Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in River North

Kid-friendly dessert spots

Made for those who need a sugar-filled reward that welcomes their children.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Chicago image 1
Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Chicago image 2
Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Chicago image 3
View all

Elegant restaurant with stunning windows and Instagram-worthy dรฉcor creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with perfectly curated music. The vibe is lively and friendly, enhanced by attentive service and a beautiful city view. The space balances upscale soul food dining with a fun, electric energy.

Banana pudding stands out as a birthday favorite and is served with a personal touch from the chef. Peach cobbler offers a sweet, classic option alongside drinks like margaritas.

Staff show great patience and friendliness with kids, making celebrations feel extra special. Managers and servers invite families back and ensure everyone is well taken care of during events like birthdays.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The peach cobbler was packed with peaches."

"It's really Kid Friendly for birthday celebrations."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs until 7 pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Valet parking is available for guests at the restaurant.

02
Chicago Chop House image 1

Restored brownstone with early 1900s decor and photos of local celebrities creates a traditional steakhouse atmosphere. Live piano music plays softly, adding to the luxurious and old-fashioned vibe. Comfortable seating and personalized touches enhance a refined dining experience.

House-made desserts stand out with a spectacular quality. They complement the menu well and show a sense of value and appreciation for guests.

Staff create a welcoming atmosphere for kids and make celebrations feel special with personalized attention. Meals include kid-friendly options like fettuccine Alfredo alongside adult entrees.

People are saying

"I found the steak to be tender and flavorful."

"The desserts here are tender and flavorful."

"They made my son feel special and welcome for his birthday."

Good to know

1

During the 40th anniversary, all food ordered was 40% off.

2

Valentineโ€™s Day celebrations offer special menu items.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during holidays.

03
Hawksmoor Chicago image 1

Steakhouse offers a stylish and warm dining room with quiet sophistication and a relaxed but upmarket atmosphere. Cocktails are expertly crafted, complementing the coal-cooked steaks that define the menu. Private rooms and a dynamic space support both intimate and business gatherings.

Celebrations with kids get special attention from the entire team. Staff show great patience managing young children during events like birthdays.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The desserts here are rich and tasty."

"The food here is great and made with quality ingredients."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm-6pm with great deals on steak, burgers, and oysters.

2

Reservations are recommended for the Sunday roast, which is only available on Sundays.

3

The restaurant offers gluten-free options and is knowledgeable about dietary restrictions.

04
Harry Potter Shop Chicago image 1

Store resembles Diagon Alley with meticulously crafted decor and immersive Harry Potter themes. Atmosphere feels magical and lively, filled with fans enjoying themed music, moving parts, and photo spots. Includes largest Butterbeer Bar in the US with seating, adding a unique cafe experience.

Butterbeer treats stand out with a butterbeer muffin and butterbeer ice cream. A cafรฉ inside serves creamy beers alongside coffee and other desserts.

Kids find plenty to enjoy with interactive merchandise like personalized wands and themed accessories. Staff help families find clean tables and create a welcoming space for celebrations like birthdays.

People are saying

"It's a fun stop for any Harry Potter fan; the details are amazing."

"It's a fun place, truly Kid Friendly for all ages."

"I loved the fun, magical desserts inspired by the series."

Good to know

1

If you plan to go on a weekend, be prepared for a wait of about 20 to 30 minutes.

2

The store was not accessible or disability-friendly.

3

The weekend line stretches down the entire block.

05
Bongiorno's Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria image 1

Cozy, family-owned Italian restaurant with small, crowded space and loud atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a pleasant seating option. Known for authentic Italian pizza and pasta with a lively, energetic vibe.

Cannoli dessert stands out as the highlight of the meal. Gelato also offers a tasty finish to the menu.

Pizza comes out piping hot and is a hit with kids. Owners check in to make sure orders meet kids' preferences. The Italian beef sandwich gets high praise from young eaters.

People are saying

"The pizza here is amazing; the staff makes you feel so welcome."

"The pizza was a hit with the kids and totally delicious."

