29 Best Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free in 2024
Finding restaurants where kids eat free can be a game-changer for families looking to enjoy a meal out and about without breaking the bank. Are you tired of hunting for deals that suit your whole family, whilst trying to stick to a budget? Imagine the relief of choosing from a range of restaurants where kids eat free that also offer you a stress-free dining experience.
Today, many restaurants across the country are offering special promotions where children can dine for free on select days. But which spots offer the best deals and what can you expect on the menu? This list of restaurants where kids eat free will help you plan your next family outing with ease.
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The 29 Top Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free
1. Denny’s
Denny's heads this list of restaurants where kids eat free, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse menu that caters to all ages. It’s an excellent spot for families looking to enjoy a meal together without spending a fortune. Denny’s offers classic American diner fare, with popular kid-friendly dishes like pancakes, burgers and chicken tenders. On Tuesdays, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., kids can eat free with the purchase of an adult entrée.
Terms and conditions usually include a limit of one free kid’s meal per adult entrée ordered and the offer is valid for children 10 and under. With its relaxed environment and affordable options, Denny’s is a fantastic choice of restaurant where kids eat free.
2. Miller's Ale House
Miller’s Ale House is a great choice among restaurants where kids eat free, offering a relaxed, family-oriented environment with a menu that appeals to all ages. Popular kid-friendly options include classics like chicken tenders and mini burgers, all served with a side and a drink.
To take advantage of the "kids eat free" deal, certain terms and conditions typically apply. Often, the offer is available on Tuesday and requires a minimum spend to apply. Be sure to check the specific location’s promotions as these details can vary.
3. IHOP
One of the top restaurants where kids eat free, IHOP is known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu. It offers a variety of kid-friendly dishes like pancakes, waffles and fun-shaped eggs, which are always a hit with younger diners. Families appreciate the range of options that cater to picky eaters and the affordable prices that make dining out more enjoyable.
To take advantage of the deals at this restaurant where kids eat free, it’s important to note the specific terms and conditions. As part of the promotion, under 12s eat free every evening from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
4. Cody's Original Roadhouse
Cody's Original Roadhouse is a great choice among restaurants where kids eat free. It offers a welcoming environment where both kids and adults can enjoy a hearty meal. Kid-friendly dishes include favorites like chicken tenders, mac and cheese and mini cheeseburgers, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
To take advantage of the kids-eat-free deal, families typically need to dine on designated days, such as Monday and Tuesday nights, purchasing an adult entrée to qualify. However, it's always a good idea to check with your local Cody's to be on the safe side.
5. Bob Evans
Bob Evans is a well-known, family-friendly dining spot, making it an excellent pick for those seeking restaurants where kids eat free. With a menu filled with comfort food classics, it’s a place where both parents and kids can enjoy a satisfying meal.
Popular kid-friendly dishes at this restaurant where kids eat free include French toast, turkey dinner, cheeseburgers, pancakes, chicken pasta and mac and cheese, all available as part of the promotion. Families will need to dine at selected Bob Evans locations on a Tuesday to be eligible for the offer, purchasing an adult entrée to receive a free kid's meal.
6. Famous Dave’s
Famous Dave’s is a great family-friendly option among restaurants where kids eat free, as long as they are under 12 and you visit on a Tuesday. This eatery is known for its welcoming atmosphere and hearty BBQ dishes that both kids and adults love. Popular kid-friendly dishes include the rib dinner and cheeseburgers, all served in portions just right for younger appetites.
7. Smashburger
Smashburger is a popular choice if you’re looking for restaurants where kids eat free. Known for its delicious, customizable burgers, Smashburger offers a variety of kid-friendly dishes that cater to younger palates, such as the classic Smash Jr. burger. Smashburger’s kid's meals are perfectly portioned for kids and can be paired with sides like fries or apple slices.
If you're heading to this restaurant where kids eat free, certain terms and conditions must typically be met for the deal to apply. Generally, the offer is valid for children 12 and under on Wednesdays and a qualifying adult entrée must be purchased. However, it's always a good idea to check with your local Smashburger for the exact details.
8. Chick-fil-A
Head to Chick-fil-A if you’re on the hunt for restaurants where kids eat free and your family is in the mood for chicken. It's a great spot for families looking for a quick and enjoyable meal. Popular kid-friendly dishes include the Chick-n-Strips, grilled nuggets and classic Chick-fil-A nuggets, all of which come with sides like applesauce or waffle fries, making them a hit with younger diners.
