Are you a parent who feels a twinge of anxiety when contemplating taking your kids out to eat? We’ve all been there, dreading those temper tantrums and picky eater battles that can turn a peaceful family outing into a chaotic scene.
But fear not because we’re about to let you in on a little secret that will revolutionise your dining experiences with the whole family.
Imagine a place where you can enjoy a meal while your kids revel in a plethora of food options, ensuring their taste buds are tantalised, and their tummies are satisfied. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?
Well, hold onto your highchairs because we’ve curated a list of the best family-friendly restaurants and cafes in Wollongong and its surroundings that will make eating out an absolute joy for both you and your little ones.
Say goodbye to the days of settling for restaurants with limited children’s menus or compromising on your own dining preferences. Our handpicked selection of dining hotspots understands the importance of catering to the whole family.
These establishments go above and beyond, offering a wide variety of dishes that will impress even the fussiest of little eaters.
Picture this: you step into a vibrant and welcoming eatery and the aromas of delicious cuisine dance through the air. As you settle into a cosy booth or a sunny outdoor patio, you glance at the menu, and a smile spreads across your face.
Where has the best kids menus in Wollongong?
The choices are endless! From hearty burgers to fresh salads, from comforting pasta dishes to exotic international flavours, these family-friendly establishments have something for everyone.
But here’s the best part: these places understand that children need their own sense of culinary adventure. They provide menus specially crafted to delight young taste buds, with options that will make even the most discerning mini food critic jump for joy.
No more worries about bored and restless kids creating chaos at the table. These restaurants and cafes are designed to captivate their imaginations and keep them engaged, all while you enjoy a well-deserved moment of culinary bliss.
Gone are the days of fearing that your little ones will reject the food,
throw tantrums, or make scenes. These family-friendly havens are committed to creating an atmosphere where parents can relax, kids can explore new flavours and unforgettable memories are made. It’s a win-win situation that guarantees a delightful dining experience for all.
So, fellow parents, if you’re tired of compromising on your own dining desires or dreading the inevitable restaurant battles with your kids, it’s time to step into a world of family-friendly gastronomic wonders.
Check out our list of top restaurants and cafes in Wollongong and its vicinity, and prepare for a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds singing and your kids begging for more.
Don’t let the fear of dining out with your little ones hold you back.
Embrace the joy of sharing a meal together, exploring new flavours, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. With these family-friendly restaurants and cafes, you can bid farewell to the stress and welcome a dining experience filled with laughter, happiness, and pure gastronomic delight. Bon appétit!
The best Family cafes and Restaurants in Wollongong for kids
Harbourfront Seafood Restaurant
Searching for a place where kids can dive into a seafood adventure, discovering the wonders of fresh fish and shellfish while having an absolute blast? Then, Welcome to Harbourfront Seafood Restaurant, the heart and soul of dining in Wollongong. Get ready for an experience that will leave your little ones grinning from ear to ear.
Located at 2 Endeavour Drive, Harbourfront is not your average restaurant. It’s a seafood wonderland that will make your kids fall head over heels for the flavours of the ocean.
From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that sets the stage for a memorable feast. And oh, what a feast it will be!
As your kids explore the menu, their eyes will widen with excitement. Juicy prawns, tender fish fillets, plump lobsters, and more will tempt their taste buds. It’s a seafood extravaganza that will have them begging for seconds.
And you know what? You’ll love it too! Harbourfront goes the extra mile to cater to everyone’s tastes. While the kids indulge in their sea-dwelling favourites, you can savour the finest dishes that modern Australian cuisine has to offer. It’s a win-win situation that will leave the whole family satisfied and smiling.
But they don’t stop there. For those seeking a complete culinary journey, they offer Market Menu. Available for lunch and dinner on selected days, this menu highlights seasonal dishes that change depending on the freshest produce available. It is a sure thing that benefits your kids as they would be able to have fresh veggies on the market.
But it’s not just about the food. Harbourfront’s ambience is pure magic. With its waterfront location, you’ll be treated to stunning views that will transport you to a world of seaside bliss. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home, delivering top-notch service that adds an extra sparkle to your dining experience.
At Harbourfront, it’s all about creating unforgettable memories. So come on over, dive into the seafood feast, and let the laughter and joy fill the air. Harbourfront Seafood Restaurant is calling, and the sea of flavours awaits. Get ready for a dining experience that will make you and your kids shout, “We love it!”
Da Orlando
Attention, pizza-loving families! Are your kids tired of the same old pizza options like Dominoes or Pizza Hut? It’s time to treat them to a pizza experience they’ll never forget at Da Orlando in Wollongong. Trust us, this is not your average pizza joint!
