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Where to Eat Near Rockefeller Center With Kids

1. American Girl Place

If you want to go over the top for your doll fans, take them to the cafe at American Girl Place, which serves lunch, dinner, and an occasional afternoon tea, with prices ranging from $20 to $28 per person. The food is good, the service is attentive, and the kids love it. Remember to bring along their dolls, who get special place settings at your table. There are several seasonal events held at the cafe as well, including a Santa brunch. Meals are offered at specific seating times and reservations are recommended.

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Catch a "show" with your nachos and hot dogs at Ellen's Stardust Diner. Photo by Ellen's Stardust Diner

2. Ellen's Stardust Diner

Ellen's Stardust might be our top recommendation for its combination of decent food and a fun, "theme" atmosphere without a ridiculous price tag. The food is typical diner fare, including burgers and hot dogs, meatloaf, and plenty of breakfast foods, and although prices are about twice what you'll pay at your local diner, the retro theme takes Ellen's to the next level. The outside looks like an old railroad car even though it's built into the side of an office building, and the retro diner theme continues inside. Linger for a while and waiters break into song, singing old '50s rock tunes, standing on empty tables, and putting on a fun show, making this Midtown spot a memorable stop for families.

3. McHale's Pub

If you're in the mood for some classic pub food and a brew, head to this Midtown spot. Kids aren't left out either: McHale's offers kid-pleasing options like chicken fingers or dishes that challenge their palates, such as shepherd's pie and fish and chips.

4. Melt Shop

What's more kid-friendly than an oozing, melting, grilled-cheese sandwich? This mini-chain has a pair of Midtown outposts, and the fast-casual atmosphere makes for a quick bite to prevent a hangry meltdown—kids will like it, too. Side dishes include a variety of tater tots, and you can wash it all down with a milkshake. The best part, though? The price point matches the casual food, a rarity in Midtown.

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Dine on home-style Italian fare in a casual-cool setting at Serafina.

5.Serafina

This local chain has several city locations. Fans flock here for delectable pizzas and Italian specialties. Mouthwatering desserts finish the meal with a flourish. The 55th Street and Broadway location opens at 7am every day for breakfast, and there's also a weekend brunch option.

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La Bonne Soupe offers classic French dishes in an approachable atmosphere.

6. La Bonne Soupe

This cute French bistro has reasonable prices for Midtown. Start your meal with pomme frites, and enjoy everything from a Croque madame to a burger topped with Brie and caramelized onions, and befitting its name, French onion soup.

7. Bill's Bar and Burger

A reliable spot for a casual bite, Bill's has something for the whole family. While kids may go for burgers, fries, and shakes, there are plenty of other options, including soups, salads, and even tacos.

8. Rockefeller Center Concourse

Head down to Rockefeller Center's concourse to find many casual, inexpensive options such as Black Seed Bagels and Chipolte. We love Chef JJ Johnson's Field Trip, which celebrates the humble grain of rice with fresh, flavor-packed bowls at an approachable price point. Pick up your to-go items and bring them up to the Plaza for a picnic. Kids get a kick out of seeing the vast underground world of Rockefeller Center, and grown-ups can get their caffeine fix at cult favorite Blue Bottle Coffee. For a sweet fix, might we suggest Chip City or Ben & Jerry's?

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9. Bagizza 

Ever wanted pizza for breakfast? This breakfast place is famous for their unique bagizza – bagel plus pizza,which you add to with various toppings. We’re a modern, fast-casual spot serving delicious breakfast with our signature hand-rolled kettle baked bagels. They also serve sandwiches with house cured and smoked meats and have a fresh juice menu. 

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Try something out of the ordinary at Utsav, which offers an Indo-Chinese menu.

10. Utsav

If you're in the mood for something different, bring your appetite to Utsav where the serve Indian, Indo-Chinese and Bengali cuisine. This reasonably priced Indian establishment is a comfortable place to bring kids. Order a la carte or get one of the lunch specials that comes with salad, choice of vegetables or meat, rice, and naan. 

11. Miznon

This new Mediterranean restaurant is located right in the heart of Rockefeller Center and serves up an innovative take on Mediterranean street food. The menu features Miznon’s signature fluffy pitas, folded cheeseburger, and fried cauliflower. There are many vegetarian options and prices are very reasonable.

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Prefer to walk and eat? Grab a quick bite at one of the many food trucks near Rock Center. Photo by Marianne O'Leary via Flickr

11. Food Trucks

Yes, you'll find hot dog vendors on every corner, but head over to West 50th Street just across Sixth Avenue from Rockefeller Center to find a bevy of vendors each weekday, serving the many Midtown office workers. The options tend to rotate, but you'll find a good variety that usually includes Thai, tacos, lobster rolls, Indian, Halal, and more.

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Where Not to East Near Rockefeller Center with Kids

Magnolia Bakery

While we love these famed cupcakes, they may be a little too famous. There's always a line around the block and really not be worth it, especially if you got tired and cranky kids. An alternative option for a sweet treat is Dough, where they serve up handmade artisanal doughnuts. Year-round flavors range from the vanilla-bean specked glazed to a Nutella-filled number. You can also shop seasonal flavors like s'mores or a white-chocolate peppermint. 

National Chain Restaurants

Rockefeller Center has its fair share of chain restaurants but for a more authentic NYC experience, try one of the restaurants on our list.  Many of the restaurants we listed offer excellent food at prices that are comparable to those at chain restaurants and you can often avoid the long lines. 

Frequently Asked Questions for Restaurants near Rockefeller Center

Q: What are the most family-friendly restaurants in NYC near major attractions?
A: When picking a family-friendly restaurant in NYC, consider what cuisine is familiar to your kids because there's nothing worse than paying restaurant prices and watching your kids pick at their plate! Some families prefer a sit-down experience, while fast casual does the trick for others. Luckily, you can find both types of options near Rockefeller Center. 

Q: Do Rockefeller Center restaurants offer kids’ menus?
A: Yes, many of the restaurants on our list have kids' menus. Just make sure to ask if you're not offered one. 

Q: Are there affordable restaurants for families near Rockefeller Center?
A: Yes, while there many upscale restaurants near Rockefeller Center, there are also lots of options for affordable meals, including the Melt Shop, Bagizza, Utsav, and Miznon. 

Q: Is there indoor seating available for families during winter?
A:  The majority of restaurants near Rockefeller Center have indoor seating available.

Q: Do these restaurants take reservations?
A: Yes, most of the restaurants take reservations. Check their websites. 

Originally published in November 2009.