Got kids? Need space? There are plenty of restaurants in Austin that cater to families and provide safe outdoor spaces with playground whether you’re in Westlake, North Austin, or anywhere in the ATX.
SEE ALSO: 37 Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Austin
If you’re looking for a great place to take your kids, look no further than these restaurants with playgrounds in Austin. These establishments offer plenty of space for kids to run around and play, as well as great food that the whole family can enjoy. So next time you’re looking for something fun to do, head to one of these places and let the good times roll!
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Mandola’s
Mandola’s is an Austin original, serving up delicious homestyle Italian cuisine. Plus, kid’s plates come with a free scoop of gelato! Their pasta, salads, and sandwiches are all top-notch, and their prepared and packaged foods make it easy to grab and go. Their location at Guadalupe shares a public playground for kids to enjoy.
Some of their most popular dishes include chicken parmesan, spaghetti and meatballs, and Tuscan chicken salad. No matter what you order, you will surely enjoy a fantastic meal at Mandola’s. Plus, they have a second location in Bee Cave for even more convenience.
4700 W Guadalupe St #12, mandolas.com
Easy Tiger – South Lamar
Easy Tiger – South Lamar is located in the heart of South Austin and offers stunning views of the Greenbelt. On-site bakers produce fresh bread and pastries daily, and there are six unique spaces to choose from for your dining pleasure. The menu features a variety of traditional German and Austrian dishes and some unique twists on classic favorites. Some of the most popular items include the Bavarian pretzels, schnitzel sandwich, and apple strudel. Easy Tiger- South Lamar has something to satisfy your appetite, whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a leisurely meal.
3508 S Lamar Blvd Suite 200
Bouldin Acres
Bouldin Acres is a neighborhood eatery on South Lamar Boulevard, that specializes in burgers, sandwiches, and tacos. They also have a full-service bar with unique cocktails and an outdoor seating area. Other amenities include free WiFi, TV’s, a dog-friendly patio, lawn games, food carts, and a playground. The restaurant is family-friendly and also offers pickleball courts for customers to use. Some of their bestsellers include the Bouldin Burger, the BBQ Bacon Sandwich, and the Chicken Tacos.
2027 S Lamar Blvd, bouldinacres.com
Photo credit: waterlooicehouse.com
Waterloo Ice House
Waterloo Ice House in North Austin is a great spot to gather with friends and family. The restaurant and bar offer various options for everyone, including a playground for kids. You can enjoy salads, baked potatoes, burgers, and beer in a casual setting. The kids’ menu is also sure to please.
Waterloo Ice House embodies the Hill Country spirit of spending time together and enjoying good food and drink. So next time you’re in the mood for some, head on over to Waterloo Ice House!
8600 Burnet Rd., waterlooicehouse.com
Phil’s Icehouse
Phil’s Icehouse is a popular burger chain in North Austin that is known for its creative burgers and delicious ice cream. The restaurant is located in a refurbished gas station and is shared with Amy’s Ice Creams. The Icehouse has a playground, making it a perfect place to take the kids while parents can relax. They believe that parents deserve a break, and what better place to take it than at Phil’s.
The burgers are the bestsellers at Phil’s Icehouse, and they have a variety of unique flavors that are sure to please everyone. If you’re looking for a delicious burger in a fun and family-friendly environment, then Phil’s Icehouse is the place for you!
5620 Burnet Rd, philsicehouse.com
Flores Mexican Restaurant
Flores Mexican Restaurant is a local favorite in North Austin, serving up authentic Mexican food from the Flores family recipes. Their tortillas are made fresh in the restaurant daily, and their menu features all your favorite Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. Some of their most popular items include enchiladas, tacos, and quesadillas. They also offer breakfast on weekends, so come early to enjoy their delicious huevos rancheros, chorizo, and eggs. Whatever you order, you’re sure to enjoy a tasty meal at Flores Mexican Restaurant.
