The Most Family-Friendly Restaurants in Denver: Where to Eat Before or After Your Photoshoot
A great family photoshoot calls for a reward everyone will love—whether that’s a relaxing breakfast before an early session, a fun lunch spot to refuel, or a classic Colorado restaurant to celebrate a great day. The Denver metro area is packed with family-friendly restaurants, and we’re here to help you find the best spots to keep kids (and parents!) happy.
If you’re wondering where to eat before or after your family photoshoot, these Denver-area restaurants offer kid-approved menus, relaxed atmospheres, and enough variety to satisfy both picky eaters and adventurous foodies.
1. Best Family-Friendly Breakfast Spot: Duffyroll Café Bakery
📍 Multiple Locations – Denver, Englewood, Littleton
If your photoshoot is scheduled in the morning, starting your day with a cozy, quick, and delicious breakfast is the way to go. Duffyroll is a Denver favorite, known for its flaky, buttery cinnamon rolls and easy takeout options for families on the go.
Why Families Love It:
✔ Fast, casual, and delicious – perfect for a quick stop before a morning shoot.
✔ Mini Duffys for little hands – Kids love the bite-sized cinnamon rolls!
✔ Takeout-friendly – Grab a box of cinnamon rolls and a coffee for the road.
Best Picks:
🥐 Classic Cinnamon Duffyroll, Irish Cream Duffyroll, The Bakin Sun Breakfast Sandwich, Iced Mocha
💡 Pro Tip: If you have an early morning shoot, grab a box of Duffyrolls to-go and have a post-photoshoot breakfast picnic at a nearby park!
2. Best Colorado Classic: Beau Jo’s Pizza
📍 Idaho Springs, Arvada, Fort Collins, Evergreen
If you’re looking for a Colorado staple that the whole family will love, Beau Jo’s Pizza is a must-visit. Famous for their Mountain Pies—thick-crusted pizzas with honey for dipping—this spot is perfect for celebrating a successful photoshoot with a feast.
Why Families Love It:
✔ Big, shareable pizzas – Order one Mountain Pie for the table and let everyone dig in.
✔ Kid-friendly atmosphere – Loud and casual, so no stress over noisy little ones.
✔ Great for teens – Bigger appetites? No problem!
Best Picks:
🍕 The Motherlode (loaded with toppings), The Prairie Pie (lighter with olive oil & garlic), Salad Bar for fresh options
💡 Pro Tip: The Idaho Springs location makes for a great mini road trip if you want to explore after your photoshoot!
3. Best “Only-in-Denver” Family Experience: Casa Bonita
📍 Lakewood
No family-friendly restaurant list in Denver would be complete without Casa Bonita—the iconic pink castle of fun and chaos that reopened under new ownership by South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone. It’s not just a restaurant—it’s an experience.
Why Families Love It:
✔ Cliff divers & live entertainment – Kids love the shows, making mealtime an adventure.
✔ All-you-can-eat plates – Meals are included in the $39 per adult & $24 per kid experience fee.
✔ Perfect post-photoshoot treat – Reward your kids for a great shoot with an afternoon of fun!
Best Picks:
🌮 Taco Plate, Enchiladas, Sopapillas with honey
💡 Pro Tip: Reservations are required, and weekends fill up fast, so book in advance if you plan on visiting after your photoshoot!
4. Best All-Ages Entertainment Spot: Punch Bowl Social
📍 Denver & Stapleton
For families looking for food + fun all in one, Punch Bowl Social is a fantastic option. With bowling, arcade games, and plenty of space, this restaurant is perfect for kids, teens, and parents alike.
Why Families Love It:
✔ Great for active kids and teens – No one has to sit still for too long!
✔ Varied menu with something for everyone – Burgers, tacos, brunch, and more.
✔ Plenty of space – No cramped seating or long waits.
Best Picks:
🍔 BBQ Burger, Chicken & Waffles, House-Made Soft Pretzels
💡 Pro Tip: If you’ve got older kids and teens, Punch Bowl Social is a great way to turn your photoshoot day into a full family outing.
5. Stanley Marketplace & Edgewater Public Market
📍 Aurora & Edgewater
These vibrant food halls are perfect for families who want variety, plenty of space, and a relaxed atmosphere. Stanley Marketplace in Aurora and Edgewater Public Market in Edgewater both feature multiple restaurants, shops, and community spaces that make for a great family outing.
Why Families Love Them:
✔ Something for everyone – Parents and kids can choose from different food vendors.
✔ Casual, open seating – No worries about making a reservation or waiting for a table.
✔ Shops and activities nearby – Extend your trip with local shopping or play areas.
Best Picks at Stanley Marketplace:
🥗 Maria Empanada, Comida Mexican Eatery, Sweet Cow Ice Cream
Best Picks at Edgewater Public Market:
🍜 Yuan Wonton, Tilford’s Wood Fired Pizza, Slideshow Sliders
💡 Pro Tip: If you have picky eaters, this is a great choice since there’s something for everyone!
Make Your Photoshoot Day Even More Special
📸 A family photoshoot is all about creating memories, and what better way to end (or start) the day than with a great meal in a family-friendly setting?
📩 Book a session today and get personalized location recommendations + tips to make your photoshoot stress-free!
