Going out to eat as a family sounds like a great idea in theory. Someone else does the cooking and the dishes, score! But if you’ve ever been to a restaurant with kids, you know it can be stressful. The kids can’t sit still. They’re impatient for the food to come. Then they don’t like the food. By the time you pay the bill, you’re questioning your sanity!
We can’t guarantee your kids will eat, but they will be entertained at one of these family-friendly restaurants (and hopefully you can enjoy your meal!).
Family-Friendly Restaurants in Des Moines
Either/Or
6222 Grand Ave Des Moines
If you want to enjoy drinks and food while the kids play, this is the place to go! There is a large outdoor space includes a covered patio for dining, fire pits, playscape, and an acre of grass and green space overlooking Aliber soccer fields and the bike path. The kid’s menu passes the test with burgers, chicken fingers, and mac n cheese.
SmashPark
6625 Coachlight Dr West Des Moines
Eat and then spend time playing arcade games, pickleball, corn hole, darts, shuffleboard, bocce ball, foosball, ping pong, and more.
Kinship Brewing
255 Northwest Sunrise Drive, Waukee
Kids, dogs, and bikes are welcome! Enjoy flatbread pizzas and live music on the large outdoor patio with artificial turf.
Pelican Post
265 50th St West Des Moines
The casual atmosphere and laid-back vibe is made for families. Throw in live music, hula hoops on the patio, and daily specials and family night out is a hit!
Backpocket Pin & Pixel
6205 Merle Hay Road Johnston
This combo brewery and arcade mean kids and parents are entertained.
// RELATED CONTENT: Where Do Kids Eat Free/Or Cheap in Des Moines //
Honorable mentions: Mexican restaurants are always a go-to for our family. They have fast service and chips and salsa tides you over until the food is served.
