When families visit The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum, finding a great lunch spot couldn’t be easier, especially with the option to pre-order your meal and skip the line.

The Picnic Basket Café makes meals simple and delicious, with family-friendly dining options and affordable prices, all without leaving the museum. If you’re looking for a kid-friendly café in St. Louis with fresh food and lots of choices, this spot has you covered.

Whether you need lunch, snacks, or just a quick treat during your Magic House visit, here’s what you should know.

Meet Chef Mike & Plan Your Café Visit

The Picnic Basket Café is led by Chef Mike, who brings fresh ingredients, simple recipes, and classic favorites to the menu so everyone can enjoy their meal. The café is a convenient place to eat with kids in St. Louis when you’re at The Magic House.

Video: Watch as Mike gets the Picnic Basket Café ready for the day.

Kid-Friendly Menu and Parent-Approved Options

The Picnic Basket Café is designed for families, with plenty of lunch options for both kids and adults.

Options for Parents

Adults and older kids will find a variety of fresh sandwiches, wraps, and salads, including:

• Fresh Made Chicken Salad on a Whole Wheat Croissant
• Chicken Caesar Salad
• French Dip
• Oven-Roasted Turkey Sandwich 
• Smoked Ham & Swiss
• Veggie Wrap with hummus and feta
• Garden Chef Salad
• Daily Specials – ask what’s new!
• Gus’ Pretzel – A St. Louis favorite!

And don’t forget to treat yourself! Enjoy ice cream treats, fresh baked cookies an cake pops.

Star Kids’ Menu Favorites

Kids can pick from simple, familiar meals sized just for them. The popular Star Kids’ Menu ($6.00) includes:

• Mac & Cheese (a kid favorite!)
• Sun Butter & Jelly
• Turkey & Cheese
• Ham & Cheese
• Grilled Cheese
• Cheese Quesadilla

Every kid’s meal comes with a side (apples or yogurt) and a drink, making this a top choice for family-friendly lunches.

Fresh Food Made In-House Daily

What sets the Picnic Basket Café apart from other museum cafés in St. Louis? Nearly all our food is made fresh in our kitchen. Sandwich meats are baked and sliced in-house. Croissants and cookies are baked fresh daily. Even the basil is grown onsite at The Magic House. It’s all about fresh, homemade flavors for your family lunch.

Affordable Meals for Families

The Picnic Basket Café is intentionally budget-friendly:

• Sandwiches: $8.50
• Kids’ meals: $6.00 (with a side and drink)
• Snacks and treats: $3.00

It’s easy to find affordable meals for families visiting The Magic House.

Quick and Convenient Lunch in St. Louis

No need to leave the museum or deal with long waits—guests can order ahead from the café so your meal is ready when you are. The Picnic Basket Café is one of the best options for family-friendly, kid-friendly food and easy lunch at The Magic House in St. Louis.

So when hunger hits during your museum adventure, just head to the café, grab something fresh, and refuel for more fun!