the galley, carrum
Come for the beach views, stay for the epic babychinos!
Come for the beach views, stay for the epic babychinos!
The Galley is a quaint little restaurant practically ON Carrum Beach offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. With the beach straight in front and a playground directly to the right, The Galley’s position cannot be beat.
Grab an outdoor table on the porch and enjoy the sea breeze while the kids play on the little patch of fenced off sand that is part of the venue. Mamma’s tip - byo some beach toys to keep the little ones entertained.
When Mamma says the babychinos are next level, it is an understatement. We’re talking double marshmallow action, chocolate sauce faces and a sprinkle rim. This is the babychino that all babychinos will be compared against from now on.
The food does not disappoint here either! Mamma’s two little bacon guzzlers absolutely demolished their kids breakfast while the “big kids” enjoyed a delicious eggs Benedict and eggs Hebridean (one for the black pudding fans out there).
If a sit down meal is not on the cards for those little energiser bunnies, grab a takeaway and head straight to the playground!
the nitty gritty
7/13 Johnson Avenue, Carrum 3197
Opening hours:
Monday - Thursday
7:30am - 5pm Friday - Sunday
7:30am - 10pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Take ten steps to the left and you’ll be at Carrum Foreshore Playground!
miller’s bread kitchen, dromana
Holy moly folks, Miller’s Bread Kitchen in Dromana is so delicious, Mamma thinks you need to add it to your ‘must visit’ list!
Holy moly folks, Miller’s Bread Kitchen in Dromana is so delicious, Mamma thinks you need to add it to your ‘must visit’ list!
Located right off the Nepean Highway, this artisan bakery really hits the spot. You’ll be able to breathe in the aroma of freshly baked bread and sweet treats from outside in the car park area!
Let’s start with the more substantial items… Miller’s Bread Kitchen make their own pies, sausage rolls, the most amazing pizza slices, focaccias, chicken katsu sandwiches in the thickest bread you’ll ever see, and so much more!
With takeaway pizzas, focaccias, and bread in all the varieties (think ciabatta, sourdough, Turkish, and more!), you’ll be able to make a quick pitstop and pick something up that caters for the entire family.
Make sure you arrive hungry because the desserts and sweet treats are to die for! Croissants (plain, almond and chocolate), seasonal danishes, white chocolate and raspberry blondies, carrot cake, cookies, banana bread, and double chocolate brownies… Mamma warns you that your little ones may just ask you to order one of everything! Also - this Mamma is very partial to a cinnamon scroll and can definitely say that the apple and cinnamon option at Miller’s Bread Kitchen is perfection!
Make sure you pop past Miller’s Bread Kitchen next time you’re in Dromana, you won’t regret it!
the nitty gritty
116 Nepean Highway, Dromana, 3936
Opening hours:
Monday - Friday: 7am - 3pm
Saturday and Sunday: 8am - 2pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Grab something sweet to go and head to Dromana Pump Track to enjoy it!
kobq, aspendale gardens
Let Mamma introduce to the newest all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ buffet in the south - KoBQ in Aspendale Gardens.
Let Mamma introduce you to the newest Korean BBQ buffet in the south - KoBQ in Aspendale Gardens.
It’s Mamma’s crew’s newest go-to for a fun, family-friendly dining experience - for special occasions.
KoBQ, is an all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ buffet that offers a little bit of everything! Whether you're a meat lover or a seafood fan, KoBQ has got you covered with an impressive variety of delicious options.
Each table at KoBQ comes with a hot pot burner and a BBQ grill plate, so you and your family can cook your own sizzling meat, hot cheesy corn or spicy hot pot, just the way you like it.
But that’s not all - there’s also a ramen bar, sushi station, and a selection of hot foods like dim sims and fried rice to keep your tastebuds happy. And don’t forget the dessert bar, Mamma’s talking an ice-cream freezer, fridge full of slices, cakes and fruit - plus pastries as well - the kids might find it hard not to start in this section!
The relaxed booth-style seating creates a cozy vibe, making it the perfect spot for a casual family dinner or a fun group gathering. Plus, if you’ve got little ones aged 4-9, they eat for half price!