4625 W William Cannon Dr, floresmexican.com
Kerbey Lane Cafe
Kerbey Lane Cafe is a family-owned restaurant in North Austin that has been serving up delicious comfort food since 1980. Their pancakes and queso are award-winning, and their menu features scratch-made dishes using thoughtfully-sourced ingredients. Kerbey Lane Cafe is welcoming to all who come through its doors, and its affordable prices make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Some of their famous dishes include Chicken Fried Steak, country fried chicken, and the classic American breakfast. No matter what you’re in the mood for, Kerbey Lane Cafe is sure to have something to satisfy your cravings.
3704 Kerbey Ln, kerbeylanecafe.com
Photo credit: eatdrinkdocs.com
Doc’s Backyard
Come to Doc’s Backyard in South Austin for pub grub, a broad Texas beer selection, and a great atmosphere to watch your favorite team. It’s a unique and family-friendly outdoor bar and grill that offers a wide variety of food and drink options and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Their bestsellers include delicious burgers, wings, and ribs. They also have a full bar with a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails.
With plenty of kid-friendly patio seating and TVs, this is the perfect spot to relax with friends or family. Don’t forget to try their game-day specials!
5207 Brodie Ln #100, eatdrinkdocs.com
Hat Creek Burger Company
Hat Creek Burger Company in North Austin is a counter-serve joint that doles out all-American eats plus beer, wine & shakes in a cool space. They are best known for their always-fresh, never-frozen, all-natural burgers, fries, shakes, and cold beer. The restaurant also has salad and gluten-free options available. Families love Hat Creek because each location features a unique and kid-friendly playscape for children of all ages.
5400 Burnet Rd, hatcreekburgers.com
Home Slice Pizza
Home Slice Pizza is an independent neighborhood pizza joint serving authentic NY-style pizza by the slice or pie. They offer homemade, hand-tossed dine-in, bona fide pies for either dine-in or carry-out. The most popular dish on the menu is their NY-style pizza. What makes it Authentic New York Style? It has a crisp, stone-baked Neapolitan crust (as in from Naples, Italy), large slices that are often folded down the middle to eat, and various traditional toppings. So if you’re ever in North Austin and looking for a delicious slice of pizza, be sure to check out Home Slice Pizza!
1415 S Congress Ave, homeslicepizza.com
SEE ALSO: 11 Spots For The Best Pizza In Austin, Updated 2023
Central Market
Central Market is a gorgeous five-star gourmet grocery store in North Austin that features not only an exquisite restaurant, gelato counter, and a coffee bar inside but also has a lush deck with kid-friendly patio seating as well as a stage for live music and plays. Even better: there’s an expansive playground right outside! The food here is definitely noteworthy– you order at the counter and then dine on the picturesque patio while listening to some live performances.
Some of their bestsellers include fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, wines, and prepared foods. Their cafe is also popular for its made-to-order sandwiches, salads, soups, and pastries. Central Market also hosts regular food events such as cooking classes, wine tastings, and guest chef demos.
4001 N Lamar Blvd, centralmarket.com
The Salt Lick BBQ
The Salt Lick BBQ is a popular Texas BBQ spot with locations in Driftwood, Round Rock and more. They are best known for their authentic Texas-style BBQ and their famous sauces and rubs. They also have a relaxed, rustic setting which makes it a great place to visit with friends and family. Some of their bestsellers include the pickles, the cobbler, and the Bar-B-Que sauce.
The absence of tomatoes in their Bar-B-Que sauce sets them apart from other restaurants, so you don’t have to worry about the sauce burning or becoming bitter. And because it follows Southeastern tradition by containing sugar, the sauce will caramelize nicely. They finish the products over an open fire fed by live oak wood using only the finest ingredients available to ensure customer satisfaction every time.
While you wait for your food, let your kids play on the tree-covered outdoor seating patio lit with globe lights. And make sure to sample the delicious pickles and cobbler while you’re there!
3350 E Palm Valley Blvd, saltlickbbq.com
SEE ALSO: 11 Spots For The Best BBQ In Austin
Dahlia Cafe
If you’re willing to venture just a little outside of Austin, Dahlia Cafe is worth the drive. This cafe has a great patio and playground area with some old-school equipment. The food is fantastic, and they offer indoor and outdoor dining (weather permitting). Curbside to-go is also an option. Some of their bestsellers include breakfast tacos, burgers, and sandwiches. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or staying for a while, Dahlia Cafe will not disappoint.
