New York City has much to offer children in terms of its eating establishments. There is something to please even the fussiest child in this city, as many "grown-up" restaurants offer well thought-out kids menus with child-friendly variations of the adult fare. In addition, New York is abundant in theme restaurants, where the food, décor and design all pertain to a particular concept. Many of these theme restaurants will delight the kiddos, the lively atmosphere distracting them from the fact that the food might not be so tasty.
If your child is into science-fiction, she will love this space-themed restaurant at Times Square. Mars 2112 is considered a "multisensory" dining experience. The restaurant is designed to resemble Mars' rocky terrain, the waitstaff is dressed in futuristic clothing, there are a few "Martians" wandering around, and all the dishes have sci-fi or space-related names. The kids will enjoy riding in the simulated space shuttle that transports customers from the entrance to the dining area, get a kick out of the space arcade, and inevitably will want something from the intergalactic gift shop.
Mars 2112
1633 Broadway
New York, NY 10019
212-582-2112
mars2112.com
All fans of Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland" will likely be enchanted by this restaurant. As the name suggests, the restaurant is inspired by the tea party Alice attended while in Wonderland; the girlie décor, place settings and names of the dishes all support the theme. Dozens of different teas are served, but the spot is best known for its elaborate brunches, which offer pancakes, waffles, crepes, French toast and, most popularly, scones. Unsurprisingly, this restaurant will likely be most attractive to little girls.
Alice's Tea Cup
156 E. 64th St.
New York, NY 10021
212-486-9200
alicesteacup.com
This restaurant was inspired by Robert Louis Stevenson's novel, "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde." Children will be fascinated from the start, as the exterior of the restaurant resembles a haunted mansion. Once inside, there are many spooky features to the restaurant, including a ceiling that descends, threatening to crush you, and interactive characters, both live and automated. The characters perform throughout the entire meal, playing tricks on and chatting with unsuspecting diners. The restaurant is kid-friendly, but the prices are not. Expect to pay top dollar for even something as simple as a hamburger and soda.
Jekyll & Hyde Club New York
1409 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10019
212-541-9505
jekyllandhydeclub.com
Kids of all ages will adore Serendipity, a restaurant/sweet shop with an old-fashioned feel. Its regular menu includes classic American fare such as buffalo wings, nachos, hamburgers, and casseroles. But Serendipity is famous for the decadence and enormous size of its desserts, particularly its frozen hot chocolate, banana splits and ice cream sundaes. Anyone will feel like a kid again eating here.
Serendipity3
225 E. 60th St.
New York, NY 10022
212-838-3531
serendipity3.com