So, grab the family and check it out!
the nitty gritty
4 Springvale Rd, Aspendale Gardens, 3195
*There is a 20% surcharge on Sundays and public holidays
OPEN
Tuesday - Thursday
Lunch 11.30am - 3pm
Dinner 5.30pm - 9pm
Friday - lunch 11.30am - 3pm
Dinner 5pm - 9pm
Saturday Lunch 12pm - 3pm
Dinner 5pm - 12pm
Sunday Lunch 12pm-3pm
Dinner 5.30pm - 9pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Build up your appetite first or check out an outdoor movie after a meal at Melbourne Cable Park
beach house, brighton
Mammas, imagine a cafe so close to the beach that it is practically ON the sand. Enter Beach House cafe and kiosk in Brighton!
Mammas, imagine a cafe so close to the beach that it is practically ON the sand. Enter Beach House cafe and kiosk in Brighton!
Perched atop a beach bluff with steps that lead down to the beach, the cafe includes spectacular views of Brighton’s iconic bathing boxes to the left and the city skyline to the right.
Whilst there is no option to reserve a table, little miss 5 had absolutely no problems whittling away the minutes exploring the rockpools in the warm crystal clear water of Brighton Beach while we waited for a table.
The dine in menu definitely draws inspiration from its beachside location with dishes like spanner crab chilli scramble, salt and pepper calamari and the king prawn & octopus roll. But don’t worry! There are still plenty of options for those who don’t want seafood and the kids menu has all the child friendly classics to please those fussy little tummies.
The venue itself is on the smaller side so if you are planning to dine in, Mamma suggests leaving the pram at home. However, the kiosk, which is located to the left of the cafe’s entrance, offers a number of delicious meal options, perfect for a picnic on the beach… and did Mamma mention the soft serve ice cream (sprinkles optional)?!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Dine in
Monday - Friday
7am - 4pm
Saturday & Sunday
7am - 5pm
Kiosk
Monday & Tuesday
7am - 4pm
Wednesday - Sunday
7am - Sunset
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
If it’s a playground your after, head to Old Dairy Reserve just a 5 minute drive down the road.
moon dog beach club, frankston
There’s a new brewery - right in the heart of Frankston!
Located beach side is the newest establishment from Moon Dog Brewery - this is the Moon Dog Beach Club!
There’s a new brewery and dining spot - right in the heart of Frankston!
Located beach side is the newest establishment from Moon Dog Brewery - let Mamma introduce you to the Moon Dog Beach Club!
Here’s a place where you can kick back with a cold brew - or delicious cocktail and enjoy a meal.
The kids can be happily entertained in their own small separate area - which includes a fenced in boat with a slide to play on, some pinball machines and a rubber ducky claw machine.
This quirky tropical-themed brewery is a real mix of a family-friendly pub - to the perfect girls/mates/date bar night out. (Mamma should note - whilst the kids area is at the front of the establishment - and away from the balcony beer garden, it is still very loud and can be overwhelming for the more sensitive little ones. Kids also need to be out of the premises after 10pm.)
The balcony beer garden is a showstopper. Overlooking the beach, it’s the perfect spot to lounge on a couch - or perch on bar stool, sipping on a cocktail or one of a dozen varieties of Moon Dog beer while soaking in the sun and enjoying the view.
Inside there are different sections, from a raised dining platform, to cabana huts - and all are surrounded by lush green trees and neon signs - there’s even a photobooth!
The menu includes share platters, burgers and parmas and the kids have their own menu with the usual faves.
Whether you're after a laid-back drink on the rooftop with the girls or a family meal - Moon Dog Beach Club is one to add to your list!
the nitty gritty
490 Nepean Hwy, Frankston, 3199
OPEN
Sunday –Tuesday 11.30am–10pm
Wednesday 11.30am–11pm
Thursday 11.30am–12am
Friday–Saturday 11.30am–1am
Family friendly - but kids need to leave by 10pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention:
Head across the road to General Public for some ten pin bowling or arcade fun!
the heritage balnarring, balnarring
This place is pure heaven!
This restaurant/bar is set on a sprawling 2 acre property, including an absolutely stunning heritage home, complete with an open fireplace, HUGE beer garden and multiple dining areas.
This place is pure heaven!
This restaurant/bar is set on a sprawling 2 acre property, including an absolutely stunning heritage home, complete with an open fireplace, HUGE beer garden and multiple dining areas.
It truly is the most perfect way to spend a few hours with the family. If you sit outdoors, the kids are free to roam and play on the open space in the beer garden. There are some balls they can kick around or they can cartwheel to their heart’s content!
