Planning a family outing shouldn’t mean compromising on culinary quality.

Ulster County is home to an incredible array of independent, non-chain restaurants that welcome families with open arms and tailored amenities.

From dedicated play areas and “fields to roam” to scratch-made kids’ menus that go far beyond frozen nuggets, these local gems ensure a stress-free meal for parents and a blast for the little ones.

 you want a wood-fired pizza at an orchard where kids can run free or a cozy bistro with coloring pages and high chairs, these spots deliver.

High-demand weekends fill up quickly, so check availability and book your family dinner today to enjoy the best of Ulster County’s local hospitality!

  1. Gardiner Bakehouse & Benton’s: 297 Bruynswick Rd, Gardiner, NY 12525 (Sand pit, scooters, and bike track)

  2. Westwind Orchard: 215 Lower Whitfield Rd, Accord, NY 12404 (Family-friendly picnic grounds and pizza)

  3. Darling’s: 4484 NY-209, Stone Ridge, NY 12484 (Coloring pages and safe outdoor play area)

  4. The Dutch Ale House: 253 Main St, Saugerties, NY 12477 (Inviting side room and $5.50 kids’ menu)

  5. Cherries Ice Cream: 4166 US-209, Stone Ridge, NY 12484 (Classic roadside stop with play space)

  6. Inness Restaurant: 10 Bank St, Accord, NY 12404 (Sweeping grounds and lounge for families)

  7. Brio’s Restaurant: 68 Main St, Phoenicia, NY 12464 (High chairs and changing stations)

  8. Main Street Bistro: 59 Main St, New Paltz, NY 12561 (Famous family-friendly breakfast spot)

  9. Hickory BBQ: 743 NY-28, Kingston, NY 12401 (Roadhouse atmosphere perfect for groups)

  10. Aroma Thyme Bistro: 165 Canal St, Ellenville, NY 12428 (Eco-conscious and family-oriented)

  11. Rocco’s Pizzeria: 4 New Paltz Plaza, New Paltz, NY 12561 (Classic local family pizza night)

  12. Village Coffee and Goods: 17 Railroad Ave, Kingston, NY 12401 (Cozy seating and artisanal treats)

  13. Savona’s Trattoria: 11 Broadway, Kingston, NY 12401 (Reasonably priced Italian family recipes)

Choosing a local restaurant in Ulster County ensures your family enjoys fresh, regional flavors while benefiting from amenities designed with parents in mind. These 25 independent spots provide the perfect balance of “adult” quality and “kid” fun, making your next meal an easy win for the whole crew.