Someplace Fun for Kids Downtown

If you had a family with a couple of pre-teen kids coming to visit and they were staying downtown, where would you send them for a fun kid-friendly dinner? This is something that is most definitely not in my wheelhouse, so I'm at a loss as to what to recommend to them.

As a point of reference, they live in NYC, so they are somewhat experienced restaurant goers. I'd love to send them somewhere uniquely Chicago-ish. I've already thought of Uno's or Due's, but I'd like to come up with a few more suggestions. Please help!

I know the food's not as lock-down as it once was but Uno and Duo were always fun for me when I was that age and they're decidedly Chicago. He's a bit high-rent but my brother's kids love Lawrey's The Prime Rib, especially the table-side salad service. Greek Islands might also do the trick. There are a bunch of other places that come to mind for kids of that age but considering they're visiting from NYC, I'll spare you those recommendations.

=R=

My child is only five, but I will 2nd the rec for Greektown. We always have fun there and somehow the flaming cheese never gets old for her. I will also say that we have visited Mercat la Planxa semi-regularly since she was two. The staff is great with kids and we always see children of all ages there. The small plate menu has several kid-friendly options. Have not been there since the remodel though.

Not sure if this is in their wheelhouse but my pre-teens love Gyu-Kaku. Something about sitting around grilling together is just fun. Not uniquely Chicago though.
http://www.gyu-kaku.com/chicago

My kids love Eataly.

I had a friend in town with his 4 kids a few weeks ago and he took them to Safehouse (the recently opened Milwaukee import with a spy theme). Good time had by all.

SafeHouse Chicago
60 E Ontario St
Chicago, IL 60611

Mine really liked Harry Carey's and the decor (the cow, the sports stuff) was fun for them. And the food is better than it needs to be.

If they're willing to head over to Fulton Market area, there are Green St. Smoked Meats, Duck Duck Goat, Kuma's

You might also want to consider one of the places near Millennium Park or along the Riverwalk. For Millenium Park, there's a Pizano's nearby, as well as the Gage and even the original Heaven on Seven. Mercat's not far either.

And along or near the Riverwalk are River Roast and Chicago Cut. I love sitting outside on the patio at Chicago Cut overlooking the river (though outdoor seating can be harder to come by).

A short(ish) cab ride up to RJ Grunts and then a stroll around the zoo and/or conservatory always topped my kids list of where to go for a fun day out.

I was in the same situation not too long ago. We went to Grand Lux Cafe and it was perfect.