At Da Orlando, they take pizza-making to a whole new level. Their pizzas are cooked in the traditional Roman style, resulting in a delightful crunchiness and a lighter dough.
How do they achieve such perfection? Well, Orlando himself proves the dough for a whopping 72 hours at the perfect temperature, ensuring that each bite is nothing short of extraordinary.
Now, let’s talk about the pizzas themselves. The menu boasts a great variety of delightful options, both for the traditionalists and the adventurous eaters in your family.
From classic Margherita with fior di latte and basil to the flavour-packed Napoli with anchovies, olives, garlic, and oregano, there’s something to please every palate.
And don’t worry, parents—we haven’t forgotten about Hawaiian lovers and seafood enthusiasts. The Fior di latte, pineapple, and ham in the Hawaiian pizza and the Fior di latte, prawns, and rocket in the Gamberi pizza will transport you straight to pizza paradise.
But Da Orlando isn’t just about pizza. They also offer an array of delectable pasta dishes that will sway your heart with joy.
Have your kids tried Gorgonzola pasta in a creamy white sauce? Or perhaps they’d enjoy the fiery kick of the Arrabiata pasta with Napoli sauce and chilli. No matter their preferences, Da Orlando has a pasta dish to satisfy every craving.
Now, here’s the best part: Da Orlando understands the importance of catering to different dietary needs. They offer gluten-free options for all sauces except the meatball, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their delicious creations.
Vegans can rejoice, too, as they have a vegan pizza option available, along with a selection of vegetarian-friendly choices.
Located at 348 Keira St, Wollongong, Da Orlando has become a beloved spot for families seeking an authentic taste of Italy. The passion and dedication poured into each dish are evident from the first bite to the last. It’s a place where your kids can expand their pizza horizons and discover a world of flavours beyond the usual fast-food chains.
So, why settle for ordinary pizza when you can give your kids a truly exceptional pizza experience? Head over to Da Orlando and let their traditional Roman-style pizzas transport your taste buds to Italy.
And remember, even if pizza isn’t your kids’ thing, they can still enjoy the mouthwatering pasta options available. It’s time to embark on a culinary adventure at Da Orlando—where pizza dreams come true.
Amigos Mexican Restaurant
Calling all little amigos and their parents! Are you ready for a Mexican food adventure right here in Wollongong? Look no further than Amigos Mexican Restaurant, the perfect place to satisfy your cravings for delicious Mexican delights with your entire family.
Located at 116 Keira Street, this vibrant restaurant has been serving mouth watering Mexican cuisine since 1973, making it a beloved spot for families in search of a fiesta of flavours.
At Amigos, they know that great food brings families together, and their menu is a testament to that belief. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be transported to a world of colour and excitement.
The tantalising aromas of sizzling enchiladas, sizzling fajitas, and hearty burritos will tickle your senses and ignite your appetite. With a wide range of options available, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices, even the pickiest little eaters will find something they love.
But it’s not just about the food at Amigos—it’s about creating a memorable experience for the entire family. As parents, you can relax and enjoy the Victorian-era charm of the restaurant while the kids dive into their kids’ menu, specially crafted to delight their taste buds.
From kids’ nachos and mini enchiladas to burrito dishes, there’s something for every little amigo palate. And don’t worry, they haven’t forgotten about dessert!
Treat your little ones to a sweet finale with their indulgent chocolate churros, guaranteed to bring smiles to their faces.
Amigos Mexican Restaurant is a fully licensed establishment, so parents can unwind and savour a refreshing margarita or sip on an authentic Mexican beer.
The friendly staff will ensure that your dining experience is nothing short of exceptional, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
So, parents, why settle for ordinary when you can embark on a culinary adventure with your kids at Amigos? Discover the vibrant flavours of Mexico at Amigos Mexican Restaurant, create lasting memories, and introduce your children to a world of new tastes and textures.
Jasmine Thai Restaurant
Want to give your kids a great delicious taste of Thai Cuisine without leaving Wollongong? If yes, then Jasmine Rice is an authentic and modern Thai cuisine restaurant that promises to delight your palate and transport you directly to the vibrant streets of Thailand.
Located at 131 Corrimal St, Wollongong NSW 2500, Australia, this hidden gem is the perfect place to introduce your kids to the exotic flavours of Asia.
Imagine the look of excitement on your little ones’ faces as they discover a whole new world of spicy, sweet, and sour delights. Thai cuisine is renowned for its harmonious blend of flavours and aromatic spices, creating a symphony of tastes that will leave your family craving for more.
