Eating out with the family can be a fun-filled experience where you get to bond over a delicious meal without having to worry about the prep work or the cleanup. However, finding locations that are appropriate for children can sometimes be challenging. When evenings are short and weekends limited, you want to be sure you are spending your time and money wisely while you enjoy moments with the family. Knowing dependable establishments that have a kid-friendly environment can ensure you have a blast together. Learn about our list of the top family-friendly restaurants around Glenview.
Valley Lodge Tavern
Spinach Artichoke Dip ^^ by Debbie Tingzon is licensed with CC BY 2.0
When you want to get dinner started with fun finger food, look no further than Valley Lodge Tavern. This location was established in 1969 by two brothers and has expanded to become a true neighborhood delight and a go-to place for family dinners and celebrations. The lodge serves up an array of delicious American pub fare from burgers to ribs and kabobs for affordable prices.
Start your meal off with a crunch and enjoy some freshly made onion rings served with a creamy dipping sauce. Another favorite starter for loyal customers is an order of truffle fries. The thin and crispy fries are tossed in truffle seasoning, served with a creamy truffle aioli sauce, and garnished with shaved parmesan and freshly chopped parsley.
When you go, we suggest you order one of the signature dinners. If you like fish, order yourself the Athenian Whitefish. It is pan-seared with a lemon-oregano Greek sauce and served with a side of rice pilaf. For a taste of Thanksgiving without having to wait for the holiday, ask for the roasted turkey breast. It is served with homemade stuffing and garlic mashed potatoes topped with homemade gravy.
- Location: 2132 Waukegan Road, Glenview.
- Hours:
- 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
- 4-10 p.m. Sunday.
- Contact: 847-724-7440.
North Branch Pizza and Burger Company
When your clan is craving Chicago-style pizza, no place hits the spot like North Branch Pizza and Burger Company. The locally-owned and operated establishment has been in business since 2012 and earned its spot as one of Glenview’s favorite go-to locations for people with families. This neighborhood restaurant has a fun and inviting atmosphere with a yummy kids’ menu and delicious beverages for the adults.
The diverse menu also offers burgers, wings, and sandwiches. For a unique flavor experience, order yourself the Tavern Fish and Chips. This beer-battered tempura cod is served with steak fries making for a perfect pairing. The restaurant offers dine-in, carryout, and delivery services, making this a great option when you don’t even feel like driving.
- Location: 4520 W. Lake St., Glenview.
- Hours:
- 3-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
- 3-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
- 3-9 p.m. Sunday.
- Contact: 847-813-6400.
Walker Bros. Original Pancake House
When your family is in the mood for breakfast for lunch, try the Walker Bros. Original Pancake House. Originally opened in 1981, this location has unique decor, great service, and the friendliest staff you’ll ever meet. With so many years of experience in the breakfast realm, you know you must try their pancakes when you go. The German pancake plate is a customer favorite and for good reason. It is a plate filled to the edges with a delicate oven-baked pancake dusted with powered sugar and served with lemon and powdered sugar on the side.
Other tasty options include their fresh-made oven-baked omelettes, corned-beef hash and basted eggs, fresh strawberry Belgian waffles, and French toast. Menu options for kids include the junior egg plate, junior sausage plate, and junior bacon plate all served with a surprise candy treat.
- Location: 1615 Waukegan Road, Glenview.
- Hours: 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily.
- Contact: 847-724-0220.
Cafe El Tapatio
This energetic and vibrant restaurant is as spicy as the Mexican fare it serves. The welcoming environment at Cafe El Tapatio is a wonderfully warm atmosphere for families, particularly those with small kids. You can order plates of burritos and tacos. Having been in business and serving food with authentic Mexican flavors, you can expect that each meal you order is seasoned to perfection and made with care. Get the kids some cheesy quesadillas and share some crunchy chips and salsa with the table.
- Location: 9707 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Glenview.
- Hours:
- 4-10 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday.
- 4-11 p.m. Thursday.
- 4 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday.
- Contact: 224-470-5120.
Evanston Games and Cafe
Although not technically in Glenview, Evanston Games and Cafe is worth the short thirty-minute drive to Evanston. This destination is a board game store and magic shop that serves some of the best sandwiches and coffee to be found near Glenview. It is a great place for the Pokemon fan or families who love to play board games. Go in, browse their selection of items, and grab a bite to eat. You won’t regret your trip.
- Location: 1610 Maple Avenue, Evanston.
- Hours:
- Noon to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
- Closed on Monday.
- Contact: 224-999-7615.
So there you have it. Crème de la Crème of Glenview has enjoyed sharing with you our list of the top family-friendly restaurants in and around our area where you can take the kids for a fun weekday evening or relaxing weekend lunch. Whether your clan likes Mexican-inspired food, pancakes, or American pub fare, you’ll find something for everyone, even the pickiest eater. What do you think of our list? Did we mention something that interests you?
While you’re deciding on your next meal for a family outing, check out Crème de la Crème of Glenview for your child care needs. Our family-centered day care and learning center has everything your child needs to grow socially, emotionally, and cognitively. We offer a well-rounded curriculum in an enriching environment that caters to the needs of your child, no matter their level. Call our friendly staff at 847-250-6513 to schedule a tour and see how your family can benefit from becoming part of the Crème de la Crème family.