3 UWS Restaurants Included in List of Kid-Friendliest

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Finding a restaurant suitable for the whole family can be a challenge in New York City. These days, it seems our reliable eateries are more crowded than ever, and the thought of navigating hoards of hungry diners as your little one’s highchair is set up may feel daunting. Luckily, on the Upper West Side, “kid-friendly” establishments are the name of the game — and a recent list from the food fanatics at Eater has outlined the best options.

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Although the round-up spans multiple boroughs, three UWS standbys made the cut (out of 18 total). And while you’re likely already familiar with these neighborhood favorites, read on for why exactly they’re special (note: I’ve dined at each more than I’d care to admit over the years, so rest assured, I can co-sign Eater’s stamp of approval with my own research).

Good Enough to Eat

Since opening its doors at 520 Columbus Avenue (and 85th Street) in 1981, Good Enough to Eat has been catering to families seven days a week (especially during their bustling brunch service). The menu is stacked with comfort food classics like banana pancakes, chili, a robust build-your-own-burger menu, an excellent turkey club and a diverse dessert spread (pro-tip: this is one of the only places in the nabe to score year-round pecan pie). Given the relaxed-yet-elevated eats, you can understand why there are plenty of strollers adjacent to the dining area. Some Yelpers do complain about slow service and high-volume levels during weekend mornings, but it’s a small price to pay for an all-ages crowd-pleaser that won’t break the bank.

Parm

The uptown outpost of Michelin-starred chef Mario Carbone’s mini-chain (located at 235 Columbus Avenue and 71st Street) may not be reinventing the wheel in terms of Italian cuisine, but it’s the definition of reliable. With an ample amount of plush booths in a spacious dining room, Parm is seemingly always available to book in a pinch and offers up palate-friendly staples for the whole crew. There’s a solid kids’ menu to suit even the pickiest eaters, and even a divine ice cream cake that makes Parm an A+ option for a low-key birthday dinner. For the adults at the table, the bartenders make a mean cocktail and the “Rigatoni Carbone” is nearly as memorable as its downtown cousin (and a fraction of the price).

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Old John’s Luncheonette

As Eater notes, diners are always a wise move if kids are involved. That said, Old John’s (located at 148 West 67th Street and Amsterdam Avenue) is a cut above the greasy spoons of yesteryear. Thanks to a fresh facelift, it’s now a certified dining destination. On the menu, you’ll find youngster-approved items like Challah French Toast and a timeless grilled cheese, not to mention grown-up treats like Steak Frites, braised short rib and the ice-cold Lincoln Center martini. Clearly, it’s fun for the whole family.

While these may be Eater-approved, there are plenty of kid-friendly options on the Upper West Side. Fred’s, Friend of a Farmer, Jacob’s Pickles and Crave Fishbar also come to mind (round up the fam and go early to the latter; sit in one of the larger back boots — trust me). What are your top choices for a family meal?

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