From crispy rice cakes that make the perfect appetizer to the iconic Pad Thai, featuring stir-fried rice noodles with their in-house made Pad Thai sauce, every dish at Jasmine Rice is crafted with passion and authenticity.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there! Have your kids ever tried the famous Tom Yum Goong? It’s a Thai classic—a spicy, sour, and utterly delicious soup with succulent King prawns. Let your little ones experience the explosion of flavours that will take their taste buds on a wild ride.
At Jasmine Rice, they understand the importance of catering to families. Their friendly and careful staff will ensure that your dining experience is both enjoyable and memorable. The vibrant and inviting ambience of the restaurant will captivate your kids’ imagination, making them feel like they’ve stepped into a whole new world. The rich colours, traditional decor, and friendly atmosphere create the perfect setting for a family meal to remember.
Thai cuisine offers a wonderful opportunity to expand your kids’ culinary horizons. Let them savour the unique combination of flavours, textures, and spices that make Thai food so special. From mild options for the little ones to spicier dishes for the adventurous eaters, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Jasmine Rice.
So, why not venture into the exciting world of Thai cuisine with your kids? Treat them to an unforgettable dining experience at Jasmine Rice, where they’ll discover the wonders of Asian flavours and create cherished memories.
Palisade Kitchen & Bar
Looking for the perfect beachside dining adventure for your family? Look no further than Palisade Kitchen & Bar, located in the picturesque North Wollongong, with stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
This is not just a restaurant; it’s a uniquely delicious experience that combines breathtaking vistas, innovative cuisine made with the freshest Australian produce, and impeccable service.
It’s a place where people come together to dine, drink, and socialise, creating lasting memories against the backdrop of the beach. Your kids would love this place after a great beach adventure.
The culinary journey here begins with their new winter menu, carefully crafted by a team of talented chefs who are passionate about showcasing the best of local ingredients.
From delightful vegan options like the Vegan Buddha Bowl, featuring a delightful combination of quinoa, soba noodles, roasted pumpkin and cauliflower, spiced chickpeas, and more, to the fresh and delectable South Coast Oysters served with a choice of natural or Kilpatrick, there’s something to please every palate.
If your family enjoys seafood, you’re in for a treat. Indulge in the giant King Prawns, flame-grilled to perfection with kaffir lime salt and accompanied by Palisade’s house-made seafood sauce.
For a refreshing and elegant seafood experience, try the King Prawns served on crushed ice with lemon and the house seafood sauce. And if you’re in the mood for a classic, the Beer Battered Fish is sure to satisfy.
Now, let’s talk about dessert! Palisade Kitchen & Bar has a range of mouthwatering treats to delight your sweet tooth. Indulge in the Palisade’s Gaytime Ice Cream Sandwich, a heavenly combination of toffee and vanilla-flavoured ice cream, gold-dusted chocolate tuiles, and golden Gaytime crumbs.
If you prefer something warm and comforting, the Sticky Date Pudding with salted caramel and rum and raisin ice cream is a must-try. For a unique twist, go for the Green Tea Infused Crème Brulee with pistachio and orange biscotti, or indulge in the Salty and Sweet Baked Cheesecake topped with Oreo crumbs and chocolate pretzels.
At Palisade Kitchen & Bar, they understand the importance of catering to families. With its breathtaking location, delectable menu, and friendly service, it’s the perfect setting for a memorable family outing. Let your kids soak up the beach vibes while enjoying delicious food that will tantalise their taste buds.
So why not embark on a beach adventure with your family and savour the culinary delights at Palisade Kitchen & Bar? It’s the ideal spot for a family gathering, where you can create cherished memories and indulge in a feast for the senses.
Join them at their location at 131 Corrimal St, Wollongong NSW 2500, Australia, and let the combination of great food, beautiful views, and a welcoming atmosphere make your family dining experience truly unforgettable.
Steamers Bar and Grill
If you’re craving a taste of everything from around the world, look no further than Steamers Bar and Grill. This culinary gem, located at 1 Marine Dr, Wollongong, offers a menu crafted by Executive Chef Paul Hamilton, designed to share and celebrate a diverse range of flavours.
With influences from street food across Asia, Western Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, Steamers Bar and Grill is a culinary journey like no other.
One of the highlights of Steamers Bar and Grill is their commitment to showcasing local and seasonally grown produce, as well as in-house dry-aged beef and wild-caught seafood. This ensures that every dish is prepared with the freshest ingredients and bursts with vibrant flavours.
Their menu features a variety of tantalising options, catering to various tastes and preferences. From the Blue Swimmer crab with chilli black salt, pickled daikon, and wakame salad to the King ocean prawns with rose sauce and nectarine salsa, you’ll embark on a culinary adventure with every bite.
