Memphis, Tennessee, is a vibrant city full of history and culture. The home of the blues, rock n’ roll, and Elvis Presley also has a wide range of kid-friendly restaurants to appease your little ones. Whether you’re looking for some delicious southern-style cooking, classic Italian food, or just a great spot to grab a bite with the kids in tow, Memphis has something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the best places to eat in Memphis with kids!
Kid-Friendly Places to Eat in Memphis
Gus’s Fried Chicken
This beloved Memphis staple has been serving fried chicken in downtown Memphis since 1953, and it’s still one of the most popular spots in town. Gus’s menu includes classic Southern sides like coleslaw and mashed potatoes, and the restaurant has an inviting atmosphere that will make your family feel right at home.
The recipe for the chicken is a closely guarded secret, but it is known to involve a unique blend of spices and a buttermilk batter. The chicken is perfectly fried and served hot and fresh, with sides like french fries, baked beans, and coleslaw. The restaurant’s casual and friendly atmosphere, combined with the mouthwatering chicken, has made it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
Its proximity to popular attractions like Memphis Zoo or the Fire Museum of Memphis makes it a popular spot for families to grab a bite after a day of exploring. You can even easily walk from Gus’s Fried Chicken to Beale Street — a historic street known for its blues music and nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and live music venues. It is a popular destination for tourists visiting Memphis and is often called the “Home of the Blues.”
Flying Fish
Flying Fish is a kid-friendly restaurant located in Memphis that offers a fun and casual atmosphere for families to enjoy. The restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes, including fresh catfish, shrimp, oysters, and, of course, flying fish.
The decor is playful, with colorful walls and vintage fishing gear adorning the walls. Children will love the unique experience of seeing live catfish swimming in tanks before being prepared for their meals. The menu also includes non-seafood options for picky eaters, such as chicken tenders and burgers.
Huey’s Downtown
Huey’s Downtown is a must-visit burger joint that is renowned for its casual atmosphere and mouth-watering burgers. Located in the heart of metropolitan Memphis, this eatery has a cozy and inviting ambiance that is perfect for a laid-back dining experience. And a big plus here, with its downtown location and surrounding areas, including Olive Branch, Collierville, Cordova, Downtown, Germantown, Midtown, East Memphis, Southhaven, and Southwind, there’s likely a spot nearby no matter where you’re located.
The star of the show, of course, is their delicious burgers, which are made from high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection. Apart from their regular menu, Huey’s Downtown also offers a kids’ menu that includes options like grilled cheese, chicken fingers, and mini burgers, making it an excellent choice for families with children. With friendly service and tasty food, Huey’s Downtown is a great spot to grab a bite.
The Arcade Restaurant
If you’re looking for a family-friendly spot to grab some delicious food after a visit to either the National Civil Rights Museum or the South Main Farmer’s Market, The Arcade is the perfect destination. This diner-style restaurant has been around since 1919 and has a great retro vibe. They serve breakfast all day and have a kid’s menu with traditional dishes like pancakes, eggs, and French toast.
The restaurant’s kid-friendly atmosphere and menu make it a great place to bring the whole family for a meal. Children can enjoy classic dishes like pancakes and waffles, while parents can indulge in hearty breakfast items or Southern comfort food favorites like fried catfish or barbecue. With its charming retro decor, friendly staff, and great service in general, the Arcade Restaurant is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the heart and soul of Memphis cuisine.
Little Tea Shop
If your kids are craving something a bit more classic than barbecue, try The Little Tea Shop. This cozy eatery offers up classic comfort foods like fried chicken, meatloaf and mashed potatoes—all served up with generous portions of southern hospitality.
The Little Tea Shop is a charming gem nestled in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee. The restaurant has been serving delicious, home-cooked meals for over 90 years and has become a local institution. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, complete with checkered tablecloths and vintage décor, makes it the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner with friends and family.
