Top restaurants list
10 Best Family Restaurants in Chicago
- 10 restaurants
- Chicago, Illinois
- Updated March 30, 2026
The top 10 best family restaurants in Chicago include The Original Pancake House, Giordano's, Ed Debevic's, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, RPM Italian, Maggiano's Little Italy, The Cheesecake Factory, Pizzeria Uno, Eataly, and Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que. Family dining in the Windy City centers on massive deep-dish pizzas, interactive diner experiences, and communal Italian feasts. These kid-friendly venues often have menu favorites like stuffed pizza, apple pancakes, and hickory-smoked ribs.
Family restaurants across the city occupy basement-level pizzerias, retro-themed diners, and massive Italian marketplaces. These dining establishments have dedicated kid menus, high chairs for toddlers, and interactive elements like choreographed waitstaff dances. Majority of these locations provide spacious booths and large round tables to accommodate strollers and multi-generational groups. A meal at a family restaurant in Chicago averages $30 per person.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria ranks as the top choice for a proprietary buttercrust recipe, a lively neighborhood feel, and consistent quality across multiple city locations. Ed Debevic's serves big burgers and shakes for a quick, performance-based meal. RPM Italian offers a refined dinner experience with shared plates and house-made pastas. Eataly provides fresh gelato for younger diners, and Maggiano's Little Italy features a menu with bottomless family-style platters for large gatherings.
The top family restaurants in Chicago are listed below.
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1
Pizza Salads Sandwiches American Italian Chicken Wings Comfort Food Vegetarian Deep Dish Pizza Sandwich Desserts Appetizers Vegetarian Friendly Pizzeria Pasta Group Friendly Tandoori Happy HourLou Malnati's Pizzeria serves deep-dish pizza with a signature buttery crust in a casual, family-owned setting. The dining area combines rustic elements with a neighborhood feel suitable for large groups.- Item Prices
- 121
- Average Item Price
- $12.26
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria Menu PricesMore about Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Italian, Pizza
Signature Dishes:
Deep Dish Cheese
Deep Dish Malnati Chicago Classic
Deep Dish The Lou
Location:
439 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
Special Feature:
Proprietary "Buttercrust" recipe used for deep-dish pizzas
What Makes It Special:
Hand-selected tomatoes and fresh mozzarella from local dairies ensure consistent quality.
What Sets It Apart:
Family-owned operation maintains strict quality control across all city locations.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday, Sunday: 11:00 AM–11:00 PMFriday–Saturday: 11:00 AM–12:00 AM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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2
The Original Pancake House provides a traditional breakfast experience using high-quality ingredients and signature recipes. The dining room offers a warm environment with classic decor.- Item Prices
- 141
- Average Item Price
- $11.77
The Original Pancake House - 22 E Bellevue Pl Menu PricesMore about The Original Pancake House - 22 E Bellevue Pl
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Breakfast
Signature Dishes:
Apple Pancake
Dutch Baby
Meat Lover Skillet
Location:
22 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Special Feature:
Signature sourdough starter used for pancakes and waffles
What Makes It Special:
Hand-whipped batters and fresh fruit toppings prepared daily appeal to families.
What Sets It Apart:
Traditional cooking methods maintain high breakfast standards through time-tested recipes.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Friday: 7:00 AM–3:00 PMSaturday–Sunday: 7:00 AM–4:00 PM
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
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3
3. Giordano's
4.7 (3 Reviews)
Casual Dining Pizza Chicken Salads Sandwiches American Italian Chicken Wings Deep Dish Pizza Chicken Tenders Sandwich Pasta CheesesteakGiordano's is a pizzeria chain famous for its Chicago-style stuffed deep-dish pizza. The most popular items on Giordano's menu are the Chicago Classic Deep Dish Pizza and the Meat &...- Item Prices
- 97
- Average Item Price
- $15.24
Giordano's Chicago Classic Deep Dish Pizza Price Giordano's Cheese Deep Dish Price Giordano’s Sampler Price“Giordano’s Chicago Classic Deep Dish Pizza is a true masterpiece of Chicago-style pizza! The thick, buttery crust is perfectly crisp on the outside while staying...”
“Giordano’s Cheese Deep Dish is the ultimate comfort food for any pizza lover! The buttery, golden crust is thick yet perfectly crisp, holding in layers...”
