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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Elmhurst's best

Kid-friendly American food

You need a place that serves standard American fare while welcoming the chaos of your family.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
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Updated April 2026
01
93 Octane Brewery - Elmhurst image 1
93 Octane Brewery - Elmhurst image 2
93 Octane Brewery - Elmhurst image 3
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Industrial garage theme shapes the space with piston and gas pump handles and spark plug door pulls. Lighting stays balanced, supporting a relaxing vibe suited for watching games on multiple TVs. Patio welcomes dogs and toddlers, adding to the comfortable, casual atmosphere.

Biscuits and gravy come fluffy with excellent gravy. The 'oil can' nachos serve two or three, are flavorful, and pair well with beer. The cheeseburger stands out as a solid choice.

An outside area offers space for toddlers to hang out. Staff show patience with kids, enhancing the visit. Kids enjoy burnt ends and fries plus little donuts with multiple dipping sauces.

People are saying

"I loved the KITT Black IPA and the German Chocolate Cake beer."

"The kids loved their donuts with yummy dipping sauces."

"Antonio's service was outstanding and welcoming."

Good to know

1

They offer $2 pints on Tuesdays.

2

Tonight is music bingo night hosted by Tom.

3

The brewery has a dog-friendly patio for outdoor seating.

02
Fry the Coop (Elmhurst) image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small dining area with Tennessee chicken hut decor and seat-yourself booths creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Music and a chalk wall add to the family-friendly vibe. The place is known for best Nashville fried chicken sandwiches and unique beef tallow frying.

Deep fried chicken stands out with its crispy texture and thorough cooking. The fried chicken sandwich features a perfectly balanced coleslaw and a Nashville hot option for spice lovers.

Kid-friendly options include plain fried chicken sandwiches that kids enjoy. A chalk wall offers a fun drawing activity, and the service is great for families.

People are saying

"I thought their chicken sandwich was the best I ever had."

"This American food spot's fried chicken has an amazing, crisp, golden crust."

"It's so Kid Friendly; the kids loved drawing on the chalk wall."

Good to know

1

The base chicken sandwich costs $11, and fries are $5.

2

Expect a line to order food, especially during peak hours.

3

They charge an additional $0.60 for extra dipping sauce.

03
Firewater BBQ & Brew - Elmhurst, Illinois image 1

Rustic, cabin-like space with rolling smoke creates a genuine smokehouse feel. Atmosphere feels like a family BBQ with lively energy, though noise levels rise when busy. Features include an arcade area and an inviting bar with live music, adding to the casual, fun vibe.

Pulled pork and brisket stand out with rich smoky flavors and tender texture. Hand-cut fries accompany sandwiches like the Black Angus Brisket, adding a classic touch to the meal.

Kids enjoy chicken tenders and corn dogs here. Staff stays nice and accommodating to families. Fries get high praise from kids, even over fast food chains.

People are saying

"These ribs are so tender and packed with flavor."

"The pulled pork and brisket are tender and tasty."

"The pulled pork and brisket here are fantastic."

Good to know

1

The wait for dine-in food at lunch is approximately 25 minutes.

2

There is no printed menu available, making ordering difficult for large groups.

3

Prices have increased despite a reduction in portion sizes for meat combos.

04
Golden Boy Barbecue image 1

Outdoor space features heating lamps and a large patio with a laid-back atmosphere and dog-friendly areas. Interior includes a glass atrium that brings in natural light and a rough finished shed look. Live music adds to the inviting vibe, creating a cool environment for gatherings.

Brisket stands out as moist, juicy, and perfectly flavored. The menu also features tater tot casserole and banana pudding that many find memorable.

Kids burger draws regular requests from children. The menu offers half-pound servings that even picky eaters approach cautiously. The atmosphere is clearly kid-friendly.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket and ribs, is unbelievable."

"These ribs are messy but absolutely worth every finger-licking bite."

"The burgers here are perfection with gooey cheese and smashed patties."

Good to know

1

Half-price margaritas are available on Saturdays.

2

Daily specials are offered, check the menu for details.

3

All meats are sold by the pound or half-pound.

05
Phase Three Brewing Company - Taproom + Kitchen image 1

Taproom and kitchen combine modern design with a sunlit space and eclectic decor, creating a welcoming, chill vibe. Large bar and outdoor beer garden offer lively and quieter seating options. Crowd tends to be energetic, with a mix of casual and upscale elements.

