new orleans food for picky eaters

New Orleans

Kid-Friendly New Orleans Restaurants Even Picky Eaters Will Love

(Photo: Chubykin Arkady/Shutterstock.com)

New Orleans is the capitol of Creole Cuisine, a place where rich sauces and fried foodstuff reigns. It’s home to Turtle Soup and other delectable fare with exotic names like Gumbo and Jambalaya, but what sounds enticing to you is likely to result in a full-on meltdown in your pint-sized food critic. Worry not. We have assembled a list of kid-friendly restaurants offering acceptable choices that you can happily enjoy together.

Toast. Hungry for breakfast? Toast has just what you’re looking for: Aebelskivers. They may sound weird, but trust us they’re anything but. This German fare is really just a tiny, delicious pancake! Choose the chocolate sauce for dipping or go for the lemon, caramel, maple syrup, or jam. When breakfast is over, walk a few blocks over to the neighborhood playground to let your little one burn off some energy.

Theo’s Pizza. What kid doesn’t like pizza? This place makes a pretty good pie, plus its Mid City location is right on Canal Street which means a quick, fun-filled streetcar ride will get you there. While you’re waiting for your food to be served, let your pizza expert entertain herself by creating works of art on the kid sized pizza-shaped chalkboard.

Irish House. This traditional Irish pub will keep you satisfied while your choosey child enjoys a nice warm bowl of buttered noodles or, on a hot day, a PB&J. You’ll be extra thankful for the toy box, which provides plenty of entertainment so that you can enjoy actual dinner table conversation.

New Orleans Hamburger & Seafood Co.There are several locations, but the Uptown setting is our favorite because of its ambiance. Plus, it’s easily accessible on the St. Charles streetcar line. This place has got you covered with tried and true choices like chicken tenders or a well done hamburger with nothing on it. Mealtime entertainment includes a giant map of the city plastered across one wall. It’s a fun way to try to figure out where you are, where you’ve been, and where you’re going during your stay! Once you’ve polished off your meal, bop on over to the soft serve ice cream station for dessert, free of charge.

Red Fish Grill. If you’re staying in or near the French Quarter, this colorful hotspot is a fun place to stop for a bite to eat. If seafood is acceptable, try the seafood pasta or play it safe with a go-to grilled cheese, drink included, of course. Save room for dessert because ice cream is part of the package, too.

American Sector. This restaurant is affiliated with the National World War II Museum. That means there’s plenty for adults to appreciate, and the kids’ meal comes with fries, soft drink, cookie and other goodies. The best part? It’s served in a vintage-style lunch box that makes a great souvenir for just $5 more.