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Sydney's café culture is as strong as its flat whites, but finding spots where the little ones are just as stoked as you are to be there feels like striking gold. That's where this list comes in — a curated run-down of the best kid-friendly cafes in Sydney that nail both the grown-up vibes and have the little extras (play corners, wide open spaces, easy pram access and seriously tempting kid-approved menus) that make dining out with kids enjoyable.

Whether you're chasing a long brunch, a quick mid-morning snack or a spot where kids can burn energy while you sip that second coffee in peace, these kid-friendly cafes are serving good food, welcoming vibes and zero judgement when it comes to sticky fingers.

The Best Kid-friendly Cafes in Sydney

City

1. Ripples Café (at the Australian National Maritime Museum)

After a day of exploring the underwater, whet your appetite at the Australian National Maritime Museum's family-friendly cafe, Ripples. Make it a seafarer's delight with fish and chips for the kids and Yellowfin tuna poke bowls for the grown-ups. 

Location: 2 Murray St, Pyrmont

2. MCA Café

Atop the Museum of Contemporary Art, the rooftop MCA Café and Sculpture Terrace has spectacular views and large spaces for children to explore the striking artworks, plus the menu includes kids' meals.

Location: Ground Floor/140 George St, The Rocks

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3. Pancakes On The Rocks, Darling Square

This Sydney stalwart is pretty much heaven for children - and parents too! The Pancakes On The Rocks menu is jam-packed with deliciousness, and there is a kids' menu for under 12s. The funny face and butterfly pancakes say it all.

Location: 55 Tumbalong Bvd, Haymarket

Kid-Friendly Cafes in the Eastern Suburbs

 

4. The Field at Easts Rugby

This hidden gem is ridiculously family-friendly! The Field offers kids their own cool, mini menu, a dedicated indoor chill-out area, games such as table tennis, quoits, Jenga and Connect Four, and a whole football field to run around on. There is plenty of space in the clubhouse and on the verandah and outdoor areas. Check out our review.

Location: 22a O'Sullivan Rd, Bellevue Hill

5. Queens Park Kitchen

Queens Park is continually our pick for the best kid-friendly cafes in Sydney! Queens Park Kitchen overlooks Queens Park from a sunny deck, makes homestyle family favourites, and has an incredible playground right next to it so kids can have fun while mums chat and relax!

Location: Darley Rd, Queens Park

6. Coogee Pavilion

After a swim at Coogee Beach, kids will love the huge games area out the back of the Coogee Pav, stocked with massive Jenga, noughts and crosses, bowling and more! The kids' menu has all the classic faves, too.

Location: Ground Floor, Level 3/169 Dolphin St, Coogee

7. M Deli Cafe, Tamarama

Families will love the casual, laid-back beach vibes at M Deli Cafe, plus, kids can dive into the toy box and get arty with colouring pads. They don't have a kids' menu but the friendly staff at M Deli are happy to make up a little plate of this and that for little ones.

Location: 50 Dudley St, Tamarama

8. Bellagio Cafe, Waverley

The busy Bellagio Café is famous for its hearty, yet healthy brekkies and brunches, and has an amazing selection of caffeinated and non-caffeinated drinks. But what makes it super special is a little backyard area for kids, full of walkers, ride-ons, and slides. 

Location: 285 Bronte Rd, Waverley 

9. Favoloso Espresso Bar + Deli, Bronte

A delicious slice of Italy (Sicily, to be exact) in Bronte, Favoloso Espresso Bar & Deli will work a treat for your family's tastebuds. It has a lot going on: a sun-drenched alfresco seating area, homemade meals, and plenty of Italian deli goodies to buy for savouring at home. There is also a secret backyard with wooden tables and heaps of ride-on toys and bicycles for your little ones to go crazy-happy on.

Location: 43-45 Belgrave St, Bronte

Inner West Cafes

10. Happyfield, Haberfield

This bright yellow cafe is spreading happiness to families of the inner west. Happyfield are all about breakfasts (the happiest meal of the day) and serve this all day - so make sure you try their signature pancakes! If you have a huge appetite, their 'happiest meal' combo comes with a stack of pancakes, a McLovin Muffin and two hashbrowns. 

