Restaurant Brighton's guide to
Child Friendly Restaurants
Our top picks
The best child friendly restaurants in Brighton and Hove
Finding a child friendly venue in Brighton can be a little exhausting as there is so much to choose from. We have put together this no-nonsense guide which brings you the highlights of child-friendly dining restaurants in Brighton, Hove and Sussex. These venues are perfect for the whole family to enjoy a delicious meal out, whether middle of summer family adventure or pre ‘back to school’ treat.
Child Friendly Restaurants
If you’re looking to feed the family, an Italian restaurant is always a safe go-to with something for everyone. Al Duomo in the North Laine has been feeding families for more than 40 years, so it’s safe to say they know what they’re doing. There are high chairs and changing facilities to cover the basics then a children’s menu for under 12s which will keep them well fed on quality, affordable and freshly made staples for under a tenner.
Winner of multiple national awards, Curry Leaf Cafe in the Lanes is a fine example of what a contemporary Indian restaurant should be like. Vibrantly decorated and relaxed atmosphere, the menu is an authentic taste of street food, with some milder and slightly more familiar dishes on an entirely separate kid’s menu.
The entire family is welcome at Cin Cin, and while there isn’t a specific children’s menu, the chefs are more than happy to adapt dishes to suit their preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the authentic Italian dishes. Highchairs are available, and there’s a courtyard for sunny afternoon seating. Please make a note when booking that you’ll be bringing the little ones so that you can be seated appropriately.
Families with children are warmly welcomed at Jo and Co. A dedicated kids menu offers options like pancakes and a build-your-own breakfast, ensuring young ones enjoy a satisfying meal. As the day progresses, the menu extends to encompass a variety of lunch and dinner dishes for kids too. The establishment is well-equipped to cater to families, featuring ample high chairs, convenient changing facilities, and engaging colouring books to keep little ones entertained while you dine.
Donatello certainly knows what they are doing when it comes to authentic and delicious Italian food. It is also a known fact that when kids are asked what they fancy for tea, the answer is 9 times out of 10 pizza or pasta. That is why we recommend this brilliant, long-standing favourite in the city to anyone looking for a place to please their little ones at dinner time.
At LatinoAmerica in Hove you’ll get to enjoy some of the best steaks in Brighton and beautifully balanced robust wines from South America, a country famed for both. But you don’t need to save a visit to the city’s first Argentinian restaurant for date night. Available Monday to Thursday in LatinoAmerica. There’s a special children’s menu with two courses for £9.50 and children under 10 eat for free with an accompanying adult who’s eating (one child per adult). The menu in this Hove restaurant is available between 5 and 6.45pm which you can combine with the early evening specials menu, which theoretically means a family of four can enjoy a two-course meal each for less than £40 (Please check pricing as this can go out of date).
Lavash is a family friendly Brighton restaurant serving freshly made authentic Middle Eastern food in the very heart of Brighton. Located between the station and the beach, the North Laine and the Lanes and close to Churchill Square, it’s an affordable independent restaurant well worth a visit. There’s plenty of seating with the second floor dining area being something of an oasis in the city. The food is fresh and good quality and there’s something for everyone. For the kids there are falafel and hummus wraps and chicken wraps with pilaf bulgur. Both offer something tasty and healthy for them to enjoy. Dinner is served from 5pm making this a good spot for ending a family day in Brighton.
Coppa Club, an all-day dining restaurant in Brighton that oozes coolness so much the kid’s might not even mind being spotted with you here. With plenty of space, no need to worry about your little ones around other guests, and the kid’s menu will no doubt be a hit. Under 12s get a three-course menu to chose from, including a drink, at an affordable set price.
In Spain la Familia is praised and cherished everywhere you go, this familial inclusion is reflected in their hospitality industry, as such it is rare to find a restaurant or bar that won’t welcome the little ones. True to its Spanish influences, Market Restaurant in Hove welcomes you and your little people to come to enjoy their great vibes and Spanish tapas in the heart of Hove.
