Parents searching for kid-friendly meals in Detroit don’t have to settle for drive-thrus. This guide highlights local, independently owned restaurants that actually list chicken nuggets on their menus — from sit-down spots in Midtown to family-run favorites on the west side. Each place offers its own take on the classic comfort food, with details on price, hours, and what parents should know before visiting.
While chicken tenders tend to dominate kids menus, true nuggets are harder to find — especially at locally owned restaurants. We verified seven Detroit-area spots where families can count on them, from homestyle diners and burger joints to Mexican and Halal kitchens. This list helps parents decide which restaurant fits their kids’ appetites and their schedules.
Royale with Cheese
At Royale with Cheese on Cass Avenue, the kids menu includes “Little Nuggets,” made with tender chicken and served with dipping sauce, according to the Royale with Cheese official menu. The setting is casual and quick, which works well for families.
- Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday; noon-9 p.m. Sunday
- Location: 4163 Cass Ave., Detroit (Midtown, near Wayne State)
- Cost: Kids nuggets price not listed online; adult burgers average $12-$15.
Moma G’s
Families looking for homestyle comfort food will find plenty to love at Moma G’s, a Detroit-based family restaurant known for its all-day breakfast and hearty meals. The kids can enjoy a 10-piece order of crispy chicken nuggets served with barbecue sauce or ranch. The menu is made for everyone, and parents will appreciate the drive-thru and delivery options for busy days.
- Hours: 7 a.m.-11 p.m. daily
- Location: 10801 W. Chicago, Detroit (west side)
- Cost: $5.99 for 10-piece chicken nuggets
Detroit Shipping Company (Halal Street)
Inside Detroit Shipping Company’s collective of eateries, Halal Street serves up New York City–style street food made entirely Halal. Families can grab a side of chicken nuggets for the kids — crispy, simple, and just $3 — while adults enjoy rice platters, kebabs or pita wraps topped with the spot’s signature white and hot sauces. The casual setup and mix of global options make it a fun and flexible stop for everyone.
- Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday
- Location: 474 Peterboro St., Detroit (Midtown)
- Cost: $3 for chicken nuggets
Detroit’s Original Chicken Shack
A Detroit staple since 1956, Detroit’s Original Chicken Shack is known for its crispy, golden-battered chicken meals and family-sized portions. While parents go for the Shack Wings or rib combos, kids can enjoy the bite-sized Chicken Bites — tender, fried pieces served with sauce. It’s quick, nostalgic comfort food that’s been loved by generations of Detroit families.
- Hours: Hours vary by location; most open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily
- Location: Multiple metro Detroit locations, including 30120 Southfield Road, Southfield
- Cost: Chicken Bites $11.99 (snack, includes sauce and side)
La Rosita Restaurante
This family-owned Mexican spot in Southwest Detroit keeps things casual and kid friendly. The niños menu includes four chicken nuggets with fries so little ones have an easy pick while parents order tacos, gorditas or chilaquiles.
- Hours: 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday
- Location: 7849 McGraw St., Detroit (Southwest Detroit)
- Cost: $6.99 for 4 chicken nuggets with fries
Mezcal Mexican Restaurant
This lively Midtown spot leans into bold Mexican flavors and a fun vibe. The kids menu includes Kid Chicken Nuggets with a choice of rice or fries, which makes ordering simple for families while the adults go for birria, quesabirria or street tacos.
- Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday; closed Monday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday
- Location: 51 W Forest Ave., Detroit (Midtown/Cass Corridor)
- Cost: $8 for Kid Chicken Nuggets with rice or fries
Why nuggets can be tricky to track down
While chicken tenders appear on many kids menus, nuggets are surprisingly less common in Detroit restaurants. Menus also change, so it’s worth checking online or calling ahead to confirm availability. Families should also consider seating, noise level and whether kids’ meals come with sides and drinks.
Updated October 2025