Location: 96 Ramsay St, Haberfield

11. Sideways Café, Dulwich Hill

Sideways Cafe have super friendly staff who'll remember your child's name. The baked goods, including the teacup cookies and the flourless chocolate cake make for the perfect treat. 

Location: 37 Constitution Rd, Dulwich Hill 

12. Bitton, Alexandria

Score an outside table to keep an eye on the kid's room - close enough to keep them safe but far enough away to be out of your hair! Bitton's French/Australian-influenced menu includes the menu pour enfants for kids with babycinos and baby smoothies - yum!

Location: 36/37A Copeland St, Alexandria

13. The Grounds of Alexandria

Families all over Sydney will happily make their way into the inner west for this institution! It's a kid-friendly cafe, it's a petting zoo, and it's an Instagram icon. Everyone loves The Grounds. Perhaps a little too much because it's super busy, especially on a weekend. But we Sydneysiders are like cattle - we just keep going back for more and lining up for the delicious fresh produce, spectacular coffee and people-watching. Check out our events page to see if there are any new installations coming to The Grounds.

Location: 7a/2 Huntley St, Alexandria

14. The Backyard at Briars, Concord

Part sports club and part kid-friendly cafe, we think The Backyard at Briars deserves a mention! Located in Concord, your kids will love trying out barefoot bowls, playing in the play area or simply enjoying the colouring-in station. 

Location: 14 Ian Parade, Concord

15. The Home Grounds, Five Dock

The Home Grounds is one of those neighbourhood finds that just keeps giving – not only is it a welcoming spot to feed the family, it sits within a little lifestyle playground (with a kids' playground!) where you can stretch a simple dinner into a whole afternoon (or evening) out. In the mood for classic Italian? Make it a two‑stop feast by rolling over to Skinny Tony's Really Italian restaurant for lunch or dinner – perfect when the kids are in a pizza mood or you're chasing a proper bowl of red‑sauce comfort. Sweet tooths (large and small) can then wander to the Dessert Depot for the all‑important finale. And if the weather's playing nice, why not burn off energy and giggles with an easy game of Barefoot Bowls? It's all right there!

Location: 20B Barnstaple Rd, Five Dock

North West Sydney

16. Little Rock Cafe, Baulkham Hills

If you're looking for a kid-friendly cafe with a playground, the outdoor playspace at Little Rock Cafe is gated and shady and great fun for little kids. There are heaps of reading materials for older children and their menu is packed with delicious treats.

Location: 375-383 Windsor Rd, Baulkham Hills

17. Chicken & Fishhead, Beecroft

A beautifully crafted kids' store and cafe combination makes Chicken & Fishhead a winner! There is an extensive kids' menu, including a lunch pack with a small roll, popcorn, chocolate crackle, apple and juice. After your refuelling, peruse the wide selection of books and incredible toys.

Location: 1-3 Wongala Cres, Beecroft

18. Sunny Side Cafe, West Pennant Hills

The kids will always be in a sunny mood at this family-friendly cafe. Sunny Side has a gorgeous outdoor area that includes a gated cubby house jam-packed with things to play with and ride-on toys. It's also pet-friendly!

Location: 35 Coonara Ave, West Pennant Hills

19. Pages Cafe, West Ryde

Part of the Koorong bookshop at West Ryde, kids can explore a huge selection of books after their afternoon treat! Pages Cafe also has an enclosed kids' playground and toddler play area.

Location: 28 W Parade, West Ryde

20. Sotto On Ryde, Ryde Park

Located within the grounds of Ryde Park, Sotto On Ryde is a family-friendly gem amidst lush surrounds. There are plenty of options for kids to eat and drink, and seating both outside and undercover. The shady playground is located adjacent to the café and within eyesight of the indoor tables.

Location: In Ryde Park, 30 Argyle Ave, Ryde

21. S.A.L.T Cafe, Dural

Old-fashioned service, wholesome food, excellent coffee and a little play corner for the little munchkins - what's not to love? S.A.L.T Cafe is located within the cute village shops at Dural, and there is another S.A.L.T location in Galston.

