Family-Friendly Restaurants Near Daytona Beach

Planning a family trip to Daytona Beach? One of the most important parts of any vacation is enjoying delicious meals together—and thankfully, this iconic east‑coast Florida location offers a diverse, kid‑approved restaurant scene. From casual burgers to beachfront seafood, there’s something for every palate and age. In this guide, we spotlight top family‑friendly restaurants near Daytona Beach, packed with helpful tips and actionable insights to make dining out with kids easy, enjoyable, and memorable.

1. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. & Ocean Walk Shoppes – Endless Family Fun

At the Ocean Walk Shoppes, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. offers a lively, movie-themed experience that both kids and adults adore. Located in the heart of Daytona’s boardwalk district, this restaurant features interactive décor inspired by Forrest Gump and menu options ranging from shrimp baskets to kid-friendly pasta and pizza, with meals arriving in fun “mini-boat” plates that excite young diners

Parents appreciate the conveniently short wait times—great for impatient little ones—and the convenient location right off the beach promenade and amusement rides . On busy weekends, plan a short walk along the boardwalk (which dates back to 1920s but remains updated and lively) before or after eating to wear off that beach energy .

Pro tip: Reserve an outdoor patio seat to enjoy ocean breezes while kids can spot the iconic Daytona Beach Pier and bandshell. For an added bonus, check if they offer crayons or small puzzles for table-side entertainment.

2. Cracked Egg Diner – Breakfast & Classic Comfort (~300 words)

If breakfast-for-dinner is your family’s jam, Cracked Egg Diner in Daytona Beach Shores is a local favorite. This retro-style diner offers hearty all‑day breakfast, colorful décor, and a welcoming, clean environment. Known for fan-favorite menu items like Belgian waffles, chocolate milk, apple fritters, and omelets, it’s the perfect spot for picky eaters.

The service is speedy and friendly—guaranteed to fill plates quickly and keep the line moving, even during peak morning hours . Families love the value: generous portions and affordable prices make it easy to feed a hungry crew without the budget stress. It’s ideal for fueling up before a long day at Daytona Lagoon or the beach.

Pro tip: On weekend mornings, get there early—before 8 am—to avoid peak times and snag a booth. Don’t miss out on local legends: the biscuits & gravy and towering pancake stacks.

3. Dancing Avocado Kitchen (daK) – Healthy & Inclusive

For families with diverse dietary preferences—vegan, gluten-free, or picky—Dancing Avocado Kitchen downtown offers a vibrant, health-forward alternative to typical beach fare. Serving unique avocado toasts, veggie “chicken” wraps, fresh salads, tacos, and colorful bowls, it caters to both kids and adults.

The atmosphere is bright, quirky, and kid-welcoming, with eclectic décor and lots to look at—perfect for keeping children entertained during meals. They also offer outdoor seating and easy-in, easy-out service.

Parents love that the kids can choose familiar options (like grilled cheese or mac-and-cheese from time to time), while the adults enjoy flavorful healthy fare. If your family has dietary restrictions—like a nut-free or vegan—that flexibility is a true asset. Customer reviews praise the friendly staff, relaxing vibe, and balance of healthy and fun menu items.

Pro tip: Visit just after 11 am for lunch—avoiding the midday rush—and sample their small-selection smoothies or kid-friendly wraps.

4. Riverside Johnny’s & Crabby’s Oceanside – Casual & Waterside

For laid-back, waterside dining, Riverside Johnny’s and Crabby’s Oceanside on the Halifax River are go-to picks. Riverside Johnny’s is a bustling, family-owned spot known for generous portions of seafood and burgers in a cheerful, casual environment . The open-air, patio-style setup encourages kids to move around between bites. Crabby’s offers similar relaxed vibes with a kid-friendly seafood menu and occasional live music .

Both restaurants are reasonably priced—allowing families to enjoy burgers, shrimp plates, handhelds, or salads without overspending. Weekend visits might include entertainment like local bands, creating a festive ambiance. Free parking along the riverbank is a bonus for those bringing beach gear or strollers.

Pro tip: Eat early (around 5 pm) or late (after 7 pm) to avoid the dinner rush. Afterward, stroll along the riverwalk and watch boats drift by—it’s relaxing for adults and magical for kids.

5. Bubba Gump, Dave & Buster’s & LandShark – Group-Friendly Crowd Pleasers

If you’re traveling with teens or want an all-in-one entertainment experience, consider venues like Dave & Buster’s, LandShark Bar & Grill, and Bubba Gump (Ocean Walk area). Dave & Buster’s combines casual American meals (wings, burgers, steaks) with an arcade—perfect for birthdays or rainy days. Generous HDTVs and family games mean everyone’s entertained .

LandShark Bar & Grill, part of the Margaritaville family, offers a breezy beach atmosphere, live music, and comfort food—think sandy toes meets casual cocktails . Kids can watch beach life unfold while enjoying familiar food. Bubba Gump adds to this experiential dining with its themed décor and shrimp-heavy menu.

Though these spots are more “chain”-style, the entertainment options, easy menu variety, and activity side elements make them excellent choices for families seeking more than just a meal.

Pro tip: Gift your kids arcade tokens or game cards for Dave & Buster’s to enjoy after dining. For LandShark, check their events calendar—sometimes there are kid‑oriented music hours.

Actionable Tips for Family Dining Success

1. Timing is everything – Aim for non-peak dining times (5–6 pm or late morning) to avoid crowds and long waits.

2. Ask about kids’ deals – Some spots offer promotions like “kids eat free” on certain nights.

3. Plan for quick service – Avoid long menus when kids are hungry; prioritize diners that serve popular items fast.

4. Choose a nearby activity – Proximity to attractions (like boardwalk arcades, riverwalks, or parks) gives a bonus outing while waiting or after meals.

5. Check allergies & dietary needs – Restaurants like Dancing Avocado, Cracked Egg, and Bubba Gump accommodate plant-based, gluten-free, or picky eaters.

Conclusion

Daytona Beach’s family‑friendly restaurant scene is as diverse as its iconic 23‑mile stretch of sand. From beach‑side casual diners to entertainment‑packed venues, there’s no shortage of spots that welcome kids with open arms.

Don’t forget to time your visits strategically, ask about kid-friendly deals, and explore nearby attractions like the boardwalk, mini‑golf, and Daytona Lagoon. With these tips and restaurant picks anchored in real reviews and local popularity, your next family getaway to Daytona Beach is sure to be tasty, fun, and hassle‑free.