Top 20 Family-Friendly Restaurants in Tempe, AZ: Kid-Approved Dining Spots
Planning a family meal out in Tempe, AZ? Selecting a restaurant that delights every palate and engages all ages can be challenging. Our expert-curated guide highlights the best family-friendly restaurants offering delicious, kid-approved menus in welcoming atmospheres—ideal for families, including visiting relatives.
1. Daily Jam
310 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 968-9288
Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and Happy Hours (Thu.-Sat. 3-8 p.m.). Daily Jam features a diverse, kid-friendly menu in a relaxed "order-and-go" style. Enjoy your meal on their expansive Mill Avenue patio, steps from Tempe Town Lake and 'A' Mountain—perfect before or after exploring downtown attractions.
2. IKEA Tempe Bistro & Restaurant
2110 W. Ikea Way, Tempe, AZ 85284 | (888) 888-4532
Beyond shopping, IKEA's casual bistro offers affordable meals and a dedicated kids' dining area. Savor their iconic Swedish meatballs, then browse to walk it off.
Mon-Sun: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. (lunch/dinner only; limited seating; bistro takeaway only).
3. Rigatony's Authentic Italian Restaurant
1850 E. Warner Rd., Tempe, AZ 85284 | (480) 899-1111
For generous Italian family feasts, Rigatony's delivers large, shareable portions starting with fresh salad and bread. Ideal for birthdays and celebrations.
4. Rustler's Rooste
8383 S. 48th St., Phoenix, AZ 85044 | (602) 431-6474
Just beyond Tempe, this spot welcomes families with live country music, an indoor slide, balloon artists, cotton candy, and wood-chip floors for mess-free fun. Comfort food seals the deal.
5. Rainforest Cafe
5000 S. Arizona Mills Cir., Tempe, AZ 85282 | (480) 752-9100
Thrill kids with animatronic animals, faux thunderstorms, and fun hats amid tasty meals. Designed for families of all ages.
6. Scramble
1120 E. Baseline Rd., Tempe, AZ 85283 | (480) 534-4044
Quick counter service suits families (and pets). Try Santa Fe Benedict, Western Omelette, or French Toast; kids love dollar pancakes and grilled cheese. Pair with local Infusion iced tea. See our Tempe Scramble blog for more.
7. Snooze an AM Eatery
615 S. College Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 355-1934
Indulge in fluffy pancakes (try the flight of three), eggs, and breakfast pot pie amid funky decor. Family fun on the patio with cornhole and hula hoops.
8. Oregano's
523 W. University Dr., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 858-0501
1475 W. Elliot Rd., Tempe, AZ 85284 | (480) 966-0401
Two Tempe locations serve massive pizzas, pastas, salads, and garlic bread, ending with a legendary pizza cookie. Friendly staff and generous portions.
9. Garcia's Mexican Restaurant
1706 E. Warner Rd., Tempe, AZ 85284 | (480) 838-1005
Casual Mexican favorites with endless chips, kid options, and hearty portions covering all cravings.
10. Wildflower Bread Company
6428 S. McClintock Dr., Tempe, AZ 85283 | (480) 838-9773
Fresh breads, pastries, and a full menu of breakfast, lunch, dinner—balancing hearty and healthy choices. Affordable kids' menu pleases all.
11. Spinato's Pizzeria and Family Kitchen
96 S. Rockford Dr., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 967-0020
Exceptional pizzas (must-try Mamma's Signature) in thin, Sicilian, or calzone styles, plus salads, sandwiches, and pastas for everyone.
12. Snakes & Lattes
20 W. 6th St., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 361-6644
Burgers, poutine, and 100+ board games (Clue to strategy hits) make meals interactive family fun.
13. Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que
Tempe Marketplace, 2030 E. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 966-7427
Southern BBQ hospitality in themed rooms with massive portions and kids' menu. Don't skip dessert.
14. Perfect Pear Bistro
9845 S. Priest Dr., Tempe, AZ 85284 | (480) 247-3410
603 W. University Dr., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 966-7327
Innovative salads, sandwiches (spicy pork tacos, pear cobb), and sweet potato fries in cozy-modern vibe. Kids' menu available.
15. Culinary Dropout at the Yard Tempe
149 S. Farmer Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 240-1601
Gastropub with craveable eats, drinks, and games (cornhole, ping pong). Kids' menu offered; check age rules for gaming areas.
16. Fate Brewing
201 E. Southern Ave., Tempe, AZ 85282 | (480) 590-2395
Modern space with burgers, Hawaiian salmon, craft beers, ample seating, and kids' menu.
17. Someburros
101 E. Baseline Rd., Tempe, AZ 85283 | (480) 839-8226
1314 S. Rural Rd., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 446-8226
Authentic Sonoran Mexican with family recipes, generous portions, and kids' menu.
18. Social Hall
715 S. McClintock Dr., Tempe, AZ 85281
Free games (shuffleboard, Skee-ball, arcade) indoors/outdoors, plus shareable bites like nachos. All ages until 10 p.m. (21+ after).
19. Chompie's
1160 E. University Dr., Tempe, AZ 85281
All-day award-winning breakfast, deli sandwiches (N.Y.-style pastrami), Jewish specialties, fresh bagels, and bakery treats.
Bloggers' Picks for Family-Friendly Dining in Tempe:
- The Best Mill Ave Restaurants for Families [From breakfast to dessert! by Global Munchkins]
- Get Your Grub On – The Top Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Tempe by Ripped Jeans & Bifocals
