What’s better than brunch? Can’t think of much! It may look a little bit different these days when you’re surrounded by sippy cups and crayons, sharing highlights of the kids’ weekend sports and dance rehearsals instead of the previous night out on the town. But just because the scenery is different doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a delicious mid-morning delight! Check out this list of family-friendly brunch spots around Boston — there are so many great options!
North Street Grille
229 North Street, Boston
Located in the North End, North Street Grille is a neighborhood spot full of comfort dishes — and it’s known as one of Boston’s best brunch spots. The menu is full of delicious items the whole family can enjoy, and with french toast sticks available no toddler could complain!
South End Buttery
314 Shawmut Avenue, Boston
With the word butter in its name, who could go wrong? This scrumptious spot has a menu that covers everything you could want, including pancakes, waffles, and a variety of egg dishes. And, plenty of delightful coffee options for the tired mama.
The Paramount
667 East Broadway, Boston
44 Charles Street, Boston
With two locations, this Boston staple is a can’t miss spot for family brunch! Visit them in either Southie or Beacon Hill, and you will not be disappointed. Warning: All it takes is one look at their menu, and you’ll be drooling — caramel and banana french toast?! Yes, please.
Thornton’s Restaurant
150 Huntington Avenue, Boston
Serving breakfast seven days a week means Thornton’s knows what it’s doing! A straightforward, classic and reliable diner, Thornton’s is a perfect family-friendly spot for brunch. Their menu is HUGE, so even the pickiest kiddos can find something they like.
Idle Hour Quincy
1464 Hancock Street, Quincy
Fancy, funky, fun, and right in Quincy — that pretty much explains it all! The brunch menu is relatively small, but it includes all the must haves — plus lots of shareables and creative cocktails.
The Painted Burro
219 Elm Street, Somerville
99 Third Avenue, Waltham
32 Church Street, Cambridge
1665 Beacon Street, Brookline
Get this — bottomless brunch. For $25 per person, their menu is all you can eat for an hour and a half! Drinks, desserts, and sides are extra, but if you are bringing a hungry family you can try a bunch of things and get an amazing bang for your buck. With three locations, including the newest one in Harvard Square, this is your spot for a mix of Mexican specialties and American favorites!
Stephanie’s on Newbury
190 Newbury Street, Boston
Stephanie’s is definitely a more upscale choice, but with their sophisticated comfort food the whole family can enjoy a yummy meal and then window shop with a stroll down Newbury street. And can we discuss cinnamon monkey bread?!
Ball Square Cafe
708 Broadway, Somerville
Serving breakfast and lunch all day, every day, Ball Square Cafe in Somerville is a great kid-friendly brunch spot. Try the Celtic green omelet or one of their four pancake varieties (also available gluten free!).
The Friendly Toast
35 Stanhope Street, Boston
1230 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge
199 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill
Plus locations in Burlington, Danvers, Dedham, North Andover, and Portland, ME
When it comes to classic family brunch spots in Boston, the Friendly Toast is it — and it’s as friendly as it sounds with a casual and fun atmosphere the whole family can get into. For the beverage fans at the table, they have several kinds of cocktail flights (yes, please). While they don’t take reservations, you can join the waitlist online and enjoy the neighborhood until your table is ready!
Theo’s Cozy Corner
162 Salem Street, Boston
If you’re calling your restaurant cozy, WE ARE IN. This adorable spot in the North End has all the brunch delights you’d crave — in a great, walkable neighborhood.
Monument Restaurant and Tavern
251 Main Street, Charlestown
For the best brunch in Charlestown, look no further than Monument Restaurant and Tavern. With everything you could want on the menu — and things you couldn’t even think of, like pumpkin cheesecake french toast — you will not be disappointed with this choice.
This article was first published in 2021 by Deanna Greenstein and was updated for 2024 by Colleen Lubin!