If you don’t have kids with you, take advantage of the stunning dining rooms, or the sunny deck out back.
The food is delicious and so are the cocktails! Mamma sampled a few just to make sure! The staff are super lovely and the service is great. It really is heaven!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Wednesday - Sunday
11:30am - late
Monday & Tuesday
Closed
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention:
Make a day of it and head to the awesome Funky Farm just up the road.
north point, brighton
North Point’s iconic two-toned umbrellas and stunning views of Port Phillip Bay are just a few of the many reasons Mamma loves this beachside cafe. With amazing coffee, an all day breakfast AND lunch menu and a fabulous playground just a stones throw away, what more could you want?!
North Point’s iconic two-toned umbrellas and stunning views of Port Phillip Bay are just a few of the many reasons Mamma loves this beachside cafe. With amazing coffee, an all day breakfast AND lunch menu and a fabulous playground just a stones throw away, what more could you want?!
On a beautiful warm day, grab a seat at one of the glorious outdoor tables and bask in the sunshine (pooches welcome!). On a not so sunny Melbourne day, escape inside to the bright and airy interiors, where there are plenty of seating options and ample room for prams.
Mamma absolutely devoured the salmon bowl teaming with fresh flavours and a punchy miso dressing, while the little ones fought over their dad’s pancakes. The kids menu has a good variety as well with sweet and savoury breakfast and lunch options to satisfy the fussiest of tastebuds.
Don’t fill up on too much though… the treats cabinet by the counter is filled with so many delicious cakes that it would be rude not to order a slice (or two).
If the kidlets are itching to get to the playground across the road, and a sit down meal is not on the cards, head to North Point’s kiosk to the right of the cafe for a quick (but delicious) fix.
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday - Friday
7:30am - 4pm
Saturday - Sunday
7:30am - 5pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
You don’t have to travel far for a playground fix! Head across the road to North Road Foreshore Playground to let the kids run off some of that steam on the equipment and water play area.
beach 162, frankston
Stepping into Beach 162 feels like you have taken a trip overseas and are dining beside a Mediterranean oasis! But nope - you are just in the middle of a suburban street in Frankston!
Stepping into Beach 162 feels like you have taken a trip overseas and are dining beside a Mediterranean oasis! But nope - you are just in the middle of a suburban street in Frankston!
Beach 162 is hidden under lush greenery and leafy trees, creating a shaded and secluded front courtyard to dine in, as well as a rear partially covered courtyard, complete with its own little bar (with amazing cocktails!).
Inside you will find walls and ceilings covered in art, flowers and colourful decor throughout.
The food is delicious! Mamma’s talking al-dente linguine loaded with seafood or creamy chicken sauce, woodfired pizzas, steak sandwiches and a great range of many different Mediterranean/Modern Australian options.
The service, atmosphere and ambiance are all spot on and very welcoming to families. Add it to your list - it will become a favourite!
the nitty gritty
160-162 Beach St, Frankston, 3199
OPEN
Wed/Thurs
9am - 10pm
Fri/Sat
9am -11pm
Sunday
9am - 9pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Head down the road for some family fun at Zone Bowling after your meal!
cheri eatery, south melbourne
Oui oui, mon Cheri!
Cheri is the newest European eatery and patisserie in South Melbourne and Mamma is completely and utterly in LOVE!
Oui oui, mon Cheri!
Cheri is the newest European eatery and patisserie in South Melbourne and Mamma is completely and utterly in LOVE!
Created by same team who run the ever popular Kettle Black and Top Paddock, Cheri is the most amazing addition to the South Melbourne precinct. Located on Coventry Street, Cheri serves delicious in house pastries, wood fired pizzas, coffees and so much more - it really does transport you and your family right into the heart of Europe!
Ok folks, let’s start with the main menu. Mamma has one word to describe it for you - SENSATIONAL! Offering all day brunch options such as croissant French toast, granola, the breakfast plate (it’s a true European experience!) and truffle mushroom scramble, your taste buds will be in for a treat!
There’s also a lunch selection on offer too, such as ricotta gnocchi, chicken cotoletta (trust us, it’s as good as our Nonna’s!) and the 72 hour fermented dough pizzas (hot tip: the Cheri supreme and Mortadella are absolutely amazing) - Mamma thinks you might end up staying for breakfast and lunch, because there’s just too much to choose from!
