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Kid-friendly food spots in Gurnee

Made for those who need to feed a family without sacrificing their own desire for a decent meal in a welcoming environment.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Taco Pros Gurnee image 1
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Mexican restaurant

Modern, clean space with casual ambiance and cactus decorations creates a fresh, welcoming vibe. Music plays consistently, adding to the relaxed atmosphere that feels family-friendly and comfortable. Booth seating and a salsa bar with varied spice options support a balanced dining experience.

Mexican food stands out with fantastic flavors and exceptional quality. Service complements the food well, creating a satisfying dining experience.

Large groups with kids get served efficiently even during busy times. Kids enjoy steak burritos, ground beef tacos with cilantro and onion, and fries, making it a solid spot for quick meals with picky eaters.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

"The homemade salsa here is delicious and has great heat."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $1 tacos with a limit of two per person.

2

Lunch specials are available on Saturday and Sunday.

3

The restaurant requires patrons to be at least 22 years old to be served alcohol.

02
Mrs Fields image 1
Cookie shop

Cookie shop offers extensive cookie selection and multiple frozen yogurt flavors with varied toppings. The space feels clean and well maintained with a welcoming atmosphere. Customers often enjoy custom cookie cakes and fresh, soft cookies.

Delicious smell of fresh cookies fills the air, making the food experience inviting. Service and food quality stay consistently great, creating a pleasant visit every time.

Custom cookie cakes with characters like Stitch and Lilo delight kids. Cookie cakes become a birthday tradition enjoyed by families.

People are saying

"I found the chocolate chip cookies to be amazing."

"I loved the frozen yogurt with all the topping choices."

"I was so excited about the custom cookie cake for my daughter."

Good to know

1

Mrs Fields offers multiple flavors of yogurt and a variety of cookie options.

2

The online ordering process is very easy for quick pickups.

3

Custom cookies and cookie cakes can be pre-ordered for special occasions.

03
MR.PITA : zabiha halal image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a casual, relaxing atmosphere with clean, inviting space and comfortable seating. The menu features both vegan and non-vegan options, including standout falafel and shawarma dishes. Aromas and chill music create a soothing environment that welcomes diners.

Food here is consistently fresh and packed with wonderful flavors. Mediterranean dishes combine to create a mouth-watering and comforting experience.

Staff offer free treats like hummus, juices, and fries for kids. Meals include kid-friendly options like a chicken entree split between children. Extra items like lentil soup and pita come at no cost.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here has tender, moist, charred meat, cut fresh."

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"They're so kid friendly, offering free treats and extra food."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a killer platter deal for $24.99.

2

They don't serve pork, catering to halal dietary needs.

3

Parking is limited due to neighboring businesses.

04
Denny's image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant operates 24 hours with an old-fashioned style and fancy lights creating a dimly lit, peaceful atmosphere. Environment stays quiet and comfortable for families or friends, though occasional loud groups appear. Food includes notably good buttermilk pancakes and berry vanilla crepes.

Food offers flavorful standard breakfast fare with consistently great quality. Service and staff contribute to an enjoyable dining experience.

Staff show patience with children, helping them order politely and handling picky eaters without fuss. They stay attentive and kind, making kids feel comfortable, including those with speech delays.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and served piping hot."

"The staff here are attentive and make your late night spot experience great."

"The server was so sweet and attentive to my kids."

Good to know

1

Denny's is open 24 hours a day.

2

The wait time was 10-15 minutes for three people at 11 am on a Monday.

3

The prices at Denny's cost 65 dollars for 2 adults and 2 children.

05
shawarma king #1 image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant offers an oriental style interior with homey tables and booths and music that sets a lively tone. Atmosphere feels like a Middle Eastern street vendor with unique wallpaper and a welcoming vibe. Staff show kindness and attentiveness, enhancing the friendly environment.

Food features excellent Middle Eastern flavors with a focus on beef shawarma meals. Dishes consistently deliver amazing taste and quality.

Staff show understanding when kids spill drinks and offer complimentary drinks after closing. Kids enjoy the mixed grill platter and toddler-friendly food options.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"I found the food here to be well seasoned and very tasty."

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

Good to know

1

The meat used is halal, catering to dietary restrictions.

