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Parents Map NY guide
Top 34 locations in United States for Dessert
byEmy Moore
Live update: Updated July 24, 2021Copy link
Copy link1. Kith Treats
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:
Tiffany WoodsWhen street gear and sneaker store Kith opened up shop Prospect Heights, it added a cereal bar to the mix. Kith Treats Cereal Bar offers more than 20 different cereals, including classics like Fruity Pebbles and Cinnamon Toast Crunch, more than 20 toppings and multiple milk options. Not only can you make custom cereal combos, but other cereal-based goodies like cereal ice cream swirls and cereal milkshakes are also on the menu. It's so much fun to eat like a kid. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
2. Kith Treats
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:
Julia SWhen street gear and sneaker store Kith opened up shop Prospect Heights, it added a cereal bar to the mix. Kith Treats Cereal Bar offers more than 20 different cereals, including classics like Fruity Pebbles and Cinnamon Toast Crunch, more than 20 toppings and multiple milk options. Not only can you make custom cereal combos, but other cereal-based goodies like cereal ice cream swirls and cereal milkshakes are also on the menu. It's so much fun to eat like a kid. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
3. Serendipity 3
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:
Joshua KaufmanThe menu at this whimsical restaurant is sure to delight all ages! From the signature "Frrrozen" drinks like hot chocolate, strawberry supreme and pink ice to the pies, banana splits and pie, every sweet tooth will be plenty satisfied. Kids can choose from several different burgers and a variety of sandwiches like the Ultimate BLT on challah bread. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
4. American Girl Cafe
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Tiffany WoodsThe next time you're venturing on a family outing, make sure your kids' American Girl Dolls are in tow. Rockefeller Center's American Girl Place Cafe offers patrons a chance for little ones to dine with their dollies, whether that includes afternoon tea with scones and buns, or a satisfying chicken tender lunch (perhaps Bow Tie pasta for those with a more mature palette). Once you've finished up your meal, let your crew explore the store and find cute outfits and accessories for their BFFs. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
5. Alice's Tea Cup
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Julia SConsider this your ticket to the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. At this cute café, little ones can enjoy service tailored especially for them. Breakfast and brunch are prime time for visits—you can order delicious omelets, eggs, scones, smoked salmon benedict and a variety of pancakes and waffles. On the menu, you’ll find delicious sandwiches (think curried chicken salad, black forest ham and gruyere, tuna melts, BLT) and tasty tea service options. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
6. Alice's Tea Cup
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Julia SConsider this your ticket to the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. At this cute café, little ones can enjoy service tailored especially for them. Breakfast and brunch are prime time for visits—you can order delicious omelets, eggs, scones, smoked salmon benedict and a variety of pancakes and waffles. On the menu, you’ll find delicious sandwiches (think curried chicken salad, black forest ham and gruyere, tuna melts, BLT) and tasty tea service options. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
7. Big Daddy’s Diner
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Julia SEverything is larger than life at this amped-up diner, from the intense decor to the bulked-up portions. Kids will enjoy hot dogs and chocolate chunk mini pancakes, then check out the pop culture memorabilia that lines the walls while they wait for their food. Bring your whole clan for one of the monthly family trivia nights, or throw your child’s next birthday bash in the restaurant’s party room. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
8. Cowgirl
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Joshua KaufmanThe kid's menu at this Southwestern spot features lots of reasonably-priced dishes, including the famed Frito Pie, which little ones will enjoy eating straight out of the bag. Other old frontier-themed favorites include “corndoggies” and pulled pork sammys, served with French fries and corn on the cob. Finish off a gut-busting meal with the “#1 best dessert ever,” a sharing-sized ice cream sundae that looks like a baked potato. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
9. Barking Dog Luncheonette
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Joshua KaufmanThere’s really something for everyone at this canine-themed mini-chain of luncheonettes: a Philly cheese steak wrap, po boy sandwiches, burgers, hearty salads, fried chicken and special desserts like the Barking Dog Banana Split, Barking Dog Sundae and Chocolate Brownie Sundae. With such a hearty array of pancakes, waffles, omelets, frittatas and wraps, there might even be enough leftovers for a doggie bag. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
10. Eataly
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Joshua KaufmanIf you can’t book a flight to the Amalfi Coast, enjoy a taste of Italy right here in NYC thanks to Eataly—the mecca for all-things pasta, seafood, meats and, of course, gelato. Part grocery store, part restaurant and completely fabulous, Eataly serves as more than just a location to dine if you’re craving pasta—it’s a gateway to the Italian culture and offers tours, classes and other events that make the experience worthwhile. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
11. Junior’s Restaurant
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:
