Finding a restaurant that keeps kids genuinely entertained while adults still enjoy their meal can feel like searching for a hidden treasure in Los Angeles. Forget the usual "kids' menus" and crayon sets; what families really crave are the best themed restaurants for kids Los Angeles has to offer – places where dining transforms into an unforgettable experience. These aren't just meals; they're adventures, spectacles, and opportunities for shared family memories that go far beyond the plate.
At a Glance: Your Guide to LA's Best Kid-Friendly Themed Dining
- Discover diverse themes: From swashbuckling pirate shows to magical castles and retro diners.
- Match experiences to age: Identify venues perfect for toddlers, grade-schoolers, or even pre-teens.
- Plan your budget: Understand typical costs for dinner shows versus casual themed eateries.
- Maximize the fun: Learn tips for reservations, character interactions, and special requests.
- Navigate LA options: Pinpoint locations and unique offerings within or near the city.
Unveiling LA's Most Immersive Dining Adventures for Families
Los Angeles and its surrounding areas are rich with dining spots that go above and beyond the standard restaurant model. These establishments understand that for kids, the atmosphere and entertainment are just as crucial as the food itself. What follows is a curated exploration of the top themed restaurants, categorized by their unique appeal, helping you pick the perfect backdrop for your next family outing.
Grand Spectacles: Dinner Shows & Interactive Realms
When you're looking for an all-encompassing experience where the meal is part of a larger production, these venues deliver high-energy entertainment alongside your dinner.
Pirates Dinner Adventure in Buena Park whisks your family away to an 18th-century Spanish galleon, set within a 250,000-gallon indoor lagoon. Guests are part of the story, cheering for their pirate while enjoying a three or four-course meal. The show itself is a dynamic display of swordplay, aerial artistry, acrobatics, and special effects, featuring mermaids and a princess. It's truly a spectacle that holds attention, with tickets starting at $41.95 for kids (ages 2+) and $68.95 for adults. For a seasonal twist, look out for their Vampirates Halloween show.
Just a short drive away, Medieval Times in Buena Park offers a journey back to the age of chivalry. Here, your family will feast like royalty – literally, with a four-course, kid-friendly meal served without utensils – while cheering on brave knights in a grand tournament. The show features live jousting, impressive horsemanship, and majestic falconry. Kids 12 and under start at $40.95, adults at $67.95, and children under 3 are free if they sit on an adult's lap. Vegetarian options are available, ensuring everyone finds something to savor amidst the excitement.
Character & Charm: Magical Meet-and-Greets
For families whose little ones dream of dining with their favorite characters or enjoying a meal designed around beloved toys, these spots create truly magical memories.
Goofy's Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel provides a quintessential Disney character dining experience without requiring a park ticket or hotel stay. It's a buffet-style meal where Goofy and his friends circulate, offering autographs and photo opportunities right at your table. This is an excellent option for maximizing character interaction in a relaxed setting, especially for younger kids who might find a full park day overwhelming.
For the doll enthusiasts, the American Girl Cafe offers a special dining experience where dolls are treated as honored guests. Each doll gets a seat, a saucer, and a take-home cup. If your child doesn't bring their own doll, they can borrow one for the meal. The menu caters to both kids and adults, with a dedicated children's menu, making it a dream come true for many young fans.
Ambiance & Entertainment: Experiences Beyond the Plate
Sometimes the theme is less about a show and more about the environment itself, or the unique form of entertainment that accompanies your meal. These venues excel at creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Imagine dining amidst a lush, tropical rainforest, complete with animatronic animals that periodically "come to life" with sound and movement. That's the charm of Rainforest Cafe. Its elaborate decor, featuring waterfalls, huge trees, and larger-than-life creatures, makes for an immersive, sensory-rich experience that delights children of all ages. The menu offers family-style American fare, providing familiar comfort food in an extraordinary setting.
At Miceli’s, with locations in Universal City and Las Palmas, the entertainment comes alive through music. This classic Italian restaurant is famous for its singing waiters and waitresses who perform a mix of Disney classics, opera, and popular tunes starting at 6 pm. They even sing for birthdays, adding a personal touch to celebrations. Enjoy classic Italian dishes like pizza and pasta while being serenaded.
For a unique blend of "Rock meets Western," the Saddle Ranch Chop House offers a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Combining elements of an Aspen ski lodge and an old Western saloon, it boasts attractions like campfire pits perfect for roasting s'mores and, for the adventurous, a mechanical bull. Portions are generous and often sweet, making it a hit with families looking for a lively meal.
If arcade games and pinball are more your speed, Button Mash offers dinner with continuous entertainment. Guests can enjoy classic arcade games and pinball machines before or after their meal, creating a fun, interactive outing that appeals to both kids and nostalgic adults.
And for those who love the laid-back island vibe, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville provides an immersive escape. Giant sea creatures hang overhead, and live music fills the air. The menu features Mexican-inspired food like Volcano Nachos and the iconic Cheeseburger in Paradise, while kids can enjoy special drinks served in light-up souvenir cups – a memorable takeaway.