2

Portion sizes are generous and worth the price.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment.

06
Leoโ€™s Chicago Grill image 1

Small dining room with metal chairs and a mounted TV playing sports creates a cozy, quiet atmosphere where conversation flows easily. Friendly, warm vibe welcomes guests during quieter weekday evenings. Generous portions and varied menu options stand out among local eateries.

Food comes out fresh and hot, with a focus on Chicago style dishes. Meals stay delicious to go and arrive ready on time.

Chicago-style hot dogs come out fast, ready in about 10 minutes. Kids eat well and enjoy the food, with an incentive discount available for school children.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the hot dogs, is really good."

"The Greek food here, especially the gyro, is amazing and plentiful."

"I loved the food here; it was really good."

Good to know

1

Sundays feature $1 hot dogs, making it a popular day to visit.

2

Kids in school receive an incentive discount, which is helpful to know.

3

The restaurant offers convenient tap-to-pay options for easy transactions.

07
Olivia's Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a lively and inviting atmosphere with outdoor patio seating and a cozy, warm interior despite its large size. Large televisions above the bar create a bar-and-grill vibe rather than a refined dining experience. The private room provides a spacious and private setting for groups.

Food features excellent quality and impeccable service. Dishes consistently deliver delicious Italian flavors with great drinks.

Kids enjoy the spaghetti marinara and mango gelato here. Gluten free options exist but mistakes happen, like serving regular pasta instead of gluten free.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, they'll make anything you want."

"The food and drinks here are excellent for date spots."

"The spaghetti marinara was a hit with my picky eater."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers gluten-free options on the menu.

2

Expect no wait time for large groups during peak hours.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food served.

08
Gurnee Mills Mall image 1
Shopping mall

Z-shaped layout defines a huge, spacious mall with a variety of stores and family-friendly attractions like an arcade, ice skating rink, and indoor train. Atmosphere shifts from quiet evenings to busy, lively days filled with energy. Seating areas and massage chairs offer spots to rest amid the bustling environment.

Two food courts and several nice restaurants offer tons of amazing food choices. The Rainforest Cafe stands out as a notable option among the great selections.

Many stores offer play areas where kids can play safely. A playground provides a spot for active fun. Food options serve kids quickly, making visits smooth and enjoyable.

People are saying

"This mall is huge and has a wide variety of stores."

"I found tons of amazing food choices here."

"It's a great place with activities for kids."

Good to know

1

Gurnee Mills Mall has a wide variety of stores catering to different age groups.

2

The mall is known for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities.

3

Unique food spots are available throughout Gurnee Mills Mall.

09
Mama K's Pizza and Grille image 1

Small, cozy pizza restaurant offers a friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating for ice cream or shakes. Menu includes Mexican, Italian, and Greek dishes with notable items like gyro and Greek chicken salad. Location near major attractions makes it a convenient spot for quick meals or family dining.

Food offers fresh ingredients with perfect portions at a good price. Quality matches cost, making meals both tasty and satisfying.

Kids enjoy Italian beef, gyro, and quesadilla options here. Cheese pizza does not get much love from them.

People are saying

"I thought the Greek food, especially the gyro, was amazing."

"The food here is really good and fresh."

"It's a wonderful place, much better than resort pizza."

Good to know

1

Mama K's offers a mix of Mexican, Italian, and Greek dishes.

2

Prices are reasonable compared to other nearby dining options.

3

The restaurant is conveniently located across from Six Flags.

10
Crumbl image 1
Cookie shop

Bright, cozy space with great decorations and a relaxed atmosphere that invites lingering. The air carries an amazing cookie scent that draws attention immediately. Frequent changes in flavors keep the experience fresh and engaging.

Food quality consistently impresses with a variety of cookies that many find better than expected. Service at the food distribution side can be rude, but the overall food experience remains positive.

Treats come with extra toppings to avoid fights among kids. Weekly new lineup keeps kids excited and eager to return. Some staff interactions may disappoint young visitors.

People are saying

"These cookies are always warm, soft, and full of flavor."

"I thought the food here was amazing and so good."

"It's so Kid Friendly, my kids always ask about the new lineup."

Good to know

1

Crumbl offers a rotating menu of cookie flavors that changes weekly.

