5 kid-friendly upscale restaurants to try in Indianapolis

Don’t think the phrases “up-scale” and “family-friendly” mix? We beg to differ, and so do these Indy-area fine dining restaurants. Not only do they encourage you to bring the whole family, but they welcome them with five-star service!  

little boy in a bowtie holds a fork and knife prepared for dinner

Anthony’s Chophouse

Located in the heart of the Carmel Arts & Design District, Anthony’s Chophouse is redefining the modern fine dining experience by serving classic steakhouse cuisine with a unique spin. We love their children’s menu - which features options like a beef filet with smashed potatoes or tempura shrimp with frites - that will make your kiddos feel extra special. The staff always makes our family feel comfortable and welcome with top-of-the-line service. No matter the occasion, Anthony’s is always a hit! Follow their Instagram.

Call: (317) 740-0900

Visit: 201 W Main St, Carmel


The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers

Before walking through the front doors of The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers, you know you are in for a special treat. The glamorous seasonal décor surrounds patrons with magical beauty that is sure to impress and delight visitors of all ages. Serving everything from cakes and high tea,  to a full savory menu, it is no wonder that The Cake Bake has become a prime destination for Insta-worthy fine dining. Find them on Instagram.

Call: (317) 257-2253

Visit: 799 Hanover Place, Carmel - or - 6515 Carrollton Ave, Indianapolis

Invite your family to step into a fairytale at The Cake Bake.

Capri Italian Restaurant

What kid doesn’t love a bowl of spaghetti? Treat your kiddo(s) to a best-they’ve-ever-had authentic pasta night, homemade daily at Capri, one of Indy’s best Italian restaurants since 1951! Their award-winning staff goes above and beyond to provide your family with a wonderful experience, every time. Learn more on their Instagram.

Call: (317) 259-4122

Visit: 2602 Ruth Dr, Indianapolis


Looking for more Indy-area foodie recs? Peek these underrated spots!


Noah Grant’s

Located in charming downtown Zionsville, is an imaginative seafood restaurant with sushi raw-bar fare, and a great selection of steak and pasta entrees. Not only do they serve the freshest East and West coast oysters, but they are also serving your littles with fresh seafood options like organic salmon, a shrimp sushi roll, and shrimp pasta.  We love the “sophistication meets cozy” vibes that the Noah Grant décor gives us. But what we love even more is their commitment to serving responsibly sourced and sustainable seafood. Follow them on Instagram.

Call: (317) 732-2233

Visit: 91 S Main St, Zionsville

a bowl of tomato soup flanked by a glass of red wine

Even the pickiest palettes can find something to love at one of these upscale spots.

St. Elmo Steak House

No fine-dining list is complete without the historic, stately wining-and-dining destination that is St Elmo’s. A landmark in downtown Indianapolis since 1902, it is the oldest local steakhouse in its original location and has earned a national standing for exceptional steaks, seafood, and service. You can expect their staff to treat your little ones like the ladies and gentlemen they are. We especially love that the whole family can experience one of Forbes’ “10 Great Classic Restaurants Well Worth Visiting,” and we know you will too. Find them on Instagram to learn more.

Call: (317) 635-0636

Visit: 127 S Illinois St, Indianapolis


BONUS: Peterson’s

Northsiders in the know will tell you to never skip an opportunity to visit Peterson’s, a local independent restaurant known for superior service, fresh food, and an impressive wine list. Perhaps less known, however, is the lengths to which they will go to ensure even the youngest member of the family has an exceptional experience. You can even request a high chair when you make your reservation and they’ll be ready for you!

Call: 317-598-8863

Visit: 7690 E. 96th St., Fishers

Fine dining isn’t just for the adults, your kiddos deserve a treat too!

Fine dining isn’t just for the adults, your kiddos deserve a treat too!

We hope we’ve encouraged you and your family to don your best dress for an upscale night on the town! After all, how will your kiddos know what to expect from a fine dining locale if they’ve never been?

Amy Evans

Amy is an East Coast gal who now considers herself a permanent Hoosier. She's married to her high school sweetheart, is a mother to 3 boys (her house is really loud), & 3 cats (she's a crazy cat lady). When she's not shuffling kids to sports practices you can find her with a glass of wine while she works on her budding Instagram Blog where she talks about all things food. She considers herself to be quite the foodie. Find her on Insta: @amy_eatz

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