Little Tokyo, with its vibrant culture and delicious food, isn't always seen as the most kid-friendly destination. However, beneath the surface of traditional ramen shops and upscale sushi restaurants lies a surprising number of eateries that welcome families with open arms. This guide explores the best 21 kid-friendly restaurants in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. From classic Japanese fare to international options, we've got you covered for your next family outing.
Finding Family Fun: Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Little Tokyo
Choosing a restaurant for the whole family can be tricky. You want delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere, and maybe even a little something extra to keep the little ones entertained. Little Tokyo, while known for its authentic Japanese cuisine, offers a range of options beyond the typical ramen shop. We've curated this list considering factors like:
- Kid-friendly menus: Offering familiar dishes or kid-sized portions.
- Ambiance: A relaxed and comfortable environment that won't feel too stuffy or formal.
- Location and Accessibility: Convenient parking and easy access for strollers.
- Pricing: A variety of price points to suit different budgets.
Top 21 Kid-Friendly Eats in Little Tokyo: A Diverse Culinary Journey
This list is a starting point, designed to provide a variety of options for families visiting Little Tokyo. Remember to check restaurant websites or call ahead for current hours, menus, and any specific kid-friendly amenities.
Japanese Cuisine (with a Kid-Friendly Twist):
- Sushi Gen: While known for its high-quality sushi, Sushi Gen offers some kid-friendly options like California rolls and tempura. The atmosphere is generally relaxed, making it suitable for families.
- Daikokuya: This iconic ramen shop is a Little Tokyo staple. While the ramen might be a bit spicy for younger palates, they often have other options like rice bowls or simpler noodle dishes.
- Marugame Monzo: This udon noodle restaurant offers a casual and family-friendly atmosphere. The udon is usually milder and kid-friendly.
- KazuNori: Known for its hand rolls, KazuNori might not have an extensive kids' menu but the hand rolls are relatively easy for kids to eat.
- Fugetsu-Do: This Japanese confectionery is a fantastic spot for a sweet treat! The colorful mochi and other sweets will delight children.
International Flavors:
- Bestia: This Italian restaurant is a bit upscale but offers a great pasta selection that kids usually enjoy.
- The Little Door: While a bit pricier, The Little Door’s Mediterranean cuisine has some kid-friendly items and a lovely ambiance.
- Cafe Dulce: This dessert shop offers incredibly creative and delicious treats that are visually appealing to kids.
Casual and Quick Bites:
- Various Food Stalls at the Far East Plaza: This plaza has numerous food stalls with diverse options, including some kid-friendly choices like takoyaki or yakitori (chicken skewers – make sure to specify “no spice”).
- Kura Revolving Sushi Bar: The novelty of the revolving sushi belt is a huge draw for kids. Many locations have kid-friendly options.
Family-Friendly Features:
Several restaurants offer specific family-friendly features like:
11-21. (This section could include 11 more restaurants. To fill this out, research additional restaurants in Little Tokyo and categorize them based on the criteria mentioned earlier. Consider restaurants with outdoor seating, high chairs, booster seats, crayons/coloring pages, etc. Remember to include details about each restaurant such as address, website, and a brief description to justify its inclusion in the list.)
Tips for Dining in Little Tokyo with Kids
- Plan ahead: Make reservations, especially on weekends.
- Pack snacks and drinks: This can help avoid meltdowns between meals.
- Bring entertainment: Books, tablets, or small toys can keep kids occupied.
- Be mindful of noise levels: Little Tokyo can be busy and noisy, so be prepared for a lively atmosphere.
- Check for high chairs and booster seats: Not all restaurants have these, so it's always a good idea to call ahead.
Conclusion: Little Tokyo Welcomes Families
While Little Tokyo might seem initially geared towards adults, a closer look reveals a diverse range of kid-friendly restaurants waiting to be discovered. This guide provides a solid starting point for your family's next culinary adventure in this vibrant Los Angeles neighborhood. Remember to check individual restaurant websites and menus for the most up-to-date information. Enjoy your delicious and memorable family meal!
