Family-friendly dining in Southampton

Looking for family-friendly places to eat in Southampton? You’ll find a wide range of restaurants, cafés and pubs across the city that cater specifically to families. Whether you’re dining with toddlers, teens or grandparents, Southampton offers plenty of welcoming venues where everyone can enjoy a relaxed and tasty meal together. From menus designed for younger appetites to high chairs, colouring activities and buggy space, family needs are well considered.

Restaurants with dedicated kids’ menus

Southampton has many venues with dedicated kids’ menus offering smaller portions, simpler flavours, and budget-friendly pricing. These menus often include fun themes, healthy options, and occasional treats like ice cream or free drinks, helping parents enjoy their own meal while keeping little ones content. Popular choices include Zizzi, Stakks Pancake House, The Real Greek, Mint Dosa, COSMO and Diego’s.

Casual cafés and lunch spots for families

When you’re in need of a quick bite or a light lunch, there are plenty of cafés that offer informal seating, baby-changing facilities, and a range of child-friendly food options, from sandwiches and toasties to hot meals and healthy snacks.

Family-favourite cafés include Mettricks which offers spacious and relaxed seating and kids' hot chocolate and snack choices, and Café Thrive with their 100% vegan café with allergy-aware meals. 

These venues are great for unwinding in between activities, with many located near parks or attractions like SeaCity Museum or the city’s shopping areas. With a mix of fresh food, warm drinks and calm surroundings, these cafés provide a family-friendly alternative to larger chains, ideal for quieter moments and casual meetups.