27 Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Portland, Oregon in 2024

In a city known for its eclectic culture, buzzing coffee spots and unique craft breweries, it can, on the surface, seem a little tricky to find family-friendly restaurants in Portland. Have no fear, while it may be a more adult-friendly city overall, there are plenty of welcoming spots for all ages to dine together. There are loads of amazing food trucks offering mouthwatering casual dining, often in wide-open spaces, but this list of family-friendly restaurants in Portland includes so much more. 

The next time you’re looking to head out with the kiddos, there’s no need to fret about a child-friendly menu. From classics like chicken fingers and pizza (served alongside some equally tasty adult options), to mini-foodie-approved spots, there’s so much to discover when scouring through the best family-friendly restaurants in Portland.

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• Discover the Most Family-Friendly Restaurants in Portland
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Discover the Most Family-Friendly Restaurants in Portland

When you’re lucky enough to live in a foodie’s paradise like Portland, it can be difficult to know where to start when you’re in the mood for something new. The easiest way to find the best eateries while learning a thing or two about the city is through food tours in Portland. Not only are they family-friendly, but they’re a great way to explore some lesser-known or brand-new culinary hot spots. From casual burgers to the creamiest custard or spicy Asian street food, you can find it all in Portland thanks to an expert, well-educated guide.

27 Top Family-Friendly Restaurants in Portland

1. Laughing Planet 

If you're looking to bridge the gap between the food kids want to eat and the food they need to eat, Laughing Planet is the place to be. This family-friendly restaurant in Portland checks a lot of boxes: fast, casual, affordable and above all, nutritious. It offers tons of paleo, vegetarian, gluten-free or even low-carb options to satisfy kids and adults of all ages. 

The Vibe

From lime green and cherry red walls to miniature dinosaur figurines scattered about, there are plenty of funky and down-right interesting decorations to talk about at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland. 

What to Order

Whatever cuisine you may be craving, from a Korean BBQ bowl to a Thai burrito, this family-friendly restaurant in Portland does it well. Make sure to snag one of the gluten-free cookies to take home, too. 

Laughing Planet | Multiple Locations | $$

2. Café du Berry 

Husband and wife duo Mike and Lydia Andersen first opened Café du Berry in 1984. This family-friendly restaurant in Portland is all about a taste of home and comfort on your plate. Known as one of the city’s oldest brunch cafés, you can expect French flair from the décor to the dishes. 

The Vibe

Modeled after a European brasserie, the goal is to feel just as comfortable dining at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland as you would your own kitchen. The outdoor patio is surrounded by lush plants and fenced-in for a little extra safety for roaming kids.

What to Order

The French toast at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland is famous around town, but those looking for a savory breakfast should opt for the NY pepper steak. 

Café du Berry | 3439 S. Macadam Ave., Portland, OR 97239 | $$

3. Petunia’s Pies & Pastries

Founded in 2010, Petunia’s Pies & Pastries is named after the owner, Lisa Clark's late mother’s porcelain pig mug that sat atop the family stove all throughout her childhood. This wonderful family-friendly restaurant in Portland was opened after Lisa became passionate and gifted at creating delicious creations that are friendly to vegans and those with gluten allergies, like herself.

The Vibe

Lisa’s father and business mentor built this homely space by hand. It’s feminine and bright, with soft pink walls and large, glass-front cases showcasing her mouthwatering creations. This family-friendly restaurant in Portland offers bistro seating and plenty of natural light.

What to Order

The pecan sticky buns will start your morning right, while the wide variety of cakes are perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. Light lunch options like homemade sandwiches and savory sausage buns are also offered. 

Petunia’s Pies & Pastries | 610 SW 12th Ave., Portland, OR 97205 | $$

4. Marco’s Café

This family-friendly restaurant in Portland has been serving up satisfying meals, from breakfast to late-night dinners, since 1983. Best known as a neighborhood cafe, Marco’s Café offers classic options for kids and adults to enjoy in a laid-back, homey locale. Each generously donated umbrella on the ceiling results in the restaurant donating 10 meals to those in need. 

The Vibe

This family-friendly restaurant in Portland boasts an eclectic vibe, feeling warm and casual, while still being clean. The kid's menus feature interactive puzzles and mazes to keep them occupied. 

What to Order

If you’re stopping in for a delicious brunch experience, kids love the waffle gnome, topped with berries and cream. For adults, the bacon and avocado Benedict is just as tempting as the homemade brioche French toast. 

