Kids menus carry more weight than most operators give them credit for. Families pick restaurants based on whether the kids are taken seriously. A clear, fun, well-designed kids menu signals that the restaurant gets it — and quietly raises ticket size by giving parents permission to relax.
What goes on a great kids menu
Six to eight items, max. Two pasta options, two sandwich/burger options, one chicken, one vegetarian, plus a fruit-and-yogurt-style fresh option. Half-portions of adult bestsellers work better than novelty kid food. Prices in whole numbers. One drink option included with each item. No more than two allergens flagged on the page itself; full info goes on a back panel or QR.
Layout principles
Big, friendly type. Lots of white space. One playful illustration per section, never a wall of icons. Avoid Comic Sans — use a rounded sans like Quicksand or Avenir Next Rounded. Color drives appetite: warm reds, oranges, and creamy yellows outperform cool palettes. Print at 4×6 or 5×7 inches; anything larger and parents lose track of where the kid started reading.
Pricing the kids menu
Price kids items at 35–50% of the comparable adult dish. Bundle a drink and a small dessert at a 15% discount to push average ticket size. Don't apologize — a kids menu is not a loss leader, it's an entry point for the family.
Kids menu ideas to start with
- Mac and cheese with a hidden vegetable purée
- Mini chicken sliders with sweet potato fries
- Cheese pizza with an option to swap for pesto
- Pasta with butter and parmesan, customizable
- Yogurt parfait with seasonal fruit and granola
- Grilled cheese on sourdough with tomato soup shot
- Quesadilla with avocado side
- Fish goujons with hand-cut chips
Frequently asked
How many items should a kids menu have?
Six to eight is the sweet spot. More than that and choice paralysis hits the parent.
Should I include allergen icons on the kids menu?
Yes — the most common ones (gluten, dairy, nuts) belong directly on the page. Detailed allergen tables go on a separate sheet or QR.
What size should I print a kids menu?
4×6 inches is the standard. A5 works in Europe. Anything larger is harder for kids to handle and gets food on it within minutes.
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