pate mi, somerville
Somerville has a new reason to get excited at lunchtime -(or even breakfast time!), with Pate Mi opening its doors and serving up seriously good Vietnamese street food - a first for Somerville!
Somerville has a new reason to get excited at lunchtime -(or even breakfast time!), with Pate Mi opening its doors and serving up seriously good Vietnamese street food - a first for Somerville!
This fresh banh mi kitchen is all about big flavours and perfect crunch. Think crispy pork bahn mi with crackle that snaps just right, and juicy grilled chicken, layered with crunchy carrot and that all-important hit of pate and sauce. Every roll is jam-packed and dangerously moreish. You can also try a breakfast bahn mi! Packed with eggs - or an omelette - and bacon!
Not in a bread mood? Pate Mi also dishes up fresh noodle bowls and rice bowls, loaded with salad, a hint of chilli and your choice of protein — light, satisfying and full of flavour.
And then there’s the coffee. Sweet, strong Vietnamese coffee that does not mess around — the perfect pairing or a pick-me-up on its own!
Quick, casual and delicious, with gorgeous friendly staff; Pate Mi is sure to become a Somerville favourite for lunches and coffee stops with a little extra kick. Trust Mamma - this is one you’ll be coming back for!
The nitty gritty
1 Simcock St, Somerville VIC 3912
OPEN
Sunday closed
Monday - Saturday
7am - 3pm
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mentions:
Head down the road to have a play at the awesome We Rock The Spectrum all abilities playcentre
sweet n sassy, cowes
If you’re wandering the Cowes foreshore with the fam and need a little something sweet to keep the good vibes rolling, Mamma has the perfect pit stop – Sweet n Sassy, a bright and cheerful ice cream and loaded shake shop!
If you’re wandering the Cowes foreshore with the fam and need a little something sweet to keep the good vibes rolling, Mamma has the perfect pit stop – Sweet n Sassy, a bright and cheerful ice cream and loaded shake shop!
Think decadent, candy-topped loaded shakes or blended Nutella or snickers thick shakes - that are stacked high, colourful, and guaranteed to make the kids’ eyes pop. If you’re after something a little light and fruity, their smoothies are fresh, vibrant and delicious. And ice-cream lovers, get excited - there are over 20 flavours to choose from! From classic choccie favourites (stairway to heaven is Mamma’s fave!) to rainbow-bright scoops and everything in between – you’ll be spoilt for choice.
What makes Sweet n Sassy even sweeter? It is a family-owned with the most lovely staff, and it’s perfectly positioned right across the road from a fantastic playground and one of Cowes’ best family-friendly beaches. So you can grab your treats, wander across, and enjoy them while the kids dig, swing and splash to their hearts’ content.
Sweet n Sassy is a must-visit for a treat on any Phillip Island adventure!
The nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday closed
Tuesday - Thursday 1pm - 6pm
Friday 1pm - 8pm
Saturday -11am - 8pm
Sunday 11am - 6pm
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mentions:
Grab one to go and head across to Chicken Beach or a play in Erehwon Point Playground
yo 2 go, carrum
Perfectly located beside the beach and an awesome playground, is Yo 2 Go in Carrum, where you can indulge in self-serve frozen yoghurt, acai, bubble tea and slushies! They have recently updated the store - to have more family-friendly options (hello slushies, fruit cups and Nutella fountain!) and double their toppings!
Perfectly located beside the beach and an awesome playground, is Yo 2 Go in Carrum, where you can indulge in self-serve frozen yoghurt, acai, bubble tea and slushies! They have recently updated the store - to have more family-friendly options (hello slushies, fruit cups and Nutella fountain!) and double their toppings!
It’s the perfect spot to fill up on refreshing fruity or milky tea - with flavours like apple, grape and strawberry and then popping in your own boba (the kids favourite!), or select from rotating flavours of frozen yoghurt - including dairy-free options and DELICIOUS acai sorbet.
