Nashville is home to an array of restaurants that serve up great food, welcoming atmospheres, and even a bit of entertainment for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for pizza and rotisserie chicken, fried chicken and milkshakes, or flavorful Indian fusion, the best family friendly restaurants in Nashville range from immersive dining experiences with themed decor to casual spots dishing out kid-approved comfort food.
At these popular spots, reservations fill up quickly.
Be sure to book your table on OpenTable in advance for the top family restaurants in Nashville.
Read on to discover the 10 best family friendly restaurants in Nashville.
For an underwater adventure at one of the top fun restaurants in Nashville for families — dine at Aquarium Restaurant (Donelson)
At Aquarium Restaurant, enjoy a family meal surrounded by a stunning floor-to-ceiling aquarium filled with tropical fish, sharks, stingrays, and more. The American-influenced menu has a variety of seafood dishes, steaks, burgers, and kid-friendly options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. This immersive dining experience is a big hit with children.
For a distillery experience with top-notch American food — visit Big Machine Distillery & Tavern (Berry Hill)
At Big Machine Distillery & Tavern, families can enjoy a relaxed meal in a welcoming setting. While known for its craft spirits, the restaurant serves an approachable American-influenced menu featuring hearty sandwiches, burgers, and Southern-inspired comfort food. Parents can sample the distillery’s famous spirits while kids dig into mac and cheese or chicken tenders.
For dining and axe-throwing fun — try Blu Ox at Bad Axe Throwing (The Gulch and the North Gulch)
For families with older kids looking for a unique dining experience, Blu Ox at Bad Axe Throwing provides a fun combination of great food and entertainment. The Southern-inspired menu is full of upscale pub fare, including burgers, stone-fired flatbreads, and shareable plates. After the meal, parents and teens can test their skills at the largest axe throwing venue in Tennessee, making it a great spot for an adventurous family outing.
For pizza and crispy chicken at one of the best family friendly restaurants in Nashville — head to Doughbird (Green Hills)
Doughbird is a go-to for families who love American comfort food with a twist. The menu highlights a combination of housemade pizzas and rotisserie chicken dishes, so there’s something for everyone. Kids will love the cheese pizza, while parents can enjoy fresh salads and creative cocktails. The casual, friendly atmosphere makes it an easy choice for a family meal.
For a classic soda shop experience — visit Elliston Place Soda Shop (Midtown)
Step back in time at Elliston Place Soda Shop, a beloved Nashville institution known for its nostalgic diner vibes. Families can indulge in creamy milkshakes, towering burgers, and classic Southern comfort food like meatloaf and mashed potatoes. The friendly service and retro decor make it a hit with kids and parents alike.
For flavor-packed Southern cuisine in a relaxed setting — try Jasper’s (Midtown)
Jasper’s is a destination for its approachable Southern food with an upscale touch. The American-inspired menu includes comforting dishes like flatbread pizzas, fried chicken sandwiches, and flavorful salads. With spacious seating, an outdoor terrace, and a welcoming vibe, it’s a fantastic spot for families looking to enjoy a great meal without the formality of fine dining.
For brunch, bowling, and lawn games — go to Pinewood Social (Downtown/Sobro)
Pinewood Social is more than just a restaurant—it’s a full entertainment experience. Enjoy a meal from the all-day menu which has approachable, American-inspired dishes like avocado toast, fried chicken, and smash burgers. After eating, play a round of bowling in the indoor alley or choose from a variety of lawn games available.
For a rainforest adventure at one of the most fun family restaurants in Nashville — visit Rainforest Cafe (Donelson)
At Rainforest Cafe, dine in a jungle-themed environment complete with animatronic animals and simulated thunderstorms. The American-influenced menu has plenty of choices, from seafood dishes to comfort food. But it is also packed with kid-friendly options such as chicken nuggets, pasta, and hot dogs, making it a fun and stress-free dining experience for families with young children.
For flavorful Indian cuisine — check out Turmeric & Co. (East Nashville)
Families looking to explore international flavors will love Turmeric & Co., a restaurant specializing in Indian fusion cuisine. The menu includes kid-friendly options like butter chicken tostadas and cashew korma mac and cheese, while parents can enjoy curry-infused pasta dishes and fresh naans. The inviting atmosphere and diverse menu make it a great choice for a family meal.
For classic pub-style fare in a family-friendly setting — try Fat Bottom Brewing Co. (The Nations/Village West)
Fat Bottom Brewing Co. is a beloved Nashville craft brewery that has been serving approachable, high-quality beers since 2012. The taproom has a welcoming atmosphere where families can enjoy a crowd-pleasing, pub-style American menu and kids eat free every Monday with the purchase of an adult appetizer or entrée, making it an ideal spot for a family outing. The spacious beer garden has games like cornhole and plenty of room for kids to spread out and play.
Whether you’re looking for immersive dining experiences, comforting Southern food, or international flavors, Nashville has plenty of great options for families. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse culinary scene, Music City ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy. No matter your taste, you’ll find plenty of spots to create lasting memories over a great meal.
