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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Gurnee's best

Kid-friendly lunch spots

A midday meal where the kids are actually welcome, rather than just managed.

Based on 628 Opinions
+625
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Updated April 2026
01
MR.PITA : zabiha halal image 1
MR.PITA : zabiha halal image 2
MR.PITA : zabiha halal image 3
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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.

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.

Offers a zabiha halal lunch special with great value. Serves quick, delicious food ideal for a midday meal near 6 Flags.

People are saying

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

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

"The beef shawarma at this Lunch Spot is incredible."

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.

02
Taco Pros Gurnee image 1
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.

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.

Offers quick, delicious meals perfect for lunch breaks. Food works well for to-go orders and satisfies cravings efficiently.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

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

"The tacos here are amazing, seriously chef's kiss."

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.

03
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.

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.

Service stands out with attentive waitstaff enhancing the lunch experience. Menu options include breakfast items and classic burgers, fitting for a quick, peaceful midday meal.

People are saying

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

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

"The service at this Lunch Spot is friendly and attentive."

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.

04
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.

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

Lunch features Alfredo Rigatoni and other Italian dishes served in a relaxed setting. The spot suits casual meals and special gatherings like luncheons.

People are saying

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

"The Lunch Spot's entrees are well-seasoned with generous portions."

"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.

05
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.

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

Lunch offers well-cooked breakfast dishes and hearty options like chicken and dumplings with vegetables. Prices stay reasonable, making it a solid spot for a family-friendly meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and served hot."

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

"I loved the food at this lunch spot; everything tasted good."

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.

06
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.

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

Lunch features tender quality meats and well-seasoned falafel, rice, and fries. Options suit quick, last-minute meals with solid flavor.

People are saying

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

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

"This lunch spot has delicious, well-seasoned meats and sides like rice."

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.

07
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.

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.

Lunch specials offer unlimited soup, salad, and biscuits for $11. Meals come out delicious, nutritious, and reasonably priced.

People are saying

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

"The service at this Lunch Spot was amazing and attentive."

"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.

08
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.

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

Lunch features include lobster and grits and steak and eggs. Options for dine-in or to-go make it flexible for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very flavorful."

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

"The jerk chicken bowl at this Lunch Spot is amazing."

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.

09
Jalisco Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with bright colors and Native American and Latino decor creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Traditional Mexican music plays softly, supporting a relaxed family vibe. Seating includes comfortable barrel chairs, adding a unique touch to the setting.

Kids get a great menu with options like nuggets with beans and steak tostada with rice and beans. Meals do not cause any issues for the kids after eating.

Smiles and happy faces fill the space even during late lunch hours. The spot offers a welcoming vibe that invites repeat visits.

People are saying

"I thought the Pozole was fire and reminded me of mom's."

"This lunch spot's steak is tender and very flavorful."

"They ran out of rice and offered beans instead, which wasn't ideal for my son."

Good to know

1

Prices are generally more affordable than most Mexican restaurants in the area.

2

Portion sizes are large, providing good value for the price.

3

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

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Gurnee, Illinois

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