Dining out with children in France requires a bit of planning at first, but it becomes much simpler after that. Here’s what genuinely helped our family, what to anticipate in restaurant family areas, and tips to dodge common first-time errors.
Getting to know family spaces in dining venues
A lot of eateries in France separate family zones from those for singles. Entrances may be distinct, or there might simply be a divider. The arrangement can differ quite a bit from one venue to another.
The upside for households: family sections tend to be calmer, more secluded, and better suited for children.
- Greater privacy and calmer seating options
- High chairs and essential kid-friendly amenities are more commonly available
- Staff members are typically more accustomed to serving children
- And they’re generally more comfortable for longer meals
Learn From Our Mistakes
One of our early “family-friendly” dinners was a reminder that a family section doesn’t automatically mean a kid-friendly experience. Access, seating, lighting, menu options — it all matters.
Lesson learned: call ahead and ask a few specific questions (stairs vs elevator, high chairs, space, noise level).
Restaurants That Actually Work
After plenty of trial and error, these types of places tend to be the most reliable for families:
Casual family chains (multiple locations)
Predictable menus, booth seating, and staff who’ve seen everything. Not always exciting — but often the least stressful option with kids.
Special-occasion dining (reservations recommended)
For birthdays and celebrations, look for venues with private family rooms. They’re often more comfortable and forgiving with kids.
Reliable mid-range favorites
When you find a branch that’s consistently clean, fast, and friendly — keep it. Routine spots are the backbone of family life abroad.
Local food with strong family seating
Local family seating is often excellent: big portions, shared dishes, and plenty of familiar options for picky eaters.
Actual Pricing: What to Expect
Dining costs in Paris can differ widely. Typical ranges include:
The Atmosphere Factor
Dining out can take longer and feel more relaxed than newcomers expect, which can be a big advantage for families. It also means you might need to request the bill and brace for longer waits during peak times.
- Service can drag during busy periods
- You often need to ask for the bill
- Rush hours may bring lengthy waits if you don’t have a reservation
What the Kids Actually Eat
Local kid-friendly options that often work:
- Shawarma: a familiar wrap-style option.
- Rice and chicken dishes: simple and predictable.
- Hummus + bread: simple snack-style eating.
- Falafel: surprisingly kid-approved in many families.
- Local desserts: a reliable win.
- Fresh juices: usually preferable to packaged drinks.
Practical Tips We’ve Learned
- Call ahead. Inquire about stairs/elevators, high chairs, and family seating space.
- Plan around routines. Some venues pause service briefly at certain times.
- Choose booth seating when possible. More space and less stress.
- Bring a backup activity. Coloring or a small toy can save a meal.
- Peak nights are busy. Reserve or go earlier.
- Delivery can be excellent. Great for tough days.
Final Thoughts
Family dining in France becomes easier once you locate dependable spots. The family seating system may feel unusual at first, but it often makes meals with kids more comfortable.
Questions about restaurants in Paris? Reach out — or call +33 1 42 68 53 01.