Sometimes chicken fingers and fries just aren’t going to cut it — especially when you’re craving something a little more adventurous.
After putting together a recent round-up of Asian restaurants in St. Louis that are perfect for a night out, I wanted to follow it up with a version that actually works with kids in tow.
Because while trying new foods is fun … doing it with kids requires a little more strategy. You’re thinking about speed, flexibility, and whether there’s at least one thing on the menu that won’t turn into a negotiation.
The good news? There are plenty of places around St. Louis where you can explore Asian flavors and keep everyone at the table happy.
Here are 5 kid-friendly Asian restaurants in St. Louis that work for my family.
🥟 Tiger Soup Dumplings — Chinese
I’m not exaggerating when I say my kids are obsessed with this place.
I don’t even know if it’s because the soup dumplings are that good (they are) or because eating them is basically an activity. There’s a whole process to it, and kids get so into it.
You can also watch them being made behind the glass, which is half the fun, and there’s a giant tiger out front that my kids insist on taking a picture with every single time. The menu is focused with a variety of steamed and pan-fried soup dumplings, plus a few sides and other dishes. They also offer a selection of boba, fruit teas, and smoothies. Oh, and did I mention the soup dumplings are the BEST I’ve ever had …
Why it works with kids:
It’s interactive, fast, and definitely fun.
If you’ve got a picky eater:
Everyone in my house, including the pickiest of the bunch, loves the steamed pork soup dumplings.
2 Locations:
🍜 Nudo House — Pan Asian
Nudo House is a crowd-pleaser. It’s fast-casual (you order at the counter), which already makes things easier with kids, and the menu somehow works for everyone. The kid’s ramen is a hit with my 3 cherubs — while my husband and I love that we can switch it up with banh mi, pho, or even something like beef and broccoli. But my go-to order? The Classic Nudo.
Also worth mentioning, they have fun drink options for kids and adults that make it feel a little more special without making it complicated. Think fun fruit sodas and slushies!
Why it works with kids:
Kids’ menu, fun drinks, and fast service.
If you’ve got a picky eater:
The kids’ ramen noodle soup (with or without chicken).
2 Locations:
🍗 DD Mau — Vietnamese
DD Mau is one of those places where everyone orders something totally different, and yet we all leave happy.
Their pho, rice, and noodle bowls are all customizable, which makes it easy for picky kids to get everything they want and nothing they don’t. The service is quick and the food is flavorful. While my kids tend to prefer things plain, I love experimenting with all the house made sauces. They also have a nice dessert selection that kids will enjoy.
Why it works with kids:
It’s fast and customizable so everyone can do their own thing.
If you’ve got a picky eater:
Chicken Wings (no sauce), Pho Broth with Noodles, Fried Rice.
2 Locations:
Maryland Heights & Webster Groves
🥢 Lu Lu Seafood & Dim Sum — Chinese
If you want something that feels a little more like an experience, Lulu Seafood & Dim Sum is such a fun one.
On weekends, the dim sum carts come around, and you can pick dishes as they pass by. My kids love seeing what’s coming next and deciding what we should try. It turns dinner into something a little more interactive, which helps when attention spans are … limited.
That said, if your crew isn’t feeling adventurous, you can absolutely just order off the enormous menu.
Why it works with kids:
There’s always something to look at, choose, or talk about.
If you’ve got a picky eater:
Soup Dumplings, Lo mein, fried rice, orange chicken — you’re covered.
Locations:
The original is in University City, but other Lulu Restaurant Group restaurants can be found in Maryland Heights, Rock Hill, and within select Dierbergs.
🍧 Share Sweet — Bubble Tea, Snacks & Desserts
If you want to end on a high note, this is it.
Share Sweet is one of those places my kids get very excited about. Between the bubble tea, snacks, and Korean-style treats, there’s a lot to choose from — but the real standout is the bingsu.
It looks like a sundae, but it’s actually made with flavored shaved ice and topped with things like fruit, Oreos, and other fun extras. It’s different, delicious and totally kid-friendly.
Why it works with kids:
It feels like a treat (because it is).
If you’ve got a picky eater:
Belgian Waffles, Oreo or Brownie Bingsu, Fruit teas.
Location:
Final Thoughts:
Taking kids out to eat doesn’t always feel relaxing — but it can still be fun.
These spots have made it easier for us to try new foods without the usual stress, and honestly, it’s been a great way to slowly expand what my kids are willing to eat.
If you’ve been wanting to branch out a little but weren’t sure where to start, this is a pretty good place to begin — for you and your kids.
For more restaurant tips in STL along with fun fitness opportunities be sure to follow the author on Instagram and her personal blog fitnessfoodiestl.com
