alatonero, mccrae
Situated by the stunning McCrae foreshore, you could be forgiven for thinking you have stepped into an European oasis here at Alatonero!
Situated by the stunning McCrae foreshore, you could be forgiven for thinking you have stepped into an European oasis here at Alatonero!
You can sit outside in the open terrace dining area - decked out with blue and white striped umbrellas and a leafy marquee with festoon lights; or sit in the breezy inside area with cushion covered little booth seats and tables, stunning ceiling lights and artwork.
The owners have installed a little bit of Greece here with the decor and mouth-watering menu. Think tapas - share plate style - but also has larger meals available, too. And - an extensive drinks list with heaps of cocktails, mocktails, wines and more.
Mamma can highly recommend the DIY souvlaki, spanakopita cigars and the signature cocktails! The kids have their own menu - complete with wordsearch, colouring and pencils - and their meals are IMPRESSIVE - both in quality and quantity! No nuggies here - there’s tender lamb, chicken or calamari and delicious chips. The staff are lovely and attentive and the vibe here is super family friendly.
Mamma’s special mention
After feasting - head right across the road and have a play at the cute lighthouse themed McCrae Foreshore Playground
sushi jiro @ southland, cheltenham
Everyone loves a sushi train right? Especially one where you can order fresh sushi right to your table!
How much fun are sushi trains?! Especially one where you can order fresh sushi right to your table and it arrives on a little sushi boat! The kids - and adults will love this.
Mamma’s crew are massive sushi lovers and they get so much fun out of watching the little plates go by and getting to choose their own, it’s a real foodie adventure.
This particular venue is even more impressive with having the option to order freshly made sushi, drinks, hot food and more directly from a screen on your table! What’s more fun is that it arrives on a little boat - right at your table. It’s such a novelty and makes for a really fun meal with the family.
Oh and the sushi is delicious, fresh and unique - Mamma has never seen a nacho tuna hand roll before - but it was great!
the nitty gritty
Level 2 (near the cinemas)
1239 Nepean Hwy, Cheltenham , 3192
OPEN
Monday - Wednesday 11am - 8pm
Thursday - Saturday 11am - 9pm
Sunday 11am - 7pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
After treating the kids to a fun meal - how about seeing a movie with a slide in the theatre at VJunior Southland right next door?
sunset scoops, edithvale
There’s a brand new ice cream shop right beside the beach in Edithvale, and it is DELICIOUS!
There’s a brand new ice cream shop right beside the beach in Edithvale, and it is DELICIOUS!
With over 30 flavours, that rotate regularly - you will find kid favourites like skittles, rainbow, bubblegum, choc mint and more. Little Miss went straight for skittles and was very impressed!
The cabinets are separated into ones that contain nuts - think ferrero, snickers, peanut butter, kinderella, pistachio and more. Then sorbet/dairy free options - forest fruits, pink lemonade, lemon-lime, strawberry and more. And lastly all the other faves like salted caramel, cookies and cream, golden gaytime, old english toffee, licorice and heaps more!
You are able to test a few to make sure you don’t get food envy, but with so many flavours - it is a hard decision! Mamma’s crew can’t wait to come back to try some more!
the nitty gritty
246 Nepean Hwy, Edithvale 3196
OPEN
Sunday - Thursday 1pm - 9pm
Friday - Saturday 1pm - 9.30pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Chelsea Beach Playground is down the road and is a great little playground!
zagu japanese kitchen, parkdale
This family owned cafe is the perfect spot to bring the kids; they will love the selection of sushi, Japanese drinks and sweet treats.
There’s a brand new Japanese cafe in town! This little kitchen serves up delicious, freshly made sushi rolls as well as a main menu offering items like soups, Karaage, Teriyaki, curries, noodles, sushi bowls .. and more!
This family owned cafe is the perfect spot to bring the kids; they will love the selection of sushi, Japanese drinks and sweet treats.
Mamma can highly recommend the Karaage (Japanese Fried chicken) so crunchy and delicious, and the kids said it’s the best sushi they’ve had - big call! The best bit is that they open at 8am on weekdays - so you can pick up some sushi rolls for a special treat for the kids lunchbox!
the nitty gritty
17A Chandler St, Parkdale 3195
OPEN
Monday - Friday
8am - 4pm
Saturday 11.30am - 4pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Grab some sushi to go and head to Dolomore Reserve for a picnic!
okami, frankston
If you haven’t yet checked out an Okami venue - you simply MUST!
