The Hamilton Inn
Located one block from Hamilton Park, the Hamilton Inn offers great food and a pleasant atmosphere. Don’t let the plentiful daily happy hours and specials fool you; at certain times, this restaurant is quite child-friendly. The children’s menu offers chicken fingers (which are fantastic) and pasta for dinner and brunch. Order a side of Mac & Cheese anytime or French toast at brunch – both good kid-friendly options. You can ask for milk in a cup with a lid and straw (this usually keeps my son’s interest piqued). There are four highchairs, available upon request, and a unisex bathroom equipped with a changing station. J.R., one of the managers, suggested that weekday afternoons and early evenings are the best times to come with kids in tow. Brunch gets busy, so he suggests calling ahead if you will need multiple highchairs. In the warm months, I love to enjoy a beer outside after a long day at the park with my little guy. (201) 839-5818

Zeppelin Hall Restaurant & Biergarten
If you have been searching for a place that affords big open spaces, an outdoor area, food and a great beer selection…search no further! As many local parents already know, Zeppelin Hall is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon or evening with your kids in tow. There is a large, fenced outdoor space with thirty-foot community tables. The inside boasts large rooms with the same community tables. Best of all, they refer to themselves as “kid-friendly until 9 p.m.” The menu features kid favorites like big Bavarian pretzels and hot dogs with fries. Weeknights from 4 p.m. (when they open) until about 6 p.m. are a dream, as the place doesn’t seem to fill up until later. Plus, it’s happy hour, so beers are very inexpensive. Friday evenings are a bit more lively, as various groups holding meetups with their children. (201) 721-8888

The Brownstone Diner
This self-proclaimed pancake factory is a great choice for an early morning breakfast that the whole family will enjoy. The pancakes here are truly fantastic, and the menu is extensive. However, be warned – get there before 9:30 a.m. on a weekend morning or you will wait. They seem to only seat parties with highchairs in the back left corner, so if you get there and that area is filled, you may have to wait. They do offer cups with lids and straws, so you don’t need to bring the sippy cup. Plus, they have a kiddie menu, but the portions are so big, you can easily share with your little one. The servers are great and the owners are very friendly. The pancakes are truly awesome! (201) 433-0471

Beechwood Café
This is a great morning spot, when you want to get out with your kids or meet up with some other moms and their kids. There is plenty of room to sit in the dining area and highchairs are available. During the warmer months, you can even sit out on the sidewalk. Grab a latte for yourself and some pastries for the kids and relax. They open at 7 am on the weekdays and 8 am on the weekends, so it’s the perfect destination for early-risers. (201) 985-2811

Skinner’s Loft 
You may not think this restaurant and bar would be kid-friendly at all, but surprise! This is a great destination for the whole family. Skinner’s Loft opens for lunch Tuesday through Sunday at 11 am and is virtually empty early on weekdays. The only spot kids aren’t allowed is the roof deck (understandably). Highchairs are available and the staff is very accommodating. They offer a kids menu, kiddie cups, stickers, crayons and special prizes! They even give a “goodbye gift” before you leave. (201) 915-0600

9^th & Coles
This tavern describes itself as “Jersey City’s friendliest hangout with a warm and intimate vibe.” If you are looking for a quick bite and a laid-back environment, this place fits the bill. 9C is very child-friendly and a good choice for an early-evening dinner with kids. Menu options like chicken fingers and pizza are perfect for children and highchairs are available. (201) 839-5604

Delenio
This Italian neighborhood restaurant serves up everything from pizza to full dinners in a family-friendly setting. The owners and staff are a delight. The setting is very informal, which lends itself to people dining with children. After all, what kid doesn’t love a slice of pizza? (201) 798-9539