Whether you’re hosting out-of-town guests or looking for a casual weekend meal with the kids, Kitchener-Waterloo has a fantastic lineup of restaurants that are welcoming to families. Here are some of the most loved family spots…plus what local diners are saying about them.
1. The Lancaster Smokehouse
📍 574 Lancaster St W, Kitchener, ON N2K 1M3, Canada
🌐 lancsmokehouse.com
This beloved BBQ destination brings Southern‑style smoked meats and hearty comfort food to KW, with generous portions that are perfect for hungry families. The spacious, lively atmosphere and variety of shareable platters make it easy to feed kids and adults alike. One diner shared, “The BBQ here is so tasty, and massive portions… brisket and ribs were perfectly cooked and full of flavor”
Why it’s great for families:
- Big, shareable platters make feeding a group easy
- Casual, fun environment where kids and adults enjoy classic BBQ together
- Kid‑friendly comfort sides like mac & cheese and fries
2. J & B Family Restaurant
📍 79 Victoria St N, Kitchener, ON
🌐 jandbrestaurant.com
A hidden gem for European comfort food with a family focus, J & B doesn’t disappoint. Diners consistently praise the welcoming staff and flavourful meals, with one reviewer calling it “an amazing place… such delicious food and amazing service!”
Why it’s great for families:
- Casual, relaxed setting perfect for kids and multigenerational groups
- Friendly staff and generous portions
- Menu with crowd-pleasers like schnitzel and grilled dishes
3. Moose Winooski’s
📍 20 Heldmann Rd, Kitchener, ON
🌐 moosewinooskis.com
A long-time local landmark, Moose Winooski’s brings classic Canadian comfort food in a fun, lodge-style space. Reviewers highlight the atmosphere and variety, with one noting, “Great place… huge patio and good selection — something for everyone.”
Why it’s great for families:
- Huge menu with burgers, ribs, salads, and kid-friendly options
- Casual, lively atmosphere that works for both lunch and dinner
- Outdoor patio space ideal for relaxed family meals
4. Fireside Deli & Family Restaurant
📍 800 Ottawa St S, Kitchener, ON
Fireside is a classic diner-style stop popular with locals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. From omelettes to souvlaki platters, guests enjoy hearty meals and friendly service. One local review raved about the generous portions and welcoming staff, saying it’s “a friendly, casual place to dine… never hesitate to go here for a family dinner.”
Why it’s great for families:
- Extensive menu with something for all ages
- Relaxed atmosphere that works for weekend meals and celebrations
- Large portions and breakfast favourites
5. Beertown
📍 75 King St. S, Waterloo
🌐 beertown.ca
A lively and casual gastro-pub in the heart of Uptown Waterloo that’s great for family dinners, lunches, or weekend outings. Beertown offers a diverse menu of comfort food, burgers, tacos, plant-based options, and a dedicated kids’ menu, so there’s something for every taste and age. Families especially love the all-season patio overlooking Waterloo Public Square, perfect for warmer days. Diners have shared their appreciation in reviews: “…excellent food, a friendly and accommodating staff, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.”
Why it’s great for families:
- Diverse menu with kids’ options and plant-based choices for picky eaters and dietary needs
- Casual, upbeat atmosphere
- Lots of screens for sports-loving kids
6. Graffiti Market
📍 137 Glasgow St suite 385, Kitchener, ON N2G 4X8, Canada
🌐 graffitimarket.ca
A unique spot in Belmont Village with interactive touchscreen tables that kids love, perfect for keeping little ones entertained while waiting for pizza, pasta, or creative shared plates. The modern, relaxed vibe makes it a fun destination for family meals or birthday dinners. “My son and daughter were so impressed… the interactive table was a blast.”
Why it’s great for families:
- Interactive touchscreen tables and games that keep kids engaged
- Variety of food choices (pizza, pasta, sandwiches) to please picky eaters
- Casual and lively atmosphere ideal for family celebrations
7. Jack’s Family Restaurant
📍 20 Benjamin Rd, Waterloo, ON N2V 2J9, Canada
🌐 jacksfamilyrestaurant.ca
A Waterloo classic for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with generous portions and homestyle cooking that feels like a hug on a plate. Families love the range…from pancakes and omelettes in the morning to hearty mains and Greek‑inspired dishes later in the day. Here’s what one diner had to say:“Great everything. … The serving staff were running around, families smiling everywhere, and us taking it all in with a nice big piece of banana cream pie! Our first time here but won’t be our last”
Why it’s great for families:
- Huge portion sizes. Kids often get seconds (or leftovers!)
- Friendly, relaxed staff and a homey dining experience
- Extensive menu with something for every age and appetite
8. Famoso Italian Pizzeria + Bar
📍 15 King Street, South, Waterloo
🌐 famoso.ca
Famoso is a lively, casual Italian restaurant in Uptown Waterloo known for its Neapolitan‑style pizzas, pastas, and family‑friendly vibe. Families appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, generous portions, and varied menu that appeals to kids and adults alike, from classic margherita pizzas to comforting pastas and shareable starters, all served in a relaxed setting that’s great for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Many reviewers highlight the friendly service and accommodating staff; one family wrote “We had a great experience at Famoso. The staff was friendly… the host had given my kids some dough to play with, which was extremely kind and thoughtful. The food was phenomenal… Portions are big and prices are very reasonable“
Why it’s great for families:
- Kid-friendly atmosphere with lots of menu options
- Great selection of gelato for dessert
- Kids are offered pizza dough to play with before their meal arrives!
Tips for Families Dining Out in KW
- Many restaurants in the region offer kids-menus or shareable platters great for families with younger children.
- If you’re planning a larger group or weekend dinner, booking ahead is often a good idea, especially in popular Uptown Waterloo and Downtown Kitchener spots.
- If you have young children, it’s always a good idea to call ahead so you can limit your wait time.
- Consider dining earlier in the evening to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed family experience.
- Pack some activities for young kids. Many restaurants offer colouring activities, but it’s always a good to have some backups.