Location: Shop 9, Dural Mall, Kenthurst Rd, Dural 

22. Wildpear Cafe, Dural

Wildpear Cafe is a friendly cafe in Dural serving comfort food that's wholesome, fun and flavoursome and is nestled within a picturesque nursery with plenty of space for little legs to explore.

Location: 658 Old Northern Rd, Dural

23. The Vintage Secret Garden, Galston 

A white picket fence, a patio covered with flowers, country charm and a peaceful atmosphere, The Vintage Secret Garden in Galston is a wonderful kid-friendly cafe for the whole family. 

Location: 353 Galston Rd, Galston

24. Frankie's Food Factory, Glenhaven

Nestled amongst the impressive Flower Power nursery in Glenhaven, Frankie's Food Factory is a great kid-friendly cafe, particularly when it's raining. As you take your seat you will look out the large glass windows to a pond with fish and ducks splashing about, which is sure to keep the wriggly munchkins at bay. There's another Frankie's in Milperra and Terrey Hills. 

Location: 609 Old Northern Rd, Glenhaven

25. Glenorie Bakery

A distinctively rustic interior, Australia's largest collection of baking antiques, and home of a great Aussie pie, Glenorie Bakery is a charming cafe and must-visit when in the Hills.

Location: 4/930 Old Northern Rd, Glenorie

26. The Local Shed Cafe, Rouse Hill 

Housed within Rouse Hill’s iconic Mungerie House, The Local Shed, as the name suggests, is all about casual dining and enjoying the great outdoors. Kids can pick from the 'I am a small eater' menu and have a run around in the historic gardens. 

Location: 16 Bellcast Rd, Rouse Hill

Kid-friendly Cafes in the Greater West

27. Eastern Creek Quarter

Eastern Creek Quarter boasts a relaxed alfresco dining precinct with a fantastic kids' playground and shaded turfed play area, plus a big screen for family-friendly entertainment! Little ones are free to explore the outdoor sanctuary while parents relax close on the surrounding casual seating. There is access to multiple cafes and eateries including The Shed, Baked & Co and, for the ultimate sweet treat, Handmades Bakehouse. 

Location: 59 Rooty Hill Rd S, Eastern Creek

28. Lil Miss Collins, Parramatta

This fantastic cafe has a lovely outdoor courtyard and little play area for kids, with a mini slide and a see-saw. The delicious coffee and vibrant food at Lil Miss Collins always hit the spot. Plus, it is right near Jubilee Park so the kids can run around post-feed. 

Location: 13 Wentworth St, Parramatta

29. Social Hideout, Parramatta

Social Hideout is arguably Sydney's prettiest cafe offering the most Instagrammable meals, but it's also super family-friendly. The garden, open-air cafe and floral pieces are crafted specifically to create a unique atmosphere for the entire family to be enthralled by. It's no surprise Social Hideout has been rated as one of the best kid-friendly cafes in Sydney.

Location: Shop 2a/20 Victoria Rd, Parramatta

30. The Coffee Emporium, Parramatta

If you need a quick coffee-slash-snack break while shopping at Westfield Parramatta, The Coffee Emporium has super friendly staff and great service. There is also loads of room for prams to get in and out of and for little ones to stretch their legs!

Location: Shop 2184A, Westfield Parramatta

31. Two Birds Cafe, Prospect

Two Birds Cafe is located in the Flower Power Garden Centre in Prospect and is another hidden gem serving great coffee, delicious food, and an adorable kids' play area.

Location: 25 Rowood Rd, Prospect

32. Cafe at Lewers, Emu Plains

Situated in the beautiful heritage gardens of the Penrith Regional Gallery, Cafe at Lewers offers a delicious and affordable seasonal menu set in gorgeous, tranquil surroundings. 

Location: 86 River Rd, Emu Plains

33. The Orchard, Penrith

We love a good cafe-playground combo and The Orchard certainly delivers! There are several dining options to choose from, but the closest cafe to the playground is The Farmhouse, which also has a kids' menu.

