Kid-Friendly Dining Around Annapolis

By Janet Buck Johnson

Affordable, Fun, and Delicious Options

When you eat out with your kids, do you find yourself counting the minutes until the check arrives? The secret to restoring your peace when dining out is finding restaurants that get it. Think play areas, activities, ample highchairs, or meals that go beyond chicken nuggets. Bonus points for fun extras, and a lively vibe.

Here’s a roundup of some often-recommended spots in Anne Arundel to keep your kids happy and you stress-free!

OUTDOOR SPACES FOR LITTLE ADVENTURERS

Perfect for active kids and relaxed parents!

• Coconut Joe’s (Edgewater): a pirate ship playground that keeps kids entertained while parents unwind
• URBurger (Edgewater): outdoor seating, a relaxed vibe, and kids (ages 0-6) eat free on Mondays
• Forward Brewing (Eastport): a kid- and dog-friendly outdoor play area full of toys and friends to share

BUILT-IN FUN ZONES

Entertainment galore —arcades, games, and more!

• Chevy’s (Annapolis, Arundel Mills): watch tortillas being made, play with dough balls, and enjoy free ice cream with kids’ meals
• JB’s (Severna Park): a small arcade, plenty of TVs, and great pizza
• Crabtowne USA (Glen Burnie): packed with vintage arcade games and pinball machines for hours of entertainment
• Copper Creek Pub & Ale House (Severna Park): board games, a free pool table, and cornhole make this a standout spot
• Bubba’s 33 (Glen Burnie): patio games, kids’ movie nights, and themed family date nights
• Grump’s Café (Annapolis): unique toys in place of table numbers, fun wall decor, and character pancakes

ELEVATED EATS FOR TINY FOODIES

Because kids deserve more than nuggets.

• True Food Kitchen (Annapolis): healthy options including mini bowls and fresh veggies; outdoor seating and attentive servers make it a family favorite
• Carrol’s Creek (Annapolis): delicious and nutritious kids meals like salmon and veggies
• Lemongrass (Annapolis): Thai-inspired dishes for kids with milder spices and smaller portions so they can eat like grown-ups
• Preserve (Annapolis): swap out fries for fruit, and kids’ meals are delivered in a fun dinosaur plate

FAMILY VIBES YOU’LL LOVE

Laid-back spots and friendly staff make dining stress-free.

• Galway Bay (Annapolis): crayons, activity sheets, and a no-rush atmosphere make this Irish pub a family favorite
• Boatyard Bar and Grill (Annapolis): coloring pages and a bustling, noise-friendly atmosphere
• O’Loughlin’s (Arnold): Wikki Stix and a noisy, family friendly feel
• LEO (Annapolis): plenty of highchairs, booster seats, and the best chicken tenders around, according to one picky eater on Facebook
• Caliente Grill (Annapolis): Family-owned, kids menu featuring jr. fajita and taco meals, and Monday night is Kids Night

SWEET TREATS AND SPECIAL TOUCHES

Thoughtful extras to make meals a little more fun.

• The Italian Market (Annapolis): Make a wish, toss a coin in the fountain, then grab gelato for dessert!
• Perry’s (Odenton): offers an affordable kids’ meal that includes a drink and ice cream
• Lures (Crownsville): Enjoy coloring and kids’ meals accompanied by a goldfish cracker for a touch of whimsy!
• Park Tavern (Severna Park): Every kids’ meal comes with a chocolate chip cookie—enough said.