Japanese · Bermondsey
Kokura is a cosy little Japanese spot on The Cut, just a short walk from the Young Vic, serving knockout fried chicken and ramen at prices that won't sting. The menu is refreshingly short and the cooking is genuinely impressive — it's a relaxed, unfussy place that feels welcoming rather than precious. Highchairs are available and the restaurant is easy to navigate with a buggy, though there's no outdoor space or baby-changing facility, so worth bearing in mind with very little ones. Vegan options are on the menu too.
The secret to a calmer meal out? Something to do that isn't a phone. Each pack is full of screen-free bits and bobs to keep little hands busy at the table and buy you a proper sit-down. Three printable packs, one for each age (toddler, preschool, primary) — free, straight to your inbox.
Hamburger in London — 4.5★ (1,376 Google reviews).
Meze, casseroles and grills from Anatolia on the Asian side of Turkey, served to a lively crowd.
Relaxed South Bank bar-restaurant with varied menu, highchairs, buggy access and outdoor seating.