City parents are always on the go during the summer and often times, you’re toting your kids around in a stroller. If you decide to grab a bite to eat while you’re out, it can be tough to find a place that’s both good for littles and accepting of your set of wheels. Luckily, Chicago has plenty of spots that fill both of those needs. Bonus: some restaurants even feature a stroller check for worry-free storage.
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Crosby’s Kitchen
Not only does this Southport spot boast an impressive kids menu for both brunch and dinner, but they’re also extremely welcoming of families with strollers. Although there’s no longer a stroller check, you’re welcome to park your set of wheels at the table. And as if you don’t already have enough reason to dine there, kids eat free every day from 4-6 p.m with the purchase of an adult meal.
3455 N. Southport Ave., Chicago
Lowcountry
In the mood for seafood? Hit up Lowcountry for a Southern crab boil and don’t be afraid to bring the kiddos along. The atmosphere is made for families, with TVs, kids menus and large portions that are made for sharing. There are designated stroller parking areas and you’re also allowed to roll right up to the table, provided you don’t block servers from walking to and from tables.
Various Chicago locations
R.J. Grunts
Conveniently located across from Lincoln Park Zoo, this ultra family-friendly restaurant features grub like burgers, grilled cheese and giant milkshakes. Diners constantly praise the spot for its attention to littles, including having a free stroller check, animal crackers and entertainment like coloring and games.
2056 Lincoln Park West, Chicago
Forno Rosso
As far as crowd-pleasing meals go, it’s hard to beat pizza and pasta. Forno Rosso is a casual Italian eatery with a large patio that’s incredibly accommodating to families with strollers. A huge plus: for lunch or dinner, kids can chow down on a Mickey Mouse or Nemo-decorated pizza.
Various Chicago locations
Summer House Santa Monica
Who says you have to sacrifice flavor when you’re eating with kids? Summer House has a killer kids menu, featuring everything from chicken fingers to English muffin pizza (um, can adults order that one, too? Because yum!). For grown-ups, there’s tasty brunch, lunch and dinner options galore. Best of all, the dining room is large, roomy and easily fits strollers and high chairs.
1954 N. Halsted, Chicago
Avec
Communal dining may seem a bit intimidating, but Mediterranean favorite Avec makes the experience downright enjoyable, even with children. Stroller storage is available since space is tight, but high chairs are offered so kids can still dine securely. The menu is seasonal, with selections of small and large plates and drool-worthy desserts like custard and gelato.
615 W. Randolph, Chicago
Range
Located close to DePaul, families rave about Range’s stroller and family-friendly atmosphere, along with the restaurant’s above-average kids menu (chocolate chip pancakes, anyone?). Parents will love the eclectic menu and selection of breakfast cocktails, too. You’ll want to make this casual cafe your regular weekend brunch spot.
1119 Webster Ave., Chicago
Roots
The Quad Cities-style pizza parlor caters to families in many ways, from giving kids dough to play with while you wait for your food to allowing little ones to watch the kitchen assembling pizzas through a giant window. And, possibly best of all, there’s a stroller corral to keep your wheels safe (and out of the way) while you chow down on your pies.
Various Chicago locations
Lonesome Rose
The Logan Square Tex-Mex spot has a large, open floor plan that perfectly accommodates strollers (even the multi-child kind). Even better? Most menu items are under $10, making this pick budget-friendly, too. Kids will enjoy the grilled cheese quesadilla, chips and queso and the Truck Stop nachos.
2101 N. California Ave., Chicago
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