Marco’s Café | 7910 SW 35th Ave., Portland, OR 97219 | $$

5. The Daily Feast

In the mood for high-quality breakfast and lunch items until mid-afternoon, seven days a week, at one of the best diners in Portland? Head to The Daily Feast, a family-friendly restaurant in Portland that serves local food of the highest quality. 

The Vibe

Pull up a barstool at the breakfast counter or enjoy a plush vinyl booth with your little ones. You’ll be transported back in time at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland, but the food is more modern than ever. 

What to Order

Everything from a classic eggs-and-toast plate to chilaquiles or corned beef hash gets that gourmet, organic treatment, so you can expect maximum flavor, freshness and some of the best breakfast in Portland. 

The Daily Feast | 837 SW 11th Ave., Portland, OR 97205 | $$

6. Grassa 

Not many semi-fine dining spots lean casual and welcome kids like Grassa does. This restaurant combines gourmet food with a totally laid-back ambiance, and that makes this a great family-friendly restaurant in Portland. 

The Vibe

There’s a cool, minimalistic and industrial feel to the space. Floor-to-ceiling windows illuminate the somewhat small space, and just about every seat in the house offers an incredible view of the kitchen staff doing their thing. 

What to Order

The pork belly mac and cheese is a favorite amongst children and adults, but the plate of buttered noodles just for kids is hard to turn down. The cacio e pepe is another crowd-pleaser at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland, and is surprisingly affordable. 

Grassa | Multiple Locations | $$

7. Café Olli 

Get ready for a delicious and ever-changing seasonal menu for you and your family when visiting Café Olli. This employee-owned, family-friendly restaurant in Portland has plenty of high chairs and even a plush changing table that’s typically fully stocked with supplies for any possible accidents.

The Vibe

A cozy, rustic spot with indoor and outdoor dining, including a high-top bar right in front of the pizza oven for kids old enough to sit on their own.

What to Order

Whatever you eat first at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland, you must end with a slice of the tiered chocolate cake. Wood-fired pomodoro pizza is a favorite for kids and adults, along with a side of tangy fennel salad. 

Café Olli | 3925 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd., Portland, OR 97212 | $$

8. ¿Por Qué No? Taqueria

This family-friendly restaurant in Portland was recently voted among the best Mexican Restaurants and the category of Best Tacos by Best of Portland. Combining a fun, colorful environment with delicious food for all ages, ¿Por Qué No? Taqueria serves breakfast, lunch and dinner along with a delightful happy hour that offers great discounts.

The Vibe

Bold colors surround you along with traditional Mexican décor both inside and out. This family-friendly restaurant in Portland is casual and fun with plenty of funky decorations to keep your kids occupied.

What to Order

Choose from a wide selection of options for your tacos, burritos or quesadillas, including chorizo, al pastor, pollo verde, pollo asado, barbacoa and more. 

¿Por Qué No? Taqueria | Multiple Locations | $$

9. Hopworks Brewery

You might be surprised to find a brewery on the list of best family-friendly restaurants in Portland, but once you try Hopworks Brewery, you’ll understand why. With three locations in the city, this is a great spot for some fresh air and delectable food as a family. 

The Vibe

Kiddos have their own designated play area featuring a chalk wall to draw on and plenty of toys. This place is Oregon-coded to the max, with mountain bikes hanging from the ceiling and a view of the massive beer fermentation tanks.

What to Order

You can get some downright delicious bar food at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland, from chicken tenders for kids (or adults) to a cheesy steak sandwich or giant pretzels. 

Hopworks Brewery | Multiple Locations | $$

10. Taylor Street Kitchen 

This spot might sound familiar as it provides all the homemade bread to The Daily Feast, but Taylor Street Kitchen is a wonderful family-friendly restaurant in Portland on its own. This ultra-charming deli and market is perfect for grab-and-go or a quick and easy dine-in experience.

The Vibe

You'll almost feel like you’ve stepped into a European market, surrounded by shelves with gourmet oils and vinegars next to cold cases stocked with homemade soups, sandwiches and more. 

What to Order

The Caprese sandwich with kale or cacio e pepe chicken salad go great with a cup of homemade pea soup. However, the baked goods, from fluffy loaves of challah bread to lemony pastries or crispy cookies, are the cherry on top.

Taylor Street Kitchen | 1125 SW Taylor St., Portland, OR 97205 | $$

11. Smaaken Waffle Sandwiches 

As if fluffy Dutch waffles weren’t delicious enough on their own, Smaaken Waffle Sandwiches is a family-friendly restaurant in Portland that puts its unique twist on this classic dish. The name means "tasty" in Dutch, and every one of its sweet and savory waffle wraps live up to the name.

