Doha, the modern capital of Qatar, is a city that combines tradition with modernity in the most beautiful way and offers many exciting experiences for visitors. As the city continues to grow and evolve, so does its culinary scene, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. For families, eating out can often be a challenging endeavor, especially when it comes to entertaining young children while enjoying a meal. Fortunately, Doha is home to several innovative, family-friendly restaurants that understand the needs of parents and provide great indoor play areas.
In this article, we explore some of the Best Family Restaurants in Doha that have indoor play areas, making eating out a fun and stress-free experience for everyone.
The Cheesecake Factory
Located in the expansive Mall of Qatar, The Cheesecake Factory is a beloved American chain known for its extensive menu and, of course, its decadent cheesecakes. What makes it particularly appealing to families is its dedicated indoor play area.
This space is equipped with various toys and activities that keep children entertained while parents enjoy a leisurely meal. The environment of the restaurant is lively and pleasant, making it an ideal place for family outings. With options ranging from salads and sandwiches to hearty main courses, there’s something for everyone, ensuring a satisfying experience for adults and kids.
Jones the Grocer
Jones the Grocer, located in Doha’s Gate Mall, is a haven for foodies and families. This family restaurant in Doha offers a diverse menu that includes everything from artisanal cheeses to freshly baked pastries.
The highlight for families, however, is the indoor play area designed to engage children of various ages. Parents can relax with a gourmet coffee or enjoy a delicious meal while their kids are engrossed in play. The restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere, along with suitable facilities for children, makes it a top choice for family dining.
The Village
Located in the historic Souq Waqif, The Village offers a unique dining experience with its fusion of Middle Eastern and international cuisines. This family-friendly restaurant features a spacious indoor play area that is well-maintained and filled with engaging activities for children.
The play area allows kids to have fun in a safe environment while parents savor the restaurant’s diverse offerings, from traditional Qatari dishes to international favorites. The Village’s combination of great food, friendly service, and a child-friendly environment makes it a perfect destination for families.
Megapolis
For families looking to combine dining with entertainment, Megapolis in The Pearl Qatar is a great choice. This entertainment hub includes a restaurant that caters to both adults and children. The indoor play area is a highlight, featuring arcade games, soft play zones, and interactive activities that cater to various age groups.
While the kids are busy having fun, parents can enjoy a meal from the restaurant’s diverse menu, which includes everything from burgers and pizzas to more fantastic dishes. The vibrant atmosphere and multitude of entertainment options ensure a memorable experience for the whole family.
Angelina Paris
Angelina Paris, located in the luxurious Lagoona Mall, brings a touch of French elegance to Doha. Known for its exquisite pastries, hot chocolate, and elegant afternoon teas, This restaurant also offers a family-friendly environment.
The indoor play area, though more modest compared to some others, provides a cozy space for children to enjoy themselves while parents indulge in the luxurious offerings. The blend of a sophisticated dining experience with child-friendly facilities makes Angelina Paris a unique and attractive option for families.
Paul Bakery & Restaurant
Paul Bakery & Restaurant, a famous French bakery chain with several locations across Doha, offers a delightful family dining experience. Known for its freshly baked bread, pastries, and a variety of French-inspired dishes, Paul also caters to families with young children.
Many of its locations feature an indoor play area where kids can engage in creative activities and play while their parents enjoy a relaxing meal. The combination of a charming French ambiance and child-friendly facilities makes Paul a popular choice among families.
Espression by Lavazza
Espression by Lavazza, located in Doha Festival City, is more than just a coffee shop. It offers a family-friendly dining atmosphere with a menu that includes a variety of Italian-inspired dishes and premium coffee.
The indoor play area is designed to keep children entertained, allowing parents to relax and enjoy their meals. The restaurant’s relaxed environment and attention to family needs make it a great spot for a casual family outing.
Eataly
Eataly, also in Doha Festival City, is a culinary destination that brings the flavors of Italy to Qatar. It has multiple eateries under one roof, offering everything from freshly made pasta to artisanal gelato.
