After a day spent exploring Moab’s red rock trails, splashing in the Colorado River, or bouncing along backcountry roads, most families are looking for one thing: a great meal without the fuss. Luckily, Moab’s dining scene is as welcoming and adventurous as the town itself. From retro breakfast spots and burger joints to slow-smoked barbecue favorites, there’s no shortage of places where tired hikers and little explorers can refuel.  

Whether you’re fresh off the trails or winding down after sunset, these family-friendly restaurants in Moab make mealtime both tasty and relaxed. 

 

Why Moab is a Haven for Family Dining

 

One of the best things about dining in Moab is that nobody expects you to show up polished after a day outdoors. (In fact, you’ll most likely be covered in ruby dust.) This town is built around adventure, where trail dust, hiking sandals and sun-tired kids are all part of the experience. Many restaurants in Moab embrace the laid-back atmosphere with spacious patios, picnic-style seating, and relaxed service that makes families feel instantly comfortable.

Brick exterior of Moab Garage Co.

Family Restaurants in Moab

 

Moab Garage Co. 

Address: 78 N Main St
Phone: (435) 554-8467
Start your day at Moab Garage Co. or stop in for a midday pick-me-up. Breakfast is served all day, while lunch highlights include everything from BLTs and a “grilled cheese of the day” to a BBQ pork sandwich and tacos. The kids' menu offers Belgian Liege waffles and other savory favorites. 

 

Moab Food Truck Park

Address: 39 West 100 North
Phone: (435) 319-0251
Have a couple of picky eaters in your group? Or maybe everyone is craving something different? If so, the Moab Food Truck Park should absolutely be on your list for lunch. 

 

Antica Forma

Address: 267 N Main St
Phone: (435) 355-0167
Serving up wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas and pasta, Antica Forma should be on your list if you have pizza-lovers in the family. Grab a classic pie or opt for the pistachio pesto pizza topped with mild sausage and homemade mozzarella. Key ingredients—like the flour, tomatoes, and mozzarella—are imported from Italy or made fresh in-house. The kids' menu features a selection of pizzas, angel hair pastas and mozzarella sticks.  

 

The Spoke on Center 

Address: 5 N Main St
Phone: (435) 260-7177
Known for its gourmet burgers, the Spoke on Center is one of the best family-friendly restaurants in Moab, located in the heart of Downtown. Get your grub on with loaded fries, a variety of entrees and a kids' menu, then sweeten the deal with Spoke’s classic and creamy soft serve. Their patio is dog-friendly, too.

A barista at Bonjour Cafe is giving a customer boxes of pastries.

The Broken Oar

Address: 53 W 400 N
Phone: (435) 259-3127
For families looking for hearty comfort food after a day on the trails (or in this case, the water), Broken Oar offers a cozy lodge-style atmosphere, a spacious outdoor deck and a menu featuring its famous sweet potato fries, barbecue straight from the smoker, burgers, steaks and pasta. Don’t miss the rotating kids’ menu and the daily housemade dessert selections. 

 

Trailhead Public House & Eatery

Address: 11 East 100 North
Phone: (435) 355-1782
Featured on America’s Best Restaurants, the Trailhead Public House & Eatery is a Moab staple. Opt for the fish & chips, the Arches Reuben, and don’t forget to leave room for dessert (order the famous bread pudding). The Kids Happy Trails menu features two types of burgers, fish & chips, grilled cheese and hot dog. Their patio is also pet-friendly. 
 

Dos Más Café

Address: 35 E Center St
Adventuring with kids can be tiring—we get that! If you’re in need of a pick-me-up, head to Dos Más Café for coffee, espresso and a selection of teas and refreshers. 

 

Bonjour Bakery & Café

Address: 59 S Main St, Suite 2
Phone: (435) 355-0809
Serving freshly baked pastries, Bonjour Bakery & Café is a great go-to for a quick breakfast or lunch. Enjoy a variety of sandwiches, flatbreads, soups and salads, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of ice cream.  
 

A variety of plates at a family-friendly restaurant in Moab.

Tips for Dining with Kids in Moab

 

After a full day of working up an appetite, the last thing you want to do is wait around for a table while tummies are grumbling. Avoid the biggest dinner rush by eating before 6 p.m. If you’re planning to dine outdoors, consider bringing along a light jacket—warm desert days often cool down fast in Moab. 

 

From outdoor seating and casual dining atmospheres to wait times during busy travel seasons, families often have a few common questions before heading out to eat. Here are a few helpful tips to make dining in Moab easy, relaxed, and enjoyable for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which kid-friendly restaurant in Moab has outdoor seating?

Many family-friendly restaurants in Moab offer outdoor patios that are perfect for relaxing after a day on the trails. Local favorites like Moab Food Truck Park, Trailhead Public House & Eatery, Pasta Jays, Gloria's, Jailhouse Cafe, 98 Center Moab, The Spoke and Spitfire Smokehouse all feature casual outdoor seating where kids can spread out, and parents can enjoy Moab’s beautiful evening weather.

Do we need a reservation, or what are the average wait times for families?

Most restaurants in Moab welcome walk-ins, especially for casual family dining. However, during spring, fall and holiday weekends, popular dinner spots can become busy between 6:00 and 8:00 pm as visitors return from their adventures. Avoid longer waits by dining earlier or visiting during weekdays when possible.