right-sized portions of their popular dishes.
Why parents will look forward to it: Either cozy up by the crackling fireplace in winter or drink in those jaw-dropping mountain views in summer—either way, the backdrop elevates solid food into a memorable experience. It's the perfect pause before or after a day of canyon exploration.
Pro Tip: Mountain air has a chill even in summer—bring a sweater for patio dining. If the temperature drops too much, the floor-to-ceiling windows inside offer nearly the same spectacular views.
Red Rock Brewing
254 S 200 W | Open starting at 11 AM most days, Monday – Sunday
Perfect for families because: Kid-friendly favorites (including those curly fries that win over even the pickiest eaters) dominate the menu, while the downtown patio puts you right in the heart of the city's energy.
Why parents will look forward to it: The vibe is casual and lively enough that nobody notices when your kids get a little loud. The craft beer selection ranks among Salt Lake's best, and the food goes miles beyond standard pub grub.
Pro Tip: Their house-made cream soda and root beer give kids something special to sip while you enjoy your pint. This downtown hotspot fills up fast—make a reservation or slip in during off-hours (they're open 11am to 11pm).
Quick Eats & Casual Spots
Sometimes you just need good food without the fuss. These places deliver satisfaction with a side of fun.
Old Spaghetti Factory
189 Trolley Sq | Open starting at 11:30 AM most days, Monday – Sunday
Perfect for families because: Dining inside a vintage trolley car turns an ordinary meal into a mini-adventure. Even your pickiest eater will find something on their extensive kids' menu.
Why parents will look forward to it: It's refreshingly straightforward—classic Italian comfort food in a no-stress setting. The full-meal format (soup/salad, bread, entrée and dessert included) means you'll leave satisfied without sticker shock.
Pro Tip: Their lunch specials offer particularly good value if you're in the area earlier in the day.
Caputo’s Market & Deli
314 W 300 S | Open starting at 9 AM most days, Monday – Sunday
Perfect for families because: Kid-pleasers like sandwiches and pasta dishes actually taste good here, and half-sized portions are available for your adventurous little eaters wanting to try something new.
Why parents will look forward to it: While your sandwiches are being prepared, you can explore this food-lover's paradise—cheese caves, imported olive oils, and hand-selected chocolates create a sensory playground. Staff generously share samples, turning lunch into an impromptu tasting tour. Every bite comes with a story, making this more than just a meal.
Pro Tip: If you have older kids with curious palates, check out their tasting classes like Chocolate 101 or Chocolate and Cheese.
Red Iguana
736 W North Temple St & 866 W S Temple St | Open starting at 11 AM, Monday – Sunday
Perfect for families because: Red Iguana 2 offers more elbow room for families, but both locations welcome kids with a festive atmosphere and Utah's most celebrated Mexican food. Taco Tuesday just found its new home.
Why parents will look forward to it: The legendary mole sauces have earned national recognition for good reason—don't leave without trying at least one (they offer a sampler plate for the indecisive). This Salt Lake institution has been collecting awards for four decades.
Pro Tip: Both locations draw crowds daily. Make a reservation online to skip the notorious wait lines. In a hurry? Grab quick bites at their express location, Taste of Red Iguana, in the City Creek Food Court.
Squatters Pub
147 W Broadway | Open starting at 9 AM on the weekends, 11:30 during the week
Perfect for families because: Their kids' menu surpasses the typical chicken nugget monotony with healthier sides and even breakfast options for little ones. Its downtown location makes it an easy post-exploration refueling stop.
Why parents will look forward to it: As one of Salt Lake's pioneering craft breweries, Squatters delivers an impressive beer lineup. Their diverse menu satisfies vegetarians and meat-lovers alike without compromising on flavor.
Pro Tip: Ask your server for recommendations that fit your craft brew tastes. The wide variety means they will have something for everyone.
Vertical Diner
234 W 900 S | Open starting at 8 AM, Monday – Sunday
Perfect for families because: All-day breakfast means pancakes whenever the mood strikes (including gluten-free options). Just ask for the kids' menu when you're seated.