Then top up your bowl with decadent treats like M&Ms, Oreo cookies, chocolate sprinkles and cookie dough- or opt for some healthier additions like fresh fruit, coconut and granola. Finish it off with a dash of Nutella from the FOUNTAIN! Your taste buds will be in heaven!
There’s some seating instore and tables out the front and side of the shop - or head a few meters towards the sand on the glorious Carrum beach!
The nitty gritty
OPEN
Tuesday - Friday 12pm - 8pm
Saturday - Sunday
11am - 8pm
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mentions:
Grab some to go and head 100m down the road to the awesome Carrum Beach Playground!
mock red hill, red hill
Right in the heart of Mornington Peninsula’s hinterland, on a road lined with wineries, is something a little bit different. Mock Red Hill is a 5th generation, family owned and operated biodynamic apple orchard that has been in operation since the 1890s!
Right in the heart of Mornington Peninsula’s hinterland, on a road lined with wineries, is something a little bit different.
Mock Red Hill is a 5th generation, family owned and operated biodynamic apple orchard that has been in operation since the 1890s! But Mamma suspects some things have changed over the years…
Set in the orchard’s converted cool store and packing shed, Mock Red Hill’s quaint farmgate and cider lounge give visitors a taste of the fruits of their labour.
Grab some cider, pickles, bread and freeze dried or fresh fruit from their farmgate before walking through the doorway to their sun-drenched cider lounge and courtyard.
With an uncomplicated menu that champions the apple and local produce, their kitchen is dishing out the fluffiest focaccia, tasty salumi as well as sausage rolls and apple pies from Ninch royalty - Johnny Ripe.
A staple on every brewery, winery and cidery menu is the iconic tasting paddle, which Mock Red Hill does beautifully… but with a twist. In addition to their traditional paddle designed for the biggies, they have also designed a paddle perfect for littlies and teetotallers alike.
With a selection of sparkling and still apple and pear juices, as well as an assortment of freeze dried fruits and chocolate covered strawberries, kids will be delighted by the chance to sip, snack and sample just like the grown-ups.
the nitty gritty
1103 Mornington-Flinders Rd, Red Hill 3937
Opening hours:
Thursday - Monday
10am - 5pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Let the kids run off some steam at Red Hill Recreation Reserve Playground which is just a short drive away.
humble merchant smiths lane, clyde north
A cafe, with awesome options for the whole family PLUS a wonderful playground just over the road! Let Mamma show you around Humble Merchant Smith’s Lane, Clyde
Check out this cute little cafe in the most perfect of locations - right next to an AWESOME playground. It’s a winner!
Humble Merchant have opened their newest cafe, serving up great coffee and yummy food! Mamma’s Little One finds it hard to choose between all the amazing homemade slices and cute little tea-cup biscuits!
It’s super family friendly with some colouring activity sheets and a great range of options for dine in or takeaway (yup … the playground is pretty tempting). There are great gluten free options (huge chocolate chip cookies look amazing!), as well as a bunch of awesome friendly staff!
And lets be honest, who doesn’t love a cafe where you can sit outside and enjoy a coffee, while the kids keep themselves busy playing at this wonderful playground!
the nitty gritty
35 Oconnor Ave, Clyde North, 3978
Monday - Friday 7.30am - 2pm
Weekends 8am - 2pm
wanna know more? CLICK HERE
Mamma's special mention:
THE BEST bit is, this cafe leads onto the awesome Banjo Playground!
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!
Located beside Frankston beach 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. You can also grab a colouring sheet and crayons from the bar!
Over the coming months you can also enjoy Family Sunday sessions from 12pm- 3pm, where there will be a different activity each week; from Balloon Twisting, Face Painting and Petting Zoos! Follow their social pages here to keep up to date.
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!
vanilla dessert bar, oakleigh
Vanilla Lounge is an Oakleigh institution who has just sweetened the deal with a next level dessert bar directly opposite. It’s a choose your own adventure dessert paradise… and Mamma is obsessed.