The Vibe

These food trucks are done up to look like charming Tudor-style buildings you would find along a cute side street in Holland. Enjoy your waffle sandwich in the sunshine or under the cover of a permanent tent while the kids frolic around this unique family-friendly restaurant in Portland.

What to Order

The melty, cheesy Monte Cristo hits both sweet and savory notes, while the bananatella is sure to hit the sweet spot. Kids will savor the coconana waffle, a PB&J or a waffle grilled cheese.

Smaaken Waffle Sandwiches | Multiple Locations | $$

12. Boke Bowl

What started as a pop-up in 2010 transformed into a brick-and-mortar family-friendly restaurant in Portland within the year and before 2014, Boke Bowl had two locations in the city. Whether you’re looking for pescatarian, vegetarian, gluten-free or just a delightful family-friendly restaurant in Portland, this is the spot to be. 

The Vibe

There’s an Asian-inspired minimalist theme that feels welcoming but keeps in line with the casual vibe. High ceilings, bright lighting and a long bar to watch the chefs at work provide plenty of entertainment.

What to Order

The cold ramen noodle salad is a summer seasonal favorite at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland. Kids can indulge in a PB&J made on a steamy bao bun or a bowl full of savory ramen. 

Boke Bowl | Multiple Locations | $$

13. Tamale Boy 

Another food truck that turned into something more, Tamale Boy is the ideal family-friendly restaurant in Portland for soft, pillowy tamales (and more). The menu changes seasonally and highlights the varying cuisines from different regions of Mexico. 

The Vibe

This family-friendly restaurant in Portland is funky, colorful and above all, casual. Indoor seating offers you a view of the wild and wacky murals on the walls while, outside, a cozy meal with loved ones can be enjoyed at the many picnic tables. 

What to Order

For the little ones, simple burritos, tacos or quesadillas are always an option. For adults or the more adventurous young eaters, the black mole or Oaxacan tamales will tantalize your tastebuds. 

Tamale Boy | 1764 NE Dekum St., Portland, OR 97211 | $$

14. Norma Jean’s Soul Cuisine

Savor some good old-fashioned comfort food at Norma Jean’s Soul Cuisine, a family-friendly restaurant in Portland that brings Southern classics to the Pacific Northwest. The owner and head Chef Marquise was inspired by his grandmother, which led to him opening and naming this restaurant after her. 

The Vibe

Shades of purple and yellow adorn this family-friendly restaurant in Portland, with a large gold crown above Norma Jean’s name. Overall, it’s a fuss-free spot with a casual diner feel to it that anyone can enjoy. 

What to Order

There’s no kids menu per se, but the brisket mac and cheese is always a good option. For adults, the Cajun Dungeness crabs combine the South with PNW seafood in a mouthwatering way, while the smothered oxtails are a true labor of love. 

Norma Jean’s Soul Cuisine | 4636 NE 42nd Ave., Portland, OR 97218 | $$

15. Slappy Cakes

Playing with your food is not only permitted but encouraged at Slappy Cakes. Kids, along with help from their parents, get to personalize their pancakes at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland. 

The Vibe

This family-friendly restaurant in Portland was designed with kids in mind; each booth makes you feel like you’re in your own world. The comfortable wooden tables and benches surround a tiny griddle in the middle of each booth for patrons to fry up their pancake masterpieces. 

What to Order

The kids have a hard time not being tempted by the idea of making their own pancakes with total freedom over shape, size and ingredients. Adults can indulge in plenty of breakfast classics like avocado toast or a breakfast burrito.

Slappy Cakes | 4246 SE Belmont St., Portland, OR 97215 | $$

16. Two Sisters Play Café 

Almost more kid- than adult-friendly, Two Sisters Play Café is a brightly colored play-place-meets-restaurant. Founded by two sisters from a big family, they wanted to bridge the gap between food allergies and a welcoming, laid-back family-friendly restaurant in Portland.

The Vibe

This kid-friendly restaurant in Portland has a fully separate art and playroom next to the dining room. It almost feels like stepping into a daycare facility or elementary school classroom, in the best way. 

What to Order

The menu is a line-up of classics and bold flavors, from avocado toast or corn beef hash for breakfast to a chickpea curry or burrito bowl for lunch. The kid's menu offers smaller servings of breakfast dishes like eggs and pancakes, plus kid favorites like a PB&J or hot dog for lunch.