The Brighton Metropole Bar is a wonderful choice for families with children. They offer a dedicated children’s menu, ensuring there are options to suit their tastes. Little ones will love dishes like the Mini Metropole Burger, a perfect-sized treat, and the Crispy Fish Fingers with chips. The bar also provides essential facilities such as high chairs, changing facilities, and even colouring equipment to keep the young ones entertained. Located on Brighton seafront, the Metropole Bar combines delicious food, breathtaking views, and family-friendly amenities, making it a great choice for a memorable dining experience with your children in tow.
Nestled in Kemptown Village, Nanima provides an intimate and friendly spot for lunch and dinner. With a pick-and-mix, canteen-style service of pan-Asian dishes, it’s easy to create you and your little ones’ perfect meals. At Nanima you are safe in the knowledge that the food your family will eat is healthy, tasty and made with well-sourced produce. There are cakes available too, so if a sweet treat is on the cards then head over to peruse the cake counter.
When thinking of Mediterranean food for kids, it’s usual to think of pasta and pizza, but who also doesn’t love chips in a pitta? Nostos is a Hove restaurant which offers a children’s menu that’s packed with hidden away goodness and familiar favourites. The modern restaurant is light and airy with friendly staff and a grown-up menu that’s packed with classic Greek cuisine and modern inspirations.
Being situated right on the Brighton beach and next to the Palace Pier OhSo Social is a perfect spot for the whole family. Kids get their own dedicated menu at this Brighton restaurant with seaside classics such as fish and chips being a popular favourite. It’s also the perfect venue to teach your children the valuable life skills learnt by all Brightonians, how to defend your dinner from seagulls!
Kids love pizza and Purezza, on St James’ Street, loves kids. Their 100% plant-based menu has a dedicated kids section with four pizza options that you can pimp with extra veg if you have an animal-loving, plant-devouring bambini in tow. How much will this set you back? Well, if the animal-loving, plant-devouring bambini is under 11 and accompanied by an animal-loving, plant-devouring adult who’s eating off the main menu then it’s free. Kids’ drinks and desserts are also available, they’re not free, but you’ll still walk away with change in your pocket from this Kemptown restaurant.
The children’s menu at Petit Pois was created with the same ethos in mind as the main a la carte menu. Head chef David cooks with seasonal, fresh ingredients creating modern French bistro dishes. For children, try the traditional Toulouse sausage or grilled fish with greens. The children’s menu at this Brighton restaurant is affordably priced with a main and dessert coming in at under a tenner so both the adults and the kids will be happy.
Italy does family dining well. So well in fact that families are known to spend hours together around the dining table. Pesca is Hove’s answer to authentic Italian dining. The family run Italian trattoria and bar provides a spot to satisfy those proper pasta pangs, a dish that’s enjoyed by anyone at every age. The space is ideal for friends and family to enjoy each other’s company over great regionally inspired tipples and nibbles in a spacious, friendly Hove restaurant where people are encouraged to take their time grazing through the menu.
Visiting Rockwater with a family in tow is a breeze. The stunning seafront located multi-venue in Hove is fully equipped for hosting families of all ages. You’ll find ample buggy space in all the venues and lifts to all floors for easy access. The beauty of this multi-kitchen venue is that there’s a cuisine to suit all palates, so should you be accompanied by a fussy eater, you’ll be able to amend your reservation accordingly.
The Salt Room has a great reputation for being one of the best seafood joints in town, but they are also a prime family-friendly venue. Preferring home-cooked wholesome food to your average deep-fried fare, their menu has been carefully designed to be nutritious, delicious and easy on the wallet too! Children can enjoy a delicious main and dessert for £7.50
Indulge in the homemade brunch delights for the kids at The New Club on Brighton seafront. For breakfast try their mouthwatering scrambled eggs or fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup. For lunch and dinner, savour their scrumptious mini-burger with fries. Alternatively, enjoy their southern fried chicken bites. Crayons available, high chairs and baby changing facilities.