At selected locations, children under 12 can get a free meal alongside a certain purchase, on Tuesday nights. However, calling ahead to check beforehand is recommended.
9. Chili’s
Chili's is a popular choice among restaurants where kids eat free, for multiple reasons. Popular kid-friendly dishes include chicken sandwiches, cheese quesadillas and cheesy chicken pasta. Although the kids-eat-free-offer days vary, it generally requires the purchase of an adult entrée, and the free kid's meal is valid for children 12 and under. All in all, it’s a great way to enjoy a meal out while keeping dining costs down.
10. IKEA
IKEA is renowned for being a family-friendly destination, offering not just stylish and affordable furniture, but also a welcoming environment for families with children. The in-store cafeterias are great examples of restaurants where kids eat free, making IKEA a popular choice for families looking to enjoy a meal while shopping.
Kids 12 and under can enjoy a range of kid-friendly dishes, including mini meatballs on Wednesdays for free alongside the purchase of an adult entrée. Dining adults must also be part of the IKEA Family card scheme to qualify at this restaurant were kids eat free.
11. Hooters
Hooters, known for its casual atmosphere and sports-centric environment, can be a surprisingly good option among restaurants where kids eat free (12 and under) on Sundays. The Hooters chicken wings, boneless wings and kid-sized burgers are often well-received by younger diners. It’s always a good idea to check with the local Hooters location for current promotions and requirements to ensure you get the best deal for your family.
12. Marie Callender's
Marie Callender's is a great choice among the best restaurants where kids eat free. Known for its comforting American fare, it offers a range of kid-friendly dishes like mini corn dogs and macaroni and cheese. Be aware that the promotion is only valid on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and kid's meals are usually free with the purchase of an adult entrée. Additionally, the offer may be subject to location-specific terms, so it’s a good idea to check ahead beforehand.
13. Dickey's Barbecue Pit
Dickey's Barbecue Pit is one of those popular restaurants where kids eat free which everyone seems to love. Kids can enjoy a variety of kid-friendly dishes, such as tender pulled pork sandwiches and kid-sized portions of ribs, all served with classic sides like fries and macaroni and cheese. The offer usually applies to one free kid's meal per paying adult on a Sunday, so be sure to check for any additional terms and conditions before you go.
14. Moe's Southwest Grill
For top restaurants where kids eat free with a Mexican vibe, try Moe's Southwest Grill. This eatery is known for its welcoming environment and kid-friendly dishes like burritos, tacos and quesadillas, all made with the same fresh, flavorful ingredients found in the adult menu. Visit Moe’s on a Sunday to take advantage of the kids eat free promotion.
15. On the Border
On the Border is an ideal option among restaurants where kids eat free all weekend, as long as they’re 12 and under. It offers a range of kid-friendly dishes that appeal to younger diners, including cheesy quesadillas and delicious tacos. It's always a good idea to check with your local On the Border for the exact requirements and availability of this offer.
16. Bruster's Ice Cream
Bruster's Ice Cream is a family-friendly ice cream and dessert spot that stands out among restaurants where kids eat free (under 16), with every purchase of an adult breakfast. Known for its wide array of handcrafted ice cream flavors, sundaes and shakes, Bruster's offers a fun and casual atmosphere that appeals to all ages. Popular kid-friendly options include the colorful sundaes, ice cream cones and the much-loved waffle bowls.
17. Fuddruckers
Often a popular choice for a family outing, Fuddruckers is a top spot among restaurants where kids eat free or at a reduced rate. Kid-friendly dishes include classic cheeseburgers and fries. The restaurant often features a build-your-own burger bar, allowing kids to customize their meals, which adds to the appeal. Be sure to check the specific terms and conditions at your local Fuddruckers as promotions can vary by location and day.
18. Ruby Tuesday
Ruby Tuesday is an excellent option among restaurants where kids eat free on a Tuesday. Kids can enjoy a variety of popular dishes such as cheeseburgers and pasta, all designed to appeal to young taste buds. The free kid's meal is valid for children aged 12 and under and is only available with the purchase of an adult entrée.