Why parents will look forward to it: This isn't your average diner—it's a creative plant-based restaurant featuring locally-sourced ingredients in familiar forms. The dishes are inventive enough that even committed carnivores find something to love.
Pro Tip: Grab a patio seat if the weather cooperates. Don't miss the "Dude" Cakes—this house specialty has earned its legendary status.
Fancy Restaurants That Welcome Families
Who says highchairs and high-end dining can't mix? These Salt Lake gems prove that "fancy" and "family-friendly" aren't mutually exclusive, offering elevated experiences where both the cuisine and the welcome are first-class.
Log Haven
6451 Mill Creek Canyon Rd | Open 5:30 – 9 PM Monday - Sunday
Perfect for families because: The mountain setting creates instant special-occasion vibes, even with PB&J fingers at the table. Summer patio dining provides natural entertainment, and they offer a kids' menu on request.
Why parents will look forward to it: James Beard-nominated cuisine served with attentive yet unpretentious service in a setting that feels a world away from everyday life. It's upscale dining without the stuffiness.
Pro Tip: Before or after dinner, take a five-minute creek-side stroll to the nearby waterfall—the perfect way to burn off kid energy or settle dinner.
The Summit at Snowbird / The Steak Pit
9385 S. Snowbird Center Drive, Snowbird & 9385 Snowbird Center Drive, Snowbird
Perfect for families because: Their kids' menu aims higher than most—think mini salmon fillets and steak kabobs that introduce young palates to quality ingredients without the fussiness.
Why parents will look forward to it: Choose your adventure: The Steak Pit delivers classic steak and seafood excellence, while The Summit offers dining at 11,000 feet with views that literally rise above the ordinary dining experience.
Pro Tip: For a truly remarkable experience, take the tram to Hidden Peak and lunch at The Summit—the panoramic mountain views make for unforgettable family photos.
Market Street Grill (Cottonwood)
2985 E Cottonwood Pkwy, Cottonwood Heights | Open starting at 11:30 AM most days, Monday – Sunday
Perfect for families because: Kid-friendly seafood options like fish and chips or fried shrimp make this elevated dining spot accessible to younger palates.
Why parents will look forward to it: It's Salt Lake's premier destination for fresh seafood, and their oyster selection is particularly impressive for a mountain town.
Pro Tip: The Cottonwood location offers mountain views from the patio that elevate the experience. The downtown location occupies a historic building with its own distinct charm.
Archibald’s at Gardner Village
1100 W 7800 S, West Jordan | Opens at 11 AM Monday – Saturday
Perfect for families because: The historic flour mill setting—complete with original equipment—turns dinner into an impromptu history lesson. The menu balances familiar comfort foods with just enough innovation to keep things interesting.
Why parents will look forward to it: The relaxed atmosphere welcomes family energy, and the menu hits that sweet spot between predictable and inventive (try the breaded avocado). It works especially well for multigenerational gatherings.
Pro Tip: They close at 8 PM and remain shuttered on Sundays, so plan accordingly. After your meal, the surrounding Gardner Village shops offer charming local browsing.
Pro Tips for Dining with Kids in Salt Lake
Most restaurants are family-friendly by default. You won’t get side-eyes for bringing kids— Salt Lake practically runs on family outings!
Ask for the kids’ menu. Many places don't advertise them online but keep excellent child-sized options at the ready.
Early dinners = smoother experience. Less crowded, happier kids, and a more relaxed atmosphere for everyone.
Check operating hours. Some spots close on Sundays (or unexpected weekdays). Verify hours before promising pizza to a 5-year-old.
Be flexible. If the kids are restless, most places offer takeout—grab and go for an impromptu picnic at a nearby park (we've got a guide for that too).
Final Bite: Salt Lake’s Food Scene is Kid-Approved
In Salt Lake, family-friendly dining isn't the exception—it's the rule. Eating out with kids doesn't mean settling for fast food chains and hurried meals. Whether you're craving mountain views, downtown vibes, or comfort food classics, you'll find restaurants where kids are genuinely welcomed, not merely tolerated, and where the food delights everyone at the table.
Ready for your next meal out? Dig in—Salt Lake has your table waiting!
