Looking for fun places to eat in Orange County with kids? Look no further than the fifteen unique restaurants and eateries that offer delicious food and kid-friendly activities! From classic burgers to gourmet meals, you are sure to find something for everyone in your family. Indoor play areas, arcade games, and other attractions make these dining experiences more than just a meal—they become an experience your children won’t forget. Whether you’re looking for a casual place to grab lunch or a special occasion restaurant, these fifteen places to eat in Orange County with kids will provide an unforgettable experience they’ll be sure to love.
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Orange County, California is one of the most beautiful and exciting places to visit.
Of course there are the world-famous theme parks like Disneyland Resort and Knott’s Berry Farm, but if you are going to Orange County for a family vacation, make sure you check out all that the area has to offer beyond the theme parks.
There is so much to do, see and EAT in Orange County, you will not be bored.
In this article, I’ll show you 15 fun places to eat in Orange County with kids that you are not going to want to miss! Going to San Diego? Be sure to check out the Best Places to eat in San Diego and The Best Things to do in San Diego with Kids.
In-N-Out Burger
I’m pretty sure if you have been to Southern California, you have seen an In-N-Out Burger location. In-N-Out Burger is a California icon and not one of the ordinary fast food restaurants.
In-n-Out uses ingredients are high quality and always fresh. I have never had a burger anywhere, let alone a fast food restaurant, that had such crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes. My mouth is watering right now just thinking about it.
The prices at In-N-Out Burger are very reasonable as well. My entire family of 5 can eat a meal there for around $25-$30.
In-N-Out was where my oldest son had his first hamburger and it’s no surprise that it is his favorite place to eat now. Every time we go out to eat, he requests to go to In-N-Out Burger and will get mad if we choose to go somewhere else.
One of the cool things about In-N-Out Burger is the Secret Menu. Their regular menu is pretty simple, which I like. Burgers, fries and milkshakes.
But you will feel pretty special when you order your cheeseburger, Animal Style, which is definitely how I recommend it. Kids can always request stickers and paper hats to play with as well!
If you’re in Orange County, make sure you check out one of the many In-N-Out Burger locations.
Seaside Bakery
Seaside Bakery is located right on the boardwalk in Newport Beach, California and has become one of my family’s go-to locations when we visit Southern California. When I go there, I always order a giant Apple Fritter.
My kids will vary what they get, but they really like the giant cinnamon rolls. It’s hilarious trying to watch them eat a donut that is almost as big as they are!
Seaside Bakery is open 24 hours, which is really convenient if you NEED a donut at 2 a.m. I won’t judge.
We always make a day out of our trip to Newport, renting bikes to ride along the boardwalk and then stopping into Seaside Bakery for a yummy treat.
If you don’t want to take my word for it, go ahead and check out the reviews for Seaside Bakery. Next time you’re in town, make sure you give it a try!
Portillo’s Hot Dogs
Portillo’s Hot Dogs originated in Chicago but has a couple of locations in southern California and it’s a great place to take kids! The atmosphere is fun but can be loud.
Located in Buena Park near Knott’s Berry Farm, Portillo’s has a well-rounded menu, that should be able to please just about anyone.
We usually get the Chicago Dog or the Italian Beef Sandwich with both sweet and hot peppers and my son loves to order the ribs!
But the one thing you MUST get at Portillo’s Hot Dogs is the Chocolate Cake Shake. I had read reviews about Portillo’s that all mentioned this shake. I thought it was going to be a standard chocolate shake with maybe a couple of cake crumbs in it. But, that was not the case.
At the bottom of my shake, I found an entire piece of chocolate cake! It was amazing!
This has to be one of the best milkshakes of all time. Not only was the milkshake great, but there was a delicious piece of cake as well.
Try Portillo’s Hot Dogs next time you are in Orange County, you won’t be disappointed.
Slater’s 50/50
Slater’s 50/50 is located in Huntington Beach, California and is called that because of their famous hamburger which is 50% ground beef and 50% ground bacon. The put ground bacon right in the hamburger patty!
The menu at Slater’s 50/50 has more than just burgers. There are hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, salads, and more, but they are known for their interesting burger combinations.
The most intriguing burger is called, “Peanut Butter and Jellousy”. Here is the description from their menu:
“100% Black Canyon Angus beef, thick-cut bacon, peanut butter, strawberry jelly, honey wheat bun”.
Sounds interesting right? Peanut Butter and Jelly on a burger? I’ve never been brave enough to order the “Peanut Butter and Jellousy” but I’ve heard that it is fantastic.
I usually stick to the “Original 50/50” which is a “50/50 blend of beef and bacon, pepper jack, sunny side up egg, avocado mash, chipotle adobo mayo, brioche”. It’s pretty tasty.
The service at Slater’s 50/50 is great and I thought the kids meals were a good value. Definitely give Slater’s 50/50 a try!