Vanilla Lounge is an Oakleigh institution who has just sweetened the deal with a next level dessert bar directly opposite. It’s a choose your own adventure dessert paradise… and Mamma is obsessed.
Their floor to ceiling terrazzo store houses a selection of 8 frozen yoghurts, ice creams and açai as well as a display case filled to the brim with bakery classics you can choose as a base - think croissants, doughnuts, cookies, cruffins and waffles *drool*.
But your choices do not end there, with over 60 toppings available at their self-serve counter, your options are endless… and they are some pretty wild options at that.
Mamma’s not talking about your traditional strawberries, m&ms and granola (though they are also available). We’re talking maple bacon, french fries, a variety of cakes, gnocchi donuts and a blue sauce that Mamma can only describe as “galactic”.
With cabinets filled with other Vanilla classics like mini tarts, macarons and profiteroles, this is a dessert lover’s dream.
Mamma’s hot tip - like other frozen yogurt stores, this place is a weigh and pay, so keep a close eye on the kids serving themselves before you have to remortgage the house.
Mamma’s special mention
Warrawee Park Playground is just a short walk away if the kids need to run off that sugar rush.
troublemaker, mulgrave
Troublemaker by name, crowd pleaser by nature - this neighbourhood gem has found the perfect home tucked away in a quiet corner of Mulgrave.
Troublemaker by name, crowd pleaser by nature - this neighbourhood gem has found the perfect home tucked away in a quiet corner of Mulgrave.
It’s the kind of spot that makes you want to linger a little longer, whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee on the run or settling in for a leisurely brunch with the fam.
Inside you’ll find a mix of moody, modern vibes and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. There’s plenty of space to park the pram (always a big tick from Mamma!) and the staff are more than happy to make sure little visitors feel right at home.
When it comes to food, the kids are sorted with a great selection of crowd favourites - from cheese toasties and pancakes, to nuggets and burgers.
For the grownups, the menu is stacked with all-day brekkie classics and hearty lunch dishes. Mamma’s hot tip? Don’t miss the chilli scramble - YUM!
Whatever you choose, just make sure to save room for a sweet treat from the display cabinet - filled with muffins, cruffins, scrolls and cookies.
the nitty gritty
66 Albany Drive, Mulgrave 3170
Opening hours:
Monday - Friday
7am - 2pm
Saturday & Sunday
8am - 2pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Mulgrave Reserve Playground is just a short drive down the road so the kids can blow off some steam.
banks brewery, seaford
A family friendly brewery with a playground? Now you’re speaking Mamma’s language. You’ll find Banks Brewing hiding at the end of an industrial cul-de-sac in the beachside suburb of Seaford.
A family friendly brewery with a playground? Now you’re speaking Mamma’s language. You’ll find Banks Brewery hiding at the end of an industrial cul-de-sac in the beachside suburb of Seaford.
Their access-only carpark is home to the brewery's beer garden, partially fenced playground, table tennis table and basketball ring… Mamma told you it was family friendly!
Venture inside and you will find a generous beer hall decked out with festoon lights, neon signs and the buzz of punters watching the game on one of the many TVs (and projector screen) dotted around the space.
The grown ups are kept happy with a rotation of 17 beers and alcoholic sodas on tap, while the kids and teetotalers are looked after with mocktails, juice boxes and soft drinks.
The food menu here does not disappoint either. With a decent selection of pizzas, bar snacks and share plates available at all times, you’ll also find the kitchen slinging burgers on a Thursday night. Mamma’s crew could not go past the hot honey chicken tenders, stuffed flatbread and “hold the lettuce” pizza - think if a cheeseburger and a pizza had a baby… extra pickles.