Have a sweet tooth? Well, Mamma guarantees that you’ll fall head over heels! The bakery is just truly divine - the most impressive desserts that Mamma has seen for a long time!
Your little ones will absolutely love the traditional options like croissants, brownies, chocolate chip and marshmallow cookies, cheesecakes, and boston buns. We guarantee you that you’ll devour the goodies from the patisserie too - Mamma is obsessed with the lemon meringue tart, cruffin, chocolate eclair, and the crookie (a double chocolate cookie in a croissant wheel - my goodness!) - all we can actually say is wow, wow and wow!
Oh! And they have the most EPIC selection of gelato and sorbet - matcha, cherry, lychee rose and raspberry, mandarin and toasted coconut just to name a few - perfect for a summers day! And a huge range of celebration cakes and tarts for you to purchase for your special family occasions. What a winner - Cheri is a MUST when you’re next in South Melbourne - Mamma promises you won’t regret it!
the nitty gritty
285 - 297 Coventry Street South Melbourne 3205
OPEN
Monday - Thursday 7am - 4pm
Friday - Sunday 7am - 5pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Make a day of it and head for a play at the incredible Skinners Adventure Playground
railway wine, highett
Railway Wine in Highett offers a warm, moody vibe within its indoor setting while the beer garden out back is perfect for sunny days with the kids. Come for a glass of wine (or two) and some delicious food, while the kids play on the cubby-cum-climbing frame.
Cancel your plans mammas, because we’ve found a wine bar complete with wood fired pizzas, a kids menu and **pause for dramatic effect** outdoor play space!
Railway Wine in Highett offers a warm, moody vibe within its indoor setting while the beer garden out back is perfect for sunny days with the kids. Come for a glass of wine (or two) and some delicious food, while the kids play on the cubby/climbing frame.
Boasting an impressive wine list (which also includes beers, cocktails and non alcoholic options), patrons are able to order food from Railway’s sister restaurant next door, Teo’s.
There are no wrong choices when it comes to wine and carbs, but this Mamma‘s go to order is a glass of Shiraz and a plate of spaghetti carbonara, liberally adorned with crispy guanciale.
Since this is a local for Mamma’s family, the little ones usually go between ordering the kids margherita pizza and spaghetti bolognese (but classics like chicken and chips are also available for those with discerning taste buds). When it comes to pizzas, there is plenty to choose from, including gluten free and vegan options, though little Mister can never go past a pepperoni.
Open from late afternoon onwards, the kids can be fed and the wine can be drunk all before bath and bedtime - what a win!
the nitty gritty
8 Railway Parade, Highett 3190
OPEN
Tuesday - Thursday
4pm - late
Friday
3pm - late
Saturday - Sunday 2pm - late
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Head to Sir William Fry Reserve down the road if the kids still have a little energy to run off.
2 waters cafe, longwarry
2 Waters Cafe in Longwarry welcomes families, not only with their indoor play area - but also with a trolley full of games and colouring; plastic plates, cups and utensils; room for prams and a change table.
Mamma loves nothing more than discovering a spot where families can come and enjoy a meal together in a space where kids are free to be kids - where they can make noise and not be expected to keep still!
2 Waters Cafe in Longwarry welcomes families, not only with their indoor play area - but also with a trolley full of games and colouring; plastic plates, cups and utensils; room for prams and a change table.
Of course they have a great kids menu, lots of shakes and even a slushy machine! But they also have a wonderful ‘adults’ menu ranging from breakfast items all the way to a parma and lasagne. Mamma’s crew love the avo smash and steak sandwich.
The display cabinet is loaded with delicious slices, cakes and cookies - perfect to match with a coffee while the kids are busy sliding, crawling through tunnels and playing with toys. Even the crawlers have their own little soft play area.
This is a great spot that absolutely ticks all of the Mamma Must Haves!
the nitty gritty
5 Mackey St, Longwarry VIC 3816
OPEN
Monday - Wednesday
8.30am - 4pm
Thursday - Friday
8.30am - 8pm
Saturday 8am - 8pm
Sunday 8am - 3pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Grab some treats to take away and head to Bayles Fauna Park for an explore and picnic!
st andrews beach brewery, fingal
Wow folks, St. Andrew’s Beach Brewery is the perfect location for your next family get together - good food, drinks and a great atmosphere, what more could you ask for!