Los Sanchez Mexican Restaurant
Los Sanchez Mexican Restaurant has been a family favorite of ours for years in Garden Grove, California, just a couple of miles from Disneyland.
The first time that I went to Los Sanchez, it was located about half a mile from its current location, and boy did it need an update. My sister had been there before and promised me, despite the run-down appearance, the food was amazing.
I gave it a try and have never looked back. The old location was torn down and replaced with a large hotel and the current location is much nicer.
The best part is that “Mr. Sanchez” was able to make the move to the new location.
“Mr. Sanchez” is a mannequin who sits at a table while wearing a large sombrero. It might seem a little creepy, but I think it’s awesome!
The portion sizes at Los Sanchez are huge and you can definitely share an entree between two adults. My son’s cheese quesadilla was the size of a hubcap!
I love that the menu at Los Sanchez Mexican Restaurant is all pictures. I don’t speak Spanish, so it makes ordering a lot easier. It’s also nice to see exactly what your food will look like.
My current favorite menu item is a chicken chimichanga with enchilada sauce. If you stop by, make sure you say “Hi” to Mr. Sanchez for me.
Joe’s Italian Ice
Located on Harbor Boulevard in Anaheim, California, Joe’s Italian Ice is the perfect place to cool off after a hot day at the park.
The menu is simple but delicious. You can choose from multiple flavors of Italian ice, including mango, strawberry, blue raspberry, and even bubble gum!
They also serve soft-serve ice cream in chocolate or vanilla and a variety of sundae toppings.
My favorite thing on the menu is their Cookies & Cream Italian Ice “Joe Latti” style which means it is served with vanilla soft-serve ice cream. This is definitely the way to go when ordering Italian Ice at Joe’s! Other great flavors we’ve tried include Strawberry & Cream, Eggnog, Mango, and Cotton Candy.
The Italian ice flavors change every day, so make sure to check the daily flavors here.
Pirate Dinner Adventure
The Pirate Dinner Adventure is located in Buena Park, California and it is an amazing dinner show that combines spectacular pirate-themed stunts, singing, and dancing with a delicious dinner.
You are immersed into the world of Pirates as soon as you enter the theater. Kids of all ages love it because they get to dress up and live like a pirate for the evening.
My family always has the best time and loves the Pirate Dinner Adventure because of the delicious food that is served during the show. Appetizers include a skewer of chicken and shrimp, garlic bread, and Caesar salad.
The first course typically consists of either Vegetable Soup or Salad. For the main course you can choose a Chicken Entree, Pirate’s Pork, Vegetarian Entree, or a Vegan Entree. The kids are served a Slider, Mac ‘n Cheese, and mashed potatoes. Dessert is chocolate cake with raspberry sauce
The show itself is fantastic! The stunts and acrobatics are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat while their singing and dancing will have you singing along.
If you are looking for a fun and unique evening out with the family, Pirate Dinner Adventure is a must-try!
Porto’s Bakery & Cafe
Porto’s Bakery & Cafe is a family-owned Cuban bakery that originated in Downey, California. In Orange County, you can visit their location in Buena Park and soon at Downtown Disney in Anaheim!
Porto’s offers a variety of baked goods including cakes, breads, pastries and sandwiches.
Their specialty is the delicious guava and pastry, but they also have amazing selection of other sweet treats like tres leches, flan, and Cuban pastelitos.
My all time favorite item to order at Porto’s Bakery & Cafe is the Cuban-Style French Toast. It is so good and the guava syrup is amazing!
If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal, the Cubano panini, steak sandwiches and empanadas are all great choices.
Porto’s Bakery & Cafe is a great place to stop for a delicious snack or meal. The prices are reasonable and the food is fresh and flavorful. So if you’re ever in Buena Park, make sure to stop by this gem of a bakery!
John’s Incredible Pizza
John’s Incredible Pizza is a family-friendly restaurant located in Buena Park, California. It features an all-you-can-eat buffet with pizza, salads, pasta, and desserts plus over 100 of the newest arcade games and rides for young kids. Not only is there delicious food, but there are fun things to do as well!
The food at John’s Incredible Pizza is always fresh and delicious. The pizza selection includes Veggie Lovers, cheese, pepperoni, Hawaiian, and many more. There are also salads, chicken legs, and pasta like macaroni and cheese or spaghetti.
For dessert, they have delicious cinnamon rolls, soft-serve ice cream, and even mini churro donuts!
The arcade games are the highlight of John’s Incredible Pizza – there’s something for everyone! My favorite games are bowling and air hockey.
John’s Incredible Pizza is a great place to spend time with your kids while enjoying some delicious food and playing some fun activities and arcade games. It’s always fun to get out of the house, and at John’s, you can make lasting memories with your loved ones. So if you ever find yourself in Buena Park, stop by and check it out!