Timeless Classics & Iconic Locales: A Step Back in Time
Some themed restaurants in LA transport you through history or offer unique views, providing a sense of place and nostalgia that creates its own kind of magic.
Bob's Big Boy in Burbank isn't just a restaurant; it's a piece of American history. As the oldest remaining Bob's Big Boy (built in 1949), it retains its iconic 50s-style menu and decor, complete with a giant Big Boy statue. Weekends offer car hop service, and Friday evenings feature a classic car show. It's even known as the "Beatles Booth" where the band dined in 1965 – a true slice of Americana.
Similarly, Cafe 50s is a classic diner that immerses you in the authentic atmosphere of the decade. With its retro decor, gumball machines, vintage comics, and classic board games, it's designed to entertain kids while serving up comfort food like milkshakes, melts, burgers, and fries.
Mel's Drive-In on Sunset Blvd stands in a historic Googie building, instantly recognizable from its appearances in films. Known for its retro decor and individual jukeboxes at each booth, it serves classic diner fare, offering a nostalgic trip for parents and a fun, novel experience for kids.
For a dining experience with an incredible view, The Proud Bird near LAX offers unique plane-spotting opportunities. Kids can enjoy an outdoor play area while watching planes take off. The interior is a treasure trove of aviation photos and memorabilia, including a suspended P-40 Flying Tiger replica. It's a spacious, family-friendly food bazaar featuring six culinary kitchens (Italian, Asian, American, BBQ), ensuring there's something for every palate.
For the Adventurous Palate & Older Kids: Unique & Niche Themes
Some themed restaurants have a particular flair or age recommendation, making them ideal for families seeking something truly unique or catering to slightly older children. If you're exploring the wider world of themed dining in LA, this category offers truly distinctive experiences. Explore LA's unique dining.
Beetle House LA is a year-round Halloween/Beetlejuice-themed restaurant that offers a wonderfully macabre experience. With continuous dining room variety shows featuring Beetlejuice as host and changing acts nightly, it's a feast for the senses. Themed food, like Sweeny Beef and Edward Burger Hands, adds to the fun. While kids are welcome, parents should be aware that some entertainers might be scary for those under 10. A three-course meal with entertainment costs $22 for kids 12 and under, and $65 for kids 12+. Vegan and vegetarian options are readily available.
At the Disneyland Hotel, Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar is inspired by The Jungle Cruise ride, creating an enchanted, island-themed atmosphere. Children are welcome until 8 pm, making it a fun early evening stop for the family. While adults can enjoy exotic libations that trigger "fun surprises," everyone can savor island-inspired foods. Be prepared, as this popular spot does not accept reservations.
The Magic Castle in Hollywood is primarily a private clubhouse for magicians (21+ in the evenings), but it offers a genuinely family-friendly weekend brunch. Securing a reservation can be challenging, often requiring a guest pass from a member, but the reward is non-stop magic shows in multiple theaters and a truly unique dining setting. This is a special treat for families who appreciate the art of magic.
Finally, for a taste of New Orleans without leaving California, Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen in Downtown Disney offers Cajun/Creole dishes like Gumbo Ya-Ya, Jambalaya, and po' boy sandwiches. Indulge in beignets and bread pudding for dessert. While adults can enjoy Hurricanes, kids can sip on virgin Mint Juleps, all accompanied by the lively sounds and atmosphere of the Big Easy.
Practical Playbook: Choosing Your Family's Perfect Themed Adventure
Selecting the right themed restaurant involves more than just picking a fun theme. Consider these factors to ensure your family has the best possible experience.
Know Your Audience: Ages & Interests First
The success of a themed dining experience often hinges on how well it aligns with your children's ages and interests.
- Toddlers & Preschoolers: Focus on character interactions (Goofy's Kitchen, American Girl Cafe), bright, stimulating environments (Rainforest Cafe), or musical entertainment (Miceli's) that doesn't require sustained attention. Avoid anything potentially scary (Beetle House LA for under 10s) or very long, structured shows.
- Elementary Schoolers (5-10): This age group thrives on active participation and grand spectacles. Pirates Dinner Adventure and Medieval Times are often huge hits. Interactive elements like arcade games (Button Mash) or mechanical bulls (Saddle Ranch) can also be engaging.
- Pre-Teens & Teens: They might appreciate the more unique and atmospheric options. Beetle House LA, The Magic Castle's brunch, or even the historical significance of Bob's Big Boy can appeal to a more discerning or adventurous palate for experiences. Trader Sam's before 8 pm is also a cool, slightly more grown-up vibe.
Budgeting for the Experience: Beyond the Entrée Price
Themed restaurants, especially those with live shows, often come with a higher price tag than a standard family dinner.