With a little bit of everything to keep the whole family happy, this place will quickly become a family go to - you can BANKS on that.
the nitty gritty
Opening hours:
Thursday
2pm - 9pm
Friday & Saturday
12pm - 9pm
Sunday
12pm - 7pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
If the kids want to carry on playing, East Seaford Reserve Playground is just down the road.
little by little cafe, berwick
Tucked away within the grounds of Berwick’s Old Cheese Factory, Little By Little is a family friendly cafe with great coffee, delicious food and absolutely gorgeous surrounds.
Tucked away within the grounds of Berwick’s Old Cheese Factory, Little By Little Cafe is a family friendly cafe with great coffee, delicious food and absolutely gorgeous surrounds.
There is a takeaway kiosk where you can grab a coffee and toastie before heading to the Old Cheese Factory Playground opposite. Otherwise, walk through the beautiful outdoor space and follow the signs to the cafe’s dining area which is housed in the historic Springfield Homestead.
If you would like a little trip back through time, grab a table inside the heritage building or on the wraparound porch. Outdoor seating is an absolute winner though if the weather is on your side.
The kids will not get bored here - the grounds are large enough that there is plenty of green space to play and run around on. There are also a number of garden sculptures to explore, a mini foot bridge to cross, decommissioned water pump to crank and a tree stump love seat engulfed in Bougainvillea for the perfect photo op.
When it comes to food, Little By Little Cafe have a great brunch and lunch selection as well as a “munchkins” menu with sweet and savoury options to choose from… just make sure to leave some room for a little treat from their cabinet afterwards!
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Explore the rest of The Old Cheese Factory, which includes a farm themed playground.
little z, bentleigh
Located in an unassuming strip of shops next to Patterson Station, Little Z is going to be your next go to brunch spot with the kids. Mamma reckons you should make a bee line straight for the rear courtyard so the kids can enjoy the cubby and toys.
Located in an unassuming strip of shops next to Patterson Station, Little Z is going to be your next go to brunch spot with the kids.
If you’ve got little ones, Mamma reckons you should make a bee line straight for the rear courtyard… no matter the season. This family friendly cafe has created the perfect outdoor space for Melbourne’s unpredictable weather. The tables are sheltered by huge marquees and there are plenty of gas heaters to go around (just be mindful of little fingers getting too close when they are on).
The real drawcard to the completely secure and astro turfed space however, is the cubby house, tubs of toys and ride on trike and car that keep the kids occupied while you peruse the online menu.
While the outdoor area is serviced by QR codes (table service inside for those that prefer!), Mamma was very impressed with the number of alteration options available through the online ordering system. Want the hot chocolate warm, not hot? No worries! Want the kids toastie split onto two plates for sharing? Done!
There is also a glass display filled with delicious bagels, sandwiches and wraps which became irrelevant to Mamma’s 5 year old when she found out there was French toast (complete with sprinkles) on the kids menu. The grown ups are well looked after too - Mamma and Mister Mamma couldn’t go past the breakfast burrito and truffled mushrooms on toast. YUM!
Just make sure to leave some room for a treat from the sweets cabinet. Think brownies, cruffins, slices, muffins… all perfect accompaniments for coffee number 2, or 3… or 4.
Little Z is also open for dinner service on Friday and Saturdays, so if you can wrangle a babysitter, pop this on the date night list as well!
the nitty gritty
73 Patterson Rd, Bentleigh 3204
Opening hours:
Monday - Wednesday
6:30am - 4pm
Thursday
6:30am - 5pm
Friday
6:30am - 9pm
Saturday
7am - 9pm
Sunday
7am - 3pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Halley Park is just around the corner if the kids still want to play afterwards!
the hideout cafe, rosebud
Tucked just across the road from the beach and an awesome playground, The Hideout in Rosebud lives up to its name – it’s a little sanctuary for families, foodies, and furry friends too, with an awesome enclosed courtyard! Think cubbyhouse, toys, and space to stretch those little legs – while you sip your latte in peace!
