Johannesburg knows how to turn a simple meal into a family adventure. Whether you’re craving a relaxing brunch under the trees or a rooftop lunch with views and a kids’ play zone, Jozi has the perfect spot for you. Here’s your guide to the most delightful, Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Johannesburg, where great food and happy kids go hand in hand.
Where to Dine and Play in Johannesburg
Johannesburg’s bustling energy doesn’t slow down when it comes to family dining. Across the city, a treasure trove of restaurants has crafted spaces where children are not just tolerated, but truly celebrated. Here’s a detailed look at the best kid-friendly restaurants you must visit.
Bambanani Melville is a classic gem located in the bohemian suburb of Melville. Designed with families in mind, Bambanani combines fantastic global cuisine with a multi-level play area that could make any child’s dream come true. The venue offers supervised play zones featuring everything from climbing walls to mini cinemas. Adults can indulge in a diverse menu ranging from sushi to hearty burgers while kids explore safely. Learn more at Bambanani Melville.
The Rooftop Restaurant atop the Bryanston Shopping Centre is where sophistication meets family comfort. Boasting panoramic views of Johannesburg’s tree-lined suburbs, this elegant spot has a charming kids’ play section, ensuring that parents can savour artisanal dishes without worry. The menu is an elevated take on traditional favourites, with healthy kids’ options available. Discover more at The Rooftop Restaurant.
Mikes Heritage House in Parktown takes family dining back to a slower, gentler time. Set in a historic Edwardian building surrounded by lush gardens, this restaurant offers sprawling lawns perfect for a game of tag or a relaxed family afternoon. The menu focuses on hearty South African classics, and the peaceful vibe makes it an ideal spot for Sunday lunches or special family gatherings. Find out more at Mikes Heritage House.
The Old Oak Restaurant and Family Centre at Royal Johannesburg redefines what it means to dine out with kids. Nestled within the prestigious Royal Johannesburg Golf Club, The Old Oak is part restaurant, part wonderland. It offers a dedicated supervised kids’ club featuring crafts, games, and outdoor adventures while parents enjoy stylish, upmarket meals. Their Sunday buffets are particularly popular with families. Visit The Old Oak Restaurant and Family Centre for more.
Mozambik Linksfield brings a beach holiday vibe to the heart of Johannesburg. Specialising in flavorful Mozambican-Portuguese cuisine, the Linksfield branch stands out for its vibrant outdoor area and enclosed children’s playground. Parents can feast on peri-peri chicken and seafood platters while kids dive into playful adventures. It’s laid-back, colourful, and full of festive spirit. See more at Mozambik Linksfield.
The Green Room at Pirates Club, Greenside, merges family fun with a strong eco-conscious ethos. This casual restaurant focuses on fresh, sustainable food and offers large grassy spaces for kids to run free. It’s a community hub where sport, food, and family life blend seamlessly. Expect wholesome meals, easygoing vibes, and loads of room for imaginative play. Check them out at The Green Room.
JoyJozi is a wonderland for families looking for the ultimate kids-first dining experience. Located in Sandton, JoyJozi is part restaurant, part interactive playground, part creative studio. Kids can race down slides, experiment in the MakerSpace, and even hang out in the Treehouse, all under the watchful eye of trained minders. Meanwhile, adults enjoy beautifully crafted dishes and cocktails that reflect modern South African tastes. Read more about the magic at JoyJozi.
33 Olive Tree – AJ’s in the Park at Delta Park in Craighall Park offers a relaxed, almost countryside atmosphere in the middle of the city. Sprawling lawns greet families, an extensive play area, and a menu that celebrates wood-fired pizzas, juicy burgers, and hearty salads. AJ’s is perfect for long, lazy afternoons where kids can make new friends and parents can soak up some sun. Explore more at 33 Olive Tree – AJ’s in the Park.
Johannesburg’s family-friendly dining scene is thriving in 2025. These restaurants have mastered the art of balancing delicious, adult-approved menus with spaces that spark children’s imagination and joy. Whether you’re planning a casual weekend lunch or a memorable celebration, these kid-centric hotspots ensure that dining out becomes a highlight for the whole family.
Image source: Bambanani Restaurant official website, Mikes Heritage House, Mozambik Linksfield, The Greenroom Joburg official website.