Emy MooreThis New York institution's claim to fame is the rich, fluffy cheesecake, which comes in several varieties like red velvet and devil’s food—but we like to work our way up to the sweet slab of loveliness. Beginning with the perfectly salty-sour pickles and other crunchy bites that are served before every meal, little ones can peruse the appropriately-titled Junior Menu and choose from a selection of kiddie diner favorites like grilled cheese and chicken fingers. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
12. Junior’s Restaurant
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Emy MooreThis New York institution's claim to fame is the rich, fluffy cheesecake, which comes in several varieties like red velvet and devil’s food—but we like to work our way up to the sweet slab of loveliness. Beginning with the perfectly salty-sour pickles and other crunchy bites that are served before every meal, little ones can peruse the appropriately-titled Junior Menu and choose from a selection of kiddie diner favorites like grilled cheese and chicken fingers. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
13. Hard Rock Cafe
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Emy MooreWe know, most New Yorkers avoid Times Square, but this Hard Rock Café is nirvana for little music fans raised on the Beatles and the Stones. While you wait for your table, ooh and ahh over the memorabilia filling the walls: James Brown’s golden suit, Billy Joel’s motorcycle, the doors from the Abbey Road studios and signed guitars everywhere. The music is loud and the beats are rockin’—even the most cynical New Yorkers will be air drumming and chair dancing. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
14. Hard Rock Cafe
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Joshua KaufmanWe know, most New Yorkers avoid Times Square, but this Hard Rock Café is nirvana for little music fans raised on the Beatles and the Stones. While you wait for your table, ooh and ahh over the memorabilia filling the walls: James Brown’s golden suit, Billy Joel’s motorcycle, the doors from the Abbey Road studios and signed guitars everywhere. The music is loud and the beats are rockin’—even the most cynical New Yorkers will be air drumming and chair dancing. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
15. Max Brenner
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Joshua KaufmanAt the Union Square emporium, chocolate-filled pipes weave around the ceiling and decadent confections sit atop tightly packed tables. With a menu that instructs guests to "Get addicted, be happy," this isn't a place for self-control. Expect chocolate to show up in some unexpected places, like waffle fries dusted with chili and cocoa powder and a dessert pizza made to share. The whimsical kids' menu includes such delicacies as the Chocolate Oatmeal Trophy and the Melting Marshmallow Crepe (with gummy bears, vanilla ice cream and, of course, more chocolate). Sweet tooths, rejoice. . https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/restaurants/theme-restaurants-in-nyc
16. Ellen’s Stardust Diner
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Joshua KaufmanThis whimsical spot may scream that it’s catering to tourists, but considering you’re a tourist with kids in tow, this is the place for you. At its Broadway location, servers — dressed in colorful bowling shirts and poodle skirts — sing show tunes and dance on the edges of the old-school red booths. A true diner, its kids menu offers smaller portions and prices, which is a nice treat when you’ve spent a bit too much seeing the latest musical. It can get crowded, so take the kids during the day. . https://thepointsguy.com/guide/best-nyc-restaurants-for-kids-families/
17. Bubby’s
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Joshua KaufmanBubby’s welcomes children with open arms. The Tribeca location is the original (temporarily closed for renovation through November 2019), but if you’re taking a stroll along the 1.5-mile elevated High Line park and get hungry, you will find a second Bubby’s within walking distance. (It’s across the street from the Whitney Museum of American Art.)
What began as a pie shop in 1990 now offers a full made-from-scratch menu that includes breakfast plates, pancakes and biscuits, along with burgers, soups, salads and options for even the finickiest tots. It has a kids menu with typical child-friendly fare: mac ‘n cheese, burgers and chicken strips. But seriously, don’t miss pies that include Jersey peach, Key lime, sour cherry, peanut butter chocolate, double-crust apple and banoffee (bananas, dulce de leche, espresso and whipped cream in a graham cracker crust). . https://thepointsguy.com/guide/best-nyc-restaurants-for-kids-families//
18. DŌ, Cookie Dough Confections
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Tiffany WoodsLast, but probably not least,, is DŌ, near New York University. If you have ever eaten (or wanted to eat) raw cookie dough, this place is a must on your NYC family adventure. Imagine flavors like cake batter with white chips, chocolate chips and sprinkles, or sugar cookies topped with rainbow sugar. There are even vegan, kosher and gluten-free items.
It’s safe to eat this dough (or DŌ) raw because the bakery uses a pasteurized egg product instead of a raw egg, and a heat process that kills potential bacteria in the flour. You could cook this dough and make real cookies, but you totally don’t have to. . https://thepointsguy.com/guide/best-nyc-restaurants-for-kids-families/
19. DŌ, Cookie Dough Confections
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Julia SLast, but probably not least,, is DŌ, near New York University. If you have ever eaten (or wanted to eat) raw cookie dough, this place is a must on your NYC family adventure. Imagine flavors like cake batter with white chips, chocolate chips and sprinkles, or sugar cookies topped with rainbow sugar. There are even vegan, kosher and gluten-free items.
