By Guest Writer David Sommers, DMA Board Member
For foodie families, four family-friendly options: Where to dine with kids in Downtown Medford
Fear not, famished families, for Downtown Medford is a walkable and welcome base for some of the Rogue Valley’s ideal options for kid-friendly dining options.
Ollie’s Brooklyn Slices
Ollie’s, opened late last year by brothers Mike and Eric Goergen, brings a slice of New York City to Downtown Medford at 149 S. Central Ave. The menu is easy to navigate and what kids and family would expect from a solid pizza standout: typically around six to eight varieties of pizza by the slice or in 16-inch and 20-inch pies, alongside breadsticks, garlic knots, and a selection of beverages.
The decor blends skateboarding and NYC themes, with an added bonus for kids and families: Ollie’s backroom pinball machines and retro arcade games makes it a hit with kids.
For heat and spice adverse kids, the cheese slice is a classic New York pizza with its thin, crispy crust and balanced toppings. For parents in search of a spicier option, the hot honey, pepperoni, and jalapeño slice, offers a sweet and spicy combo.
Kin Thai
Kin Thai, located at 8th and Holly, offers a great range of Thai cuisine, perfect for families. Featuring a range of unique and traditional curries and noodle dishes, the menu highlights include the Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish with chicken, peanuts, and a sweet-savory sauce, and the Chicken Biryani, a flavorful rice dish with spices and vegetables.
Green Curry, Massaman Curry, and Panang Curry—cater to different spice preferences, from the spicy Green Curry to the milder, creamy Massaman Curry.
Favorites our kids enjoy include Pad See Ew, made with chicken and broccoli, and Khao Soi, a northern Thai curry noodle dish with coconut milk, chicken, and crispy wontons. For lighter fare, try the Tofu Salad, Mushroom and Chicken Larb Salads, summer rolls, Shumai, or spicy corn salad.
Ordering ‘no spice or ‘mild spice’ for kid palettes has always been a breeze for our family every time we’ve dined at Kin Thai.
Caba Empanadas
Caba Empanadas, located on Central Avenue and 8th near the main library, has saved family dinners at our house more than once when we’ve needed a last-minute option that we know everyone will enjoy.
Run by Argentinian couple Gerardo and Laura, Caba Empanadas brings authentic Argentine flavors to Medford, making it a fantastic choice for a kid-friendly dining experience.
We first experienced Caba through their food truck at the Farmers Market in Ashland on Tuesdays and in Medford on Thursdays, and have since stopped at the downtown storefront more than once for takeaway on the way home after work.
Popular options with our kids include bacon, goat cheese, and date, two types of chicken, Malbec beef, Caprese, Onion & Cheese, and Spinach & Cheese. They also offer vegan options and dessert empanadas like Dulce de leche and Nutella & banana.
Beyond empanadas, Caba also serves fresh salads, sandwiches including Lomito steak and Supremo Chicken, and barista-made coffees.
Oh’s Osaka
Located at 123 S. Front Street, one of the biggest attractions at Oh’s Osaka is the teppanyaki grill, where a cooking show happens right at your table. Kids will be mesmerized by impressive knife skills, playful antics, and flames leaping into the air.
This interactive dining experience not only entertains but also educates young diners about Japanese culinary techniques and the 2,000-year-old teppanyaki art and cooking form.
The restaurant’s website promotes ‘big knives, fun atmosphere and good food,’ a commitment delivered whenever we’ve visited with our family.
Oh’s has a variety of kid-friendly menu options. From mild-flavored teriyaki chicken and vegetable tempura to sushi rolls made with ingredients familiar to kids. The restaurant also provides smaller portion sizes and has a dedicated menu section for children.