If you haven’t yet checked out an Okami venue - you simply MUST!
There are now over 33 venues across Victoria, and it is easy to see why they are so successful! It’s the perfect family friendly restaurant; delicious food, great value and a friendly laid-back atmosphere.
These venues have an all-you-can-eat menu (for around $40 - less for kids). How does it work? Well, there are no buffets here - everything is cooked fresh to order. Simply select your items off the menu - each plate comes with enough for 4 people and you can opt for things like sushi platters, udon noodles, chicken karaage, dumplings, beef, tempura, fried rice … and LOTS more - AND you can keep them coming throughout your 1.5 hour sitting!
Mamma’s kids got such a thrill from being able to choose multiple dishes (especially the limitless amount of sushi), plus even ending the meal with an ice-cream! The selection is great for the little ones, with spring rolls, mini dim sims, dumplings, rice and, of course - sushi! There’s lots of vegetarian options as well.
It really is great value and delicious, fresh food - it is a new family favourite with Mamma’s crew!
the nitty gritty
1/151 Beach St, Frankston, 3199
OPEN
Monday - 5.30pm - 10pm
Closed Tuesday
Wednesday/Thursday 5.30pm - 10pm
Friday/Saturday 5pm - 11pm
Sunday - 12pm - 3pm 5pm - 10pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention
Head to Ballam Park before dinner to work up an appetite!
soulpress, cheltenham
Get your spoons ready and head on down to Soul Press with the kids for an acai bowl, smoothie or toastie!
It’s finally starting to warm up so get your spoons ready and head on down to Soul Press with the kids for an acai bowl, smoothie or toastie!
They have six convenient locations in the South East, each one decked out to take you back to your last summer holiday overseas - though this food and drink is likely a whole lot better for you!
This Mamma can never go past the acai bowl with the lot (don’t forget the passionfruit), but the poké bowl and toasties look amazing too. There are vegan and nut free options as well as raw slices, coffee and smoothies. What about the kids you ask?! Acai you. They have kids size acai bowls and smoothies - so you don’t have to share yours!
the nitty gritty
83 Argus Street
Cheltenham, 3192
OPEN
Monday - Friday 7am - 3pm
Saturday - Sunday
8am - 3pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention
Grab some goodness to go and head down to Karkarook Park for a picnic!
cakeparty, frankston
Have you ever seen a cake vending machine? This Mamma hasn't! The first cake vending machine in Victoria is situated out the front of this gorgeous pink store.
There's a new cake shop on the block - and it is DELICIOUS!
Have you ever seen a cake vending machine? This Mamma hasn't! The first cake vending machine in Victoria is situated out the front of this gorgeous pink store.
Cakeparty is predominantly a cupcake shop - also selling delicious slices like choc-caramel brownies and cheesecake cups! Extravagant milkshakes are also on offer - much to the delight of Mamma's little Miss - who just had to try a chocolate brownie shake - topped off with whipped cream and mini marshmallows! Yep - this is definitely a treat place with lots of sugar on offer!
You can also take the perfect selfie with their feature wall swing. This is a takeaway shop - with no seating - so it’s perfect for a pit stop to grab your coffee and cake to go!
the nitty gritty
Shop 4 13-15 Thompson Street Frankston
OPEN
Tuesday - Saturday
Closed Sunday/Monday
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention
After your cake fix, head across the road to General Public for some bowling or arcade fun!
rosa mexicano @ karingal hub, frankston
A brand new Rosa Mexicano has just opened its doors in the best location. Right next to a playground and at the doors of a Village cinemas!
Who doesn’t love some delicious tacos, nachos and a salty margarita?! This Mamma certainly does!
A brand new Rosa Mexicano has just opened its doors in the best location. Right next to a playground and at the doors of a Village cinema, it’s the perfect spot for lunch and a play with the kids, or dinner and a movie on date night!
Decked out in vibrant colours, awesome pink booths with low-lying lamps, and a neon sign, the vibe is breezy and relaxed. The food is varied - from your original Mexican fare to a bit of a modern flair offering burgers and fries. Mamma can highly recommend the chimichanga and nachos - generous servings and delicious! There’s also a great kids menu offering cheese quesadillas, tacos, mini burritos and even fish and chips!
