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Denver-Metro Family-Friendly Restaurants
Whether you’re attending Theatre for Young Audiences, A Christmas Carol, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical, or another DCPA production – it’s fun to make a day of it and grab a bite to eat before or after the show with your kids.
Finding the perfect family-friendly spot can be a struggle, especially when there are so many options to choose from! Check out this list below of places located downtown and in the nearby Denver-metro area. You’re sure to find somewhere that works best for your family.
If you’re looking for a quick meal before or after a show, Sam’s No. 3 is a local staple just a couple blocks away from the Arts Complex. The restaurant has a kids menu for both breakfast and lunch, so whether you’re eating ahead of a matinee or grabbing a bite before an evening performance, Sam’s No. 3 has something for everyone. It can get crowded with the pre-theatre rush, so arrive early.
If your child is a picky eater, you can’t go wrong with The Cheesecake Factory. This chain restaurant is known for its expansive menu, including a section just for kids. Plus, the restaurant has the added bonus of being located on the 16th Street Mall, just a short walk from the Arts Complex.
Denver Milk Market – Dairy Block
Located within the Dairy Block near Coors Field is Denver Milk Market, a spacious food hall featuring a variety of restaurants. This spot is sure to please both adults and kids, when everyone can order something different and wander around the Block. The Dairy Block also hosts several themed events each month, so check their calendar if you want to join (or avoid!).
Also in the Ballpark area is Marco’s Coal Fired, a cozy locally-owned pizzeria. Your family can split a couple of pies, and the kids can choose the toppings to their taste – from extra cheese and meatballs to premium offerings like ricotta and prosciutto. On the dessert menu is a Nutella Pizza, a surefire hit among the kids.
Across the South Platte River is Maria Empanada, a casual spot serving up the Argentinian favorite savory pastry. If your kids love eating with their hands, they are bound to love one of the many empanadas offered. In warmer weather, you could pick up some empanadas and walk through Commons Park or have a little picnic before a show at the Arts Complex.
In nearby LoHi is Recess Beer Garden, an excellent spot for warmer weather with an expansive patio. There are fire pits, yard games, board games, a dedicated area for dogs, and more. Even if the weather is chilly, there is indoor seating year-round with the same relaxed atmosphere. Adults can grab a beer, the kids can enjoy a meal, and everyone is happy!
Further north in the Highlands is Acova, a contemporary, eclectic restaurant with a hilarious kids menu (featuring offerings such as “I Don’t Know,” which includes chicken tenders, or “I’m Not Hungry,” which includes a cheeseburger.) For all kids menu items, $2 of the cost is donated to charity – so you can feel good about your child eating their grilled cheese.
If you live in a northwest suburb like Arvada, be sure to check out Hops & Pie on your way downtown. This neighborhood pizzeria and craft beer joint has a massive patio with an area for children to play games and have fun. They also have a cheap kids menu, serving up pizza and other kid favorites like peanut butter and jelly.
If you live in east Denver – in Park Hill, City Park, or Cap Hill – add Steuben’s to your route downtown. This retro-style spot serves up American classics, along with a kids menu featuring a unique milk flight (vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry milk included). There’s also an expansive menu of sweet treats sure to please your child!
If you live south of Denver, in Englewood or Littleton, check out Punch Bowl Social while you make your way toward downtown. This chain restaurant also serves as an arcade, bowling alley, and ping pong hangout. There is a dedicated kids menu with the typical fare, but if you’re hungry or feeling adventurous, there are also family-size platters for everyone to share.
