Going out for dinner with family is always fun, but long waits for food can be difficult for impatient kids. Instead of placating them with a tablet or smartphone, try these Pittsburgh restaurants with play places and activities — they’re fun for the whole family, and they’re sure to make the wait for food fly by!
Coop de Ville | Pittsburgh
Coop de Ville specializes in Southern-style, fast-casual food, with fried chicken serving as the star of the show in many of its dishes. The restaurant has first-come-first-served duckpin bowling alleys, which can be reserved for an extra $7, and waitstaff will even serve food and drink while you bowl. Coop de Ville also has an arcade with many classic video games and pinball machines, as well as pool tables. coopdevillepgh.com
Federal Galley | Pittsburgh
If your family can’t agree on what they want for dinner, a food hall like Federal Galley can satisfy everyone with its large variety of options. There are four distinct kitchens under its roof: the old-fashioned TS Cafe, burger specialists Beef Graffiti, New Mexican concept MIJO and chicken sandwich joint Given to Fly. As far as play goes, Federal Galley’s outdoor patio has lawn games such as cornhole. federalgalley.org
Ineffable Cà Phê
Locations in Lawrenceville and Point Breeze
Operating out of a former motorcycle shop, Ineffable Cà Phê combines light cafe fare with Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a breakfast sandwich or a bowl of pho, this cafe has you covered. In addition to a kids’ play area, both locations also stock plenty of board games, so you can enjoy some screen-free time with family while enjoying your food.
Sally Ann’s | Pittsburgh
Owned by the same restaurant group as Coop de Ville, this popular downtown brunch spot also carries over its commitment to entertainment. Whether it’s because of the menu’s unique twists on classic childhood dishes or the arcade games that line its walls, diners will be sure to feel like a kid again. Some of the restaurant’s booths even have modern video game consoles installed if you prefer recent popular hits to retro favorites. sallyannspgh.com
The Trendy Bunny | Greensburg
This “play cafe” is perfect for parents who need to get their work done or spend time with friends while giving their kids something to do. While parents enjoy coffee and pastries, kids can play pretend in The Trendy Bunny’s indoor playground. If parents want to get in on the fun, the cafe also holds Mommy & Me playgroups on Wednesdays and holds story times on Thursdays.