The cocktail list is impressive offering many different margaritas and beers from around the world. And of course, it’s hard to resist some yummy hot churros or nutella tacos for dessert!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Karingal Hub Shopping Centre, Frankston
11.30am - 8.30pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention
Right outside is the awesome Happy Camp Playground
lets eat at manus dessert food truck, cranbourne
Have you ever heard of a dessert truck? Well, if you are a lover of all things sweet and fried - your dreams have come true!
Have you ever heard of a dessert truck? Well, if you are a lover of all things sweet and fried - your dreams have come true!
This great multicultural dessert van is sure to have something to tantaslise your tastebuds. Select from a range of hot desserts like churros, waffles, pancakes, jam donuts, loukoumades and - wait for it - DONUT FRIES - to name a few! You can have them smothered in a sauce and topping of your choosing.
You can also have something cold like ice cream covered in sauces and toppings like nutella, sprinkles, Oreos, M&Ms or melted chocolate and more.
There are also Kulfi, Falooda and Gulab jamun to try as well as milkshakes, freshly squeezed orange juice and tea and coffee too!
You can sit and enjoy them at the cute little tables set up and sample some food from the other food trucks, too!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Sun/Mon 5pm - 11pm
Thursday 5pm - 11.30pm
Friday/Saturday 5pm - 12pm
Closed Tues/Wednesday
wanna know more?
click here
Cranbourne Public Hall 166-178 Gippsland Hwy, Cranbourne, 3977
Mamma's special mention
Head a few doors down for dinner at The Amazing Grace. Or play next door at the cute (but old) Ray Perry Park
the amazing grace, cranbourne
Mamma has discovered family friendly heaven right here!
Mamma has discovered a family friendly heaven right here!
Amazing Grace is an absolutely stunning former church, that is now home to an incredibly cool pub-style restaurant!
There’s an undercover courtyard/beer garden spanning the length of the restaurant enveloped by stain glass windows, festoon lights and a kids corner with floor mats, blackboards and toys.
The menu has something for everyone; from tapas-style share plates to pub-style (you can’t go wrong with the huge and delicious parma) and a pizzeria as well. The kids have their own menu with traditional faves like fish n chips, spaghetti, kids size parma and pizzas. There’s also a great drinks menu serving a huge range of cocktails and local wine and beers.
The vibe is very laid back, the staff are awesome and Mamma says it is THE perfect spot to share a family meal!
the nitty gritty
150-156 S Gippsland Hwy, Cranbourne, 3977
OPEN
Wednesday - Saturday
12pm - 11pm
Sunday
12pm - 5pm
closed Monday/Tuesday
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention
Head a few doors down for some delicious dessert from Lets Eat at Manus at the food truck park. Or play next door at the cute (but old) Ray Perry Park
the corner pantry, frankston south
This lovely little NEW is cafe serving up yummy food and delicious Commonfolk coffee!
In this very cute corner spot, you will find this lovely little cafe serving up a menu of yummy food and delicious Commonfolk coffee!
Mamma loved the kids menu - a bit of everything from smashed avo on sourdough - to waffles and dino nuggets!
There are gluten free and vegan options as well - so catering for most dietary needs.
It’s quite a cosy cafe but has three different seating areas with a few tables in each. The front courtard, inside and a partially undercover back courtyard -including a small KIDS PLAYGROUND!, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy an iced coffee and delicious granola bowl! Mamma did eye the brekky board - this looks like a winner - a bit of everything - waffles, eggs, bacon and hash browns to name a few!
Kids can also be kept busy with some crayons and colouring, whilst enjoying a milkshake and some dino nuggies!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday - Sunday 7am-2pm
Kitchen closes at 1:30pm
wanna know more?
click here
2 Culcairn Dr, Frankston South
Mamma's special mention
Grab a coffee and cake to go and run off some energy at the stunning George Pentland Botanic Gardens Playground.
boatshed cheese, dromana
Hidden away in an industrial street, you will find this little unassuming cheese factory that packs a huge punch!
Calling all cheese lovers - you really need to jump on board this boat!
Hidden away in an industrial street, you will find this little unassuming cheese factory that packs a huge punch! You can sample any cheese on display and indulge in delicious cheese and charcuterie boards, even baked brie, in this cute little nautical-themed space.
