Dining out doesn't come cheap, especially in NYC—unless you happen to be a child who can take advantage of these kids eat free deals. For NYC kids, there really is such a thing as a free lunch...if you know where to go. At these local eateries, you can feed those hungry mouths for the unbeatable price of $0, while you get a break from playing chef. We know what you'll be making tonight: reservations.
Find all our top picks for family-friendly eats in our NYC Kids' Restaurant Guide.
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Our picks for kids eat free deals are a combination of mom-and-pop local restaurants and national chains with outposts in NYC. We've found many restaurants offer kids eat free deals as limited-time promos or perks to loyalty members, so be sure to sign up for email lists or follow your favorites on social media to get the lowdown on just when kids eat free.
Kids Eat Free Deals in NYC
1. The Hop Shoppe – Stapleton, Staten Island
The only thing better than beer and burgers is free burgers for the kids. Make this spot your Monday night meal ticket, and kids can nab a free kids' meal plus some tokens to hit up the arcade games while you're left to sip your brew in peace.
2. Arirang Hibachi Steakhouse and Sushi Bar – Bay Ridge, Brooklyn and Staten Island
Dine-in customers can enjoy kids eat free deals on Mondays and Tuesdays at this hibachi spot where the presentation alone is bound to wow wiggly little diners.
3. Smashburger – Multiple Locations
Wednesday nights are for the kids at this burger joint. Kids ages 12 and under get a free kids' meal with the purchase of an adult meal that includes an entree, side, and drink.
RELATED: 18 Family-Friendly Food Halls in NYC
Enjoy free kids' meals and character visits on Wednesdays at Joyce's Tavern.
4. Joyce's Tavern – Eltingville, Staten Island
Wednesday nights are kids' nights at this beloved Irish pub. In addition to nabbing a free meal from the kids' menu, keep your eyes peeled for special guest appearances by kid-friendly characters like Elmo, Bluey, Mickey Mouse, and more. Parents appreciate a generous pour and friendly atmosphere, plus a menu heavy on comfort food classics.
5. Uno Pizzaria and Grill – Upper West Side and Astoria, Queens
We're not usually fans of deep-dish pizza—it's a classic NYC slice that does it—unless it's free. Uno Extra members can nab a free kids' pizza on Tuesdays at this chain spot.
RELATED: Over-the-Top Desserts in NYC
Devour classic pancakes with all the best toppings at IHOP.
6. IHOP – Multiple Locations
Pancakes for dinner is always a winner in our book and this nationwide chain is well-known for its kids eat free deals with the purchase of an adult entree every night. Offer may vary by location, so confirm before you place your order!
7. Ikea – Red Hook, Brooklyn
It's a two-for-one deal at this purveyor of Swedish meatballs and flat-packed furniture. The on-site Swedish Restaurant offers two free kids' meals with the purchase of an adult meal on Wednesdays. We dare you to leave without a few new home goods, too!
Bonus: Free Meal Deals on Kids Night On Broadway
Nabbing bogo tickets to Broadway is one of our favorite ways to save on Broadway tickets. On the annual Kids Night On Broadway, several Times Square area restaurants offer kids eat free deals. All you need to do is flash your ticket. Participants may vary by event, but past years have included some of our favorite family-friendly restaurants in the theater district.
Photos courtesy of the restaurants
This post, originally published in September 2013, has been updated.