Location: 50 Tench Ave, Jamisontown

34. Teas And Greens Cafe, Wilton

With children's play areas inside and outside, including mini-golf, a chalkboard, a gated play area and a duck pond, Teas and Greens is a fun pitstop with the kids.

Location: 31 Pembroke Parade, Wilton 

35. Wild Dragonfly Cafe, Mount Annan

Inside the Flower Power Garden Centre at Mount Annan, Wild Dragonfly Cafe has an outdoor playground which is the major drawcard of this cafe, not to mention the tranquil setting. They have a great little kids' menu and do parties!

Location: 320 Narellan Rd, Mount Annan

36. Back Galley Cafe, Camden

The friendly staff at Back Galley Cafe serves amazing Nutella thickshakes and absolutely incredible babyccinos!

Location: 108 Argyle St, Camden 

37. Juicy Goose, Smeaton Grange

Juicy Goose has an extensive and delicious menu, including kids' breakfast, lunch and dinner favourites! There's a colouring-in area for kids to get crafty while parents enjoy their coffee.

Location: Unit 1/40 Anderson Rd, Smeaton Grange

38. Cake Biz, Narellan

A cafe inside an old restored train carriage? Yes - you read that right! This wonderful, kid-friendly cafe is located at Cake Biz and their restored vintage train carriage is a unique novelty for kids and train enthusiasts. 

Location: 267 Camden Valley Wy, Narellan

39. Camden Valley Inn

A great old-fashioned pub with a fresh new look, Camden Valley Inn is a local favourite! Only an hour's drive South-West of Sydney nestled amongst the razorback mountains, this quaint little pub is the place you can bring your kids to and still have a relaxing meal. They also regularly host fun and colourful installations. 

Location: 290 Remembrance Driveway, Cawdor

Kid-friendly Cafes in South Sydney & Sutherland Shire

40. Oli's Cafe, Miranda

Enjoy a relaxed coffee, breaky or lunch at Oli's. There's plenty of room for prams and for kids to explore, and a cubby house in the garden, too!

Location: 103 Miranda Rd, Miranda

41. COOK at Kurnell

COOK at Kurnell is a local star that has set the bar high for all other kid-friendly cafes in Sydney! The vintage food van is a fun novelty, right on Silver Beach, where kids will love the play area where they can kick off their shoes and play in the sand. There are kid's meals on the menu and an epic drinks list for parents.

Location: 306-308 Prince Charles Parade, Kurnell 

42. The Jade Teahouse at Camellia Gardens, Caringbah South

The Jade Teahouse is famous for its scones, homemade tea blends and lush garden setting within the beautiful Camellia Gardens. Kids will love the duck ponds and two great playgrounds. The Teahouse serves delicious breakfast and lunch, as well as Devonshire and High-Teas including a fabulous kid's high tea menu.

Location: President Ave and Kareena Rd, Caringbah South

43. Queens Pastri House, Ramsgate

A haven for mums and dads needing a gourmet pastry hit, Queens Pastri House is a charming French cafe with a beautiful vibe. It could almost be mistaken for a patisserie in Paris. Whilst there's no kids' play area, the lineup of pretty cupcakes, croughnuts and pain au chocolates will keep most kids entertained whilst you enjoy a delicious coffee. Not to mention the milkshakes served in bear jars - definitely a hit with the kids! 

Location: 29/31 Campbell St, Ramsgate

44. Edmonds & Greer, Oatley

An all-in-one destination tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined street, Edmonds & Greer has a welcoming village-like atmosphere with impeccable service and a beautiful shop attached to it. As you sit down, your children will be offered their favourite colouring page and be taken to select some toys to play with at the table. Now that's kid-friendly service!

Location: Unit 1/97 Mulga Rd, Oatley

North Shore & Northern Beaches

45. The Boathouse, Balmoral

Whilst it doesn't have a playground and we wouldn't call it cheap, The Boathouse at Balmoral takes the cake for location and delicious food! After a swim in the calm waters at Balmoral, kids can order half portions of all the scrumptious options on the menu.