*** COURTYARD REOPENS DECEMBER 13TH**
If you're looking for the perfect spot in Rosebud where both kids and parents can kick back, relax, and enjoy a seriously good meal – The Hideout is the spot!
Tucked just across the road from the beach and an awesome playground, The Hideout lives up to its name! It’s a little sanctuary for families, foodies, and furry friends too, with an awesome enclosed courtyard!
Think cubbyhouse, toys, and space to stretch those little legs – while you sip your latte in peace! And if your family includes a four-legged friend, you can bring them along! The courtyard is dog-friendly - with a special rear entrance way.
When it comes to food, Mamma's crew can't go past the smashed avo, hearty focaccias, and creamy pastas. There’s a kids menu packed with tasty options and deluxe milkshakes, plus smoothies, acai bowls and more! It’s the perfect spot for breaky or brunch!
the nitty gritty
887 Point Nepean Rd, Rosebud, 3939
Opening hours:
Monday - Saturday 5.45am - 3pm
Sunday 5.45am - 2.30pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Head across the road to play at the fantastic Rosebud Foreshore Playground
meeya cafe - cake painting, south melbourne
Mamma loves Meeya Cafe in South Melbourne - famous for its cake painting the coffee and menu is also lovely! The staff are lovely too. Mamma says make sure you plan a long visit as our cake decorating was so much fun it is worth taking your time.
Mamma loves Meeya Cafe in South Melbourne - famous for its cake painting the coffee and menu is also lovely! The staff are lovely too. Mamma says make sure you plan a long visit as our cake decorating was so much fun it is worth taking your time.
How does the cake painting work?
Mamma says you don’t need a booking either! Just find yourself a table and order.
Once you have placed your order - a beautiful slice of butter cake is delivered right to your table, along with a variety of brushes and colourful edible frosting, ready for you to paint and decorate your slice however you like.
It’s such a fun, creative activity. We spent a good chunk of time enjoying our coffee and cake painting….and eating…YUM.
If you’re after a casual catch-up, a weekend outing, or something a little different, cake painting at Meeya Café is a brilliant option. It’s perfect for older kids and grown-ups with great food, friendly service.
Oh as it turns out, cake painting is surprisingly therapeutic!…and delicious.
the nitty gritty
Meeya Café
191 Clarendon St,
South Melbourne
Opening hours:
Weekdays
8am - 4 pm.
Weekends
10am - 4 pm.
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
South Melbourne Market is a great spot for a peruse and a shop!
the bakehaus, mordialloc
Walking through The Bakehaus is like walking through a Pinterest inspo board… but much, MUCH yummier.
Walking through The Bakehaus is like walking through a Pinterest inspo board… but much, MUCH yummier.
The second you step through the door, you instantly forget that this place is nestled between factories in Mordialloc’s industrial area. Mamma suggests visiting when the dappled sunshine filters through the cake shop’s sheer curtains, creating a dream like setting that is only enhanced by their dreamy cakes and sweet treats. But quite frankly… any time is the perfect time for cake.
Mamma and the 5 year old started with a toasted ham and cheese croissant, for **balance**. What was initially ordered as a means of diminishing Mamma’s guilt about cake for lunch ended up being one of the best toasted croissants ever. BIG CALL. The super buttery, flakey pastry coupled with all its cheesy,smokey goodness was next level.
Now, on to the main event! It was hard to choose between all of the delicious things in the display cabinet (the NYC cookies and cinnamon scrolls were calling Mamma’s name) but in the end, we could not go past the incredibly decadent Biscoff cheesecake and Matilda-esque three layer chocolate cake (IYKYK). Mamma washed it all down with one of The Bakehaus’ signature iced strawberry matcha lattes which, besides being completely hypnotic to look at, was sooooo good.
the nitty gritty
272 Lower Dandenong Rd, Mordialloc 3195
Opening hours:
Tuesday - Friday
7am - 3pm
Saturday
8am - 2pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Head to Kingston Heath Reserve Playground to run off some of that sugar energy.