2

Crumbl's mini desserts are great for parties or corporate events.

3

Curbside orders do not have designated parking spots at this location.

11
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store image 1

Rustic wood decor and an old-timey country store create a warm, welcoming atmosphere with a family-friendly vibe. Guests often browse the charming gift shop while waiting, adding to the relaxed pace. Smiles and friendly energy fill the space, making it feel like home.

Food here is consistently delicious and great. The meals come with a warm and cozy atmosphere that adds to the dining experience.

Toys section keeps kids busy while waiting. Staff engage warmly, even singing happy birthday. Music is family-friendly with no inappropriate messages.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and served hot."

"The staff here is so kind and attentive with kids."

"I loved browsing the old-school candy selection."

Good to know

1

The bathrooms are poorly maintained and often smell bad.

2

Expect a lack of cleanliness throughout the restaurant.

3

Parking availability is limited, especially during peak hours.

12
Kyoto Ramen image 1
Japanese restaurant

Interior features cyberpunk-inspired decor with vibrant lighting and space-themed visuals creating a modern, gaming bar vibe. Atmosphere balances cozy warmth with energetic, sensory-rich design. Tables include call buttons for service, and anime plays on a video wall, adding to the unique experience.

Food here is consistently delicious and comforting with a phenomenal taste that stands out.

Kids enjoy their meals and finish everything. Staff show kindness to families. Drink options include Coke and Sprite, but no Diet Coke.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be out of this world."

"The food here is amazing, filling, and delicious."

"The kids loved their meals and ate everything."

Good to know

1

The grand opening is at 3pm with free appetizers for the first 30 customers.

2

Karaoke is available on the video wall during certain hours.

3

The ramen costs $18.95, which some may find pricey.

13
Caribana Island Grill - Gurnee image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Caribbean restaurant offers a clean, open space with island-themed decor and a live DJ playing vibrant Caribbean tunes. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, filled with island energy and lively music that creates a relaxed vibe. Seating is ample, supporting a social and engaging environment.

Food features a twist on Caribbean dishes with jerk wings and plantains standing out. The flavors are consistently exceptionally delicious and the menu offers excellent options despite higher prices.

Kids enjoy the Salmon Tacos and Salmon Kids Meal here. Only one high chair is available, which might be tight if many kids come.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very flavorful."

"The staff here makes Brunch amazing and wonderful."

"The kids meals here are amazing, especially the mac & cheese."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Thursday with a $5 entry fee.

2

Karaoke night is on Thursdays, starting at 10 PM.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM on weekdays with half-price drinks.

14
Chuck E. Cheese image 1
Children's amusement center

Children's amusement center features dozens of arcade games and a toddler section for small kids. Bright space fills with natural sunlight and sounds of laughter, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Staff interact actively with kids and adults, enhancing the lively environment.

Food tastes fresh and delicious here. Quality has improved over time.

Kids enjoy birthday parties here with plenty of games and prizes. Staff members are kind and patient, helping create a fun and welcoming atmosphere for children.

People are saying

"It's a fun place with lots of games for kids and adults."

"The staff here is so kind and patient, making it really Kid Friendly."

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $200 for an hour of play, pizza, and drinks for three kids.

2

The location is known for its cleanliness compared to other establishments.

3

Birthday parties can be a fun experience for kids, with many activities available.

15
The Backyard Steak Pit image 1

Open-air grill with large flame creates a cozy, upscale atmosphere featuring candlelit dinners and tablecloths. Bar area offers a lively space for cocktails, though noise can carry into the dining room. Decor blends modern style with classic touches reflecting the restaurant's long-standing presence.

Food features phenomenal quality and terrific flavors. Service complements the outstanding dishes well.

Staff show kindness and work hard to accommodate families, even large groups. Kids enjoy the huge steak on the kids menu.

People are saying

"The steak here is cooked perfectly, every time."

"The food here was amazing and perfect."

"You'll wait a long time for a table here, but it's worth it."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted for tables of fewer than five people.

2

Expect high prices for the quality of food served.

3

The restaurant opens at 4 PM for new sailors' families.

16
Lola's Tacos and Tequila image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a colorful and fun atmosphere with dim lighting and lively salsa and reggaeton music at a comfortable volume. Outdoor seating on a quiet, private patio enhances the relaxed vibe. The place features an extensive margarita menu with large drinks and a strong tequila selection.

