Family Friendly Restaurants in Sarasota: Where to Dine with Kids
Family friendly restaurants in Sarasota offer more than just a meal — they’re part of the adventure. Located on Florida’s scenic Gulf Coast, Sarasota blends beachy charm with culinary creativity, making it an ideal destination for families looking to explore local flavor. Whether you’re dining post-beach or between cultural attractions, you’ll find spots where kids are welcome and the food is notable for more than just convenience.
This guide to the best family friendly restaurants in Sarasota highlights top picks by neighborhood, plus nearby kid-approved attractions and parent-friendly perks. Let’s dive into this flavorful journey.
Siesta Key Beach Bites: Dining Steps from the Sand
Siesta Key is famous for its bright white sand and turquoise waters — and it’s also home to several standout family friendly restaurants in Sarasota. These beachside spots are just right for casual meals and sunset dinners with little ones.
The Cottage on Avenida Messina delivers island vibes with a patio surrounded by tropical landscaping. Their global menu includes options like sticky ribs and Cubano sandwiches, while kids devour cheesy quesadillas and crispy chicken tenders. Just a short walk away, Sun Garden Café offers hearty breakfast and lunch plates. Adults love the eggs Benedict, while kids favor fluffy silver dollar pancakes.
To burn off post-meal energy, head to the shaded playground at Siesta Key Beach or hop on the free island trolley. Pro tip: arrive early or bike in from nearby hotels to avoid peak-hour parking hassles.
Downtown Sarasota: Art, Culture, and Kid-Friendly Meals
Downtown Sarasota fuses artistic energy with family appeal. It’s the perfect place to pair a museum outing with a satisfying bite at one of the many family friendly restaurants in Sarasota’s cultural hub.
Owen’s Fish Camp in Burns Court brings southern charm to life with picnic tables, live music, and a tire swing that entertains while you wait. Adults rave about the shrimp and grits, and children stick to comforting classics like mac and cheese or fish and chips.
Down the street, Made Restaurant reimagines comfort food with flair. Meatloaf sliders and truffle fries are standouts, and yes — the fries usually disappear faster than expected. For brunch, Station 400 on Lemon Avenue offers engineering-themed charm in a converted rail depot. Umbrella-covered tables, friendly service, and healthy options create the perfect family brunch setting.
Local Flavor in Gulf Gate: Sarasota Dining Off the Beaten Path
Gulf Gate is where Sarasota locals go for laid-back meals and international flair. Just east of Stickney Point, this neighborhood features some of the most authentic family friendly restaurants in Sarasota.
Big Water Fish Market may look unassuming, but inside, you’ll find fresh seafood that pleases all generations. Their kid’s fish basket is a hit, while adults savor grilled or blackened catches paired with homemade coleslaw. The oyster bar adds a casual, grown-up bonus for traveling parents.
A couple of blocks away, Piccolo Italian Market & Deli serves homemade panini, decadent cannoli, and imported snacks — ideal for a beach picnic or park lunch. Grab your meal to-go and head to nearby Crescent Beach or the shaded garden outside Gulf Gate Library.
Farm-to-Table Dining That Welcomes Families
Several family friendly restaurants in Sarasota offer farm-fresh meals without sacrificing convenience or kid appeal. These spots combine healthy ingredients with settings that make every family feel at home.
Shore on St. Armands Circle delivers a breezy rooftop experience just steps from boutique shopping. The kids menu includes elevated favorites, while adults enjoy dishes like the roasted cauliflower bowl or mahi tacos. The setting is perfect for post-shopping dinners or special celebrations.
Heading inland, Leaf & Lentil near Southgate creates flavorful, 100% plant-based dishes. The “not-chicken” pot pie and fruit-packed smoothies are favorites with vegetarians and eco-conscious families. Its counter-serve format and cozy atmosphere fit lunchtime plans, plus Arlington Park’s playground is just minutes away.
Quick and Tasty: Restaurants Near Kid-Focused Attractions
After a morning of exploring nature exhibits, sea turtles, or interactive gardens, nothing beats a quick refuel. Luckily, some of the best family friendly restaurants in Sarasota are located near top attractions.
At Mote Marine Laboratory on the northern tip of Lido Key, kids can dive into marine life education. Just moments away, The Old Salty Dog offers casual, waterfront dining where kids dig into grilled cheese and hot dogs while parents enjoy a drink by the water. It’s low-fuss and always friendly to sandy feet.
Closer to downtown, Brick’s Smoked Meats offers Texas barbecue in a modern, family-friendly atmosphere. After visiting nearby Payne Park and its train-themed playground, BBQ plates and creamy banana pudding hit the spot. Fast service and plenty of indoor seating make it a win on busier days.
Sarasota’s Sweetest Stops for Family Dessert
No family meal is complete without dessert — and Sarasota specializes in memorable treats that delight all ages. From ethics-driven ice cream shops to old-fashioned parlors, there’s something sweet for every occasion.
Rise & Nye’s in downtown Sarasota is more than a dessert stop — it’s a mission-driven café offering root beer floats, warm cookies, and ice cream sundaes served by friendly staff in a welcoming space. It’s a favorite among both kids and parents for its joyful vibe.
For traditional handmade ice cream, visit Big Olaf Creamery in the Pinecraft neighborhood. Delicious flavors like butter pecan and black raspberry draw families in, and sprinkles are always part of the package. Afterward, plan a stroll through nearby Pinecraft Park or a relaxed ride down The Legacy Trail.
Discovering Sarasota Through Flavor and Family Moments
From breezy beach cafés to downtown gems, family friendly restaurants in Sarasota let you taste the city’s charm while making memories together. Many of these eateries feature outdoor seating, kid-centric menus, and easy access to popular attractions — all with a local flavor that’s hard to forget.
Whether you’re strolling the shores of Siesta Key, exploring the creativity of downtown, or venturing into local-loved corners like Gulf Gate, you’ll be rewarded with meals that nourish and experiences that connect. When it comes to balancing family fun with great food, Sarasota rises to the occasion.
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