The Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Tampa, FL

Dining out with kids can be both enjoyable and unforgettable—if you choose the right restaurant. Tampa, Florida, a thriving city that’s increasingly popular with families, boasts a wide variety of kid-friendly dining options. These restaurants not only serve up delicious meals but also create engaging, family-focused environments, often complete with play areas or fun activities for young diners. 

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Tampa has the perfect spot for every family mealtime adventure. Here’s a curated guide to some of the best kid-friendly restaurants in the city, along with everything you need to know before you go.

Salt Shack on the Bay

Address: 5415 W Tyson Ave, Tampa, FL 33611

Great vibes know no age, and Salt Shack on the Bay is proof of that. This cherished local favorite attracts both kids and adults with its laid-back vibe and fresh "gulf-to-table" American Caribbean cuisine. The menu offers a delightful array of flavorful dishes, from shrimp prepared in a variety of creative ways to savory jerk-seasoned meats, all paired perfectly with refreshing cocktails. Families will also appreciate the generous portions of the kids' meals, making it a hit for diners of all ages.

Nestled along the scenic Old Tampa Bay waterfront on Tyson Avenue, Salt Shack offers breathtaking views that elevate every visit. Open seven days a week, it’s the perfect spot to fit into even the busiest schedule. Stop by anytime between 11 AM and 10 PM—or whenever it’s time to call it a night.

Naked Farmer

Address: 1001 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602

Love keeping your kids' meals locally sourced? This child-friendly Tampa gem takes that philosophy to heart, crafting an entire menu around fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Naked Farmer offers a range of New American dishes, from Golden Beet & Burrata Salad and Charred Broccoli with Lemon and Garlic to Faroe Island Salmon. For younger diners with simpler tastes, there are comforting classics like mac and cheese or Chocolate Chunk Cookies.

What sets Naked Farmer apart is its commitment to transparency. The restaurant provides detailed information about ingredients, allergens, and sourcing, all readily available online. With both vegan and non-vegan options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Currently, Naked Farmer has eight locations serving Southern Florida, including two standout spots in Tampa: one at 1001 Water Street and another at 4306 W. Gandy Boulevard.

Ulele

Address: 1810 N Highland Ave, Tampa, FL 33602

Blending classic American flavors with a touch of Tampa Bay charm, Ulele (pronounced You-lay-lee) captures the essence of the city's vibrant dining scene. Located at 1810 North Highland Avenue, right next to Water Works Park, this spot is a favorite for both locals and tourists seeking great food in a historically rich area. 

The menu offers something for everyone, with a mix of gluten-free, vegetarian, and kid-friendly options. A standout dish is the Water Works Wedge, named after the neighboring park. This delightful salad features crisp iceberg lettuce, juicy grape tomatoes, country ham, diced red onion, goat cheese crumbles, and green onions, all complemented by fire-roasted corn salsa and a tangy red wine buttermilk dressing.

Ulele combines quality dining with affordability. Most meals range between $10 and $40 per person, while the kids' menu, designed for those under 12, is a steal at just $8. Whether you're a local or visiting Tampa, Ulele offers an unforgettable dining experience that’s as approachable as it is delicious.

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Bahama Breeze

Address: 3045 N Rocky Point Dr E, Tampa, FL 33607

Bahama Breeze offers diners a chance to escape Tampa Bay and experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean, with food and drinks that cater to all ages. Unlike many other kid-friendly spots, this restaurant is part of a well-established chain with locations not only in Florida but also across the United States, including Washington State, New Jersey, and Georgia. While menu options may vary by state, the Tampa Bay location on N Rocky Point Drive stands out for its breezy, island-inspired atmosphere. Signature dishes include coconut shrimp, crab and three-cheese dip, skillet-simmered jerk shrimp, Bahamian seafood chowder, and whole Jamaican jerk wings. For those seeking something more traditional, classics like the Applewood Bacon & Cheddar Burger are always an option.

Columbia Cafe

Address: 801 Water St #1905, Tampa, FL 33602

The Tampa Bay History Center is undoubtedly a favorite destination for its unique exhibits and engaging activities, but there’s another reason families have been flocking to Water Street for years: Columbia Cafe. This charming spot is a faithful replica of the original Columbia bar, established in 1905—long before any of today’s visitors, young or old, were around. The flagship Columbia Restaurant has earned the title of “One of Florida’s Top Restaurants” multiple times since 1967, and its legacy continues here. There’s even a smaller outpost in Airside E at Tampa International Airport for travelers craving a taste of tradition.

At Columbia Cafe, the menu offers something for everyone, blending international sophistication with family-friendly appeal. Adults can enjoy fine wines like Don Cesar Reserva® Red Blend or Melanie Verdejo, while kids and grown-ups alike will love classics such as black bean cakes, empanadas, and the iconic Original Cuban Sandwich. Whether you’re exploring local history or simply savoring a great meal, Columbia Cafe is a must-visit.

Daily Eats

Address: 901 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606

Kids and parents often have differing priorities when choosing a restaurant. Parents—especially the ones footing the bill—tend to focus on quality, healthiness, and affordability. Meanwhile, kids are more likely to eat what’s on their plate if it’s fun and appealing. Enter Daily Eats, a Tampa spot that strikes the perfect balance. This eatery specializes in dishes that are both delicious and nutritious, catering to all tastes.

The menu spans breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering everything from English muffins and smashed avocado to crowd-pleasers like Tendies and Taters, Memphis Southern fried chicken, and the aptly named “Best. Grilled Cheese. Ever.” You can enjoy these dishes any time between 7 AM and 3 PM, Monday through Thursday, or stop by during their “Happiest Hours” from 3 PM to 6 PM on Friday and Saturday. Daily Eats is where flavor meets family-friendly dining—everyone leaves happy.