Best Family Friendly Favorites Restaurants in Pico Union
6 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
El Parian Restaurant
Decades-old birria and burritos with handmade tortillas in a true neighborhood institution.
Notable Picks
8.7
A Pico-Union landmark since the mid-1990s, El Parian is best known for its Jalisco-style birria and handmade tortillas, but its carne asada and carnitas burritos pack the same deep, slow-cooked flavor. The room is simple and loud, yet locals keep coming back for generous portions, cash-only prices, and food that feels straight out of a family kitchen.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Burrito, Carnitas Burrito, Tacos de Birria
What Makes it Special: Decades-old birria and burritos with handmade tortillas in a true neighborhood institution.
8.4
Dino's Famous Chicken is beloved for its legendary, neon-orange grilled chicken, marinated in a family recipe since 1968. The no-frills counter setting, steady crowds, and craveable fries drenched in chicken juices make it a go-to for generations of Angelenos seeking hearty, affordable meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Famous Chicken Plate, Chili Cheese Fries, Breakfast Burrito
What Makes it Special: Iconic marinated chicken, unchanged recipe over 50 years.
8.2
Known for its cheerful staff, value-forward all-you-can-eat offerings, and clean, welcoming space, Wi Korean BBQ appeals to groups and families. Opened in 2018, the service is attentive and energetic, and the AYCE menu delivers generous variety at fair prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Marinated Beef, House Pork Belly, Spicy Chicken
What Makes it Special: Excellent AYCE value with upbeat service.
#4
Pico Donuts
8.2
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Sweet Treats Escapes
Serving Pico-Union since the early-morning hours, Pico Donuts balances a deep donut case with croissant and sandwich options that keep regulars coming back. Reviews consistently praise the fresh custard-filled and maple bar donuts, plus hearty breakfast and lunch sandwiches at sub-$15 pricing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Custard Cream Filled Donut, Maple Bar, Ham & Cheese Croissant
What Makes it Special: Neighborhood stalwart offering big variety and all-day donuts and sandwiches.
8.1
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Hidden Gems Heaven
On the western edge of 90015, Sabor Mexicano serves homestyle Mexican breakfasts and combo plates that feel straight from a family kitchen. Locals come for hearty chilaquiles, huevos plates, and everyday staples at fair prices in a low-key dining room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilaquiles with red or green salsa, Huevos rancheros breakfast plate, Quesadillas with house salsas
What Makes it Special: Casual neighborhood spot for classic Mexican breakfasts and daily plates.
Worthy Picks
7.7
Flavors of Thai is a long-running neighborhood spot with an old-school menu of curries, stir-fries, and noodle plates in hearty portions. It’s more about satisfying, familiar flavors and late-night convenience than polish or trendiness.
Must-Try Dishes:
BBQ Pork with Steamed Rice, Tom Yum Soup, Classic Pad Thai
What Makes it Special: A broad, old-school Thai menu with generous portions and reliably late hours.