The Best Family-Friendly Kinshasa Restaurant: Maison de France

If you’re traveling through Kinshasa with kids, you might find yourself asking, “Where’s the family-friendly stuff?” As an avid traveler and mom of two, I can confirm, the Kinshasa restaurant scene isn’t exactly brimming with kid-focused spots. But that’s what makes Maison de France such a gem. It’s not just the best family-friendly restaurant in Kinshasa—it might be the only one that comes close.

We recently made a visit, and read on to find out why it’s now our go-to spot when we want a little break from the noise of the city. As we’ll be in Kinshasa for the next few years, I can definitely see us coming here on a weekly basis.

A Playground in Kinshasa? Yes, Please!

The highlight of Maison de France for our family was the outdoor playground. Yes, it’s a bit weathered, but let’s be real: in a city where playgrounds are practically non existent, this felt like finding gold. My 5-year-old immediately claimed the slides and my 1-year-old was thrilled with the swings. It was such a relief to let the kids run around and burn off energy while we waited for our food.

When you’re raising little ones in a city where sidewalks are rare and traffic can make a short outing feel like a major expedition, finding a space where kids can just play is priceless. Watching my kids climb, slide, and laugh in the middle of Kinshasa felt like a much-needed breath of fresh air—and let’s be honest, every parent loves a moment where they can sit back and sip their drink while the kids entertain themselves.

A boy in a green t shirt and blue pants climbs on a small, colorful play structure at a Kinshasa restaurant, Maison de France. — The first playground we found in Kinshasa!

Kid-Approved Eats

The kids’ menu was another win. My 5-year-old devoured his burger and fries—simple, familiar, and exactly what we needed to keep him happy. Meanwhile, the adult menu had enough variety to keep my partner and me content. From grilled meats to French-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone.

If you’ve ever tried dining out with young kids in Kinshasa, you’ll know the struggle. Highchairs are rare, menus aren’t always kid-friendly, and waiting times can feel like an eternity. At Maison de France, the combination of good food, a welcoming vibe, and space for the kids to roam made it a standout experience.

More to Explore

We didn’t bring swimsuits on this visit, but Maison de France also boasts a big swimming pool that we’re already planning to try out next time. It’s a perfect option for cooling off on Kinshasa’s hotter days. I can already picture my oldest splashing away while I relax poolside.

There’s also a grassy area where kids can run freely, giving them more opportunities to burn off energy. On the day we visited, there was even a small handmade market with gently used kids’ clothes and other treasures. It was a lovely surprise and added an extra layer of charm to the outing. While my 1-year-old didn’t find anything better than gecko poop to snack on (thank goodness!), I spotted some adorable items that would make great finds for families.

For families looking to mix a little sport into their outing, there’s also a tennis court in the same lot as Maison de France. While we didn’t try it out, it’s good to know it’s there.

A baby sits in an old swingset at Maison de France in Kinshasa, Congo. He wears green pants and a purple t-shirt, This is the most kid friendly restaurant Kinshasa Gombe. — Happy as can be on a swing

Navigating the Challenges

No place is perfect, and Maison de France has its quirks:

Construction detours made getting there a bit tricky. A little extra patience is essential.
No highchairs. Unfortunately, this is par for the course in Kinshasa. We managed by improvising with our 1-year-old in our lap—just be ready to do the same.

That said, the pros far outweigh the cons, and the experience as a whole felt like a rare gift in a city that doesn’t always cater to families.

Why It’s a Kinshasa Restaurant Worth Visiting

Maison de France isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a little oasis of calm in a city that keeps you on your toes. Between the playground, pool, and kid-friendly menu, it’s a spot where both kids and parents can relax and have fun.

If you’re in Kinshasa and looking for a place to eat, play, and breathe a little easier as a family, give Maison de France a try. It might just become your family’s new favorite too!

A woman in a red floral dress swings on a swings holding a baby. This is at a Kinshasa, Congo restaurant. — I was so happy to see a playground!

Tips for Visiting Maison de France

To make the most of your trip, here are a few tips:

Bring your own travel highchair . For squirmy little ones who take a long time to eat, a travel highchair is a must. This is the one we have and wish we would have packed in our checked luggage and brought it with us!
Plan around the construction. Check your route ahead of time to avoid delays.
Pack swimsuits and towels. If you plan to use the pool, you’ll want to be prepared.
Bring some cash. The handmade market (if it’s there during your visit) is worth checking out, and you might find a unique souvenir or a deal on kids’ clothes.

The Takeaway

Maison de France may not be perfect, but it’s a bright spot for families in Kinshasa. It’s a reminder that even in a bustling, chaotic city, there are places where kids can just be kids and parents can take a deep breath. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, this Kinshasa restaurant is worth a visit.

As a parent and traveler, I’m always on the lookout for spots that make life a little easier. Maison de France does just that—and in a city like Kinshasa, that’s no small feat.