Cheeseburger and fried chicken sandwich stand out with solid flavors. Drinks include a S'mores non-alcoholic beer and a sweet, thick Pecan Pie Interception Stout.

Lots of kids come on weekends, creating a lively atmosphere. The menu offers new items that kids get excited to try each visit.

People are saying

"The beer here is industry best, especially the hazy IPA."

"The American Food here is fantastic, especially the sweet, thick Pecan Pie stout."

"It's really Kid Friendly, lots of families with young children."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for lunch on busy Saturdays.

2

Expect a 15-minute wait during peak hours.

3

The menu features multiple Filipino dishes and ingredients.

06
Southtown Hot Dogs image 1
Hot dog restaurant

Small space with retro decor and mid-century style creates a cozy atmosphere. Frequented by families and kids, it fills up quickly during lunch rush with many waiting for to-go orders. Offers large portions of Chicago-style hot dogs, gyros, and burgers at competitive prices.

Large helpings of Chicago style hot dogs and Italian beefs come at competitive prices. Cheeseburgers, chili cheese dogs, and crispy French fries add to the classic American menu in a cozy, casual setting.

Popular with kids and suitable for them, this spot draws families easily. A venue across the street hosts birthday parties, adding to the kid-friendly vibe.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the Chicago style American food here; it's delicious."

"The atmosphere here feels so cozy with its cool retro decor."

"It's really popular with kids here."

Good to know

1

The chili dog and fries cost nearly $9.

2

There is limited seating inside due to high customer volume.

3

The restaurant is often packed, especially during lunch hours.

07
Hamburger Heaven Elmhurst image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Old school roadside shack with outdoor seating and a walk-up window creates a nostalgic vibe. Loud atmosphere from nearby intersection contrasts with a tucked-away patio area. Known for classic burgers that many consider the best, it blends retro charm with casual dining.

Classic double cheeseburgers and chili cheese fries stand out with rich, bold flavors. The menu also features a patty melt and root beer floats, all served with fast, friendly service.

Kids enjoy milkshakes like eggnog and chocolate flavors. Cheeseburgers appeal to children who like classic fast food. Some desserts like vanilla ice cream sundaes may not suit all tastes.

People are saying

"The ice cream portions here are huge; I tossed half."

"The American Food, especially the burgers and shakes, is amazing."

"It's so Kid Friendly, my kids loved their milkshakes."

Good to know

1

They have their own parking lot, but it gets tight during busy times.

2

The restaurant only has outdoor seating, so check the weather before visiting.

3

Expect to pay extra for condiments like ranch dressing, which costs 50 cents.

08
Rainbow Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Quaint American restaurant offers light, airy decor with family-friendly atmosphere and spacious outdoor patio featuring colorful umbrella art. The vibe stays calm and inviting, attracting a steady flow of diners. Indoor seating mixes diner-style tables with whimsical seasonal decorations.

Hamburgers stand out with the rainbow cheeseburger and a highly praised patty melt. Skirt steak and eggs come out very flavorful, and hash browns arrive crispy when requested well done.

Complimentary pancakes come with mix-ups on kids' orders. The cinnamon swirl French toast suits children well. Staff sometimes take a while to return for orders. Roaches appear in water and around the dining area.

People are saying

"I loved their minced ham and scrambled eggs; they were the best I've had in ages."

"You've got to try their American Food, especially the skillets and pancakes."

"They're so Kid Friendly, they even sent over complimentary fruit bowls."

Good to know

1

There is ample free parking right at the building.

2

Parking is available in the garage right behind the location.

3

There was no wait at Rainbow Cafe during my visit.

09
Yorky's image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food restaurant offers a comfortable casual setting with spacious, clean dining and real cutlery for dine-in. Atmosphere stays family-friendly and laid back despite often being crowded. Outdoor seating and drive-thru add convenience to the experience.

Fried chicken comes with a charbroiled flavor on the hamburger and a seriously good chicken noodle soup. Greek potatoes and white rice serve as solid sides.

Kids enjoy the broasted chicken and the gyro with rice. The menu offers familiar, tasty options that appeal to younger eaters.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The food here is amazing, my kids and I loved it."

"I'll return for the delicious broasted chicken."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak lunch hours; arrive early.

2

The Friday special features Stuffed Peppers, a popular menu item.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals for three under $40.

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