"The homemade tiramisu here is creamy and perfection."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located behind the Trump Tower in downtown Chicago.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Reservations are recommended during busy dinner hours.

06
Ema image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers warm, modern interior with two bar areas and outdoor seating including a patio and rooftop. Atmosphere stays lively but not noisy, creating an inviting and relaxed vibe. Extensive gluten-free menu and accommodating options stand out for dietary needs.

Desserts show skill and creativity with decadent flavors. They pair well with the entrees and make a strong finish.

Staff handle food allergies carefully, preparing meals to suit specific needs. A great kids menu and thoughtful touches like a fun lampshade keep toddlers engaged.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"The manager comped our desserts after the kitchen messed up."

"I found the food to be amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Ema offers an extensive gluten-free menu with many options.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

3

Happy hour features generous portions but a limited list of spreads.

07
Nic + Junior's image 1
Restaurant

Bright, stylish space offers front-row kitchen views and classy indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed up front to more refined in the back dining room, creating a welcoming vibe for drinks or meals. Cocktails stand out with creative, well-crafted options like Negroni and martinis.

Soft serve dessert and phenomenal tiramisu stand out. Custom desserts made fresh add a unique touch.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the tuna crudo."

"They made us feel so special and welcomed us."

"You have to try the Brigadero Tiramisu dessert; it's so delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

3

The restaurant features a unique fusion of Brazilian and Italian cuisines.

08
STK Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Modern steakhouse blends trendy club vibe with live DJ sets and bold neon decor. Atmosphere feels lively and energetic, with music often loud enough to dominate conversations. Cocktails stand out as fresh and flavorful highlights amid the setting.

The dessert called The Cloud offers both a tasty treat and a showy presentation that makes for a memorable finish. Staff add a thoughtful touch by pairing it with a sparkling drink for kids.

Staff show warm attention to kids and serve Shirley Temples quickly. They offer a sparkling drink with dessert for children during celebrations.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and high quality."

"The server Sonia's warm attention made it feel so Kid Friendly."

"You get a special birthday dessert, it's amazing!"

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Expect a one-hour wait for a table during peak dining hours.

3

Cocktails are priced at $9 during happy hour.

09
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop image 1

Two-story chocolate shop offers stunning river views and a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere. The space fills with lively energy and can get noisy and busy, especially with families around. Seating is limited and first-come, first-served, with an outdoor patio providing a more relaxed vibe.

Desserts feature thick hot fudge that sticks to the spoon and adds deep warmth. Frozen treats come in large, rich servings that go beyond simple ice cream. Options like the Gold Rush and Strawberry Passion offer sweet, chocolatey satisfaction.

Kids enjoy choosing from a variety of chocolates and savoring treats like vanilla ice cream and salted caramel hot cocoa. The spot creates memorable moments for families with its sweet offerings.

People are saying

"Jameson's service made the chocolate experience feel personal and joyful."

"I loved the nice view overlooking the river and city."

"It's a great stop for kids, with delicious desserts and candy."

Good to know

1

There's a special offer on 7/25 for a mini hot fudge sundae at $7.25.

2

Seating is first come, first serve and can be sparse during peak hours.

3

Finding a seat can be nearly impossible during busy times.

10
Lure Fishbar - Chicago image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with quiet, elegant atmosphere and beautiful interior design featuring boat decor and funky wall art. Seating is comfortable and the space offers a small patio alongside plenty of indoor tables. The vibe suits a fancy dining experience rather than a casual, lively spot.

Desserts include a creamy sorbet and a warm cookie with ice cream that finishes the meal well. The brownie is delicious and desserts come perfectly prepared and presented.

No children's menu exists, but kids with big appetites find options available. Chefs let kids watch sushi being made, and sparkling juice is served alongside adult bubbles to make kids feel special.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, high quality, and delicious."

"It's so kid friendly; they made our son feel special."

"The desserts here are perfectly prepared and presented."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM to 6 PM, including weekends.

2

Enjoy half-off wine bottles during happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

Discover more

River North, Chicago

Area guide
Loading Map...