Giordano's Menu PricesMore about Giordano's
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Italian, Pizza
Signature Dishes:
Chicago Classic Deep Dish Pizza
Mozzarella Triangles
Cheesy Garlic Bread
Location:
730 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Special Feature:
Multi-layered stuffed pizza design with a thick crust
What Makes It Special:
High-volume production of deep-dish pizzas follows a secret family recipe.
What Sets It Apart:
Global recognition for the specific stuffed pizza style makes the venue a destination for tourists and locals.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday, Sunday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PMFriday–Saturday: 11:00 AM–11:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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4
Ed Debevic's is a retro-themed 1950s diner where servers provide sassy service and perform choreographed dance routines. The space contains neon signs, jukeboxes, and vintage memorabilia.- Item Prices
- 166
- Average Item Price
- $11.67
Ed Debevic's Menu PricesMore about Ed Debevic's
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining, Diner
Type of Food:
American
Signature Dishes:
World's Smallest Sundae
Ed's Big Burger
Ed's Mom's Meatloaf Sandwich
Location:
159 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Special Feature:
Choreographed dance routines performed by the waitstaff during meals
What Makes It Special:
Interactive service style involves employees acting with humorous arrogance to entertain guests.
What Sets It Apart:
Performance art elements recreate a specific 1950s diner experience.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Sunday: 8:00 AM–9:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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5
ItalianRPM Italian offers a contemporary take on Italian cuisine in a chic, upscale setting. The menu features house-made pastas, fresh seafood, and prime steaks designed for sharing.- Item Prices
- 332
- Average Item Price
- $24.09
RPM Italian Menu PricesMore about RPM Italian
Type of Restaurant:
Fine Dining
Type of Food:
Modern Italian
Signature Dishes:
Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Spaghetti and Meatball
Truffled Garlic Bread
Location:
52 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
Special Feature:
Celebrity ownership by Bill and Giuliana Rancic
What Makes It Special:
Chef-driven menu uses high-end ingredients like imported truffles and prime beef.
What Sets It Apart:
High-fashion atmosphere pairs with family-friendly shared plates to accommodate diverse group needs.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 4:00 PM–9:30 PMFriday–Saturday: 3:00 PM–10:30 PMSunday: 4:00 PM–9:00 PM
Price:
$50 to $100 per person
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6
6. Maggiano's Little Italy
5.0 (3 Reviews)
Salads American Italian Bar and Grill Gourmet Desserts Family Meals Pasta Group FriendlyMaggiano's Little Italy is an American casual dining restaurant chain specializing in Italian-American cuisine. The popular dishes on the Maggiano's Little Italy menu are Rigatoni "D", Mom's Lasagna, Chicken Fettuccine...- Item Prices
- 131
- Average Item Price
- $23.99
Maggiano's Little Italy Taylor Street Baked Ziti Price Maggiano's Little Italy Four-Cheese Ravioli Price Maggiano's Little Italy Our Famous Rigatoni "D" (Regular Portion) Price Maggiano's Little Italy Shrimp Scampi Price“Maggiano’s Four-Cheese Ravioli is a creamy, flavorful delight that perfectly blends indulgence and comfort. Each tender ravioli is generously filled with a rich mixture of...”
“Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti is a warm, comforting classic that’s hard to resist. The ziti is perfectly cooked, layered with a rich tomato sauce,...”
Maggiano's Little Italy Menu PricesMore about Maggiano's Little Italy
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Italian-American
Signature Dishes:
Our Famous Rigatoni "D"
"The Grand" Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Piccata
Location:
516 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
Special Feature:
Family-style dining option with bottomless platters for groups
What Makes It Special:
Large-scale portions draw inspiration from traditional Italian-American home cooking.
What Sets It Apart:
Communal dining and generous hospitality cater specifically to large gatherings.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 11:30 AM–10:00 PMFriday: 11:30 AM–11:00 PMSaturday: 11:00 AM–11:00 PMSunday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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7
Pizza Salads Italian SandwichPizzeria Uno is the birthplace of Chicago deep-dish pizza, established in 1943. The historic basement-level dining room maintains an old-school charm with dark wood and vintage photos.- Item Prices
- 191
- Average Item Price
- $18.56
Pizzeria Uno Menu PricesMore about Pizzeria Uno
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Italian, Pizza
Signature Dishes:
Numero Uno
Spinoccoli
Buffalo Wings
Location:
29 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Special Feature:
Original 1943 location where deep-dish pizza was invented
What Makes It Special:
Historic basement dining room preserves original architectural details.