Location: 2 The Esplanade, Mosman

46. Plonk Beach Cafe, Mosman

If you'd like a waterfront view while you sip your coffee, Plonk Beach Cafe in Mosman is calling your name. The beachside cafe is nestled on the shores of Middle Harbour next to the Spit Bridge and boasts a pretty spectacular view to complement its modern breakfast menu. While there isn’t a kids' playground per se, they do have their own beach with calm lapping waves that's open for kids to run amok while you enjoy a minute of respite.

Location: Fergusons Marina, 83 Parriwi Rd, Mosman

47. The Bay Bites, Mona Vale

Hands down one of the best kid-friendly cafes on the Beaches - namely because it's right next to everyone's favourite Flying Fox Playground - The Bay Bites serves delicious options for big and little people, strong coffees, and a gorgeous setting next to the water and playground for kids' parties.

Location: Next to Flying Fox Park, 2 Mona St, Mona Vale

48. Tramshed Cafe, Narrabeen

A cafe with a tram AND a playground, oh my! We've reached nirvana at the Tramshed Cafe. Make tracks here next time you're on the Northern Beaches.

Location: 1395A Pittwater Rd, Narrabeen

49. The Falls Cafe, Oxford Falls

If the weather isn't swinging in your favour, The Falls Cafe in Oxford Falls is the perfect indoor play centre and cafe. Catering to active kids who love to jump, slide, swing and run, The Falls Cafe has both indoor and outdoor structures to keep the kids busy while the parents enjoy coffee at the onsite cafe.

Location: 2 Dreadnought Rd, Oxford Falls

50. Bosk, Clontarf

Bosk (previously called Clonny's On The Beach) is the ideal mingling of beachside fun and delicious eats. With picturesque Clontarf reserve to one side, the wave-free shores of Middle Harbour to the other, and the fun nautical-themed playground in the middle, Clontarf Playground has got other beach playgrounds beat as far as outdoor fun is concerned. The seaside kiosk offers takeaway coffees and hot foods to enjoy while the kids play.

Location: Clontarf Reserve, Sandy Bay Rd, Clontarf

51. Frankie's Food Factory, Terrey Hills

The second location for Frankie's Food Factory is inside Flower Power at Terrey Hills and is the spot to be with the kids on a weekend! Parents can look forward to having their hands free to enjoy a delicious coffee and a meal while the kids play in the super-cool playground right next to the cafe. Finish your perfect morning off with a visit to the Flower Power koi pond to say hi to the fishies!

Location: 277 Mona Vale Rd, Terrey Hills

52. Vertical Espresso, Turramurra

This funky cafe has a kids' menu that includes the 'Teddy Bear Toast' and 'Nutella Rabbit' and milkshakes served in bear-shaped jars! Vertical Espresso backs onto Balmaringa Reserve, which has a fenced playground that can be seen from the outdoor seating.

Location: 217A Kissing Point Rd, Turramurra

53. Incinerator Cafe, Willoughby

The spacious interior and extensive outdoor seating at Incinerator Cafe make it super pram-friendly, plus it's opposite a playground and bike track.

Location: 2a Small St, Willoughby

54. Hong Kong Street Food, Chatswood

Hong Kong Street Food offers kid-friendly Chinese eats to the masses. The kids will get a kick out of the car-themed booths and bubble seating, plus, they have kid-friendly eats, including iconic Ice Bear Milk Tea.

Location: Chatswood Westfield, Level 3, Near Nando's

55. Eat N Chill Wholefood Cafe, Naremburn

Eat N Chill Cafe has a kids' menu of delicious, healthy treats, like buckwheat pancakes with sugar-free ice cream! There is a grassy play area out the back with a cubby house and play car - cute!

Location: 272/274 Willoughby Rd, Naremburn

More Awesome Places to Dine in Sydney

Kid-friendly Pubs in Sydney to Enjoy as a Family
The Best Cafes by the Water in Sydney
The Best Cafes Near Playgrounds in Sydney

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