Best Family Restaurants in Ocala, FL

Your complete guide to kid-friendly dining and family-owned restaurants in Marion County

From casual pizza nights to special family dinners, discover where to eat with kids in Ocala

Family-Friendly Dining by Cuisine

Ocala offers diverse family dining options to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you're looking for casual pizza nights, sit-down dinners, or interactive dining experiences, you'll find welcoming restaurants with kids' menus and family-sized portions.

American & Southern Cuisine

Brick City Southern Kitchen
Southern/American

Highlights: Family-sized portions, kids menu, casual atmosphere

Family Tip: Perfect for families who love comfort food

Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen
American

Highlights: Kids eat free programs, diverse menu, spacious dining

Family Tip: Check for kids eat free promotions

Mojo Grill & Catering
American/Fusion

Highlights: Casual setting, kid-friendly sides, great service

Family Tip: Flexible menu makes it easy to customize for kids

Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille
American/Seafood

Highlights: Family portions, casual vibe, diverse menu

Family Tip: Non-seafood options for picky eaters

Italian Restaurants

Brooklyn's Original Pizzeria
Italian/Pizza

Highlights: Kids love pizza, casual family atmosphere, outdoor seating

Family Tip: Great for birthday parties and casual meals

Sammy's Italian Restaurant
Italian

Highlights: Family recipes, generous portions, welcoming staff

Family Tip: Locally owned with authentic Italian charm

Olive Garden Ocala
Italian-Inspired

Highlights: Unlimited breadsticks, pasta options, kids menu

Family Tip: Reliable chain with consistent family-friendly service

Mexican Cuisine

La Hacienda
Mexican

Highlights: Family-sized combos, kids menu, festive atmosphere

Family Tip: Kids enjoy the colorful, welcoming environment

Mi Mexico
Mexican

Highlights: Authentic flavors, accommodating staff, casual dining

Family Tip: Customizable dishes for different tastes

Amigos Mexican Restaurant
Mexican

Highlights: Family portions, fresh ingredients, lively atmosphere

Family Tip: Great margaritas for adults while kids enjoy food

Asian Cuisine

Sake Sushi & Hibachi
Japanese

Highlights: Interactive hibachi tables, kids menus, fun dining experience

Family Tip: Hibachi chefs entertain while cooking

Chan's Chinese Restaurant
Chinese

Highlights: Kid-friendly portions, quick service, casual atmosphere

Family Tip: Easy to customize dishes for dietary preferences

Tai Thai
Thai

Highlights: Mild options available, friendly staff, family-sized portions

Family Tip: Staff happy to adjust spice levels for kids

Casual & BBQ

Sonny's BBQ
BBQ/Casual

Highlights: Classic BBQ, kids menu, casual family atmosphere

Family Tip: Messy but fun dining experience for kids

Bento Asian Kitchen + Sushi
Asian/Fusion

Highlights: Quick service, modern casual setting, diverse options

Family Tip: Fast service good for families with young children

Ocala Downtown Market (Farmers Market)

Location & Schedule

Historic Ocala Square - Downtown Ocala

Hours: Saturday mornings year-round, seasonal extended hours

What You'll Find

  • Fresh seasonal produce from local farms
  • Baked goods, honey, and preserves
  • Local crafts and artisan goods
  • Prepared foods and breakfast items
  • Flowers and plants in season

Why Bring the Family

The Ocala Downtown Market is more than shopping—it's a family-friendly community experience. Kids enjoy exploring vendors, sampling fresh produce, and experiencing local food culture firsthand.

Seasonal events and kids activities make it an ideal weekend outing that combines shopping with education and entertainment.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Arrive early for best selection
  • Bring reusable bags for shopping
  • Many vendors offer samples
  • Check seasonal produce guides for best finds
  • Combine with downtown dining for a full family day

Tips for Dining Out with Kids in Ocala

Best Times to Dine
  • Early dinner seatings (5-6 PM)
  • Weekend brunches (family-friendly atmosphere)
  • Lunch rather than dinner for younger children
  • Avoid peak hours for less wait times
Restaurant Features to Look For
  • Dedicated kids menus
  • Quick service or flexible wait times
  • Flexible food customization
  • Clean, family-friendly environment
Outdoor Dining Advantages
  • More relaxed atmosphere for active kids
  • Pleasant Ocala weather most of the year
  • Downtown square dining experiences
  • Enjoy local scenery and community feel
Pro Tips for Success
  • Make reservations when possible
  • Bring small activities for wait times
  • Check menus online before dining
  • Be flexible with ordering timing

Budget-Friendly Family Meals in Ocala

Ocala offers many options for families looking to save money while dining out. Several restaurants participate in kids eat free promotions on specific nights.

Value-Focused Restaurants

  • Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen (frequent kids eat free deals)
  • Sonny's BBQ (family combo specials)
  • Local Mexican restaurants (generous portions)
  • Pizza chains (affordable family meals)

Kids Eat Free Programs

Check our complete Kids Eat Free in Ocala guide for current promotions, participating restaurants, and money-saving tips.

View Kids Eat Free Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best family restaurants in Ocala?
Ocala offers excellent family dining options including Brick City Southern Kitchen, Brooklyn's Original Pizzeria, Sake Sushi & Hibachi, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, and La Hacienda. Each offers kid-friendly menus, casual atmospheres, and welcoming service.
Where is the Ocala Farmers Market located?
The Ocala Downtown Market is located at the Historic Ocala Square (downtown Ocala). It operates Saturday mornings year-round, featuring fresh local produce, baked goods, crafts, and prepared foods. It's a great family outing combining shopping with local food experience.
What are kid-friendly restaurants in Ocala, FL?
Kid-friendly restaurants in Ocala include family chains like Olive Garden and Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, as well as local favorites like Brooklyn's Original Pizzeria, La Hacienda, and Sonny's BBQ. Look for restaurants with dedicated kids menus and casual atmospheres.
What are things to do in Ocala FL for food lovers?
Beyond dining at restaurants, food lovers should visit the Ocala Downtown Market for fresh local produce and prepared foods, explore farm-to-table dining options, and attend food-focused events throughout Marion County.
Are there farm-to-table restaurants in Ocala?
Yes, several Ocala restaurants emphasize locally sourced ingredients and farm partnerships. Check with individual restaurants about their local sourcing practices and seasonal menu items.
What family restaurants have outdoor seating in Ocala?
Brooklyn's Original Pizzeria, restaurants along the historic downtown square, and several casual dining spots offer outdoor seating options. Perfect for enjoying Ocala's pleasant weather while dining with kids.
Where can kids eat free in Ocala?
Several restaurants in Ocala participate in kids eat free promotions, particularly on specific nights. Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen regularly offers these deals. Check our Kids Eat Free in Ocala guide for complete details and current promotions.
What are the best locally owned restaurants in Ocala?
Brick City Southern Kitchen, Sammy's Italian Restaurant, Mojo Grill & Catering, and many other local favorites offer authentic Ocala charm. Supporting local restaurants helps strengthen our community.

Related Resources

Kids Eat Free in Ocala

Money-saving kids eat free promotions at Ocala restaurants

Dining in Ocala

Complete guide to Ocala's restaurant scene

Things to Do with Kids

Family-friendly activities and attractions in Ocala

Free Activities

Budget-friendly fun for the whole family

Events Calendar

Family events happening in Marion County