Kid-Approved Eats in and around Pompano Beach, FL
As locals, we know that not every restaurant is made for families. Some places have long wait times, fancy menus (with zero kid-friendly options), and could be quite uneventful for little minds. But don’t worry—we’ve done the work for you! Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, casual waterfront eats, or a cozy breakfast spot, these family-friendly restaurants will make dining out easy and enjoyable for everyone during your visit to Pompano Beach or our nearby beach towns. Here is a roundup of our favorite family-friendly eats in our corner of paradise, so you can experience your beach vacation like one of the locals.
1. El Mar Cafe is a charming breakfast and lunch spot located at 4405 El Mar Drive, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Florida 33308. Known for its all-American cuisine, the café offers a welcoming atmosphere suitable for families.
Why We Love It!
Situated near the ocean, families can enjoy a meal and then take a short stroll to the beach, making it a convenient spot for a day out.
The café offers a children's menu, ensuring that young diners have options tailored to their tastes. They even have a Mickey Mouse pancake which is a nice added touch!
Given its proximity to the beach, it tends to be a popular eatery for beach goers, especially during peak hours, consider arriving early to secure a table without a wait.
2. Nauti Dawg Marina Cafe in Lighthouse Point is a waterfront restaurant where you can bring the whole family, including your furry friends. Located at 2841 Marina Circle, this café provides picturesque views of the Lighthouse Point Marina. Whether you're arriving by land or by boat, Nauti Dawg is easily accessible, with docking facilities available for boaters.
Why We Love It!
From daily brunches to delicious seafood selections, there is something to satisfy everyone in the family. They also have a wonderful kids menu.
Guests can enjoy live music performances from Wednesday to Sunday, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere.
Take advantage of their daily specials, including their Monday special where "Kids Eat Free" with the purchase of an adult entrée, making it an economical choice for families.
Children can enjoy feeding fish directly from the docks, adding an extra layer of fun to the dining experience!
3. The Foundry is a trendy industrial eatery located right off of the bridge at 2781 E Atlantic Blvd, Pompano Beach, FL 33062. With plenty of indoor and outdoor seating your wait time will likely be under 20 minutes, even on weekends! They open at 3pm on weekdays — perfect for an early dinner after a long day at the beach. On weekends they feature a wide-array of brunch options and open at 10:30 am.
Why We Love It!
Very family-friendly environment. There is something for the whole family on their extensive menu, from pizza to burgers and everything in-between. They also have a great selection of kids menu items.
If you want to unwind after a long day at the beach, this is the place to be — with happy hour happening from 3-6pm every week day. They have many other weekly specials like, Taco Tuesday and bottomless brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.
Have a kid who only likes Mac-N-Cheese? While they do not have it on the kids menu, they have a Bacon Mac-N-Cheese as a side dish. Our kids love it and now we get two — one for them and one for us! Ha!
4. Funky Buddha Brewery may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think “family-friendly,” but it is actually one of our favorites! It’s a vibrant craft brewery located at 1201 NE 38th St, Oakland Park, FL 33334. Renowned for its innovative beers and lively atmosphere, it offers a welcoming environment for families during designated hours. They even have games!
Why We Love It!
Supervised children are permitted in the taproom from noon to 8pm daily. After 8pm, the venue is restricted to guests aged 21 and over. You can enjoy some brews while you play a game of chess with your family and indulge in their long list of menu items. Try the Whipped Ricotta and thank us later!
If the minors in your group can’t find something they like on the menu, they also have a kids menu with chicken strips, hot dogs and burgers. While known for its extensive beer selection, Funky Buddha also has handcrafted cocktails, mocktails, and a variety of wine options, if you or someone in your group aren’t beer fans.
Don’t forget to plan your visit between noon and 8 pm, if your children are coming along.
The Brightline train track is directly next to the venue! Have a kid who loves trains? Request a table on the side of the tap room where you can eat and watch the train zoom by!
5. Deep Oceanfront Dining & Bar is a beachfront restaurant located at 1200 S. Ocean Blvd., Pompano Beach, FL 33062, at the Beachcomber Resort and Villas. Offering a relaxed atmosphere with stunning ocean views, it's an excellent choice for families who want to have a meal while their kids play on the sand.
Why We Love It!
Who doesn’t love toes-in-the-sand dining? Families can enjoy meals directly on the beach, with tables set up in the sand, providing a unique and enjoyable experience for both adults and children.
The restaurant features live music from Thursday through Sunday, which really enhances the tropical, laid-back vibes. Deep offers a variety of dishes, including locally sourced seafood and steaks, catering to various tastes and preferences.
Happy Hour specials are available Monday through Friday from 3 - 6pm, offering a selection of discounted drinks and appetizers. Don’t forget to bring your beach toes to keep the little ones entertained while you have a drink and enjoy the live music.