What Sets It Apart:
Status as the origin point for the deep-dish style makes the location a cultural landmark.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Sunday: 11:00 AM–11:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
-
8
Eataly is a massive Italian marketplace featuring multiple restaurants, counters, and a cooking school. Guests enjoy authentic pizza, pasta, and gelato while shopping for imported Italian goods.- Item Prices
- 448
- Average Item Price
- $18.11
Eataly Menu PricesMore about Eataly
Type of Restaurant:
Italian Marketplace and Restaurant
Type of Food:
Italian
Signature Dishes:
Margherita Tradizionale
Tagliatelle alla Bolognese
Spaghetto al Pomodoro
Location:
43 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Special Feature:
Multi-level Italian marketplace with integrated retail and dining areas
What Makes It Special:
Direct access to imported Italian specialty goods and fresh-made pasta provides an educational experience.
What Sets It Apart:
Retail and dining integration allows guests to shop for ingredients immediately after finishing a meal.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday, Sunday: 7:00 AM–10:00 PMFriday–Saturday: 7:00 AM–11:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
-
9
9. The Cheesecake Factory
The Cheesecake Factory provides an extensive menu with hundreds of options and a signature selection of over 30 cheesecake varieties. The restaurant features unique architectural designs.More about The Cheesecake Factory
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
American
Signature Dishes:
Louisiana Chicken Pasta
Fried Macaroni and Cheese
Buffalo Blasts
Location:
875 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Special Feature:
Massive menu containing over 250 different items
What Makes It Special:
Large selection of cheesecakes and desserts are made in a central bakery.
What Sets It Apart:
High-energy environment pairs with a menu that caters to all individual preferences in a family group.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PMFriday–Saturday: 11:00 AM–11:00 PMSunday: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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10
10. Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que
Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que serves hickory-smoked meats and traditional sides in a lodge-themed setting. The restaurant emphasizes pit-smoking techniques and proprietary spice rubs.More about Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Barbecue
Signature Dishes:
Southside Rib Tibs Bucket
One Meat Platter
Two Meat Combo
Location:
7201 W 25th St, North Riverside, IL 60546, United States
Special Feature:
Lodge-themed interior with wood carvings and Northwoods decor
What Makes It Special:
Pit-smoking techniques and proprietary spice rubs are used to prepare all meats.
What Sets It Apart:
Authentic regional barbecue styles are served in a family-oriented environment with large platters.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday, Sunday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PMFriday–Saturday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
On the map
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Family Restaurants in Chicago Famous?
Family restaurants in Chicago are famous for inventing deep-dish pizza, providing interactive 1950s diner experiences, and offering massive family-style Italian portions. The city's reputation for group dining relies on a history of communal meals and kid-friendly atmospheres. Chefs across the Loop and River North prioritize high-volume production of stuffed pizzas and hand-whipped breakfast batters. Kitchens utilize proprietary sourdough starters, secret family pizza recipes, and slow-smoking pits to build distinct flavor profiles. Presence of historic basement pizzerias and large-scale Italian marketplaces provides a unique backdrop for parents and children seeking a shared meal.
What Types of Family Restaurants are Commonly Found in Chicago?
The types of family restaurants commonly found in Chicago are deep-dish pizzerias, retro diners, and family-style Italian houses. The list below describes the specialized Chicago restaurants available for groups.
- Deep-Dish Pizzerias: These historic spots focus on thick, multi-layered pizzas with buttery crusts. Lou Malnati's and Pizzeria Uno fit this category.
- Retro Themed Diners: These high-energy venues feature 1950s decor and performing waitstaff. Ed Debevic's provides this experience.
- Family-Style Italian Eateries: These locations serve bottomless platters of pasta and meat designed for sharing. Maggiano's Little Italy exemplifies this style.
- Gourmet Breakfast Houses: These spots highlight traditional morning recipes and signature sourdough pancakes. The Original Pancake House offers this approach.
- Integrated Marketplaces: These massive venues combine retail shopping with multiple fresh food counters and cooking schools. Eataly is a prime choice for this format.
