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Top picks in Santa Monica

Kid-friendly Mexican food

Mexican food that is genuinely kid-friendly without stripping away the spice and character of the menu.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
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Updated May 2026
01
Snug Harbor image 1
Snug Harbor image 2
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1940s-style diner with vintage decor and original bar stools creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Cozy indoor booths and a dog-friendly patio with private dividers offer varied seating. Intimate space fills with lively energy, blending classic charm with relaxed outdoor vibes.

Breakfast includes high chairs and coloring activities for kids. Frequent visits with toddlers show it supports a kid-friendly environment.

Breakfast burritos stand out with options like vegan chorizo and steak, paired with hash browns. House-made spicy salsa complements dishes like huevos rancheros and burritos well.

People are saying

"The food here felt like a home-cooked meal in an untouched-by-time diner."

"The breakfast burritos here are among the best in LA."

"It's really Kid Friendly, with coloring and high chairs available."

Good to know

1

Parking is usually easy to find in the neighborhood behind the restaurant.

2

The menu features a diverse selection of traditional American diner dishes.

3

Daily specials and fresh juices are offered regularly.

02
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Restaurant offers open-air seating with a calm, relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with nearby noisy spots. Space feels homey and curated, encouraging guests to unwind in a bright, spacious interior suitable for families.

Menus adjust to both adult and kids' tastes. The spot balances a kid-friendly vibe with a setting suitable for date nights.

Squash blossom tacos offer a melting cheesy flavor that stands out. Fish tacos come fresh, never frozen, and tortilla soup hits a perfect spice level.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, healthy, and delicious."

"The kids menu was awesome and had very affordable prices."

"You have to try the Baja fish tacos; they're incredible."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

03
Rabano image 1
Restaurant

Spacious restaurant with open, airy design and natural lighting creates a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Heated outdoor patio welcomes dogs and offers a spot for people watching. Consistent focus on healthy, organic, and vegan options defines the dining experience.

Menus include a kids menu with a drink at a reasonable price. Options cater to nut allergies, making it safe for children with dietary restrictions. The overall environment is kid-friendly.

Tacos come in large portions with fresh ingredients and strong flavors. The menu features California burritos, seafood tacos, and all-day breakfast burritos, offering a variety of burritos and bowls.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, tasty, and always good."

"The Mexican food here is so fresh and delicious."

"This place is great and really kid friendly."

Good to know

1

Rabano offers a variety of dishes suitable for all tastes, including options for kids.

2

The kids menu includes a drink for a very reasonable price.

3

Rabano now offers breakfast burritos all day.

04
The Cloverfield image 1
American restaurant

Large outdoor patio offers an airy, dog-friendly space with heaters and warm fires for chilly nights. Smooth jazz music plays, creating a peaceful and warm vibe that suits groups and families. A special bar room in the back hosts celebrations, adding to the cozy atmosphere.

Outdoor seating includes tables that suit kids and pets well. Food options like Pepperoni Pizza appeal to children and keep them happy.

Tacos stand out with options like fish and barbacoa nachos topped with homemade cheese sauce and pico. Fresh Tuna Tostadas and flavorful guacamole with chips add variety to the Mexican food offerings.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating has a great vibe and atmosphere."

"It's a great spot for kids and dogs."

"You have to try their incredible tacos."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available on the premises.

2

Reservations are required for outdoor seating.

3

Happy hour, called social hour, offers special deals.

05
Le Cafe de la Plage Malibu image 1

Outdoor patio with spacious seating and pink-hued decor creates a chic, relaxed vibe. Live music on weekends adds to the friendly, warm atmosphere. The place draws a crowd looking for a casual spot to enjoy coffee and pastries in a sunny, inviting setting.

Balloons and colorful decorations create a magical atmosphere for kids. Meals may not impress young eaters, but the setting clearly targets families with children.

Breakfast burritos here draw long waits, often over an hour. They stand out as highly regarded and notably filling among Mexican food options.

People are saying

"The cafe staff are so friendly and warm, it's like they trained at a secret boot camp."

"The staff here are so friendly and warm, it's like family."

"I believed their breakfast burrito was the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

The cafรฉ is very popular on weekends, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

2

They offer gluten-free options for baked goods and sandwiches.

3

Card payments are accepted, but refills on coffee are charged as new cups.

06
Tacos 1986 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican street taco spot with a no-frills atmosphere and loud bachata music creates a lively vibe. Seating consists mostly of counter-height stools along plain walls, keeping the space casual and simple. A self-serve salsa bar adds variety and interaction to the experience.

Kids enjoy the tacos and burrito here and finish their meals. Small kid chairs and tables create a welcoming space. Options include a kid's meal alongside adult dishes like Adobada Mulita and Asada Vampiro.

