The Ultimate Guide to Kid-Friendly Dining in Canberra
Dining out with kids can be a fun family experience—when you pick the right spot! Whether you're after a café with a play area, a restaurant with a great kids' menu, or an open space where little ones can roam, we’ve rounded up the best family-friendly places to eat in Canberra.
1. Rodney’s Café (Pialligo)
🌿 Why families love it: This café has a beautiful garden setting and a fantastic play area for kids. Parents can enjoy brunch and coffee while little ones explore the outdoor space.
🍽️ Kid-friendly picks: Pancakes, toasties, and fruit platters.
2. Little Oink Café (Cook)
🐷 Why families love it: A quirky, relaxed café with a dedicated kids’ menu, coloring activities, and a cozy atmosphere.
🍽️ Kid-friendly picks: "Piggy Plate," milkshakes, and babycinos.
3. The Knox Made in Watson (Watson)
☕ Why families love it: Spacious seating, a great kids’ menu, and an enclosed outdoor play area.
🍽️ Kid-friendly picks: Kids' waffles, cheese toasties, and fresh smoothies.
4. Café Stepping Stone (Strathnairn)
🌳 Why families love it: Located near Strathnairn Arts, this café offers lots of outdoor space where kids can play while parents enjoy locally sourced meals.
🍽️ Kid-friendly picks: Healthy snack plates, muffins, and fruit bowls.
5. Capital Brewing Co. (Fyshwick)
🍔 Why families love it: Large outdoor space, casual atmosphere, and Brodburger on-site.
🍽️ Kid-friendly picks: Burgers, chips, and soft-serve ice cream.
6. The Meating Room (Weston Creek)
🍖 Why families love it: A casual restaurant with a welcoming vibe, high chairs, and space for prams.
🍽️ Kid-friendly picks: Mini burgers, chicken bites, and milkshakes.
7. Snapper & Co. (Yarralumla)
🐟 Why families love it: Right on the lake with plenty of space for kids to run around, plus great fish and chips.
🍽️ Kid-friendly picks: Battered fish, hot chips, and ice cream.
8. The Point (Tuggeranong)
🛝 Why families love it: Located inside South.Point shopping mall, this dining precinct is right next to a playground, making it the ultimate spot for a relaxed family meal. With a variety of eateries, including Brod Burger, Frickin Chicken, Alice in Wonderland Café, and more, there’s something to suit every taste. Parents can enjoy a coffee while kids play in the central playground.
🍽️ Kid-friendly picks: Burgers, chicken tenders, toasties, pancakes, and fun-themed treats.
9. Frankie’s at Forde (Forde)
🎠 Why families love it: A dedicated kids’ play area and a family-friendly atmosphere.
🍽️ Kid-friendly picks: Kids’ pancakes, ham and cheese toasties, and fruit platters.
10. Yarralumla Play Station (Yarralumla)
🐑 Why families love it: Café plus mini golf, a petting zoo, and train rides!
🍽️ Kid-friendly picks: Kids' nuggets, sandwiches, and fresh fruit.
11. Poachers Pantry (Hall)
🍃 Why families love it: A beautiful outdoor setting where kids can explore while parents enjoy a meal.
🍽️ Kid-friendly picks: Freshly baked bread, cheese platters, and seasonal dishes.
12. The Truffle Farm (Majura)
🍄 Why families love it: Offers unique food experiences where kids can learn about truffles and explore nature.
🍽️ Kid-friendly picks: Truffle mac and cheese, fresh pastries, and homemade ice cream.
Tips for a Stress-Free Meal Out with Kids
Go early. Off-peak hours mean less waiting and more space for kids to roam.
Pick the right spot. Cafés with play areas or outdoor space make dining much easier.
Bring entertainment. Coloring books, small toys, or snacks can keep kids occupied.
Check the menu online. Avoid mealtime meltdowns by choosing a place with kid-friendly options.
Eating out as a family doesn’t have to be stressful—these fantastic Canberra spots make it an enjoyable experience for everyone!
Did we miss any of your favourites? Let us know in the comments!