Two Sisters Play Café | 11923 SE McLoughlin Blvd., Milwaukie, OR 97222 | $$

17. Pizza Jerk

New Haven-style pizzas are brought to the Pacific Northwest in the best way possible at Pizza Jerk. Fuss-free with a welcoming feel, this family-friendly restaurant in Portland is meant to be a friendly neighborhood hangout spot.

The Vibe

Every table at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland is adorned with the iconic red and white checkered tablecloths from your youth. There’s a large back patio full of picnic tables for warm summer nights where kids can frolic between bites. 

What to Order

A straight-up pepperoni pizza at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland is a crowd-favorite, satisfying kids and adults alike. You can go slightly more gourmet with an eggplant Parm-inspired pizza that receives high ranks from patrons. 

Pizza Jerk | 5028 NE 42nd Ave., Portland, OR 97218 | $$

18. Pip’s Original Doughnuts & Chai

Named after the orphan from Great Expectations, Pip’s Original Doughnuts & Chai is a family-owned and family-friendly restaurant in Portland that puts extra thought and care into every aspect of its business. Examples of this attention to detail include hand-painted murals, lettering by local artists, seasonal menu items and free birthday doughnuts. 

The Vibe

Large windows let the sunshine in at this cozy, wood-paneled café. It’s somewhat eclectic with fairy lights and dainty chandeliers illuminating locally painted murals, and big bubble lettering on the massive menu.

What to Order

Enjoy one of five varieties of homemade chai, or opt for the sampler flight at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland. The doughnut flavors change periodically to include seasonal offerings, but classics like the candied bacon maple or Nutella and sea salt are always available.

Pip’s Original Doughnuts & Chai | 4759 NE Fremont St., Portland, OR 97213 | $$

19. Sugarpine Drive-In

Take your kids back in time when stepping foot in Sugarpine Drive-In. Despite serving some pretty incredible dishes that look as beautiful and artistic as they are tasty, this couldn’t be more of a family-friendly restaurant in Portland. 

The Vibe

Take a seat inside the cozy, north-woods kitchen and dining area where you feel like you’ve stepped into someone’s home kitchen. Step up to the indoor or outdoor window to order and walk away with your food on a lunch tray, just like in the olden days.

What to Order

This family-friendly restaurant in Portland's menu changes seasonally to remain as sustainable and local as possible. However, you can always get classics like the pulled pork sandwich or waffle grilled cheese — crowd-pleasers for both kids and adults. Save room for some of the homemade ice cream or frozen yogurt, topped with honeycomb crunch.

Sugarpine Drive-In | 1208 E. Historic Columbia River Highway, Troutdale, OR 97060 | $$

20. Little Big Burger

What more could you want from dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Portland than amazing burgers, fries and a root beer float? Enjoy local ingredients in a fun, light-hearted and modern atmosphere at Little Big Burger. 

The Vibe

Each location has lots of bright red and cute burger animations. It can get pretty busy here, but there’s frequent turnover at the burger bar seats or bistro tables. 

What to Order

A cheeseburger topped with melty, local Tillamook cheddar pairs perfectly with truffle fries and a rootbeer float for an overall delicious meal at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland. 

Little Big Burger | Multiple Locations | $$

21. Screen Door 

Stop by one of the many Screen Door locations across the city for memorable bites at a family-friendly restaurant in Portland. The idea is to be a friendly neighborhood comfort-food joint that’s accessible for all, so there are limited reservations at this walk-in-friendly spot. 

The Vibe

This casual, sit-down family-friendly restaurant in Portland isn’t too fancy but still feels more pleasant than your average fast-casual spot. With hints of French brasserie in the design, you’ll love the covered outdoor patio on warm summer nights.

What to Order

The praline bacon is the perfect combination of salty and sweet that will have you coming back for more. The fried chicken sandwich is perfectly crispy and the chicken strips are kid (and adult) approved.

Screen Door | Multiple Locations | $$

22. Salty’s 

Fine dining combines perfectly with a family-friendly restaurant in Portland at Salty’s on the Columbia River. Its outdoor patio has a casual feel and gives kids an incredible view and never-ending entertainment as they take in the many boats coming and going before a cotton candy sunset sky.

The Vibe

The outdoor patio is ultra-nautical, with teakwood furniture and striped umbrellas casting shade on warmer days. You'll be seated directly over the water and can listen to the calming sound of busy waves while enjoying delightful Portland food. 

What to Order

Start with a cup of the world-famous seafood chowder before moving on to smoked Columbia River steelhead. There isn’t a kids menu per se at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland, and while this wouldn’t be ideal for picky eaters, plenty of kiddos love the crispy coconut shrimp or battered fish and chips.

