Tons of families choose Fairfax County for the perfect family getaway. From interactive exhibits at the National Museum of the United States Army to educational quests at George Washington's Mount Vernon, and the thrilling experience of seeing the world’s fastest jet at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center, there’s always something to do for every member of the family. Step back into history or dance like nobody's watching at outdoor performing arts theaters, built JUST for kids. There is no shortage of family-friendly adventures.
Meanwhile, after a day of creating timeless memories, refueling will be necessary. Luckily, Northern Virginia’s diverse dining scene offers plenty of unique kid-friendly options beyond the traditional kids menu staples (chicken tenders and sliders, we're looking at you!). Check out some of the unique menu items at these family-friendly restaurants, adding even more lasting memories to your trip.
Unique Menu Offerings
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
📍Springfield
Courtesy of Firebirds Wood Fired Grill's website
Newly opened in Springfield, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill is bringing back the world’s oldest method of cooking with their exposed wood-fired grill. The kid's menu offers a bold, smoky flavor in every bite, giving young diners a tough decision between wood-fired BBQ ribs, grilled salmon, or buttermilk and cilantro-marinated grilled chicken. Each entrée comes with two sides, so mac and cheese fans can still enjoy this cheesy staple. As part of the Kids LiveWell program, parents can be rest assured that their kids are getting the proper nutrition and fuel.
Silver Diner
📍Multiple Locations
The birthplace of Silver Dollar Pancakes, Silver Diner has been a staple in the DMV area for 35 years, introducing a fresh take on American classic. Their kid's menu is a standout, with meals that are taste-tested by kids and approved by parents, earning a stamp of approval from even the pickiest eaters. Silver Diner features 11 Kids LiveWell-certified healthy menu items, making it one of the healthiest kid's menus in the country. For breakfast, the Quinoa Coconut Pancakes will satisfy any sweet tooth, or eat like a champion with the Champion Breakfast to provide plenty of energy to start the day. A special shoutout goes to Fairfax-based Kid Chef Noelle for her Bell & Evans Roasted Chicken Pot Pie—it's truly a chef's kiss! If the little ones don't fall in love with the flaky, buttery crust, they can always opt for the Salmon Quinoa Bowl, inspired by Kid Chef Noah. And of course, a Silver Diner meal wouldn't be complete without a milkshake. Whether you choose the Kids LiveWell Approved shake or stick to the classic vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry, there is no wrong answer.
Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar
📍Reston
Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar creates traditional Peruvian dishes with a twist. Everything is crafted with diverse flavors and their kid's menu is no different. While the parents can enjoy refreshing cocktails, kids can sip on a kid-friendly Piña Colada or a Chicha Morada, a classic Latin American drink made with purple corn for a splendid taste to enjoy with your meal. The menu features Salchipapas, a popular street food in Latin American countries consisting of pan-fried beef sausages served with French fries. Another tasty option is the Peruvian-style stir fry dish made with seared beef tenderloin and sauteed with oyster sauce. Classic, but yet so flavorful - your kids will want to order it again and again. Additionally, the Chaufa de Pollo and Crispy Fried Shrimp show that great things can come in small plates.
Fava Pot
📍Falls Church
Courtesy of Fava Pot's Facebook
Fava Pot is a restaurant that prides itself on making every customer feel like they are amongst family. Foodies in training can explore Egyptian cuisine through classic Mediterranean dishes. For lasagna-obsessed kiddos, the Kids Macaroni Bechamel is a must-try. Labeled as the ultimate Egyptian comfort, it is made with pasta baked with a creamy, house-made béchamel sauce, and stuffed with ground beef. Cheesy and creamy - the best combination anyone can ask for. If the little ones are still craving chicken nuggets, they can get their fix while stepping out of their comfort zone and ordering the Susu's Kids Chicken Kofta prepared with shredded chicken, mixed with béchamel, onions, and spices, then breaded and fried to crispy perfection. Forget ketchup because, with tzatziki on the table, one dip of this tangy sauce will create the perfect bite combination. The chicken options don’t stop there as Fava Pot also offers grilled chicken with zaatar and lime and chicken skewers marinated in yogurt.
PassionFish
📍Reston
PassionFish takes the seafood experience to a whole new level, showcasing exciting bites of tri-coastal flavor and spectacular presentation with their ever-changing seasonal selections. They cater to younger guests with a new spin on the kid's menu. The Beginner Sushi Roll, rolled with Crabmeat and Avocado is an excellent introduction to sushi. Children can dig into the ‘Beach Bucket’ & Fries filled with crispy fish fillets. To end with something sweet - because there's ALWAYS room for dessert - warm donut holes will be the ultimate cherry on top.
Seasons 52
📍Tysons
Courtesy of Seasons 52
Located in Tysons Corner Center, Seasons 52 is known for its fresh grill and wine bar where all guests, even the young ones, can sit and have a chance to explore a seasonally innovative menu. On cold winter days or during crisp autumn air, there's nothing better than a hot, comforting soup. Warm up with the Chicken Tortilla Soup or their rotating selection of seasonal soups. For a burst of extra flavors, order the Cheesy Flatbread.