2450 RR 1869, Liberty Hill, dahliacafe.com
Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods Market is an American supermarket chain specializing in selling whole, organic, and healthy foods. It is a great place to eat and play, with food options for everyone in the family. Some of their bestsellers include the salad bar, hot and cold food bars, sandwiches, pizza, sushi, tacos, and more.
You can also grab food to go and enjoy the view from the rooftop plaza of the North Lamar location or the outdoor patio at the Domain location. Both locations offer playgrounds for kids to enjoy. Tuesdays at the Domain location are especially fun for kids, with an interactive kid’s club that includes story-time, snacks, crafts, and more!
525 N Lamar Blvd, wholefoodsmarket.com
Joe’s Crab Shack
Joe’s Crab Shack is a casual seafood restaurant chain serving crab buckets & stuffed shrimp, plus American comfort dishes. The Austin location features a playground and outdoor patio, making it a great spot for families. Joe’s Crab Shack has a fantastic playground below their back deck patio. Kids can participate in the Paint-A-Crab Dessert and they will love the slides and the sand too. They are open daily for lunch and dinner, with happy hour specials Monday through Friday. Some of their most popular menu items include the fried shrimp platter, signature fish entrées, and famous steam pots. Their over-sized, creative cocktails are also a must-try!
2401 S IH 35, joescrabshack.com/location/joes-crab-shack-round-rock
Galaxy Cafe
Galaxy Cafe is a counter-serve cafe that offers omelets, wraps, sandwiches, and a separate gluten-free menu. Their commitment to the local community in Austin makes them stand out, and their food is always fresh and accurate. The cafe shares a public playground with other two nearby restaurants.
Some of their bestsellers include the Galaxy Omelet, Turkey & Swiss Wrap, and the BLT Sandwich. If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal in Austin, Galaxy Cafe is the place to go.
4616 Triangle Ave., galaxycafeaustin.com
Aviator Pizza
Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse takes pride in its family history of making delicious pizza that spans over 30 years. If you’re looking for some unique craft beers or Texas wines, they offer a 100% Texan menu with 50+ options on tap. They have a wide variety of pizzas to choose from and Texas craft beers and wines. Some of their most popular pizzas include the Texan, the BBQ Chicken, and the Margherita. They have an enclosed playground located right next to the picnic tables so kids and parents can enjoy their time. Whatever you’re in the mood for, Aviator Pizza has something to satisfy your craving. So come on by and enjoy some good food and good times with family and friends.
4005 West Parmer Lane, Suite E, aviatorpizza.com
Santa Catarina Restaurant
Santa Catarina is a Mexican restaurant in Austin that offers fresh and familiar dishes. The tortillas are homemade, and the happy hour is every day from 4 to 6 p.m. The kids menu features classics like chicken fingers and quesadillas, while the adult menu boasts items like fresh Gulf shrimp tacos and carne asada fries. Santa Catarina also has a large covered playground and patio, making it a great spot for families with young children.
500 Cypress Creek Road Apt 170, santacatarinarestaurant.com
Torchy’s Tacos
Torchy’s Tacos serves Mexican-street-food-style tacos in inventive varieties, and they’re known for sourcing the highest quality ingredients. Some of their most popular tacos include the Green Chile Pork Taco, the Brushfire Taco, and the Trailer Park Taco, all cooked to order—just the way you like it. They also have a playground on-site, making it a great spot for families.
11521 Ranch Rd 620 N E-1000, torchystacos.com
Photo credit: oztaphouse.com
Oz Taphouse
Oz Taphouse in Austin is a great place to enjoy fresh, local fare and self-pour beer, cocktails, and wine. They have a variety of burgers, tacos, and salads that are perfect for any appetite. Their foosball tables are also a great way to have some fun while enjoying their delicious food and drinks. Oz Taphouse is also suitable if you have kids with you as they offer a playground.