Give your little ones an education in all things Caribbean at Rum Kitchen. All of the food is freshly prepared and the jerk barbecue is their signature flavour but you’ll find plenty to choose from to suit all palates. Rum Kitchen is located a short walk from the seafront, you can see the sea from the entrance – so the perfect pit-stop after a day on the beach. Open from noon daily with an irresistibly toe-tapping sound track and live DJs at the weekend, this is definitely one for the lively types of any age.
When out on the beach with the family sometimes it can be tricky to find a restaurant that caters for everyone’s foodie needs and we often settle for the fail-safe fish and chips. Not at Shelter Hall, with seven outstanding Brighton restaurants to choose from and the perk of a pick and mix order, just settling to please the kids is not an option.
Levelling up kids food but keeping it tasty for sensitive palates, Terre a Terre takes their kids offering seriously, it’s well considered and creative – no beans on toast here! If you’re raising your brood veggie then treat them to the innovative child friendly dishes that are created at this pioneering restaurant. Indulge them in a little pre-dinner fun with the complimentary addition of Wikki Stix to your table. Fun for the whole family, not just the children!
The Spanish are famous for their familial hospitality, and Tinto Taperia is true to form. While not officially offering a kids menu, this exquisite Spanish restaurant’s offering can be enjoyed by the whole family. You can expect authentic tapas favourites, seasonal specials and paella made to order. From the drinks, you’ll find great wines and spirits that hail from Spain. Set in the North Laine, with views of The Pavilion, you’ll find you’re in the ideal spot for enjoying authentic Mediterranean cuisine.
If you’re taking the family to the marina leisure complex for the day then we thoroughly recommend you take a trip along the boardwalk to The Watershed restaurant and bar on the jetty. High chairs are available for children and the menu is all freshly made with local produce. The views over the docked yachts may well instil in the little ones a sense of adventure!
Wabi Sabi welcomes all the family, making sure that everyone, including the children, feel right at home. Having children too, owners Ken and Sukita understand that kids like their own choices, which is why they offer a set menu just for children. The kids’ menu includes a starter, a nutritious and healthy main course, and a drink. For an extra treat, you can add a dessert. Wabi Sabi also have highchairs at the ready – bring your family and let Wabi Sabi take care of the rest!
Wild Flor is renowned for its mix of classic cookery, interesting and unusual wines and outstanding service. It’s a place where you can relax in luxury and feel thoroughly taken care of. You don’t need to reserve your visit to Wild Flor for special occasions and babysitters as they cater for children. The children’s menu changes seasonally and typically offers bread and a soft drink, a choice of two mains and a dessert.
Cafes
White Cloud Coffee, a child-friendly cafe located in central Brighton, is the perfect spot for families looking for a place to relax and unwind. The spacious cafe boasts outside seating on their terrace overlooking a plaza-style square, providing a great space for kids to run around. In addition to the welcoming atmosphere, the cafe also offers a range of delicious treats that little ones are sure to love, including their homemade cakes.
.
Looking for a cafe that caters for kids? Look no further than Baked. This friendly neighbourhood cafe is set on a sunny south-facing corner of Church Road, Hove. They offer a dedicated kids menu, highchairs and changing facilities. The cafe itself is only a short stroll from the beach. So, why not bundle up the brood and head down for a dip after lunch?
Brighton Regency Routemaster provides a romantic setting that’s out of the ordinary, beautifully nostalgic and downright delicious. Take a ride in their stunning restored 1960s Routemaster and experience Brighton’s most iconic and historic sites, while being serenaded by 60s classics. Savouring a traditional British afternoon tea on an original Routemaster will certainly be a date to remember. The afternoon tea is made up of lashings of homemade sweet pastries, savoury patisseries, cakes and sandwiches. They’re available for all dietary requirements and to top off, you’ll have the option of adding the extra fizz of Prosecco or a Brighton Gin cocktail, to accompany your journey.