It’s safe to eat this dough (or DŌ) raw because the bakery uses a pasteurized egg product instead of a raw egg, and a heat process that kills potential bacteria in the flour. You could cook this dough and make real cookies, but you totally don’t have to. . https://thepointsguy.com/guide/best-nyc-restaurants-for-kids-families/
20. Serendipity 3
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Julia SAround since the 1950s is the famous Serendipity 3, home to frozen hot chocolate and lots of iconic moments and memories. The “frrrozen” hot chocolate, as they call it, rings in at about $13. You can pair that with anything from pot pie to country meatloaf to chili or spaghetti and meatballs, though the joint is probably known for its Tiffany lamps and sweets more than the rest of the menu.
There is an $12.50 per person minimum charge, so everyone might as well get something. Note that you will probably be a little bit cramped in the small, busy place, so plan accordingly and be ready for a fun sugar rush. Reservations are a good idea. . https://thepointsguy.com/guide/best-nyc-restaurants-for-kids-families/
21. Levain Bakery
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Julia SThere are also plenty of great grab-and-go kid-friendly options such as cookies from Levain Bakery on the Upper West Side that you can pick up on your way to the park. . https://thepointsguy.com/guide/best-nyc-restaurants-for-kids-families/
22. Levain Bakery
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Julia SThere are also plenty of great grab-and-go kid-friendly options such as cookies from Levain Bakery on the Upper West Side that you can pick up on your way to the park. . https://thepointsguy.com/guide/best-nyc-restaurants-for-kids-families/
23. Levain Bakery
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Emy MooreThere are also plenty of great grab-and-go kid-friendly options such as cookies from Levain Bakery on the Upper West Side that you can pick up on your way to the park. . https://thepointsguy.com/guide/best-nyc-restaurants-for-kids-families/
24. Brooklyn Crab
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Emy MooreBrooklyn Crab has that Maryland crab-shack vibe, and offers delicious dishes featuring its namesake crustacean along with salads and sandwiches, plus beers and cocktails. It's always one of our top picks for places to eat with kids when the weather warms. There are massive outdoor seating areas on three levels with awesome views of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty, but the best part is the seasonal backyard, featuring an eight-hole miniature golf course, bean bag toss, and a sandbox. . https://mommypoppins.com/new-york-city-kids/restaurants/nyc-restaurants-with-kids-entertainment-and-activities
25. Good Day Play Cafe
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Emy MooreWhile Good Day Play Cafe is better suited to a quick snack or an afternoon cuppa joe than a full sit-down meal, this play space tucked into a quiet corner of action-packed Park Slope manages to balance good food, an inviting ambiance, and strong coffee with a kid-friendly play area to create a place adults and children can genuinely enjoy. You'll pay a la carte for food, and be forewarned, time in the spacious (clean!) play area comes at a premium, charged by the hour. . https://mommypoppins.com/new-york-city-kids/restaurants/nyc-restaurants-with-kids-entertainment-and-activities
ALSO FEATURED IN:Top 7 locations in Park Slope, New York
26. Habana Outpost
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Joshua KaufmanOpen seasonally, this outdoor eco-eatery specializes in Cuban and Mexican cuisine, but also offers ubiquitous kid-friendly staples like hot dogs, burgers, and fries. There's a spacious courtyard, which frequently hosts free family-friendly events. . https://mommypoppins.com/new-york-city-kids/restaurants/nyc-restaurants-with-kids-entertainment-and-activities
ALSO FEATURED IN:Top 8 locations in Fort Greene, New York
27. Jekyll and Hyde
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Joshua KaufmanIf you're looking for a spooky good time, dine with vampires, mummies, and monsters at Jekyll and Hyde. Kids will get a kick out of wax figures that come to life and sinister desserts like Death by Chocolate cake. . https://mommypoppins.com/new-york-city-kids/restaurants/nyc-restaurants-with-kids-entertainment-and-activities
ALSO FEATURED IN:Top 6 locations in South Village, New York
28. Koneko
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Joshua KaufmanOne of the many cat cafes popping up in the city, Koneko offers entertainment that's hard to beat: cuddle time with a furry feline. You can have light nosh in the adjacent cafe, or purchase your snacks and bring them into the multilevel cattery to dine while you play. Reservations for the cattery are required and cost $20/hour. Children ages 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. . https://mommypoppins.com/new-york-city-kids/restaurants/nyc-restaurants-with-kids-entertainment-and-activities
ALSO FEATURED IN:Top 14 locations in Lower East Side, New York
29. Olmsted