Wow folks, St. Andrew’s Beach Brewery is the perfect location for your next family get together - good food, drinks and a great atmosphere, what more could you ask for!
Let’s start with the origins of St. Andrew’s Beach Brewery as it’s a really cool story… in the early 2000’s the original owners of this great venue built a racetrack on the property for the royal family of Australian horse racing – the Freedman Brothers. In 2015 the property came up for sale, so the brothers brought it and turned the former stables into a brewery - which is why you’ll see horse racing feature throughout the venue.
The vibes of this place are second to none - you’ll feel it when you walk in. Mamma loves to sit outside in one of the stables on a summers day, enjoying a premium craft beer or some nibbles to share.
Let’s talk about the food… Mamma has one word for you all: YUM!
Start with some of the smaller plates - you’ll be able to choose from calamari, tacos, croquettes, olives and focaccia or wings - oh my! Fancy something more substantial? Order from their amazing variety of pizzas, or choose from their bigger menu options - steak, burgers, or the delicious American BBQ tray. Can’t make up your mind? Order the chef’s feed and they’ll choose for you! There’s a great kids menu too for the little ones to choose from.
The beers are amazing too - there’s a huge selection of their own beers on tap that you can try. Mamma loves to order a paddle board so she can get to experience the variety on offer!
Oh - and you can host events at St. Andrew’s Beach Brewery - perfect for your next celebration!
Mamma thinks St. Andrew’s Beach Brewery needs to be added to your list - check it out!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Open daily
11am - 9pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Keep the family fun going and head to Boneo Discovery Park!
heart bakes, port melbourne
Ok folks, Mamma is calling it… Heart Bakes in Port Melbourne is BETTER than it looks on Instagram - get there ASAP, your taste buds will thank you later!
Ok folks, Mamma is calling it… Heart Bakes in Port Melbourne is BETTER than it looks on Instagram - get there ASAP, your taste buds will thank you later!
Mamma has been watching Heart Bakes go viral for their epic cinnamon scrolls and baked treats - and totally understands why they are so popular.
This cute little corner cafe in Port Melbourne has really nailed it. With a small indoor eating space surrounded with outdoor dining options, you’ll feel the vibes of this inner city eatery the moment you walk in.
Mamma is obsessed with the baked goodies. The cinnamon scroll is absolutely to die for - soft, sugary bundles of goodness that literally just instantly melt in your mouth. The fudge choc cookie is a favourite with Mamma’s mini, as is the carrot cake and the chocolate flourless cake.
Mamma has a special spot for their basque cheesecake too - so creamy, and just so good! The cafe is also known for its Heart Lamingtons, which are available all weekend - YUMMO!
Fancy something a little more substantial? There’s some breaky options available - including the most delicious breaky burger - or sandwiches for lunch including roast chicken, Rueben, veggie and kimchi avocado - yum! Coffee is on point, with a few cold drinks on offer too.
Hot tip: Mamma visited on a Wednesday morning and it was PACKED so make sure you get there early especially if you visit on a weekend.
the nitty gritty
220 Bridge St, Port Melbourne 3207
OPEN
Monday - Friday: 7am - 2pm
Saturday - Sunday:
8am - 2pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Keep the fun times going and head to the awesome Maritime Cove Community Park for a play!
baba’s deli, port melbourne
Baba’s Deli is Port Melbourne’s newest hotspot for all of your lunch, coffee and sweet treat needs - and it’s amazing, so naturally Mamma recommends that you check it out!
Baba’s Deli is Port Melbourne’s newest hotspot for all of your lunch, coffee and sweet treat needs - and it’s amazing, so naturally Mamma recommends that you check it out!
What a delight - this gem on the popular Bay Street specialises in freshly made focaccias and the most mouth watering pizzas by the slice.
Let’s start with the main feature - the sangas. You can literally work your way through their menu, one focaccia at a time! Mamma LOVES to order Mama’s Vodka - crumbed chicken, vodka tomato sauce, rocket and cheese - your taste buds are going to love you for ordering this!
There’s so many other options on offer - egg, mortadella, prosciutto, salami, and even a vegetarian and a vegan option too. Perfection!
Mamma’s mini was obsessed with the pizza slices - she even went back and ordered another! Salami, prosciutto, cheese - what more could you ask for?!
