A shared lunch with little travelers can be a challenge, but in Kraków and Zakopane there are many places that truly understand parents. It helps to know what to look for: a play corner, high chairs, a children’s menu and friendly staff are features that really make life easier.
Below you’ll find specific venue suggestions, practical tips on choosing places, what to bring with you and the most common mistakes — all in a friendly tone so that a city stroll and a meal become a pleasure for the whole family.
In the city centre and several districts of Kraków you’ll find child-friendly venues — from intimate cafes with play corners to restaurants offering special menus for little ones. If you want a calm lunch, look for places with space for a stroller and the option to reserve a table.
Visit venues that combine good food with family conveniences: pleasant interiors, high chairs, colouring sheets for kids or small indoor play areas. Such places let parents enjoy their meal while children play safely nearby.
A few examples (well-known locations often recommended by families): La Forchetta — Italian cuisine with a kids’ corner; Viale Verde (Verde) — a terrace and an extensive play corner; Szalone Widelce — a homely atmosphere and options for the youngest; Cafe Manggha — a cafe with a nice view and welcoming space. If you have small children and look for a café with a playroom, also check Rodzinka Cafe or places like Makaroniarnia.
Practical tip: during weekends and the tourist season book a table in advance — even at a family-friendly place long waits can end with grumpy kids.
In Zakopane many venues focus on a family atmosphere — especially those away from the most touristy stretches of Krupówki. If your priority is calm and space, choose restaurants with a terrace or garden where children can move around without the risk of disturbing other guests.
Examples recommended for families include local restaurants with a children’s menu as well as pizzerias and trattorias offering classic dishes that usually appeal to younger tastes. Trattoria Adamo and similar restaurants often have play corners, colouring books and a “little guest” menu.
In the mountains outdoor venues are an extra advantage — kids can run on fresh air while parents enjoy a relaxed lunch. If you’re driving from Kraków, consider stopping at places along Zakopianka that have playgrounds and large parking lots — convenient family stops on the way.
The most important elements that determine family comfort: high chairs, changing tables in the toilet, a children’s menu (small portions, not overloaded with spices), a play corner or toys, space for a stroller and patient staff.
Additional perks are: the possibility to warm baby food, access to plate holders or plate inserts, children’s cutlery and affordable children’s portion prices. In Zakopane pay attention to places with a garden or outdoor space.
A small tip: many venues will happily prepare a simpler dish on request (e.g. pasta with butter, boiled chicken, clear soup) — don’t be afraid to ask the server.
1) No reservation in season — result: long waiting and upset children. Solution: book in advance, call or message and mention you’ll be coming with children.
2) Choosing touristy places on Krupówki just for the view — often they lack family conveniences and have long queues. Solution: look for recommendations from local families or choose a nearby side street — real gems are often hidden there.
3) Ordering overly ambitious dishes for picky eaters — choosing complicated plates instead of simpler options the child will actually eat. Solution: check the children’s menu or order dishes that are easy to share.
4) Not preparing for the weather in Zakopane — if you plan to eat outside, bring a change of light clothes and spare socks for the little one.
In some cafés and restaurants near museums (for example places with a view over the Vistula) you’ll find cosy play corners and changing tables — a great solution after sightseeing when children need a moment to unwind.
In Zakopane local mountain inns often serve large portions — perfect for sharing with a child. Many guesthouses and restaurants also provide crayons and games because they know families are an important group of guests.
If you want a plan B — always carry a few simple snacks and a favourite toy. That way even if the order is delayed it’s easier to keep the mood pleasant.
Do I need to reserve before midday? In the tourist season and on weekends yes — it’s worth calling or booking online.
Are there restaurants in Kraków with a real playground? Yes, there are cafés and family venues with small playrooms or partnerships with play centres — ideal for a longer lunch.
Will I find baby menus in Zakopane? Not all places have a special menu, but many will warm food or prepare a simple dish on request.
What if my child starts getting bored at the table? Bring small games, colouring sheets or look for a venue with a play corner — that’s the simplest way to keep everyone happy.
Kraków: La Forchetta — Italian menu and family-friendly solutions; Viale Verde — large terrace and an extensive play corner; Szalone Widelce — homely atmosphere; Cafe Manggha — nice view and welcoming space.
Zakopane and surroundings: Trattoria Adamo — children’s menu and a play corner; local restaurants serving regional cuisine that have outdoor space and family-friendly menus; along Zakopianka consider restaurants with playgrounds for kids.
Remember: choose places with good family reviews, book in season and ask about conveniences — it’s a simple recipe for a successful lunch.
Kraków and Zakopane offer plenty of family-friendly places — a little planning and some practical tricks are enough to make lunch a pleasant part of the day instead of a source of stress. Choose venues with conveniences, reserve ahead and don’t hesitate to ask staff about adapting a dish.
If you liked this guide, share it with friends or on social media — you’ll help other families find calm and welcoming places. If you’d like to explore Kraków with personal guidance and local tips, I invite you to consider tours by Małgorzata Kasprowicz at Zwiedzanie Krakowa (the site name is provided for reference).