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Emy MooreThe fact is, if you have a well-behaved-ish kid and a new pack of Magic Markers, or a sticker book, or a loaded-up iPad (every parent has their own rules for kids and screen-time), you can enjoy some of the best restaurants in town without worry. But let’s focus on this best restaurant, because the environment is so warm and inviting to all, and that trickles down from the super-sweet chef, Greg Baxtrom. Baxtrom’s equally cheerful team makes sure you have a carrot mimosa in hand before you even whip out a coloring book. The backyard garden is the perfect place for kids to explore, where they can experience produce growing at all stages, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and more. Olmsted’s new private dining room is ideal for large family gatherings and birthday parties. Kid-friendly menu items include the brunch-only bacon-egg-and-cheese rolls, which resemble and are served like extra-thick French fries; and then there’s the s’mores, the classic assemblage of large, house-made marshmallows, individual portions of Hershey’s chocolate, and graham crackers. The inner child in all of us, plus our real life children, will love that to pieces. . https://www.grubstreet.com/bestofnewyork/best-restaurants-for-kids-in-nyc.html
30. An Choi
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Tiffany WoodsAt first glance this place looks problematic: There’s no room for strollers and the vibe seems a little too street-eats hipster to be kid-friendly. However, the Vietnamese iced coffee will fix any sleep-deprived parent, and with the right table, kids (who are warmly welcomed by the staff) can nestle in with their own little toys or art projects. The key is to call a little in advance, even just a half-hour, to secure a cozy nook for your crew. Then, parents can luxuriate in the pho bo dac biet of their child-free dreams, and kids can slurp a simple chicken or beef broth for just $2, plus rice. An Choi is also a great place to end the day after a tour of the Tenement Museum, just down the street. Again, best to come sans stroller. (By the way, for Brooklyn families who can’t schlep into Manhattan, Bricolage is an equally scrumptious Vietnamese option in Park Slope — plus, it has a patio.) . https://www.grubstreet.com/bestofnewyork/best-restaurants-for-kids-in-nyc.html
ALSO FEATURED IN:Top 14 locations in Lower East Side, New York
31. PARM NYC
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Julia SIt’s a casual restaurant, featuring absolutely delicious authentic Italian food.
They do have a kids’ menu (including pasta and chicken tenders), but my kids opted to share a large meatball parmesan sub, while I had the chicken parm.
We were pretty full after lunch, but they also do have some delicious desserts as well. I’d recommend saving room for dessert if you can.
Parm accepts limited reservations, which you can make online if you choose to. I think it’s a great option after visiting the One World Observatory. It’s tucked away a bit, so it wasn’t crowded when we visited. . https://www.familytravelmagazine.com/the-best-kid-friendly-restaurants-in-nyc/
32. PARM NYC
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Julia SIt’s a casual restaurant, featuring absolutely delicious authentic Italian food.
They do have a kids’ menu (including pasta and chicken tenders), but my kids opted to share a large meatball parmesan sub, while I had the chicken parm.
We were pretty full after lunch, but they also do have some delicious desserts as well. I’d recommend saving room for dessert if you can.
Parm accepts limited reservations, which you can make online if you choose to. I think it’s a great option after visiting the One World Observatory. It’s tucked away a bit, so it wasn’t crowded when we visited. . https://www.familytravelmagazine.com/the-best-kid-friendly-restaurants-in-nyc//
33. PARM NYC
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Julia SIt’s a casual restaurant, featuring absolutely delicious authentic Italian food.
They do have a kids’ menu (including pasta and chicken tenders), but my kids opted to share a large meatball parmesan sub, while I had the chicken parm.
We were pretty full after lunch, but they also do have some delicious desserts as well. I’d recommend saving room for dessert if you can.
Parm accepts limited reservations, which you can make online if you choose to. I think it’s a great option after visiting the One World Observatory. It’s tucked away a bit, so it wasn’t crowded when we visited. . https://www.familytravelmagazine.com/the-best-kid-friendly-restaurants-in-nyc/
34. Eloise in The Palm Court
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:Tiffany WoodsAfternoon tea under the greenery and domed glass ceiling of The Plaza's elegant Palm Court will likely impress your mini Eloise (12 and under only) into better behavior. Everything here is about the precocious children's book character; even the pink-rimmed teacups and teapot are decorated with her image. The tea tower is the highlight, with classic finger sandwiches like English cucumber, with PB&J to please smaller palates. Sweets include caramel cupcakes, passionfruit s'mores, and a puff of pink cotton candy.
. https://ny.curbed.com/maps/things-to-do-new-york-city-kids
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