Heading to Hove with the family and need a failsafe option for some daytime dining? Cafe Coho can cater for all. As well as a menu that provides the adult diners with sophisticated brunch favourites. They provide the under elevens with an enviable offering. Included in this is bacon and maple syrup stacked pancakes and the simple but reliable favourite, eggs on toast. All child options are available for £5.
The Cherry Tree is one of the lovely little independents located in Brighton Marina. It’s a cosy cafe and kids will love the menu which features plenty of brunch and lunch options as well as tea and cake. After eating you can take a trip to the nearby cinema and bowling alley to make a day of it.
Children are welcomed with open arms at The Gardener cafe on Gardner Street. While we can’t divulge the specific kid-friendly offering, because the daily changing menu is dictated by what supplies are available, we can guarantee that there’ll be plenty for your little one to munch on.
Those of you with young ones will know that the baby-chino boom is in full swing. At Knoops, baby-chinos come free with every drink purchased. They offer hot chocs in small for little ones with a sweet tooth and if your mini-me must, then there are giant marshmallows on offer, too. The cafe offers these chocolatey treats for a drink in or takeaway. They also have a healthy spread of patisserie treats on offer, which include; croissants, macaroons, brownies and many more.
Tucked away in the Lanes is Lost in the Lanes. So named, we think because you are likely to stay lost there for a while. It’s an oasis of calm from the interior of soft light, neutral tones and mirrored walls creating a sense of space. The cafe is open daily serving brunch and elevated lunches that offer a welcome reprieve to the bustling Lanes. High chairs and changing facilities are available.
Seafront strolls wouldn’t be complete without popping in for a bite to eat with the family, and Lucky Beach is keen to oblige. Boasting a large seating area you can nab a table either on the patio or beachfront, all of which have umbrellas in case the sun (or rain!) is beating down! The kid’s menu features mini burgers, fish and chips and chicken kebabs – all of which are locally sourced.
Moksha Cafe, situated near the North Laine, is an ever-popular destination with a lively atmosphere. With speciality coffee and fresh homemade good quality food, Moksha is a great spot for families coming into Brighton for a spot of shopping with a dedicated kids menu, buggy space and high chairs.
Starfish and Coffee have twice won a BRAVO for their breakfast offering. Situated on the edge of Queen’s Park it’s the perfect place to fuel up before or after some playtime or duck feeding (remember, don’t feed ducks bread, lettuce is best). Turn up any morning and you’ll find it buzzing with families tucking into pancake stacks, hashes and breakfasts.
Pubs
Located in the bustling Brighton Lanes area and just a short walk from the beach, Oculist would make a perfect pit-stop with the kids for a tasty lunch or dinner. Oculist boasts plenty of large open spaces and a multi-level roof terrace – great for a sunny afternoon. Visit Oculist for their delicious dim-sum or simply stop by to quench your thirst. There’s an 8pm kids curfew for the evening transitioning into DJ sets.
The Basketmakers Arms is one of those landmark pubs that genuinely deserves its reputation as a local institution. Tucked away in the heart of the North Laine, it’s a low-ceilinged cosy and traditional pub. Here you’ll find a quality selection of drinks and a menu of homemade pub classics that favour locally landed seafood specials and traditional roasts on Sundays. All family members are welcome including dogs and children.
One of Brighton’s well-known pubs, The Black Lion, is situated in the heart of The Lanes just near the seafront on Black Lion Street. Not only does The Black Lion have a good reputation for a music-filled night out, but it’s amazing food is also the attraction to many people. The Black Lion is child-friendly providing high-chairs, a kids menu with options for toddlers and baby changing.
Situated near the western end of Hove Lawns, The Better Half Pub is a thriving part of the local community, with welcoming and laid back atmosphere that’s inclusive for all. The pub food draws in visitors from all over Brighton and Hove, it’s freshly made and seasonal and Sunday roasts are nearly always a sell-out. There’s a kids menu with a small selection to choose from and on a Sunday, The Better Half offer a half portion for children.