Fancy a sweet treat? Well, Baba’s has you sorted! The salted chocolate chip cookies are an absolute winner, as are their donuts (glazed, cinnamon, pink sprinkles, biscoff, and more!), cinnamon scrolls, and Cartocci (Sicilian pastry with filling - YUM!). Mamma’s little one easily devours her cinnamon donut!
Oh, and did Mamma tell you that you can grab a $3 coffee from Baba’s during the week from 9am - 11am?! Cheap as!
With a warm, inviting atmosphere, and super friendly staff, Mamma thinks Baba’s Deli is the perfect spot to grab a quick bite on the go or to enjoy a lunchtime meal with the family.
the nitty gritty
295 Bay Street, Port Melbourne 3207
OPEN
Monday - Friday:
7am to 3pm
Saturday -
Sunday: 8am to 3pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Keep the fun times going and head to the awesome Maritime Cove Community Park for a play!
le feu, frankston
If you are looking for a super family friendly spot for lunch or dinner - then Le Feu in Frankston is for you!
If you are looking for a super family friendly spot for lunch or dinner - then Le Feu in Frankston is for you!
With its relaxed vibe, extensive - and budget friendly - menu AND a great kids play room, it really is the ideal place for a family meet up or a mums group lunch.
There’s heaps of space here for prams, and the kids will love the play room that consists of a mini slide, ball-pit balls, books, rocking horses and more.
The menu is extremely inclusive - with everything gluten free plus great options for vegetarians and low Fodmap.
The food is delicious and offers a great variety of Vietnamese and Pan-Asian, plus a kids menu with Korean fried chicken and chips if kids like things a bit more simple.
Mamma’s crew LOVED the dumplings, spring rolls, sweet and sour chicken and pad thai and the older crew loved the pho. Each table has all the sauces you need - even chilli oil!
So add this to your list for your next family friendly meal out!
the nitty gritty
315 Nepean Hwy, Frankston, 3199
OPEN
7 days a week
11.30am - 9pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Keep the fun times going and head to General Public for some bowling or arcade fun
flinders sourdough bakery, flinders
Hidden away down a little dusty court, you will find Flinders Sourdough Bakery, home to the yummiest sourdough bread, melt-in-your-mouth cookies and pastries.
If you are a lover of all things carbs (and let’s face it, who isn’t…) then no doubt you would have heard about Flinders Sourdough bread! It is simply the BEST; fluffy yet dense - soft but with a crunchy crust - it is just YUM!
So, Mamma was stoked to discover the actual source of this amazing bread is home to the cutest little - hidden - bakery in Flinders!
Hidden away down a little dusty court, you will find Flinders Sourdough Bakery, with an option to sit out in the garden to enjoy your lunch.
Not only can you enjoy freshly baked bread, but there’s a great selection of pies, pastries and melt-in-your-mouth brownies and cookies. Plus - you can even buy your own sourdough starter kit!
Make sure you stop in here on your next Flinders visit - you wont regret it!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Thursday - Sunday
9am - 3pm
(bread not available Thursday)
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Take some goodies to go and explore the spectacular Flinders Blowhole not far away.
red hill brewery, red hill south
Perched on top of Red Hill, nestled under the hop vines; this rustic, charming barn in the middle of the bush is where delicious craft beer is produced and great BBQ food is served!
Driving through the Peninsula Hinterland you might be too busy marvelling at the picturesque scenery in front of you to notice the little turn off into this absolute hidden gem - the stunning Red Hill Brewery.
Perched on top of Red Hill, nestled under the hop vines; this rustic, charming barn in the middle of the bush is where delicious craft beer is produced and great BBQ food is served!
Walk through the low hanging trees and head towards the smoke from the firepit; sit in the undercover decking and just take in the scenery with an ice cold pale ale - or Mamma suggests the tasting paddle to sample the seasonal brews. Their award winning beers are made in small batches and offer a range of 6 types available all year plus seasonal specials.
Wrap yourself in a blanket in the cooler months - or enjoy the cool breeze on warmer days. The kids can frolic in the open grassy space and watch the neighbouring horses.
There is a laid back vibe here - perfect for a long lunch with yummy food on offer like brisket, ribs, pulled pork or fried chicken burgers, mac n cheese and loaded fries!