Jinya Ramen Bar
📍Reston and Merrifield
Craving a steaming bowl of Ramen noodles? Jinya Ramen Bar is just the place, with locations spread out in Fairfax County, from Reston to Merrifield. Kids can enjoy delicious chicken ramen with a side of crispy French fries and sweet candy and ice cream for dessert. There are even vegan options on the kid's menu, such as rice bowls, fresh green salad mix, and vegan ramen. Be sure to try out this Japanese-inspired restaurant!
Maggie McFlys
📍Springfield
Maggie McFly’s is an American craft eatery located in the popular Springfield Town Center. The restaurant offers a vast array of kid-friendly favorites to mini-sized adult meals! Whether the kids are craving a classic grilled cheese sandwich or want to try their first NY Strip, Maggie McFlys offers a stacked list of eats for their mini customers. Don’t forget to top off the perfect dinner with their signature SpongeBob Shake spun together with banana puree and crushed Oreo.
Burtons Grill & Bar
📍Alexandria
Located in the Hilltop Village Center in Alexandria, Burtons Grill & Bar serves American dishes for the whole family to enjoy, including the young ones! Kids 12 and under can feast on fresh seafood, a juicy steak, or pasta, with gluten-free options available. Every meal comes with a selection of sides and refreshing drinks to complete the perfect meal.
Ocean Paradise
📍Fairfax
Courtesy of Ocean Paradise Restaurant
What a catch! With fresh seafood dishes, Ocean Paradise is a hidden gem located in the Pender Shopping Center in Fairfax. This family-owned restaurant is the perfect place for kids to enjoy crispy fried shrimp or grilled salmon, all with a side of savory fries. End the meal with a gooey Lava Chocolate Cake or Warm Bread pudding.
Dishes of India
📍Alexandria
Courtesy of Dishes of India / Facebook
Dishes of India offers classic Indian plates to their mini “VIP customers” that capture signature Indian flavors with just the right amount of spice. From juicy Yummy Chicken topped with rich tomato sauce or the sliced-up pieces of the Chef’s Special Lamb, you can introduce your kids to new global flavors.
Family Style Mexican Cuisine
bartaco, Banditos Tacos & Tequila, Mama Tigre, & Urbano Mexican Fare
Courtesy bartaco
Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or Taco Thursday, families can eat yummy tacos at bartaco, Banditos Tacos & Tequila, Urbano Mexican Fare, or Mama Tigre! In the mood for something cheesy? Banditos AND Urbano both grill a heavenly ooey gooey cheese quesadilla, while Mama Tigre offers options like burritos, fajitas, or enchiladas. Bring the whole family to Mama Tigre for a special kids-only deal! A fan favorite on bartaco kids' menu is the kids' tray, offering your choice of a chicken, steak, or fish taco with a cheesy quesadilla stealing the spotlight. The side dishes are equally important as the main dish, with juicy corn wheels, fruit skewers, and mild guacamole that’ll have kids asking for seconds. Finally, as parents are enjoying their Mojitos, kids can have their own nojito made with mint, lime juice, sugar, and club soda!
Extra Bonus: Let's taco 'bout back-to-school lunches! bartaco is offering a special deal with the purchase of a takeout kids' tray, a signature bartaco-themed lunchbox! Pack lunches in a retro metal lunch box, perfect for packing even more tacos.
Kid-Friendly Meals with a Side of Entertainment
Perch Putt
📍Tysons
The sky-high village at The Perch has its share of kid-friendly fare when you're out for a fun-filled evening. Mini golfers can start off with tacos or corn dogs before the big game and celebrate their victory with a delicious soft-serve ice cream treat. Perch Putt’s frozen drinks, available in lemonade, strawberry, and piña colada flavors, will be a hit with both kids and adults. For a fresh take on the classic Shirley Temple, visit Wren to try its version of this famous beverage.
Shipgarten
📍Tysons
Shipgarten is offering a menu kids will go crazy for. The kids' corner is packed with moon bounces and a wide variety of games, and the menu is just as spectacular. From Sno Cones and Cotton Candy to Popcorn and Potato Pancakes, Shipgarten ensures their young guests have plenty of energy to play all day long.
Kid Perks
La Madeleine
📍Multiple Locations
Tuesdays are the best day of the week because kids eat FREE at La Madeleine! They can choose anything from the Kid's All-Day Breakfast or Kid's Lunch & Dinner options. Check out le kids' menu here!
Silver Diner
📍Multiple Locations
Join the ultimate Kids Club where youngsters are treated like VIPs with perks like a free Kid’s Entrée every five visits, free collectibles and instant prizes, a free kid’s birthday entrée and shake, and exclusive kids’ parties. It’s the perfect way to make dining a win-win for the whole family.
Davio's Northern Italian Steakhouse
📍Reston
Courtesy of Davio's Northern Italian Steakhouse
Little chefs can learn the art of authentic pizza-making every Sunday and Monday at Davio's Northern Italian Steakhouse. Slipping on their own Davio’s apron, young chefs will get hands-on experience with their own personal pizza dough and toppings. Chef's choice!
Enjoy a night out with family with dishes that are sure to satisfy everyone from mom and dad to kids. Did we miss one of your favorite unique kids menus? Let us know on social and don’t forget to share your experiences with us at #FXVA and @VisitFairfax.
