When it comes to the typical “family restaurant,” our feelings can be mixed. Spending time together: Love. Stealing bites of our kids’ chicken tenders: Really love. Navigating ball pits: Can we not? These seven family-friendly restaurants find just the right balance.

CHI kid friendly restaurants summer house LIST

SUMMER HOUSE SANTA MONICA

Kid cuisine isn’t typically the healthiest—unless you’re at Summer House Santa Monica. All menu items are made from scratch with all-natural ingredients, like the organic crispy chicken fingers and hormone-free turkey meatballs. To boot, a portion of all proceeds from the kids’ menu benefits Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign.

1954 N. Halsted St.; 773-634-4100 or summerhousesm.com

CHI kid friendly restaurants rj grunts LIST

R.J. GRUNTS

This is the spot to break during your day at Lincoln Park Zoo. Sippy cups, crayons and animal crackers keep kids occupied so parents can enjoy their burger or salad. And a stroller valet? Genius.

2056 Lincoln Park W.; 773-929-5363 or rjgruntschicago.com