The Chimney House is located near to the popular area of Seven Dials in central Brighton. Featuring plenty of quirk and great pub food, including a dedicated menu for the kids. Lots of effort goes into sourced good quality ingredients for the menus including fish from Shoreham and Newhaven, fruit and vegetables from local farms and glasshouses as well as meat from Garlic Wood Farm.
A bit of a Brighton institution, The Dorset is a pub you just can’t help but return to again and again. An added plus is that it is family-friendly, with a very reasonably priced children’s menu and table activities to keep the little terrors busy. The food is freshly prepared in house and ample outside seating is available during the weekends if being cooped up inside is a little challenging!
Head to The Farm Tavern in Hove for a pub that’s warm, welcoming and happy to host you and your brood. Although cosy, the pub is deceptively spacious, with a large and bright dining space on the first floor. Food-wise, there’s an Eastern European small plates menu available Thursday-Saturday. On a Sunday you can enjoy a roast with a kid’s roast offer for under 12’s.
The George Payne in Hove is a popular local that attracts crowds from far and wide for its mix of friendly atmosphere, weekday deals, Sunday roasts and a menu of modern and classic pub fare that’s made fresh to order seven days a week. The pub is child and dog friendly, so a great spot for the whole family and for getting together with friends for a catch up. The bar has a large and light dining area and a lovely garden for the summer months, and a stretch tent and heated cabins for the winter. There’s a dedicated kids menu and, on Sundays, kids get a smaller roast portion so they can join in the fun of a Brighton (Hove, actually) Sunday session.
Overlooking Hove Lagoon means Gather Inn is a destination venue with a view! The venue is part pub, part restaurant and has the extra benefit of having accommodation attached. If your family is visiting then this a great all-purpose place to bed them for the weekend. From the food you can expect a mix of traditional English classics, such as bangers and mash and with warming homemade pies. There are also great international options for the more adventurous members of the family to enjoy. Children will be able to choose from the kids menu, which at £8 for a main course and a scoop of ice cream, is a bargain!
Putting the heart in Hanover is The Hartington Pub (affectionately called “The Harty”) this large community pub is welcoming to all, including children. The kid’s menu is child-sized versions of pub classics and child-sized roasts on Sundays make for enjoyable family get-togethers and weekend dining. A play area in the garden is perfect for summer days, with colouring in and activities provided for indoor fun.
Haus on the Hill is a friendly local pub run by the good people who make Brighton Bier. It’s a strong favourite in the local area thanks to its mix of good beer, delicious food from Danny O’Shea’s Caribbean Kitchen and a super friendly team behind the bar. You’ll find plenty of families popping in after work for a catch-up, so your kid’s are likely to have some playfellows. If you’re stopping for food there are kids options on both the weekday and Sunday lunch menus and plenty of non-boozy drinks too. A killer playlist of 90s Brit-pop and indie will give your progeny a sound education in that superb musical decade.
Just ten minutes out of central Brighton in Patcham you’ll find the ‘true community’ pub, The Ladies Mile. This pub welcomes children and you’ll find a kid’s menu on both the bar menu and Sunday roast menu. Outside in the garden there’s an enclosed play area to keep the children entertained.
The Lewes Road Inn is a community based pub that has the local student population bumping shoulders with the young families of the surrounding area. It’s a bright and inviting pub with plenty of space, especially during the day, which makes it perfect for family get-togethers over a bite to eat. The menu is Italian inspired with classic small plates and home made pizzas. There are frequent food and drink offers, so you could save a bit too. The dedicated kids menu features a selection of pizzas, chicken and chips and burgers (beef/ vegan) and chips, all leaving you with change from a tenner.
The New Inn in Hurstpierpoint is just 15 minutes outside of Brighton surrounded by luscious Sussex countryside, it boasts a one-third acre sun-trap garden with large, contained, children’s play area. They have a dedicated children’s menu and on Sunday’s children can pick from the five or six strong roast selection with smaller portions served at half price. High chairs and changing facilities are also available.
