Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Zurich: Kid-Friendly Spots with Play Areas
- Sep 16
- 5 min read
Why Zurich is a Great Place for Family Dining
Before moving to Zurich, I wasn’t sure how easy it would be to eat out with kids. Would there be places that welcome families, or would dining out be more stressful than fun? To my surprise, Zurich turned out to be one of the most family-friendly dining cities I’ve experienced.
Restaurants here don’t just tolerate children — many of them actively welcome families with little ones. Some have play corners tucked into their cafés, others offer special menus for kids, and quite a few provide enough space so strollers aren’t an obstacle.
Another thing I’ve noticed? Zurich moms often meet up over coffee and brunch while their kids play nearby. These cafés and restaurants have become not just dining spots, but also social hubs where parents can relax, catch up, and share stories.
What Makes a Restaurant Family-Friendly?
From both personal experience and Zurich Tourism’s recommendations, here’s what really matters when dining with kids in Zurich:
Play Corners: Even a modest corner with a chalkboard or toy box can turn a meal into a relaxed outing.
Children’s Menus: Smaller, tasty portions designed for kids make eating out less of a battle.
Accessibility: High chairs, stroller access, and changing facilities are a big help.
Relaxed Atmosphere: No one wants to feel self-conscious if a child is louder than usual — family-friendly restaurants in Zurich are generally welcoming and understanding.
Kafi für Dich – A Cozy Café With a Play Corner
Located in Kreis 4, Kafi für Dich feels like a neighborhood living room. Families gather here for Sunday brunch, parents chat over cappuccinos, and kids can keep busy in a cozy play corner with toys and a chalkboard.
The menu is simple but inviting: fresh bread, homemade cakes, and hearty spreads. It’s the kind of place where you’ll often see moms meeting for a coffee catch-up while toddlers explore nearby.
👉 For expats: If you’re heading here on the weekend, the ZVV Family Day Pass makes sense. It covers two adults and up to four children, so you can ride Zurich’s trams and buses all day without extra tickets.
Hiltl – A Historic Vegetarian Spot With Kid Appeal
Hiltl isn’t just the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant — it’s also a surprisingly easy choice for families. The famous buffet is great for kids who like to pick and choose what goes on their plates, whether that’s pasta, colorful salads, or fresh fruit.
They also offer a dedicated children’s menu for kids up to 12 years old, making it easy to keep everyone happy. Brunch on weekends and public holidays is a highlight, and the central location means it’s convenient whether you’re local or just visiting.
👉 For tourists: A Swiss Travel Pass makes it simple to include Hiltl in your Zurich itinerary. It covers trams, buses, and trains — perfect if you’re combining dining with sightseeing.
Tibits – Casual Buffet Dining That Works for Everyone
Tibits, right next to Zurich’s main station (HB), is a casual, buffet-style spot that works well for families on the go. The variety is a big plus — kids can choose what they like, even if that means pasta with curry or salad with fries.
It’s a relaxed, no-fuss environment where parents don’t have to stress about a bit of noise. The quick service also makes it a favorite for busy families between errands or train journeys.
👉 For families on the go: Tibits is perfectly placed for a sightseeing stop. The Swiss Travel Pass covers your journey and makes hopping between attractions and a quick family meal easy.
👉 For expats: If you’re combining a trip into the city with lunch, the ZVV Family Day Pass is often the most budget-friendly option for parents with kids.
Brasserie Freilager – Spacious Dining for Families
In Albisrieden, Brasserie Freilager offers exactly what many parents need: space. The open, modern design means strollers fit easily, and families don’t feel cramped.
The menu balances comfort dishes for kids (pasta, schnitzel, fries) with more refined seasonal meals for adults. It’s also a popular spot for larger family gatherings, thanks to the spacious layout.
On our last visit, we joined another family and stayed for hours. It was relaxed, welcoming, and never felt rushed — something I really value as a parent.
👉 Day-out tip: If you’d like to pair dining with an activity, check out family experiences in Zurich on Swiss Activities — from museums to boat trips, it’s easy to turn a meal into a full family outing.
Die Waid – Scenic Views and Family Brunches
High above Zurich, Die Waid combines good food with stunning panoramic views of the city and lake. It’s a favorite for families because it offers space for kids to move around and a menu that caters to younger diners.
Their Sunday brunch is particularly popular — locals and visitors alike flock here for the relaxed vibe and buffet spread. If you plan to go, I highly recommend reserving in advance.
👉 For tourists: The Swiss Travel Pass makes it easy to reach Die Waid and explore more of Zurich in the same day, with unlimited access to trams, buses, and trains.
Bächlihof/Jucker Farm – A Countryside Escape for Families
About 30 minutes from Zurich, Bächlihof in Rapperswil-Jona (part of Jucker Farm) is more than a restaurant — it’s a family destination. Kids can run around the outdoor playground, watch goats in their pens, or enjoy seasonal attractions like pumpkin displays.
The food is fresh and seasonal: Rösti, soups, and their famous apple juice are staples. It’s one of my family’s favorite day trips because everyone gets something out of it — good food, open space, and nature.
👉 Perfect add-on: Check out Jucker Farm's special Pumpkin Exhibition that starts September and has a lot to offer for kids and adults.
Hidden Gems – Smaller Kid-Friendly Restaurants Worth Trying
If you’ve already tried the classics, here are a few more worth exploring:
Fork & Bottle – Known for its craft beers, but also has a family-friendly garden where kids can play while parents relax.
Pumpstation – A lakeside spot open in summer, with casual dining and plenty of space for kids to run around.
Zeughauskeller – Busy, lively, and touristy, but kids often enjoy the hearty dishes and bustling atmosphere.
Tips for Dining Out With Kids in Zurich
Reserve ahead: Especially for brunch on Sundays.
Go early: Restaurants are often quieter and calmer before the midday rush.
Bring small activities: Crayons or sticker books can be a lifesaver while waiting.
Pair with outings: Combine meals with lake walks, playground visits, or short day trips.
Transport smart:
Expats – the ZVV Family Day Pass covers two adults and up to four children for a day, making outings simple.
Tourists – the Swiss Travel Pass gives unlimited rides across the city and the country, ideal if you’re sightseeing.
Final Thoughts: Making Family Dining Stress-Free
Dining out with kids doesn’t have to be stressful — and Zurich proves it. Whether you’re looking for a cozy café where moms can meet for coffee, a buffet where children pick their own plates, or a countryside farm where dining blends into a day trip, there’s a family option for everyone.
These restaurants have become part of our family weekends. They’ve given me a chance to relax, connect with friends over coffee, and enjoy meals where my kids feel welcome. I hope they’ll help make your Zurich dining experiences just as enjoyable.
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