19. Chevys Fresh Mex
Chevys Fresh Mex stands out in this list of restaurants where kids eat free or for next to nothing for its Mexican masterpieces. Popular kid-friendly dishes include flavorful tacos, cheesy quesadillas and hearty nachos. The kid's meal specials usually run on a Wednesday but be sure to check with your local Chevys to confirm.
20. Genghis Grill
Genghis Grill is a fantastic choice among restaurants where kids eat free or nearly free on Mondays. Known for its build-your-own stir-fry concept, Genghis Grill allows diners to select from a variety of fresh ingredients and customize their meals, which is especially appealing to kids.
21. Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery is a great option among the best restaurants where kids eat free with one purchase of an adult meal on Tuesdays. It offers a range of kid-friendly dishes like pancakes and macaroni and cheese, ensuring that even picky eaters find something they love. This makes Perkins a convenient and budget-friendly choice for families looking to enjoy a meal out together.
22. Applebee’s
Applebee's is a popular choice among warm and cozy restaurants where kids eat free, making it a great family-friendly spot. It offers a variety of kid-friendly dishes such as chicken tenders, mac and cheese and mini burgers.
To take advantage of the "kids eat free" promotion, certain terms and conditions typically apply, such as specific days of the week or required purchases by adults. It's always a good idea to check local promotions or ask your server about the current offers to ensure you meet the necessary requirements at this restaurant where kids eat free.
23. Red Robin
Red Robin is a well-known choice among restaurants where kids eat free any day during their birth month, or half off on Wednesdays at select locations. It offers a variety of kid-friendly dishes for free such as the Mini Masterpiece burgers and a range of delicious sides for those aged 11 and under. Check the latest promotions on Red Robin’s website or inquire at your local franchise to find out more about this restaurant where kids eat free.
24. Culver’s
Culver's is a great choice among restaurants where kids eat free any day of the week, as long as it's dessert! To take advantage of the freebie offer, purchase a kids meal for children aged 12 and under and you'll receive a complimentary custard dessert.
25. Steak 'n Shake
For a restaurant where kids eat free that offers the tastiest classic American fare, head to Steak n’ Shake. It features popular kid-friendly dishes such as mini burgers, milkshakes and fries. Simply spend a certain amount (check with the franchise you're headed to) to be eligible for a free meal for kids aged 12 and under on a Saturday or Sunday.
26. Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut is a popular choice among restaurants where kids eat free, with the offer available on Tuesdays for kids aged 10 or under. Featuring kid-friendly options like personal pizzas, cheesy breadsticks and flavorful pasta, Pizza Hut caters to young tastes while offering many great options for adults, too.
27. Maggiano’s Little Italy
Maggiano’s Little Italy is a great pick among restaurants where kids eat free for families seeking a warm, welcoming dining experience. Known for its hearty Italian fare, Maggiano’s offers a family-friendly atmosphere with large portions, perfect for sharing. Popular kid-friendly dishes include the classic spaghetti and meatballs and cheesy lasagna. The promotion means that kids five and under can eat free on Mondays with the purchase of an adult entrée.
28. Golden Corral
Golden Corral stands out as one of the top restaurants where kids eat free every day, as long as they are aged three and under. This popular chain offers a wide range of kid-friendly dishes in its extensive buffet. Always verify the current promotions and conditions at your local Golden Corral to ensure you get the most out of your dining experience.
29. Cicis Pizza
Cicis Pizza is a popular choice among restaurants where kids eat free (3 and under) due to its family-friendly atmosphere and affordable pricing. It offers a wide variety of pizzas, pasta and salads, as well as a buffet section that caters to both kids and adults. The restaurant's casual setting and endless options make it an ideal spot for families with young children.
Learn To Cook With Your Kids
While exploring restaurants where kids eat free is a fantastic way to enjoy meals without the hassle of cooking, you might also consider expanding your culinary skills through cooking classes near you or online classes with your family.
These classes offer the chance to learn new techniques together, discover tips and tricks and create gourmet meals from the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you prefer in-person or virtual classes, these exciting experiences provide a great alternative to dining out while creating a deeper connection with food.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
Checking out restaurants where kids eat free can be a great way for families to enjoy dining out while saving money. With a variety of options available, from casual dining spots to family-friendly chains, there are plenty of opportunities to treat your kids to a meal without breaking the bank. Keep an eye out for specific days and requirements to take full advantage of these kid-friendly offers throughout the year.
For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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