- Dinner Shows: Expect to pay a per-person ticket price that includes the meal and entertainment. Check for combo deals or potential discounts for larger groups. Pirates Dinner Adventure and Medieval Times fall into this category.
- Character Dining: While often buffet-style, character dining like Goofy's Kitchen can be a premium experience due to the unique interaction opportunities. Factor in the cost per person, not just per plate.
- Atmosphere-Driven & Iconic Spots: For places like Rainforest Cafe, Bob's Big Boy, or Cafe 50s, the menu prices are generally comparable to casual dining, but the entertainment is built into the ambiance rather than a separate charge.
- Hidden Costs: Don't forget potential add-ons like souvenir cups (Margaritaville), photo packages (dinner shows), or s'mores kits (Saddle Ranch).
Timing is Everything: Reservations & Peak Hours
Most themed restaurants, particularly the popular ones, strongly recommend or even require reservations.
- Book Ahead: For high-demand venues like Pirates Dinner Adventure, Medieval Times, Goofy's Kitchen, or The Magic Castle brunch, secure your spot well in advance, especially for weekend or holiday visits.
- Check Showtimes: For dinner shows, specific showtimes dictate your dining window. Arrive early to get the best seats or enjoy pre-show activities.
- Early Bird Advantage: For places that don't take reservations (Trader Sam's), arriving shortly after opening or before the main dinner rush can help you avoid long waits, especially if you have younger children.
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: Weekday visits generally offer fewer crowds and potentially more relaxed experiences.
Dietary Needs and Menu Variety
While themed restaurants prioritize the experience, many are increasingly accommodating to various dietary restrictions.
- Review Menus Online: Before you go, check the restaurant's website for their menu, specifically looking for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly options.
- Communicate Clearly: Inform your server about any allergies or dietary needs as soon as you are seated. Places like Medieval Times (vegetarian options) and Beetle House LA (vegan/vegetarian options) are prepared for this.
- Kid-Friendly Standards: Most venues will offer universally appealing kid favorites like chicken fingers, pasta, or pizza, even if the adult menu is more adventurous.
Quick Answers: Your Top Themed Dining Questions
What's the best option for very young children (under 5)?
For toddlers and preschoolers, Goofy's Kitchen offers fantastic character interaction without the need for a park ticket. Rainforest Cafe provides a visually stimulating environment with animatronic animals. Miceli’s with its singing waiters can also be very engaging, and Cafe 50s with its vintage games provides simple, direct entertainment. Avoid places with potentially scary elements like Beetle House LA for this age group.
Are reservations always necessary for themed restaurants?
For dinner shows like Pirates Dinner Adventure and Medieval Times, and character dining like Goofy's Kitchen, reservations are almost always essential. For popular brunch times at The Magic Castle, they are also crucial. More casual themed diners like Bob's Big Boy, Cafe 50s, or Mel's Drive-In usually operate on a walk-in basis, but it's always wise to check their website or call ahead, especially for larger groups or peak times. Trader Sam's does not accept reservations.
What about dietary restrictions and picky eaters?
Many themed restaurants, including dinner shows, offer vegetarian or other alternative options (e.g., Medieval Times, Beetle House LA). Casual spots like Rainforest Cafe, Bob's Big Boy, and Cafe 50s typically have standard American fare with customizable options. Always review the menu online beforehand and communicate any specific needs to your server upon arrival. Most cater to common kid preferences with familiar dishes.
Are these experiences always expensive?
The cost varies widely. Dinner shows like Pirates Dinner Adventure and Medieval Times are premium experiences with higher per-person costs. Character dining also tends to be more expensive. However, many themed restaurants like Bob's Big Boy, Cafe 50s, Mel's Drive-In, or The Proud Bird offer experiences at more moderate, casual dining prices, where the "theme" is built into the ambiance rather than a separate show ticket.
Can I find good themed options within LA city limits, or do I have to travel to Orange County?
While some of the major dinner shows like Pirates Dinner Adventure and Medieval Times are in Buena Park (Orange County), many fantastic options are right in or very close to LA. Beetle House LA, Miceli’s (Universal City, Las Palmas), Button Mash, Bob's Big Boy (Burbank), The Proud Bird (near LAX), American Girl Cafe (Grove), The Magic Castle (Hollywood), Cafe 50s, Mel's Drive-In, Saddle Ranch Chop House, and the various options at Downtown Disney (like Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar, Goofy's Kitchen) are all highly accessible for LA residents.
Crafting Unforgettable Family Meals in LA
Choosing from the best themed restaurants for kids Los Angeles offers means deciding what kind of magic your family is seeking. Whether it's the roar of a pirate ship, the clang of knights' swords, the strum of a singing waiter's guitar, or the simple joy of a 50s milkshake, LA's themed dining scene is rich with opportunities to turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary adventure. Take a moment to consider your kids' current fascinations, your budget, and the kind of atmosphere that will truly make everyone smile. Then, dive in and create those lasting family memories, one uniquely themed meal at a time.