Outline:
Dining with kids can be a challenge, especially when it comes to managing costs and satisfying picky eaters. Finding affordable family-friendly restaurants in the Philadelphia area can be a game-changer for parents looking to enjoy a meal without breaking the bank. From local favorites to hidden gems, there are numerous options where kids can enjoy delicious meals for under $10.
Popular Family-Friendly Eateries in the Philly Area
Reading Terminal Market – Center City
This bustling market offers a variety of food stands and lunch counters where families can find affordable options. The Dutch Eating Place serves breakfast staples like eggs and scrapple, while the Down Home Diner inside the terminal offers breakfast or lunch items such as breakfast sandwiches, pancakes, burgers, and sandwiches for under $10. To avoid crowds, consider ordering “to go” and eating at the central seating area.
Buena Onda Baja Taqueria – Logan Square
This Mexican spot offers Baja-inspired dishes that even picky eaters will love. Kids can enjoy tacos (ground beef or grilled chicken) for just $6, and many adult menu items also fall under the $10 range.
Spot Gourmet Burgers – Brewerytown
Despite its name, this fast-casual restaurant offers affordable options like a plain cheeseburger or hamburger for about $10. For smaller appetites, the Sirloin Minis are just $4 each, and two-piece chicken fingers cost $6.
Penrose Diner – South Philadelphia
Perfect for a quick bite before or after a game or concert at the Philadelphia Sports Complex, the Penrose Diner offers kid-friendly options like pancakes, ravioli, and cheeseburger sliders for $10 or less. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available.
Snap Custom Pizza – Bryn Mawr, Exton, Bala Cynwyd
Families can customize their pizzas at this three-location spot. A kid’s pizza with one topping is $9, and a premium kid’s pizza is just a dollar more. Limited seating means taking the order home for a fun family night is a great option.
Hymie’s Delicatessen – Merion
This Montgomery County favorite offers great value for families. Many kid-approved items are priced just under $10, including mac and cheese, chicken fingers, and the popular Smiley Face Pancake. For adventurous eaters, the specialty sandwiches are large enough to share.
Market Street Grill – West Chester
From waffles with berries to chicken tenders and grilled cheese sandwiches, the Main Street Grill offers affordable meals for kids under $10. Gluten-free bread is available for an additional charge.
Bittersweet Kitchen – Media
This breakfast and lunch spot offers a filling breakfast for $10, and the kids’ menu includes French Toast Sticks, scrambled eggs, and S’mores Pancakes for under $8. Due to limited seating, it’s recommended to check in and wait while shopping in Media.
Hank’s Place – Chadds Ford
Known for its homemade dishes, this spot was a favorite of painter Andrew Wyeth. The kids’ menu (for 12 and under) is priced under $10, and several regular menu items are similarly priced. On nice days, the porch offers a beautiful outdoor dining experience.
Nudy’s Cafe – Multiple locations
Families can enjoy breakfast or lunch at Nudy’s Cafe, where many popular dishes cost less than $10. From Fresh Fruit French Toast to breakfast sandwiches with meat and cheese, there’s something for everyone.
Hidden Gems Worth the Trip
Hip City Veg – Multiple locations
While vegetarian and vegan options are available, non-vegetarians can still enjoy delicious dishes like Chick’n Nuggets and the Real Deal Veggie Burger. The Sweet Potato Fries are a must-try.
Dairy Cottage – Springfield
A family-friendly eatery specializing in pizza, breakfast, burgers, cheesesteaks, and sandwiches. Many basic entrees are priced at $10 or below.
Nifty Fiftys – Multiple locations
With its 1950s decor and classic burgers and fries, this spot attracts families. All Nifty Burgers start below $10, and hot dogs and chicken nuggets also stay under the $10 threshold.
Goldie – Center City
This spot offers falafel balls for $6 and a falafel hummus platter for $15 (less than $10 per person). Sliced cucumbers and the Pint Package are great options for kids.
Dining Near Major Attractions
Philadelphia Sports Complex – Penrose Diner
After a game or show, enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere and affordable prices, including kid favorites for under $10.
Independence National Park – Lamberti Pizza and Market
Near Independence Hall, this spot offers a large selection of prepared foods for under $10. Browse the market for Italian delicacies to take home.
Philadelphia Art Museum – Parkway Corner Deli
Following a visit to the museum, grab a sandwich, burger, or Philly steak from the Parkway Corner Deli for under $10. Online orders can save time, and picnic tables are available nearby.
Budget Menu Strategies
To stay under $10, plan ahead by checking online menus, skip drinks, share entrees or sides, try lunch specials instead of dinner, look for kid combos, order appetizers as mains, and avoid add-ons. Look for coupons ahead of time to stretch your budget further.
Restaurants to Avoid
Rotten Ralph’s – Old City
While convenient due to its proximity to Independence National Park, the food is nothing special. Consider visiting other nearby spots instead.
Casey’s – Drexel Hill
Popular among locals but may not be ideal for families due to crowds and noise. The longer wait times can be a downside.
Insider Tips for Eating Out Cheaply with Kids
Stick to water instead of pricier drinks, go early to beat dinner rushes, take advantage of kids-eat-free nights, share adult-sized meals amongst two or more kids, skip dessert, eat at food markets for variety, follow local restaurants on social media for flash deals, and order appetizers for smaller appetites.
Cheap Eats in Philadelphia FAQ
Q: What are the best cheap restaurants in Philadelphia for families?
A: Local favorites include Reading Terminal Market, Snap Custom Pizza, and Spot Gourmet Burgers, where kids can eat well for under $10 per person.
Q: Where can kids eat free or cheaply in Philadelphia?
A: From family-owned places to diners to cheap and fast eats, many restaurants have options. Check websites and local calendars for deals.
Q: What kind of food can families get for under $10 in Philadelphia?
A: Just about everything that kids want to eat — pizza, tacos, sandwiches, noodles, breakfast — can be found for cheap at local restaurants.
Q: Are there good, cheap restaurants near Independence Hall?
A: Yes! Try Lamberti Pizza and Market, near Independence National Park, to grab a quick meal for under $10 each. While you’re there, browse the Italian delicacies available in the market.
Q: How can families save money eating out in Philadelphia?
A: To save money while eating out in Philadelphia, try eating from food trucks, skipping touristy places, sharing entrees, and eating earlier to avoid peak times.