Food here stands out with fantastic flavors and a great atmosphere. Service matches the quality, making dining smooth and enjoyable.

Dimmer lighting and low music volume create a calm atmosphere for kids sensitive to stimulation. Staff show friendly attention to children, making visits comfortable and welcoming.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and amazing."

"I thought the steak tacos were a 10/10."

"The kids' steak tacos were good and the salsa was sweet."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is a popular time for drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger groups, especially on weekends.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during happy hour.

17
Red Lobster image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with a classic interior that remains largely unchanged, offering a quiet, cozy atmosphere with moderate busyness. Staff provide personal touches like singing happy birthday and offering gloves and bibs for crab. The place features a lobster tank that adds to the experience.

Food here is consistently fresh and delicious with a focus on quality. Service complements the meals well, often described as excellent and friendly.

Patient and sweet servers make dining easy for kids. Special moments like a 5th birthday celebration and engaging staff help kids feel welcome and entertained. Homemade rolls add a nice touch for families.

People are saying

"I found the food to be piping hot and fresh."

"The bartender Brian makes amazing drinks and picked out a fabulous lobster."

"Brian's service was so inviting and efficient, making it kid friendly."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of over an hour on busy weekend nights.

2

The restaurant has a significant cleanliness issue, especially in the kitchen area.

3

Unlimited shrimp promotion ends at 10 pm; arrive early to take advantage.

18
Wingate by Wyndham Gurnee image 1

Hotel offers indoor pool open late and free hot breakfast with a variety of options. Rooms feel quiet for sleeping despite nearby highway noise and feature modern, clean decor. Lobby includes a fireplace and updated dining area, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

Many food options exist nearby with plenty within walking distance. Breakfast food stays full and fresh, and recommendations for food come through as excellent.

A small indoor pool offers a safe spot for young kids to splash around. Breakfast includes a wide variety that suits picky eaters well.

People are saying

"The breakfast area was super clean."

"I slept so well; it was so quiet here."

"The pool is small but perfect for kids to splash in."

Good to know

1

The hotel only accepts card payments and does not take cash.

2

The location is perfect, being right next to a Steak and Shake and Gurnee Mills Mall.

3

The long-term parking is competitively priced, with discounts for 7, 14, or 21-day parking.

19
Gurnee Mills image 1
Shopping mall

Single-story Z-shaped layout creates a bright, open space with a forest-themed restaurant and unique storm effects. Crowds bring a noisy, busy atmosphere, balanced by arcade and bowling alley, an ice rink, and a protected play area for kids. Bass Pro Shop stands out with a giant fish tank and outdoor gear vibe.

Two food courts offer wide variety of options including Chinese, steak, and pizza. Stands throughout the mall provide good quality food and convenience without leaving the mall.

Arcade and bowling alley offer plenty of fun for kids and adults. A protected play area and sections for younger children make the setup very kid friendly.

People are saying

"This mall is huge and has so many different stores."

"It's super fun and kid friendly with the arcade and bowling."

"The food courts here offer a great variety of options."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, tickets cost $6.

2

Parking lot conditions can be hazardous due to snow and ice.

3

Expect long wait times during peak hours, up to 2 hours and 15 minutes.

20
Corndogs by Mr. Cow image 1

Korean corn dogs come fresh and crispy with gooey cheese and spicy Flamin' Hot Cheeto crumbs on top. The spot offers variety of free dipping sauces and cooks items like the flaming potato dog in about 5-6 minutes. It sits in a mall food court with high prices typical for that setting.

Food arrives fast and tastes amazing with consistently good quality. Staff serve without pressure, though waits can stretch due to changing availability times.

Kids sometimes face issues with undercooked hot dogs and wet batter inside. Some kids cannot order food, which causes upset.

People are saying

"I was instantly hooked on this corn dog after the first bite."

"The corn dogs at the mall are fresh and crispy."

"I was instantly hooked on this amazing food after the first bite."

Good to know

1

Expect an hour wait for food during peak times due to delays.

2

Corn dogs and soda cost under $10 total.

3

Each corn dog costs between $5 and $7.50.

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Gurnee, Illinois

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