10601 Ranch Rd 2222 Suite H, oztaphouse.com
Ski Shores Cafe
Ski Shores Cafe is a casual hangout spot on Lake Austin that offers delicious burgers, tacos, and other pub fare. They have a full bar with plenty of margaritas for you to enjoy while the kiddos play. Their menu also features other American classics like chicken fingers, salads, and sandwiches. Ski Shores Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy a sunny day by the lake with good food and good company.
2905 Pearce Rd, skishorescafe.com
Southpark Meadows
Southpark Meadows is a sprawling shopping center in Austin with ample clothing, houseware, and big-box stores. The center also has several eateries and a cinema for visitors to enjoy. Southpark Meadows is also home to a shared community playground, making it a great place for families to spend time together. With so many dining options available, everyone is sure to find something to their taste at Southpark Meadows.
9500 S I-35 Frontage Rd, shopsouthparkmeadows.com
Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q
Rudy’s BBQ is a popular barbecue chain in Austin, Texas. They are known for their brisket, ribs, and sides. Their food is served cafeteria-style, and they have indoor picnic tables. Some of their most popular items include brisket sandwiches, ribs, turkey breast, pulled pork, and coleslaw.
2451 S Capital of Texas Hwy, rudysbbq.com/location/detail/austin-360-tx
El Mercado
El Mercado is a local chain in Austin that specializes in Tex-Mex cuisine. They offer a wide variety of dishes, as well as lunch specials. Some of their most popular items include enchiladas, tacos, and quesadillas. El Mercado also has a full bar, serving up cocktails, beer, and wine. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, El Mercado is sure to satisfy your cravings.
1302 S 1st St, elmercadorestaurant.com
Photo credit: vaqueroscafe.com
Vaqueros Cafe & Cantina
Vaqueros Cafe & Cantina in Austin is a great place to enjoy some delicious Tex-Mex fare. The restaurant is designed like an adobe building, with colorful murals on the walls and a cantina feel. Families can enjoy a playground as well as an outdoor patio. They offer a wide variety of authentic dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients. Some of their most popular items include the jalapeno poppers, chicken tortilla soup, fajitas, ribs, enchiladas, and tacos. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, Vaqueros Cafe & Cantina is sure to please.
1801 S Capital of Texas Hwy, vaqueroscafe.com
Littlefield’s Tacos & Coffee
Littlefield’s Tacos & Coffee is a popular cafe in Austin, Texas that specializes in serving tacos, coffee, and pastries. They have a large outdoor patio area where customers can enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. The cafe also has an enclosed yard with a play area for kids. Some of their most popular menu items include the breakfast tacos, iced coffee, and chocolate chip cookies.
2401 Winsted Ln, littlefieldsatx.com
Oasthouse Kitchen & Bar
Oasthouse Kitchen + Bar is a family-friendly gastropub in Austin, Texas that features craft beer, creative cocktails, and locally sourced pub grub. This restaurant is a great place to enjoy some good food and company. They have a casual atmosphere but with elevated levels of food that will make any beer connoisseur happy. The inside is perfect for get-togethers between family and friends, and they also have an outdoor patio area that can be covered and reserved for private parties. You’ll never miss the big game either since plenty of large TVs around will always carry it!
Some of their bestsellers include artisanal pizzas, mouth-watering burgers, and famous wings. Their drinks menu features a wide variety of local and craft beers and creative cocktails that are sure to please any palate. Whether you’re looking for a casual night out with friends or a family-friendly dining option, Oasthouse Kitchen + Bar is the perfect spot.
8300 N FM 620 e, oasthouseaustin.com/
If you’re looking for a kid-friendly restaurant with a playground, Austin has no shortage of options. From burgers, food trucks, and tacos to pizza and German food, there’s something for everyone in this city. And if you’re looking for some good barbecue or want to watch the game on one of many large TVs, be sure to check out one of the local beer gardens. Outdoor spaces and family-friendly activities make these restaurants perfect for a day out with the kids.No matter what you’re in the mood for, Austin restaurants are sure to have it!