If you’re a fan of sashimi, their offering of sesame yuzu soy kewpie, nori rice balls, and pickled ginger will surely impress.
For those seeking vegetarian or vegan options, the Saffron cauliflower with corn and sweet potato hummus, avo, courgette, and seed shards is a delightful choice.
The menu also features wood-fired chilli salted calamari, wood-fired king prawns, and Bao buns filled with char sui pork and sriracha mayo. There’s something to please everyone’s palate.
But what makes Steamers Bar and Grill truly family-friendly is their special kids’ menu. Your little ones can enjoy dishes like fish with fries and salad, breaded chicken bites with fries and salad, or fettuccini with tomato herb sauce or bolognese.
There are also options like grilled chicken with coconut rice and steamed greens or grilled barramundi with steamed greens and mashed potato. And don’t forget about dessert! The kids can indulge in ice cream with toppings or a delicious waffle with ice cream and chocolate sauce.
When you visit Steamers Bar and Grill, you’ll be greeted with a great ambience and friendly service that caters to families. It’s the perfect spot to gather with your loved ones, enjoy a diverse range of flavours, and create lasting memories.
So, why not treat your family to a culinary adventure at Steamers Bar and Grill? Located in the beautiful setting of Wollongong, this restaurant offers a diverse dining experience that will satisfy every member of the family. Allow your palate to travel the world and create unforgettable moments together.
Diggies Cafe
Want your kids to see what exactly an Australian Brunch Options looks like? Welcome to Diggies Cafe, where the laid-back Aussie beach culture comes to life with delicious modern Australian brunch dishes and panoramic sea views, and your kids will get the authentic Australian brunch experience.
Located at 1 Cliff Rd, North Wollongong, this cafe is the perfect destination for families looking to enjoy a beach adventure and indulge in a fantastic brunch experience.
Diggies Cafe takes pride in curating an always-evolving menu that showcases the best of Australian cuisine using high-quality, local ingredients.
For the little ones, there’s a specially designed kids’ menu that includes delightful choices like the kiddies platter with fresh fruit, yogurt, and banana bread or the little bacon and eggs featuring an egg, bacon, and hash brown.
They can also enjoy fluffy buttermilk pancakes with banana or strawberries and maple syrup or a classic bacon and egg roll on a milk bun with tomato sauce.
Parents can indulge in an array of brunch delights. From the savoury options like the ham, cheese, and tomato toastie, or the smoked salmon bagel with Philly cream cheese, capers, dill, and rocket, to the Italiano on Turkish toast featuring salami, prosciutto, rocket, and cheese, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Diggies Cafe has you covered with choices like the açai bowl, packed with açai, banana, fresh seasonal fruit, shaved coconut, mint, chia seeds, and house-made granola.
For a comforting and nourishing meal, the chia porridge made with chia seeds, almond milk, banana, honey, and cinnamon is a great choice. And don’t miss their house-made granola with winter fruits, coconut yogurt, raspberry cacao, and mint.
Diggies Cafe offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere where families can come together, relax, and enjoy a delicious meal with breathtaking sea views. It’s the perfect spot to create lasting memories while savouring the true Aussie brunch experience.
So, why not treat your family to a beach adventure followed by a fantastic brunch at Diggies Cafe? Located in the beautiful setting of Wollongong, this cafe embodies the essence of Australian beach culture and serves up a variety of mouthwatering dishes.
Allow your kids to discover the flavours of Aussie brunch while you savour the diverse menu options, all while soaking in the panoramic sea views. It’s a family restaurant idea that promises fun, great food, and unforgettable moments.
Discover Wollongong’s Foodie Paradise for Families: Unforgettable Moments Await!
Now that we’ve unveiled the best places in Wollongong to embark on a mouthwatering food adventure with your kids, it’s time to seize our suggestions and create unforgettable family bonding experiences over delicious meals.
Whether you choose the authentic and modern Thai cuisine at Jasmine Rice, the panoramic sea views and diverse menu at Steamers Bar and Grill, or the laid-back vibes and Aussie brunch delights at Diggies Cafe, one thing is certain – you’re in for a treat!
So gather your loved ones, let your taste buds embark on a thrilling journey, and make lasting memories as you indulge in the vibrant culinary scene of Wollongong.
Get ready for a delightful fusion of flavours, laughter-filled moments, and cherished family time. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to enjoy food and bonding like never before – your family’s taste buds will thank you!
Check out our articles about the best Wollongong beaches here, kid-friendly free fun in Wollongong, the best pools in Wollongong here, and the best free things to do in Wollongong with kids here.
For more adventure ideas – click here.
Happy Exploring!