Tacos here stand out for their juicy al pastor and flavorful pork options. Fast service delivers authentic Mexican street tacos and burritos that satisfy both meat lovers and vegetarians.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, is authentic and delicious."

"I loved the variety of flavorful salsas to choose from."

"The staff here are really nice and friendly, making it feel Kid Friendly."

Good to know

1

The pork taco is priced at $3.75 each.

2

There are no pick-up orders available.

3

The restaurant is located next to the Santa Monica Pier.

07
The Whaler Santa Monica image 1

Oceanfront setting offers unmatched beach views and a lively atmosphere with loud music and a DJ at night. The space includes a game room nook and TVs showing sports, attracting groups who enjoy social and energetic vibes. Outdoor seating on terraces enhances the experience with sunset views and a bar-focused environment.

Kids enjoy burgers and chicken tenders with flavorful seasoning. Meals come with cucumbers as a side, though chicken strips can be overcooked sometimes.

Taco Tuesday offers flavorful tacos paired with a zesty Margarita. Even kids enjoy the simple, plain taco option.

People are saying

"The live sports here are great, with friendly and attentive service."

"The Mexican food service is incredibly friendly and attentive."

"The burgers here are a hit with kids."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Karaoke night, called terry-oke, happens every Monday at 9pm.

3

Parking is available nearby through SpotHero for convenience.

08
El Cholo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large dining room with historic decor and a courtyard-like interior creates a warm, festive atmosphere. Outdoor patio and family room add to the kid-friendly, lively vibe. Strong margaritas and classic Mexican dishes complement the authentic, nostalgic setting.

The atmosphere feels kid-friendly and fun with menu items like tacos and dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets that kids enjoy. Quesadillas and chicken dinos also appeal to picky eaters.

Carnitas stand out as some of the best, paired with homemade tortillas that elevate every dish. Large portions include fresh guacamole, perfectly cooked vegetables with fajitas, and unique items like blue corn tamales and rich mole.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious, especially the salsa."

"The chimichangas and enchiladas here are delicious and filling."

"The kids loved the quesadillas and dinosaur chicken nuggets."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult; consider using valet services.

2

Happy hour offers two drinks for $44, providing a good ambiance.

3

The restaurant accommodates large groups of 15-20 people easily.

09
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun atmosphere that energizes the evening. Outdoor seating features fire pits enhancing the vibe. Music volume often challenges conversation but adds to the lively environment.

Staff handle food allergies carefully, confirming details with the kitchen. Kids enjoy dishes like the cheeseburger and fries and perfectly cooked salmon with charred broccolini.

Tacos come with tender tequila chicken and velvety short rib options, each priced at $5. Crostinis, lamb tacos, and sliders arrive fresh and fast, pairing well with a 12 oz wine mega pint.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, fresh, and delicious."

"The servers here are so attentive and friendly, making it feel Kid Friendly."

"I loved the all-night happy hour deal on Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

All-night happy hour is available on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Super Bowl.

10
The Albright image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside restaurant on a pier offers huge outdoor deck with scenic views and patio seating where dogs are welcome. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with Bob Marley music and heaters keeping the space warm. Counter service uses buzzers for orders, creating a casual, relaxed vibe.

Kids menu includes chicken tenders, grilled cheese, and fish with rice and beans. High chairs are available, and kids enjoy their meals with sodas.

Shrimp tacos stand out as a favorite, with fish tacos and blackened ahi tacos also served well. The menu includes beer battered fish and chips alongside various tacos, all noted for solid flavor.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The Mahi Mahi tacos here are really good."

"It's a great spot for kids with a dedicated menu and high chairs."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

2

Expect long lines around noon; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Prices are effectively 10% higher due to a hidden fee.

11
Maria Sol image 1
Mexican restaurant

Ocean-facing patio offers breathtaking views and warmth from scattered heating lamps. Live music from street artists creates a lively atmosphere with a touristy vibe. Fresh, locally sourced seafood and exceptional margaritas complement the energetic seaside setting.

Dining there feels like a divine hug for kids. The atmosphere keeps children engaged and happy throughout the meal.

Delicious guacamole made at the table stands out, paired with authentic Mexican dishes like fajitas and fish tacos. The menu includes vegetarian and vegan options such as Mexican rice, black beans, and sautรฉed veggies, all at affordable prices.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here is served with quick, friendly, and welcoming service."

"The ocean view here is truly unbeatable."

"It's a great time here, especially if you have kids."

Good to know

1

Check your bill carefully as extra charges may be added.

2

Expect a reasonable cost of about $50 for two entrees and drinks.

3

Outdoor seating is available, but the upper level may be closed.

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Santa Monica, California

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