The best family-friendly cafés and restaurants in Bern

Nestled in the heart of Elfenau Park, the Orangerie Elfenau welcomes you with its child-friendly atmosphere, stylish interior, and stunning gardens. Children are more than welcome here: high chairs are at the ready and the sprawling garden offers plenty of space to run, play, and discover. While the little ones explore outdoors, the grown-ups can treat themselves to a fine coffee, perhaps with a slice of rich Gâteau au Chocolat or a fruity Tarte Tatin. If you have a weakness for gelato, you’ve come to the right place: the famous Gelateria di Berna is a regular guest on-site, bringing along classics like Mare di Berna, raspberry-ginger, and many more. Even the coffee beans here are local, sourced directly from the Rösterei Bern.

Children always love to romp around, so what better place for a café than a former gymnasium? There’s not only enough room to play and climb, but also a toybox, so the chances of parents getting a break as well are not bad. When the weather is nice, the courtyard is ideal for hide-and-seek and running around – and thanks to the varied menu available, no one goes hungry either! Our tip: The delicious vegetarian menus of the day are not only popular with parents, but also with children.

Whether it’s a family outing, a quick lunch break, or a relaxed escape into nature, the Huusbüffe at Gurten Park offers easy-going enjoyment for every generation. This self-service restaurant features generous buffets, rotating daily specials, and a dedicated buffet just for children. Inside, cosy seating nooks and a clever layout ensure a sense of calm, while outside, two terraces beckon you to stay a while and soak in the views of the city and the Alpine panorama. A highlight for the little ones: the adjoining playroom located right next to the family area. And for those looking to make a day of it, the Huusbüffe hosts an extensive family brunch every weekend in addition to its daily lunch offerings.

A favourite among more than just vegetarians! The children’s corner with picture books, markers and paper is almost never empty here. The newer of the two Tibits restaurants in Bern is a real magnet for parents. It’s especially practical for parents with babies since the large armchairs are perfect for a feeding break. A whole range of highchairs and a changing table on the ground floor are part of the inventory. The central location and the flexible portion sizes of the many different dishes are additional points in favour of this restaurant (keyword: picky eaters!). It can get extremely crowded here at noon, however, so it’s better to visit in the morning – when you can sip a chai latte, freshly squeezed juice or a babyccino (milk foam in espresso cups) without having to queue and fight for a seat.

This paradise for families is hidden behind thick sandstone walls just a few steps away from the hustle and bustle of the train station. In fine weather, the inner courtyard of Bern’s Generationenhaus is a quiet and green oasis; in rainy and cold weather, the cafébar inside offers a laidback place to meet with friends and family. The small cafeteria is located diagonally across from the equally recommendable Toi et Moi. A small branch of the Kornhaus library is waiting next door with reading material for young and old alike, and the Parents’ Counselling Centre, which is also housed here, has what is probably one of the most beautiful changing tables in Bern. For slightly older children and adults, the basement regularly hosts exciting exhibitions on current social issues.

A coffee bar on Effingerstrasse makes our list thanks to its cosy interior and well-furnished play corner. You can sip on delectable coffee while the little ones draw or play with duplo blocks provided by the café. The staff are incredibly friendly and quickly get to know frequent visitors by name. Soups and quiches are offered at lunchtime, and the chocolate cake is to die for. Unfortunately, the Lumis is no longer an insider’s tip, so there is often limited seating only. However, you can check out the nearby Kocherpark or stop off at the A&O children’s shop while you’re waiting for a seat at this gem of a café.

With its white tablecloths, wine glasses everywhere and suit-clad business people, the Lorenzini is admittedly not really the place to go with (several) active toddlers. With slightly older children, however, it can be a wonderful experience. Where else can children (up to twelve years) choose whatever dishes they want from the «adult» menu? And at a very fair price to boot (15 francs for three courses!). The classic Italian cuisine served here is of premium quality and appeals to all age groups, making the restaurant with its many «salotti» ideal for stylish family celebrations as well.

The Bimano no longer needs an introduction in Bern. In no time at all, this terrific indoor playground has become a fixed favourite for family activities. However, the adjoining Zent restaurant is also a great tip for an enjoyable family meal. For parents, the menu is seasonal and sophisticated, while for children, it’s simple and quick (potato wedges and pasta are always available). While waiting for their food, the little ones can jump around in the ball pit or watch the skaters. In short, Zent is the perfect place for a relaxed family night out! The route to its location behind the Guisanplatz is the only part that can be a bit tedious when using public transport or in bad weather. However, fine food, a pleasant atmosphere and kids that are so exhausted they’ll definitely fall asleep on the way home are worth it.

In the north (Breitenrain district) and west (near Inselspital) of Bern, this coffee bar offers a luxury rarely found in the city centre: plenty of space! Becanto may be a rather small venue, yet the interior still feels airy and cosy. A fine breakfast (served daily until 2:00 p.m.!) or a varied Sunday brunch can be enjoyed there. The small play corner and the friendly, family-oriented service show that children are truly welcome.

Children’s eyes immediately light up as they enter the courtyard of this restaurant and meeting place: hidden nooks and crannies, sculptures and yes, maybe even an old Bobby-Car wait to be discovered. While the parents enjoy a glass of red wine in peace, the children can go exploring. Another plus: The vegetarian three-course menu, which is served every Friday, costs just 40 francs. For less hungry diners, there is «Eifach ä Teller» (just a plate) for 15 francs. And it’s not just inexpensive, but also sustainable: the owners use only organic and regionally sourced ingredients. So, off you go to Heitere Fahne, where the motto is: «Come together, eat, indulge, enjoy».