Kid-friendly restaurants to check out on the Gold Coast this school holidays

With a soundproof indoor playground and kids meals under 10 bucks, The Wattle Hotel will tick a lot of boxes for many parents this school holidays.

What’s more, with a sports bar, a dedicated seniors menu and regular kid-friendly events in the holidays like Build-a-beer workshops, there really is something for everyone. Add a menu bursting with burgers, salads and steaks, and this is a great family-friendly option on the Gold Coast.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Beef brisket parmigiana ($30 main)

With child friendly staff, high chairs, lots of toys, well-maintained baby changing facilities and delicious food, Dune Café is a parents’ dream.

There’s a bigger than usual selection of dishes for smaller appetites including blueberry pancakes and fruit toast for breakfast and flathead and burgers, all with chips, for lunch. Adults are catered for as well with Truffled mushroom and Meredith goat cheese on sourdough a standout.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Blueberry organic spelt pancakes ($17.90)

Known locally as “the best little club in the world”, Currumbin RSL is the perfect spot for families to gather this school holidays.

There are great views, an outdoor terrace, a fully fenced playground, live music and a well-designed kids menu.

It’s a good idea to book a table here and you may want to consider becoming a member if you plan to visit regularly.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Pan fried North Queensland Barramundi ($30)

If you’re looking for a family and kid-friendly restaurant on a Friday or Saturday night, make your way to The Backyard Cafe where the doors stay open for dinner till 10pm.

There’s plenty of café favourites on the menu to keep kids and adults happy from burgers and salads to Buffalo chicken wings and Lemon pepper calamari. And there’s also plenty of room for the kids to eat and play.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Wicked waffles ($20)

Montezuma’s Surfers Paradise has been a favourite on the Gold Coast since it first began serving up tasty Mexican fare 20 years ago.

This bright, buzzy spot not only features classic Mexican dishes and flavours, there’s plenty to keep the kids occupied including colouring books and poncho making. It’s also budget-friendly – on Tuesdays kids eat free with every adult main meal purchased, and there are various other specials throughout the week too.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Nachos Montezuma ($19 large)

If you’re coming by car, you’ll be greeted by lots of off street parking (always welcome when you’re unloading the kids!) or if you’re on foot you’ll be right on track to visit Tallebudgera Creek. Basically, Plantation House Café is easy to get to and a pleasure to eat at.

There’s a kid’s play area with entertainment including a chalkboard for budding artists and a rocking horse, so you’ll be able to enjoy a coffee and breakfast in (relative) peace. If you need a playground, you can always get takeaway and head to Marin Sheils Park just across the road.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Plantation omelette ($17.90)