Eataly’s indoor play area ensures that children have a fun and engaging space to play, making it easier for parents to enjoy their dining experience. The lively atmosphere, combined with authentic Italian cuisine, creates a delightful setting for family meals.
Chef’s Garden
Chef’s Garden has become a favorite among families, offering options for breakfast, lunch, or an early dinner to suit everyone’s tastes. Embracing a farm-to-table philosophy, the restaurant takes pride in creating dishes with vegetables and organic products sourced from local farms.
The main dining area features views of a lush lawn, and a lovely terrace is available for al fresco dining during the cooler months. Located in the Marwan Club at Al Shaqab Hotel in Education City, Chef’s Garden provides a dedicated children’s play area known as the Kid Zone.
While infants and toddlers require a guardian to stay with them, hotel staff can supervise older children (three years and up) so parents can enjoy a leisurely meal. The Kid Zone includes a soft play area and a variety of activities to keep kids entertained. For groups of eight or more, reservations are necessary.
Coral All Day Dining
Coral Restaurant, All Day Dining at the InterContinental Doha, offers a perfect family-friendly dining experience, featuring a separate children’s area open daily and equipped with coloring books, crayons, and a television showing cartoons.
During weekend meals, hotel staff supervise children and provide activities such as face painting, ensuring a fun time for the little ones. At other times, children can still enjoy the play area but need to be supervised by their parents or a nanny.
Parents will appreciate the extensive and high-quality buffet selection and the stunning water views from the restaurant, while children will love watching cartoons and the special face-painting sessions during weekend brunches.
Located in West Bay, the restaurant operates daily from 07:00-11:00, 12:30-15:30, and 19:00-23:30, with additional staff and activities in the play area available on Fridays and Saturdays between 12:30-15:30. For more information, you can call +974 4484-4444.
California Tortilla
California Tortilla’s Al Saad branch features a “Piñata Playhouse” playroom, designed with a glass wall so parents can comfortably watch their children while enjoying their meal. Ideal for kids under five, this mini indoor playground includes small slides, soft foam tiles, and a picnic table, though food and drinks are not allowed inside.
This fast-food restaurant stands out with its diverse menu, offering fresh burritos, tacos, fajitas, and quesadillas, along with the option to design your own dish by selecting sides and flavorings. Younger diners have their own “Kid’s Stuff” menu, and there are vegan-friendly choices, such as the veggie burrito with rice, black beans, leaf spinach, and salsa.
IKEA
With two dining options and two play areas, IKEA makes it easy to spend half a day enjoying both shopping and relaxation. Near the store entrance on the first floor, you will find Småland, a free, supervised indoor play area.
While there are no official age limits, children must be taller than 95 cm and shorter than 130 cm, making Småland ideal for kids aged three to eight.
After parents fill out a simple form with their contact details, children receive a numbered bib and can be left under the supervision of IKEA staff for one hour. The play area offers activities such as coloring and crafting, a TV corner with comfy cushions, a large ball pit for energetic play, wooden toys, and a play kitchen area.
Once parents have completed their shopping, they can unwind at the Bistro near the checkout aisles, which offers a straightforward menu of hot dogs, shawarma, ice cream, and a variety of hot and cold drinks.
Final Word
Doha’s culinary scene is diverse and popular, with numerous family restaurants that fully cater to the needs of parents and children. Indoor play areas in these establishments provide a safe and fun environment for children and allow parents to enjoy their meals without worry.
Whether you are a fan of American classics, gourmet cuisine, or international cuisine, these restaurants ensure that dining with the family is an enjoyable and memorable experience. We have introduced you to the best indoor play areas in Qatar, but the choice is yours.
So, the next time you are planning a family meal, consider one of these top places in Doha for the perfect combination of great food and family fun.
Are you planning to travel to Qatar and looking for a Qatar travel agency? Check out our Qatar tours and Qatar transit tours.
