Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Midtown Manhattan (10019)
8 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: January 2026
Our Top Pick
Empanada Mama (Hell’s Kitchen)
Round-the-clock, high-volume empanada shop with wide flavor range and real sit-down options.
Notable Picks
A lively Hell’s Kitchen standby for crisp, flavor-packed empanadas and late-night Latin comfort food. Families love the casual counter-service vibe, big menu range, and reliably fast turnaround even when it’s busy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Beef Empanada, Chicken Tinga Empanada, Chilaquiles with Fried Egg
What makes it special: Round-the-clock, high-volume empanada shop with wide flavor range and real sit-down options.
8.3
A neighborhood brasserie-style hangout with a big menu that covers picky kids and grown-ups alike. Brunch and early dinners are especially smooth for families thanks to roomy tables and warm staff.
Must-Try Dishes:
Croque Madame, Eggs Benedict, Alfie’s Burger
What makes it special: A long-running local favorite that balances brunchy comfort with dinner ease.
#3
Raku
8.2
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Business Lunch Power Players
Group Dining Gatherings
Hidden Gems Heaven
A warm, minimalist udon‑specialist offering hearty noodle bowls and traditional Japanese small plates. Great spot for comforting Japanese fare in a relaxed Midtown setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kitsune Udon, Spicy Tuna Maki, Vegetable Gyoza
What makes it special: Focused on udon and comforting Japanese staples rather than sushi.
#4
Bibble & Sip
8.2
A bright bakery-café known for cream puffs, macarons, and matcha desserts that delight kids and adults. Ideal for an afternoon treat or a light family breakfast near Times Square.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crèmini Puff, Macarons, Seasonal Dessert Tart
What makes it special: Crèmini puffs and macarons with creative flavors and presentation near Broadway.
#5
Don Antonio
8.0
A theater-district Neapolitan spot known for wood-fired pies and excellent pizza fritta. The room is lively but focused on craft, with dough that stays light and blistered. One of the more chef-driven pizza options in the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Montanara pizza fritta, Margherita D.O.P., Prosciutto e burrata pizza
What makes it special: Neapolitan pies plus rare, well-done fried pizza.
8.0
Modern comfort food with generous brunch portions and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Locals gravitate toward the chicken & bacon waffle, mac‑and‑cheese pancakes, and their Bigmouth shakes for a hearty all‑day brunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken & Bacon Waffle, Mac & Cheese Pancakes, Shrimp & Cheesy Grits
What makes it special: All‑day comfort‑food brunch with playful dishes and big portions.
Worthy Picks
#7
Giardino 54
7.9
A small, warm Italian spot with a garden-back dining room that feels far from Midtown’s rush. Great for families who want a quieter sit-down meal with classic pastas and friendly pacing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lasagna all’Emiliana, Paccheri all’Amatriciana, Ricotta & Pistachio Cheesecake
What makes it special: A tucked-away Italian dining room with genuine neighborhood feel.
7.8
Classic all-day American diner energy with a broad, kid-proof menu and quick service. It’s an easy family fallback for burgers, breakfast plates, and reliable comfort food near the theaters.
Must-Try Dishes:
Route 66 Express Burger, Huevos Rancheros, Belgian Waffle
What makes it special: Dependable diner fare with true all-day flexibility.