Does Chicago Have an Authentic Family Restaurant?
Yes, Chicago is home to many authentic family restaurants, including Pizzeria Uno, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, and The Original Pancake House. Pizzeria Uno preserves the original 1943 basement dining room where deep-dish pizza was first created. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria provides a real neighborhood experience, utilizing a proprietary buttercrust recipe and fresh local mozzarella. The Original Pancake House offers a true traditional breakfast, maintaining a signature sourdough starter for all pancakes and waffles.
Do Family Restaurants in Chicago Offer Easy Online Reservations?
Yes, booking a table online is simple because family restaurants in Chicago offer easy online reservations through digital platforms. Guests secure tables via restaurant websites or through applications such as OpenTable and Resy. Upscale-leaning spots like RPM Italian use these booking services to manage heavy guest volumes. Other popular locations, including Maggiano's Little Italy and The Cheesecake Factory, provide convenient digital scheduling. Historic spots like Pizzeria Uno and high-volume diners like Ed Debevic's operate strictly on a first-come, first-served basis.
What are the Signature Dishes of the Best Family Restaurants in Chicago?
The signature dishes of the best family restaurants in Chicago consist of stuffed deep-dish pizza, apple pancakes, and family-style rigatoni. Notable food in Chicago appears in the list below.
- Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza: A thick, multi-layered pizza filled with cheese and toppings, finished with a layer of tomato sauce. Giordano's is famous for this staple.
- Apple Pancake: A large, oven-baked pancake topped with sautéed Granny Smith apples and a cinnamon sugar glaze. The Original Pancake House specializes in this dish.
- Rigatoni "D": A hearty pasta dish featuring herb-roasted chicken, mushrooms, and caramelized onions in a marsala cream sauce. Maggiano's Little Italy features this as a core menu item.
- Mama DePandi's Bucatini: Fresh, house-made pasta served with a simple, high-quality pomodoro sauce and basil. RPM Italian is known for this shared plate.
- St. Louis-Style Spareribs: Hickory-smoked ribs prepared with a proprietary spice rub and sweet barbecue sauce. Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que prepares this regional favorite.
Does Chicago Enjoy Family Food?
Yes, locals in Chicago enjoy family food, evidenced by the large crowds filling pizzerias and breakfast houses in River North and the Gold Coast. Parents and children actively seek out dining experiences that offer affordable, filling meals in a relaxed environment. High volume of weekend traffic at all-day Italian marketplaces like Eataly confirms a strong appetite for kid-friendly dining. The local economy relies on accessible pizza parlors and diners to feed millions of residents and tourists annually.
What is the Average Meal Price at Family Restaurants in Chicago?
The average meal price at family restaurants in Chicago is $30 per person. A single meal at a breakfast house like The Original Pancake House costs between $15 and $30. A group meal for two to four people at a casual pizzeria like Giordano's runs from $40 to $80 total. Full dinner with drinks at a sit-down Italian restaurant such as RPM Italian requires $50 to $100 per person. Budget-friendly options like Ed Debevic's offer meals for $15 to $35 per person.
Are There Vegan Options at Family Restaurants in Chicago?
Yes, vegan options at family restaurants in Chicago consist of plant-based selections at Eataly, The Cheesecake Factory, and RPM Italian. Eataly provides a marketplace with several fresh vegetable counters and vegan-friendly pasta options. The Cheesecake Factory features a dedicated section of the menu for plant-forward burgers, salads, and pasta. RPM Italian modifies fresh vegetable sides and salads to be vegan upon request. Pizzerias like Lou Malnati's offer fresh salads and vegetable-topped pizzas without cheese for plant-based diners.
Do Family Restaurants in Chicago Offer Gluten-Free Options?
Yes, family restaurants in Chicago offer gluten-free options at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, RPM Italian, and The Cheesecake Factory. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria clearly labels gluten-free items, including a signature crustless pizza made with a sausage base. RPM Italian prepares fresh salads and modifies pasta dishes to suit gluten-free diets. The Cheesecake Factory provides an extensive menu with numerous gluten-free entrees and a dedicated gluten-free cheesecake. Stalls inside Eataly provide fresh, unbreaded proteins and steamed vegetables for guests with dietary restrictions.
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