Where to take the Kids: The Best Kid-Friendly Dining Spots

Chenery Park
Nominated for a Nickelodeon Award, Chenery Park’s Kids’ Nights (held on Tuesdays) allow parents and children to move toward one another on the spectrum: Grown-ups have the freedom to be a little more rambunctious, while kids begin learning restaurant manners. Best of all, the staff actually treats the children seriously, imparting important facts about just what cheeses are used in the mac-and-cheese and taking note of their young patrons’ suggestions for future meals. 683 Chenery St., 415-337-8537

Pauline’s Pizza
For 20 years, Pauline’s has catered to two specific audiences: lovers of pizza and salad, and big families. The upstairs dining room houses a number of small parties and guarantees a lively, energetic atmosphere; paper tablecloths and crayons keep the little ones occupied while you order. There’s always the option of the classic cheese pizza, but if your child is as adventurous as some of Pauline’s regulars, try the Cajun-pork-shoulder/corn/cilantro combo. Another specialty pie that neither you nor your children should miss is the savory meld of goat cheese, Meyer-lemon purée and greens. After all, good habits start young. 260 Valencia St., 415-552-2050

Photo by Kathryn Roach

Liberty Café
You’ve corralled your screaming children into the car, but what happens when, once at the restaurant, you’re faced with the dreaded 20-minute wait before seating as their hungry cries only grow louder? Liberty Café’s clever solution is the welcoming Wine Cottage, where adults can cool their heels, and kids can munch on a limited menu that includes, of course, pizza and pasta. (One caveat: It’s only open Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.) The restaurant itself also offers a yummy weekend brunch, with egg scrambles and French toast guaranteed to satisfy the younger palate. 410 Cortland Ave., 415-695-1223

Joe’s Cable Car
With the experience (the place opened in 1965) and credentials (it’s been featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives) to support it, Joe’s offers its younger guests not only crayons and paper but also balloons and temporary tattoos that will hold their attention until the food comes. The kids’ menu emulates the adults’, featuring burgers, corn dogs, grilled cheese and fries, but with a nice touch: a few slices of fruit to sate babies and keep the tots eating (somewhat) healthy. The colorful interior plus neon lights equals instant cheer. 4320 Mission St., 415-334-6699

VinoRosso
Owners Giuseppe Manna and Vega Freeman-Brady, who have an infant of their own, established Wine and Whiners at their Bernal Heights wine bar every Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. to allow weary parents to bond in an adult atmosphere. Toys, rather than candles, adorn the tables, at which all ages can enjoy lasagna and baked gnocchi. The little ones are lulled by Putumayo children’s-playground music, adults enjoy a glass of Srapatto and everyone goes home happy. 629 Cortland Ave., 415-647-1268

Park Chalet
At this soothing eatery at the western end of Golden Gate Park, kids can run themselves silly on the vast grassy area, allowing parents to kick back and enjoy one of PC’s microbrewed beers and some light jazz while keeping an eye on them. Although the weekends see the most families, the restaurant is equally kid-friendly on the weekdays, offering the lawn area, kids’ coloring menus and seasonal desserts such as caramel apples. 1000 Great Hwy., 415-386-8439