Where to eat with kids in London: Southwark
Exploring London’s vibrant Southwark area with kids can work up quite an appetite. Fortunately, this dynamic neighborhood, stretching along the south bank of the Thames from Tower Bridge to Borough Market, offers a diverse array of family-friendly dining options to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. From historic pubs with kid-friendly menus to a trendy food market bursting with international flavours, Southwark caters to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between sightseeing adventures or a leisurely meal to round off your day, this post will help you navigate where to eat with kids in Southwark.
If you’re looking for things to do with kids in Southwark, check out our separate post with ideas.
The Real Greek
Situated within spitting distance of Tower Bridge, The Real Greek offers a vibrant and relaxed family-friendly atmosphere. It also offers a unique perspective on Tower Bridge. With a variety of salads, grilled meats and mezzo plates that are perfect for sharing and trying, The Real Greek is the ideal restaurant for a Mediterranean lunch or leisurely dinner.
Butchies
Butchies, located on Tooley Street, offers a family-friendly dining experience that’s sure to satisfy both parents and kids alike. If you’re looking for a fried chicken alternative to KFC, Butchies is it. Known for their mouthwatering fried chicken sandwiches, Butchies serves up crispy, juicy chicken in a variety of styles that even picky eaters will love. The menu is straightforward and appealing to children, with options like the classic ‘Original’ sandwich or chicken tenders for those who prefer their meal without bread. The casual, counter-service setup makes it easy to grab a quick meal during a day of sightseeing. Butchies provides a convenient spot to refuel and recharge before continuing your Southbank adventures.
Pizza Pilgrims
Pizza Pilgrims at London Bridge is a fantastic option for families looking for a casual, kid-friendly dining experience near Southbank. Known for their authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, this vibrant eatery offers a menu that’s sure to please both children and adults. While the classic Margherita is always a hit with younger diners, more adventurous eaters might enjoy trying unique toppings like the Nduja or the Mushroom & Truffle. The relaxed atmosphere and speedy service make it ideal for families. With its convenient location just a short walk from London Bridge station, Pizza Pilgrims is an excellent choice for refuelling during a day of Southwark exploration.
The George Inn
The George Inn, nestled in the heart of London Bridge, offers families a unique dining experience steeped in history. As London’s only surviving galleried coaching inn, this National Trust property provides a captivating glimpse into the city’s past while serving up hearty pub fare. The menu features classic British dishes that cater to both adult and child palates, including fish and chips, burgers, and on Sundays traditional roasts. While primarily a pub, The George Inn welcomes families during the day and early evening hours.
Borough Market
Borough Market offers a culinary adventure that’s perfect for families with adventurous young eaters. This historic market is a feast for the senses, with hundreds of stalls selling everything from fresh produce to international street food. Popular child-friendly options include chocolate covered strawberries, freshly made pasta, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, and artisanal doughnuts. Consider picking up ingredients for a picnic and enjoying it in nearby Southwark Cathedral gardens. While the market can get crowded, especially on weekends, visiting during off-peak hours can make for a more relaxed experience with children. Keep in mind that not all areas have seating, so be prepared to eat on the go or seek out the limited seating areas scattered throughout the market.
Flat Iron
Flat Iron on Tooley Street in Southwark (and with branches throughout the city) is a popular steakhouse renowned for its simple yet exceptional menu, focusing primarily on perfectly cooked flat iron steaks served with mouthwatering sides. The casual, rustic ambiance, complete with wooden tables and exposed brick walls, makes it a comfortable spot for families with kids.
Picnic at Potters Fields Park
Potters Fields Park, nestled between Tower Bridge and City Hall, offers a delightful spot for a family picnic with stunning views of the Thames and iconic London landmarks. This green oasis provides a perfect respite from the bustling Southbank, allowing kids to run around and play while parents relax on the well-maintained lawns. Bring a blanket, pack some sandwiches, snacks, and drinks, and enjoy a leisurely meal with views of the impressive London skyline. The park’s proximity to shops (there is a Marks & Spencer Simply Food in the nearby More building and a Tesco Express on Tooley Street) means you can easily pick up fresh provisions if you haven’t brought your own.
Remember to bring sunscreen and hats, as the open space offers limited shade. A picnic in Potters Fields Park not only provides a budget-friendly dining option but also allows for a flexible, relaxed mealtime that can be tailored to your family’s schedule and preferences.
Patty&Bun
Patty&Bun in London Bridge is a great choice for families seeking a delicious and casual dining experience. Located on Borough High Street, this popular burger joint is renowned for its mouthwatering burgers, made with high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection. With options like the classic ‘Ari Gold’ cheeseburger and the indulgent ‘Smokey Robinson,’ there’s something to satisfy every taste bud. They offer a range of vegan plant burgers that complement their regular offerings and also have halal options.
Where The Pancakes Are
Where The Pancakes Are, located in Flat Iron Square near London Bridge, is a delightful spot that’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. This charming eatery specialises in a wide variety of both sweet and savoury pancakes, catering to all tastes and dietary requirements, including vegan and gluten-free options. Children will be thrilled by the fun menu selections, such as the ‘Hummingbird’ with cinnamon poached pineapple or the classic ‘American’ with maple syrup and bacon. For a more substantial meal, savoury options like the ‘Australian’ with corn fritters offer unique twists on the traditional pancake. The relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal place for a leisurely breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Its proximity to Southwark and other attractions makes it a convenient stop during a day of exploration.
How do I find all of these places?
Want easy access on the go to all of these ideas? We’ve created a Google Map with everything marked for you:
Do you know of a great place in Southwark that we’ve missed? Let us know in the comments your recommendations on where to eat with kids in Southwark!