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament is a favorite place to visit in Buena Park, California. It’s an interactive dinner show that takes you back in time to the 11th century and is one of the best family-friendly things to do in the area.
You can choose from six different knights as they compete in jousting tournaments and sword fights while you enjoy a delicious four-course meal. The menu includes garlic bread, tomato bisque soup, roasted chicken, sweet buttered corn, herb-basted potatoes, and pastries for dessert.
The show is entertaining and thrilling with real horses and sword fights! There’s also live music from a royal court band and falcons flying around the arena that provides hours of family fun.
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament is a unique and memorable experience. The food is tasty and the show is exciting – so it’s definitely worth checking out!
Kayla’s Cake
This fun bakery sells the most delicious macarons and cakes with flavors that change depending on the season.
Kayla’s Cake has a kiosk in Downtown Disney where you can purchase the delicious macarons and a small kiosk can often be found inside Disney California Adventure Park during the many different food festivals throughout the year.
There is also another location in Fullerton, California where you can purchase cakes and macarons. Their baked goods can also be shipped, if you need a delicious treat when you’re not in the area.
The Pizza Press
The Pizza Press is a delicious pizzeria located in Anaheim across the street from Disneyland. This is our go-to pizza place after a long day at the parks.
We usually order our Pizza Press pizza for delivery to our hotel and they have always been prompt with preparing the pizza as well as delivery.
Our favorite is a simple half cheese half pepperoni pizza, but we ALWAYS get the Garlic Cheese Bread. Make sure to not skip this, it’s delicious!
Glee Donuts & Burgers
Glee Donuts & Burgers is a popular restaurant in Anaheim, California. They offer a variety of donuts, burgers, breakfast burritos, sandwiches, and salads.
Their specialty is the Glee Burger which is packed with flavor! It’s made with a beef patty topped with bacon, cheddar cheese, onion rings, lettuce and tomato. It’s served with a side of fries and is definitely one of my favorite burgers.
They also have some really good donuts like the banana split, strawberry delight, chocolate overload, and apple fritter.
Glee Donuts & Burgers is a great place to get tasty food in Anaheim! The prices are reasonable and the service is friendly. So if you’re in town, make sure to stop by and check it out!
85° Bakery Cafe
85° Bakery Café is a great spot to grab some delicious treats in Orange County with locations in Buena Park, Fullerton, Cypress, and Garden Grove.
From breads, pastries, and cakes to sandwiches, salads, and coffee drinks – this café has something for everyone!
My kids always love walking into the bakery, smelling the fresh baked goods, and having the ability to choose something that looks good to them.
We usually get some lunch to go like a sandwich and soup or salad, then grab some yummy pastries for dessert.
85° Bakery Café is a great place to check out if you’re in the area. The food is delicious and reasonably priced and the atmosphere is inviting.
Black Tap Anaheim
If you’re looking for an kid-friendly environment in Anaheim, look no further than Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer located in Downtown Disney District. They specialize in outrageous milkshakes and burgers with unique toppings like mac n’ cheese or pulled pork!
The milkshakes are huge and have various fun toppings like cotton candy and lollipops. The burgers are also delicious – you can choose from a variety of gourmet toppings to make your perfect creation.
We shared this delicious “Crazy Shake” that was topped with two churros and a Chocco Taco!
Black Tap has quickly become one of my favorite places to go for a special treat with my family. It’s always packed, so be prepared to wait in line but it will definitely be worth it!
Overall, Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer is a great spot to check out when visiting Anaheim. The food is delicious, the milkshakes are over-the-top and the atmosphere is fun and festive. So make sure to add it to your list of must-visit places when you’re in town!
Splitsville Anaheim
Splitsville Anaheim is a family-friendly entertainment center located in Downtown Disney District. They offer a variety of activities including bowling, billiards, arcade games, and karaoke. It’s the perfect spot for some unique fun with friends and family!
We usually come here just to bowl since it’s an affordable way to have a good time. The lanes are extremely well maintained and they even offer bumpers for kids.
They also have a full restaurant which serves all kinds of delicious dishes, from appetizers and soups to salads and sandwiches. And if you’re in the mood for some sweets, they serve up some crazy milkshakes too!
Splitsville Anaheim is a great place to check out if you’re looking for a fun place to eat in Orange County with kids that has something for the whole family.
Final Thoughts
Orange County has a lot of great restaurants to choose from. From gourmet burgers and donuts to outrageous milkshakes, tasty treats, and dinner shows, you’re sure to find something for everyone in your family from this list of the best kid-friendly restaurants.
So make sure to add these places to your list of must-visit spots when you’re in Orange County.
More Southern California Tips:
- Fun Things for Kids in Orange County
- How to Go to Disneyland on a Budget
- The Best Snacks and Treats at Disneyland
- Disneyland Area Hotel Reviews
- Knott’s Berry Farm with Kids
- Best Tips for Legoland
- Universal Studios with Kids
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