Salty’s | 3839 NE Marine Drive, Portland, OR 97211 | $$

23. Mississippi Pizza Pub 

You can find it all at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland, from live music and entertainment to phenomenal slices in a casual, welcoming environment. Choose between single slices or whole pizzas with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free substitutions available at Mississippi Pizza Pub. 

The Vibe

The outside of this family-friendly restaurant in Portland looks more like an Irish pub than a pizzeria, but the interior is dimly lit and cozy. The vinyl booths surround the wooden counter and offer glances at the chefs hard at work.

What to Order

The Real Nice pizza combines caramelized onions with sausage, ricotta and basil for the perfect blend of salty and sweet. The BBQ chicken pizza is beloved by kids and adults alike. 

Mississippi Pizza Pub | 3552 N. Mississippi Ave., Portland, OR 97227 | $$

24. Mother’s Bistro & Bar

Once named Restaurant of the Year by Willamette Week, and America’s Top Restaurant Bargains by Food and Wine Magazine, this family-friendly restaurant in Portland is a must-visit for everyone passing through. The demure décor and comforting menu of scratch-made classics at Mother's Bistro & Bar will fill the hearts of everyone in your family. 

The Vibe

This family-friendly restaurant in Portland feels like it should call for an elevated dress code, but casual dining is allowed and encouraged. Sparkling chandeliers and brightly-patterned booths are offset by gilded wallpaper.

What to Order

From crunchy challah French toast to Dungeness crab cakes and braised pot roast, you’ll feel like you’re eating a home-cooked dish made with love by your own mom.

Mother’s Bistro & Bar | 121 SW Third Ave., Portland, OR 97204 | $$

25. Tin Shed Garden Café

What started as a small coffee shop-turned restaurant and grew into the staple that it is today, Tin Shed Garden Café is a funky, eclectic family-friendly restaurant in Portland. Treat your kids to a peaceful lunch or afternoon snack made with local, organic and sustainably sourced ingredients.

The Vibe

The semi-covered outdoor patio transports you to a peaceful garden, surrounded by butterflies and blooming plants. In the winter, warm up next to the big brick fireplace at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland. Furry friends are also welcome.

What to Order

You can find your favorite breakfast and brunch dishes made with love here, like eggs Benedict or French toast for the kids. The lunch menu at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland branches out a bit more with dishes like the San Fran sandwich or Tim curry. 

Tin Shed Garden Café | 1438 NE Alberta St., Portland, OR 97211 | $$

26. The Observatory

Founded by two young couples in the restaurant business back in 2008, The Observatory quickly became a staple in the Montavilla community. Enjoy New American cuisine in a cozy setting at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland.

The Vibe

The ambiance is casual but pleasing enough to enjoy a laid-back date night or last-minute lunch together as a family. Dark walls make local art pop, while a funky skylight bathes this family-friendly restaurant in sunlight. 

What to Order

Enjoy a creative twist on an American classic with the Chipotle elk burger or get the charcuterie plate to share with the table. There isn’t a designated kid's menu but there are plenty of options for even the pickiest of eaters, like a regular cheeseburger or a club sandwich. 

The Observatory | 8115 SE Stark St., Portland, OR 97215 | $$

27. Salvador Molly’s

What started as a single tamale cart in 1933 is now a thriving, family-friendly restaurant in Portland. Recipes and flavors from all over the world grace the PNW at Salvador Molly’s. Influenced by Hawaiian, Baja, African, Latin American and Asian cuisine (to name a few), even the décor makes you feel like you’re someplace special. 

The Vibe

It’s a bold, colorful and slightly tropical world at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland. The tin roof is strung with colorful lights that give it a beachy vibe, and the walls are adorned with surfboards, boogie boards and hundreds of photos from patrons' travels. 

What to Order

The Baja fish tacos are a must-have at this family-friendly restaurant in Portland, and there’s a kid’s version too. Jerk chicken will make your tastebuds dance and the tsunami surfer tacos bring a Hawaiian breeze to your dinner plate. 

Salvador Molly’s | 1523 SW Sunset Blvd., Portland, OR 97239 | $$

It’s wonderful to be able to treat your kids to a meal out on the town with you, and knowing where the best kid-friendly restaurants in Portland are can ensure it’s a positive experience for all. Walking into a restaurant and seeing only high-top chairs and ultra-fragile glassware when you’ve got children in tow is enough to make you turn around and walk right back out. Fortunately, these family-friendly restaurants in Portland offer an atmosphere and food items for even the pickiest of eaters, promising a heartwarming experience for all.

For even more ways to explore Portland and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.