There are so many types of cheese - it makes the decision making a tough one - luckily you can ask for a sample which might make it easier to narrow it down. Mamma opted to let the experts select a hard, soft and goat cheese option and they were all amazing! There was a tempest buffalo, goats cheese oasis and boathouse cheddar. Hard to pick a favourite but the oasis was incredible!
You can also see the cheese being made - Mamma got to see the Brie being flipped and chat with the cheesemakers which was very cool.
If you love cheese, you really need to check this place out!
the nitty gritty
Open
Tues - Sat 9am - 4pm
Monday - closed
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention
Heaps to while you’re here! Make your own scented candle at Red Hill Candle Co - sample some rum at Jimmy Rum Distillery or grap a paddle board at Jetty Road Brewery - all are just around the corner!
tres mexican, seaford
Tacos , Churros and Margaritas by the seaside are the PERFECT combination!
Tacos, Churros and Margaritas by the seaside are the PERFECT combination!
NEW to Seaford is Tres Mexican. Bright, fresh and delicious, you will want to try one of everything here.
The colourful chairs, striking wall murals and neon lights make the atmosphere fun and inviting, and the garden courtyard is perfect for summer drinks and nachos.
Mamma’s crew also LOVED the robots carrying the meals - such a novelty! The staff were super lovely and attentive as well.
There’s a great kids menu, plus plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Mamma loved the chicken nachos and the crew say the churros and chocolate chips are SO good!
the nitty gritty
Tues -Thurs 5pm - 9pm
Friday - Sun 12pm - 4pm 5pm-9pm
Mon - closed
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention
For a play before or after a meal - head to Keast Park Playground
rebel donuts, langwarrin
You really need to do yourself a favour and head here ASAP!
Donut lovers rejoice - Rebel Donuts have a BRAND NEW location! Sadly, the Mornington and Frankston stores are no longer open - but you can get your fix in Langwarrin at the newly opened fresh food superstore - Brancatisano Fresh Grocer in Langwarrin!
These donuts are amazing! With flavours like cookies and cream, nutella, mars attack, strawberry, lemon curd and cream, and many more - including, of course, jam filled!
You really need to do yourself a favour and head here ASAP! Mamma says you MUST try the Pretzel salted caramel - so GOOD! Oh - and they also deliver!
the nitty gritty
Located instore at
Brancatisano Fresh Grocer
Monday - Friday
7am - 6.30pm
Saturday 7am - 5.30pm
Sunday 8am - 5.30pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention
Grab some donuts to take away and take the kids to the great Southgateway Reserve Playground
momo roto, frankston
Attention sushi fans - you are going to want to get ON BOARD this train!
Attention sushi fans - you are going to want to get ON BOARD this train!
Located in Bayside shopping centre is the brand new sushi train - Momo Roto! It’s the first time this Mamma and crew have checked out a sushi train - and wow, it is impressive! The crew were very excited to be able to pick out their own plates ( hot tip - make sure they read the menu and know EXACTLY what they are picking to avoid any food regret!).
The huge train runs throughout the middle of the restaurant, with lots of booth seating available around it.
The food is super FRESH and DELICIOUS. The system is your standard sushi train - pay-per-plate, with each plate coloured according to prices. You can also order hot food by request.
With great food and a fun atmosphere, the whole family will enjoy this experience! You can also grab takeaway to go.
the nitty gritty
Open
7 days
11am - 8pm
wanna know more?
click here
Ground Floor (opposite Coles)
Bayside Shopping Centre, Frankston
Mamma’s special mention: Finish off with something sweet from The Cupcake Queens next door!
schnapper point kiosk and bar, mornington
Right on the waterfront, with views of the city out in one direction, and red cliffs in the other - you will LOVE this spot!
You can’t get much better than this location!
Right on the waterfront, with views of the city out in one direction, and red cliffs in the other. And you can take them all in while swinging on a swing perched on the deck, sipping on a hot coffee or a cool cocktail and enjoying delicious food!
If the swing isn’t for you, there are plenty of tables with phenomenal views out on the deck, or inside near the extensive bar.
The menu is full of delicious, simple options, like - fish souvlaki plate, burgers, toasties, fish and chips, cauliflower tacos and more.
It’s the perfect spot to sit back and enjoy the sunshine - or watch a storm roll through. You can also grab some to take away and stroll down the beach to enjoy.
the nitty gritty
Open
7 days
8am - 4pm
wanna know more?
click here
1 Schnapper Point Drive
Mornington, 3931
Mamma’s special mention: Head up the path to have a play at Mornington Park Playground
rosa mexicano, south melbourne
This Mexican restaurant offers all of your favourites … and more!
