Dining out with children can often feel like an exercise in compromise, but Cocotte has long stood out as one of the rare London restaurants where adults and little ones can dine together in harmony. This summer, the rotisserie chicken favourite is making that experience even more appealing. Until the end of August, children under 12 can enjoy a complimentary meal from Cocotte’s charming Petit Poulet menu with any paying adult.
With six locations across the capital—from leafy Richmond and family-friendly Queen’s Park to buzzy Shoreditch and chic South Kensington—Cocotte has become synonymous with neighbourhood dining that is both stylish and welcoming. It is exactly the kind of place where parents can enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes without sacrificing quality, while their children tuck into food made with the same care and attention.

On a recent visit with a friend, my 19-month-old son Xavier joined me for lunch at Cocotte in Richmond, and the experience more than lived up to its promise. From the moment he was handed a pot of colouring pencils to keep him busy, Xavier was happily entertained while we browsed the menu. His meal from the Petit Poulet selection arrived swiftly: tender shredded chicken served with creamy mashed potato and a light sauce. Needless to say, he polished it off with glee—pausing only to scribble with his pencils between spoonfuls. For parents, this combination of thoughtful touches and well-prepared food makes all the difference; Cocotte understands that young children need both nourishment and a little distraction to make dining out an enjoyable occasion.

The Petit Poulet menu mirrors Cocotte’s ethos of homemade quality and simple, seasonal ingredients. Each child’s meal includes a starter, main, side, and sauce, with choices ranging from popcorn chicken to golden tenders, paired with sides like fries or mash and completed with Cocotte’s signature sauces—whether a rich chicken jus, classic mayonnaise, or a cheerful tomato blend. It’s a menu that invites children to eat well without feeling left out, while parents can explore Cocotte’s more indulgent all-day dining.

Highlights for adults include the signature rotisserie chicken, carved to order in quarter, half, or whole portions, as well as vibrant salads like the Kale and Roasted Peppers or the house Caesar. There are luxurious sides too: truffle mac and cheese, soy-chili green beans, and perfectly crisp fries. For brunch lovers, Cocotte’s weekend offering has become something of a ritual across its neighbourhoods, featuring plates like the hearty Full Cocotte with nduja beans and egg parfait, or croissant waffles topped with caramelised banana and berries.

Founded in 2016 by Romain Bourrillon, Cocotte has always been more than a restaurant—it is a reflection of the modern London dining ethos: high quality, free range chicken and delicious sides served in a relaxed yet polished setting. I’ve always referred to it affectionately as a “Posh Nandos.”

Each location is tailored to its surroundings, but all share a familiar warmth. Think bistro-style banquettes, pared-back wooden tables, and lighting that moves effortlessly from airy lunches to intimate dinners. For parents, this balance of sophistication and comfort is key. Cocotte manages to offer a grown-up dining experience that still feels genuinely family-friendly—a rarity in London’s ever-evolving food scene.

Cocotte’s “kids eat free” invitation is not just a seasonal perk; it’s a reminder of the restaurant’s core values. By making dining out accessible for families, Cocotte creates a space where food and togetherness take centre stage. For our family, it meant an afternoon where I could enjoy a leisurely catch-up with a friend over rotisserie chicken and a Cocotte Spritz, while Xavier devoured his shredded chicken and mash with the same delight I did my truffle fries.

As August edges towards its close, Cocotte offers a timely opportunity to savour the last golden days of summer with the people who matter most. For chicken-loving parents looking for a setting where style meets substance—and children are treated as welcome guests—Cocotte is definetely the place to be.