The Railway Inn in Portslade is a spacious and welcoming community pub. There’s a large rear garden for sunny days and a busy calendar of events, including some tailored especially for children that really go all out (think Halloween parties with bubble machine disco, games, spooky dance routines, fancy dress parade…). When it’s not all fun and games, The Railway Inn does a child friendly menu that’s reflective of their adult menu which is a fusion of Mexican and Asian street food and pub classics. For kids you’ll find easy pleasers such as cheesy pasta and things that are a bit more adventurous like chow mein with chicken or tofu. On Sundays it’s all about Sunday roast with kids getting smaller portions of the classics and some simpler options if they’re not quite ready for roasts.
Welcoming folk of the Preston Park area and beyond, The Cleveland Arms is the definition of a community pub. The venue itself has been recently refurbished into a modern and light but cosy and welcoming space, overlooking the beautiful green space of Blakers Park. Offering plenty of food and drink options for children, The Cleveland Arms boasts a large outside seating area, situated on a quiet and residential street, with a play area just over the road.
Countryside
The spectacular Sussex countryside is wonderful to explore with children. At Albourne Estate you can pick up a picnic basket and discover the vineyards and nearby lake, stopping off to eat and sample some of their award winning wines. Children are welcome and will love the space to roam and explore. While the picnics,cheese and charcuterie at the Tasting Room are designed with adults in mind you’re welcome to bring a packed lunch for children who’ve not yet acquired a taste for charcuterie and cheese.
The Cider Tap on Wobblegate Farm is a superb location for a family get-together. The idyllic countryside setting allows for plenty of space for the children to run around while, if inclined, the adults can enjoy the cider that is stocked there. The Syndicate Kitchen is the team behind the epic food offering. You’ll find a menu of street food from around the globe on a weekly rotation, yummy, finger-food-friendly brunches (they’re served in buns) on Saturdays and Sundays there’s the Sunday Feast, where if you’re under 12 you eat half price and under five you’ll eat for free! (Call ahead to check open hours)
The Cricketers in Worthing is a fantastic destination for families, offering an incredible outdoor area and beer garden that kids will love. With a spacious play area, children can have fun while parents relax and enjoy their time. The pub goes above and beyond to cater to young ones, providing a dedicated kids menu that features delicious and wholesome options. Little ones can enjoy dishes like fish fingers with chips, mini burgers, or chicken nuggets with fries. The family-friendly atmosphere and enticing children’s menu make The Cricketers an ideal choice for a great day out with the kids.
More green time means less screen time! Get the family into the swing of regular exercise and outdoor time with Mannings Heath Wine Estate and Golf Club. The Vineyard Kitchen is open to club members and non-members alike for breakfast through to early evening lunch. For the young Tiger Woods or Karen Stupples in your family, there is an excellent menu of freshly prepared, kid-approved classics to pick from, all made with top quality ingredients to keep fit, healthy and happy.
Afternoon tea is without a doubt the most delicious English tradition. Every visitor to the beautiful Leonardslee House should expect to enjoy the very finest food, spectacular views and the ultimate tea experience. The children’s afternoon tea menu is three tiers of classic delight, with a little bit more playfulness that might have adults getting a spot of food jealousy going on; if your good they might let you try the Sweetie Pie or Ice-Cream Cake Pop, but don’t count on it.
A great spot if you want to take the kids to the Sussex countryside. Formerly, two pubs, the Magpie and the Sportsman, the Grade II listed buildings were knocked through into one over recent years and this traditional ‘beer house’ has been part of the village’s heritage for some years. Situated north of Hurstpierpoint at Goddards Green.
Woodfire Camping, a family-run Sussex campsite which also serves up delicious food, is the ultimate child-friendly destination. For knackered parents, camping can feel like a bit much, but owners Stella and Griff make it easy by taking care of the cooking. Cooking on the fire is all part of the camping fun, but if you need the night off, you can pull up a bench and enjoy the live fire cooking, local produce and conviviality. The campsite encourages quiet voices after 10:30pm so that little ones (and big ones) can get some much needed rest. There are fun games to play, friendly pubs to walk to and sandy beaches to visit. Children under three camp free. Anyone for lemonade?
