Eating out as a family can be a lovely treat — but the cost of mains, sides, drinks, and desserts can quickly add up. If you’re feeding more than one child (or even just one with a big appetite), it’s worth knowing where to go for good food that won’t leave your bank account feeling too stretched.

Thankfully, many UK restaurant chains have recognised this and now offer dedicated kids’ menus, meal deals, and special offers to help families dine out affordably. With a bit of planning, and by using restaurant vouchers when they’re available, eating out doesn’t have to feel like a financial gamble.
Here are 10 family-friendly restaurant chains offering both tasty menus and genuine value — wherever you are in the UK.
1. Giraffe
Giraffe is a top pick for casual dining with little ones in tow. Their kids’ meal deal includes a main, two sides, a drink, and a pudding for just £6.95. The grown-up menu offers a global mix — from katsu curry to nachos — which is great when everyone fancies something different. Highchairs, crayons and activity packs keep younger children occupied too.
2. Prezzo
A go-to on many high streets, Prezzo serves up classic Italian favourites. Their Kids Set Menu is £7.50 and includes three courses and a drink — with plenty of choice for even the fussiest eaters. Look out for frequent family offers too, like 30% off mains or kids eat for £1 during school holidays with an adult meal.
3. Frankie & Benny’s
Frankie & Benny’s is made with families in mind. The Kids’ Meal Deal is £6.80 and includes a main, side, drink, and dessert. They also offer an older kids menu for bigger appetites. During school holidays, they often run “Kids Eat Free” promotions, so it’s worth checking before you go. Activity packs and booth seating make it an easy win for stress-free dining.
4. Beefeater
Beefeater is a favourite for classic British fare — burgers, grills, and plenty of chips. Their Breakfast Deal is especially good: Kids eat free with every adult unlimited breakfast (priced around £10.99), which includes a full cooked selection, cereals, pastries and drinks. It’s ideal if you’re staying near one or just want to fuel up before a day out.
5. Harvester
The salad bar alone often makes Harvester a hit with kids — they get to choose exactly what they want. The Smaller Appetites Menu starts from £5.99, including a drink and dessert, and there’s also a Larger Appetites Menu for older kids. Main meals for adults are sensibly priced, and they often have deals such as 2 courses for £13.99 during weekdays.
6. Toby Carvery
For roast dinner lovers, Toby Carvery offers hearty portions and an easy-going atmosphere. Kids’ roasts start at £5.99, and include unlimited veg and Yorkshire puddings. Many locations also offer the Kids Eat Free deal during school breaks when accompanied by a paying adult. It’s a great way to enjoy a proper sit-down meal without the usual cost.
7. Zizzi
Zizzi has a warm, welcoming feel and a great reputation for family dining. The Bambini Meal costs £7.25 and includes a starter, main, dessert and drink. They cater well for dietary needs (with gluten-free and dairy-free options), and frequently run deals like 2 for 1 mains on selected days. Perfect if you’re after something a bit more grown-up but still child-friendly.
8. Chiquito
Chiquito brings colour and fun to the table, with Tex-Mex classics like tacos, quesadillas and loaded nachos. The Kids’ Menu is £6.49 and includes a main, side, drink and dessert. During school holidays, they often offer “Kids Eat Free” with an adult meal — ideal for stretching your budget further while still enjoying a fun, flavourful meal out.
9. Bella Italia
Bella Italia’s Kids Menu comes in two sizes: the Piccolo for under 6s and Grande for 7–11s. Both include three courses and a drink, starting from £6.49. Look out for “Kids Eat for £1” offers, which are regularly available during school breaks. Their restaurants tend to have a friendly buzz, crayons on the table, and speedy service.
10. Brewers Fayre
A new addition to this list, Brewers Fayre is especially good for families thanks to their large restaurant layouts, attached play zones in some locations, and wallet-friendly prices. Main meals start at around £9, and they often run “Kids Eat Free” breakfast deals similar to Beefeater. It’s a solid choice if you’ve got younger children who need space to move about.
Tips for Saving More When Eating Out
If you’re dining out with kids, here are a few budget-friendly habits worth picking up:
- Always check the offers page on restaurant websites — many run limited-time discounts, especially during school holidays.
- Use restaurant vouchers — these can include 2-for-1 offers, discounts on mains, or fixed-price set menus. It’s worth browsing sites that list them in one place.
- Bring your own drinks for little ones if allowed — this saves paying £2–3 for a juice or milk each time.
- Split adult mains if portions are large — teens might be able to share a starter and a main instead of ordering a full meal.
- Eat early — pre-5pm deals are often better value and more relaxed for younger kids.
Eating out doesn’t need to be off-limits just because you’re watching the pennies. With a bit of planning, it’s entirely possible to enjoy quality family meals without overspending — and still come home full and happy.
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