The menu boasts a variety of dishes, including vegetarian options, and the staff is always happy to accommodate dietary restrictions. With its rich history and delicious food, The Little Tea Shop is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Memphis.
Central BBQ
Central BBQ in Memphis is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic southern-style barbecue. The restaurant is a local favorite, renowned for its mouth-watering smoked meats such as pulled pork and ribs. The meats are slow-cooked to perfection and served with the restaurant’s signature sauce, which adds a unique flavor to every bite.
For those with picky eaters in tow, Central BBQ also offers kid-friendly options like mini hot dogs and burgers, as well as special kids meals deals. The restaurant’s friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make it the perfect spot to enjoy a satisfying meal with family and friends.
Little Italy Pizza Midtown
Little Italy Pizza Midtown in Memphis is one of the best places to enjoy Friday nights with kids. Located in the heart of Midtown, this cozy and family-friendly pizzeria serves up some of the best New York-style pizzas in the area, as well as other Italian favorites like pasta, calzones, and salads.
One of the reasons why Little Italy Pizza Midtown is so great for families is its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is spacious and brightly lit, with plenty of tables and booths for groups of all sizes. The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure that every customer feels right at home.
But the real draw of Little Italy Pizza Midtown is, of course, the food. The pizzas are made fresh to order, with a variety of toppings to suit every taste. From classic pepperoni and cheese to more adventurous options like chicken alfredo and buffalo chicken, there is something for everyone on the menu. And for those who prefer something other than pizza, the pasta dishes are equally delicious and satisfying.
Kooky Canuck
If you’re looking for a perfect place that is both kid-friendly and vegetarian-friendly, look no further than Kooky Canuck. The restaurant’s menu features a wide range of vegetarian options, including salads, veggie burgers, and vegetarian appetizers.
Additionally, Kooky Canuck has a kid-friendly menu that offers a variety of meals, including mac and cheese, chicken tenders, and pizza. The restaurant’s atmosphere is welcoming and family-friendly, with quirky decor adding charm. With its diverse menu and friendly environment, this place is absolutely on the list of must-visit family restaurants in Memphis.
Peabody Hotel Afternoon Tea
Located in the heart of downtown Memphis, Peabody Hotel is well-known for its famous Peabody Ducks, which march through the lobby each day at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. to delight the hotel guests of all ages. But what many don’t know is that the hotel also offers a delightful tea experience for children and adults alike.
Peabody Hotel Tea is an immersive event that allows guests to enjoy delicious treats such as scones and finger sandwiches, while enjoying classic tunes from the hotel’s live pianists. Kids will also love the interactive entertainment featuring magicians, face painting, and visits from some of their favorite characters. With its charming atmosphere and delicious treats, Peabody Hotel Tea is a must-do activity for families visiting Memphis.
A. Schwab
A. Schwab is a historic soda fountain and general store located in the heart of downtown Memphis. The store has been in operation since 1876 (yes, it’s that old!) and has become a beloved landmark in the city. A. Schwab offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past, with its old-fashioned soda fountain, vintage memorabilia, and wide selection of traditional goods.
One of the main draws of A. Schwab is its soda fountain, which serves up classic treats like phosphates, ice cream sodas, and milkshakes. The soda fountain is located on the first floor of the store, and features an ornate bar and vintage equipment that dates back to the early 1900s. You can take a seat at the counter and watch as their drinks are expertly prepared by the fountain’s skilled staff.
In addition to its soda fountain, A. Schwab is also known for its extensive collection of vintage items and souvenirs. The store sells everything from old postcards and books to vintage toys and games. You can also pick up classic snacks like Moon Pies and RC Cola, as well as locally-made crafts and gifts.
The Final Note
As a mom of three, I know how important it is to find family-friendly restaurants that everyone can enjoy while traveling. And not all the time we exhausted parents can get the kids to agree on one place. But hopefully, this list of kid-friendly places to eat in Memphis will help you find something that fits the bill for everyone in your family and make your trip to Memphis a truly memorable experience!