This is a must for all beer connoisseurs!
the nitty gritty
88 Shoreham Rd, Red Hill South, 3937
OPEN
Thursday - Sunday
11am - 6pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
After a meal head down the road to the stunning Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens
levi cafe, murrumbeena
Housed in a former denim factory, Levi is a sun drenched, plant-filled cafe with killer coffee, an extensive menu… and did Mamma mention, a dedicated kids play room?! Jean-ius.
Housed in a former denim factory, Levi is a sun drenched, plant-filled cafe with killer coffee, an extensive menu… and did Mamma mention, a dedicated kids play room?! Jean-ius.
The cafe itself is generous and spans a number of large open areas, all flooded with natural light and the feeling of space that only high warehouse ceilings can offer - the perfect spot to accommodate multiple prams. In fact, this Mamma can’t recall a visit (and there have been many) where there wasn’t a mother’s group catch up present.
The little ones are provided with a kids menu colouring sheet, while the grown ups are treated to a menu teaming with so many mouth watering dishes that this Mamma had to turn the very patient waitress away twice while trying to narrow down the list of prospective meals.
In the end, the chilli scramble with crispy pork belly won out, while Mister Mamma was ever so gently encouraged to order the Nutella and raspberry hotcakes. With so many options for the children to choose from, this crew happily devoured the ham and cheese toastie as well as burger and fries, complete with ludicrous amounts of tomato sauce.
Down the very end of the cafe, the kids will find a sweet little hidey-hole filled with beanbags, toys and a rock climbing wall. There is enough seating available nearby that parents can keep an eye on playing littlies while enjoying a relaxing coffee from the comfort of their table - though there are some blind spots, either end of the playspace that are difficult to see unless in there.
Levi even caters for the children of the four legged variety, with the front room (up until the counter) welcoming dogs on lead, so the whole fam can enjoy a meal out together!
the nitty gritty
6 Railway Parade, Murrumbeena 3186
OPEN
Monday - Saturday
7:30am - 3:30pm
Sunday
8am - 3pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
If the kids are in the mood for a bit more play, head over to Murrumbeena Park Playground to let off some steam.
red hill lavender farm cafe, main ridge
In the middle of the pine tree lined street, a top of the lavender fields in Main Ridge, you will find the sweetest little Red Hill Lavender Farm Cafe.
In the middle of the pine tree lined street, atop of the lavender fields in Main Ridge, you will find the sweetest little Red Hill Lavender Farm Cafe.
This is the ULTIMATE place for a coffee with a view - with an abundance of shaded grass area and picnic tables. Or enjoy a dine-in meal at the gorgeous cafe, with both indoor and outdoor seating.
Enjoy a delicious sandwich or Johnny Ripe pie or some divine pastries.
Sit inside amongst the warmth of an open fireplace, surrounded by locally made gifts and flowers upon every table. Or sit outside up on the deck and take in the magnificent views of the Peninsula Hinterland - you can even borrow a blanket in colder weather.
Dogs are welcome here and if you visit in January - you can also walk down the hill and check out the stunning Lavender Farm.
the nitty gritty
284 Main Creek Rd, Main Ridge, 3928
OPEN
Thursday - Monday
9am - 4pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
If you visit in January, check out the Lavender Farm whilst you are there - otherwise check out Mamma’s Best of Red Hill and Surrounds for ideas
braeside brewing co, mordialloc
At this brewery you will find the most loveliest owners, amazing food, delicious beer and a gated kids corner. What more could you need?!
This brewery is a local favourite family-friendly dining spot!
Here you will find the most loveliest owners, amazing food, delicious beer and a gated kids corner. What more could you need?! How about half price kids meals on Sunday!
Throw in an outside decking area and a grass courtyard and there’s pencils and board games too!
The owners are parents, and know how hard it is to navigate a meal out with kids, so you can be assured that there is plenty of space inside - and out, for your prams; there’s plastic cups for the kids and the kids corner is jam-packed with toys like a cubby house, soft blocks and so much more.
The food is delicious - especially the wood-fired pizzas, and the kids meals are very generous sizes. It was Mamma’s duty to order the tasting paddle, to sample some of the beer on offer - and can happily report back that they are ALL delicious!
This is a great spot that the whole family will love!
the nitty gritty
43 Governor Rd, Mordialloc
OPEN
Wednesday - Sunday
12pm - 9pm
Kids meals 1/2 price on Sunday
kid friendly - highchairs - room for prams
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Walk off your meal and have a play down the road at the wonderful Peter Scullin Reserve