Here in this cosy little restaurant, you can sit back and watch the rush of the world pass you by, as you sip on a margarita and nibble on some nachos!
This Mexican restaurant offers all of your favourites … and more! You can get bulging burittos - packed full of delicious rice, vegetables/meat of your choosing - or perhaps a burrito bowl is more your style? Tacos - enchiladas, quesadillas and fajitas are also on the menu. You can also get a burger - paella or nutella tacos for something different - yum! Kids also have their very own menu options with mini burritos, nachos, quesadillas and fish and chips!
And then you have their extensive drink list - with magnificent margaritas, mocktails, sangria and mexican sodas to complement your meal!
Delicious food, great service and a fun environment makes for the perfect family meal!
the nitty gritty
Open
Sunday - Thursday
11.30am - 9pm
Friday/Saturday
11.30am - 9.30pm
wanna know more?
click here
293 Clarendon St, South Melbourne, 3205
Mamma’s special mention: Make a day of it, head to the South Melbourne Market and have a play at Skinners Adventure Playground!
horribly healthy, somerville
Come in, enjoy a coffee and slice and there’s even a little kids corner for the kids to have a play!
Bec, a wonderful local southie, has poured her soul into creating delicious raw healthy slices and cakes for the last few years - supplying her goodies to local cafes and markets.. AND now has A BRAND NEW SHOP of her very own! Located in Somerville, you can come in and relax on the couch, enjoy a coffee and slice and there’s even a little kids corner for the kids to have a play!
Don’t be fooled by their decadent good looks, these bad boys are totally good for you! Free from gluten, refined sugar and dairy, they are PACKED full of flavour. Mamma loves them all, but the favourite has to be the Twixie - closely followed by the Godfather Rough - delicious!
Open on Fridays and Saturdays (for now) but you can also order online!
Head on down and treat your tastebuds!
the nitty gritty
Open
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 9am - 2pm
wanna know more?
click here
Shop1/1071 Frankston Flinders Road, Somerville
Mamma’s special mention: Make a day of it, take a treat and coffee to go and head to Dinosaur World!
betty's burgers, frankston
If you’re a burger connoisseur - you NEED to check out this brand new shop!
If you’re a burger connoisseur - you NEED to check out this brand new restaurant - smack bang in the heart of Frankston!
The restaurant is bright and beachy, with the ordering counter resembling a little beach hut set up. The menu caters for meat lovers, with amazing fried chicken, vegans - great plant based burger and salads - gluten free options too - even lettuce to replace the buns!
The burgers are DELICIOUS, with the buns light and airy and served with spectacular special sauces. You’ll find an assortment of chips and onion rings on offer, there’s even an ice cream bar - with unique flavours like chocolate-red velvet-lamington (yes that’s one flavour!) and deluxe thickshakes, too.
Do your tastebuds a favour and add this to your list!
the nitty gritty
Open
Sunday - Thursday 11am - 9pm
Fri-Sat 11am - 10pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention: Head across the road for a play at Frankston Foreshore Playground
slims hot pizza, mt eliza
Mamma’s loving everything about Mount Eliza’s coolest new local Slim’s Hot Pizza!
Mamma’s loving everything about Mount Eliza’s coolest new local Slim’s Hot Pizza!
With it’s retro 70’s vibe, super friendly staff, delicious Naples style pizzas and Americano style sit up bar, this family friendly pizza parlour needs to be on your list of places to try.
They’ve kept the menu simple with ten different pizza topping options and a handful of salads, but that’s really all you need because who doesn’t love pizza! The fancy hawaiian which is topped with streaky bacon, caramelized pineapple and the perfect amount of stringy cheese was a big hit with the kids.
They have two large bench tables out front with room for a pram which is the most family friendly area to grab a table. Inside is all tall bench table seating with stools, so littler babe’s would have to rest on laps or hang out in the baby carrier.
When the kids get sick of colouring make sure you take them up to the front window so they can watch their pizza being cooked before it’s served up to them. We got quite a show from the fun loving staff. Oh and make sure you call ahead and book. This place gets super busy.
the nitty gritty
Open
Thursday - Sunday
4pm - 11pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention: Why not head to Mt Eliza’s Regional Park for a play before your pizza feast.
