Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

pippa’s cafe, hampton

Put this little all-weather, kid-friendly cafe on your list. The kids will have a ball rummaging through the toy tubs and there’s enough space to spread out and give them a good run in the enclosed outdoor space at the back of the cafe, while you get to enjoy your coffee hot, or cold - however you like it! 

Put this little all-weather, kid-friendly cafe on your list. The kids will have a ball rummaging through the toy tubs and there’s enough space to spread out and give them a good run in the enclosed outdoor space at the back of the cafe, while you get to enjoy your coffee hot, or cold - however you like it! 

The menu has a good array of breakfast and lunch options to choose from, plus options just for the kids and there’s even a dedicated toasties menu! 

The cafe is located at the north end of Hampton street shops precinct, where street parking is plentiful. Inside there are plenty of seating options from smaller tables up the front, to a big table down the back which flows into the generous enclosed outdoor space. As well as being enclosed from the rain - there are even retractable sunblinds ensuring protection from all the elements, all year round. 

Great coffee, a menu that caters for the whole family and plenty to keep the kids occupied? That's a winning combination in Mamma's books! Next time you're in Hampton, be sure to stop by Pippa's Cafe!

the details

545 Hampton St, Hampton, 3188

Opening hours:

Monday: 6:30am - 4pm
Tuesday- Friday: 6:30am - 2pm
Saturday: 8am - 2pm
Sunday: 8am - 1pm

Mamma’s note - Just a heads up there isn’t a change table available and given the proximity to Hampton Primary school, it can get busy in the area around drop off and pick up times.

wanna know more?
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Mamma’s special mention

Once you’ve enjoyed your coffee, go and check out the Hampton Foreshore Playspace, where the kids will love to explore this sandy playground.

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

hampton hotel, hampton

Looking for a family-friendly spot in Bayside that ticks all the boxes? Hampton Hotel is a fantastic choice for a relaxed lunch or dinner with the kids.

Looking for a family-friendly spot in Bayside that ticks all the boxes? Hampton Hotel is a fantastic choice for a relaxed lunch or dinner with the kids.

There are plenty of spaces to settle in, from the gorgeous mezzanine level overlooking the venue to the outdoor courtyard, perfect for enjoying a meal in the fresh air. Kids are well looked after too, with a dedicated kids' menu packed with favourites like nuggets and pasta.

If you're planning a child-free night out, Saturday evenings here are loads of fun! The hotel's Piano Man kicks off from 8pm, with plenty of classic singalong tunes and a lively atmosphere. It can get quite noisy once the music gets going, so Mamma recommends enjoying this one as a fun adults-only night!

Whether you're after an easy family meal, a catch-up with friends or a fun night out, Hampton Hotel has something for everyone.

the details

382 Hampton St, Hampton 3188

Opening hours:

Monday - Thursday
11.30am - 10pm
Friday 11.30am - 11pm
Saturday 11.30am - 12am
Sunday 11.30am - 9pm

wanna know more?
 click here

Mamma’s special mention

Stop for a play at the most adorable farm-themed playground Wishart Reserve

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

loaded dough and co, hastings

If you’re a lover of big, chunky cookies - loaded with chocolatey goodness, then Loaded Dough & Co in Hastings needs to be on your must-visit list!

If you’re a lover of big, chunky cookies - loaded with chocolatey goodness, then Loaded Dough & Co in Hastings needs to be on your must-visit list!

This family-run business has quickly built a loyal following thanks to their incredible New York-style loaded cookies that are packed with flavour and baked with plenty of love. In fact, there is so much love in this business, as the the cafe offers employment for young people and adults living with autism - providing them with an opportunity to build self-esteem and financial independence. PLUS with every cookie sold here - $1 goes towards support for kids with autism.

You might find the location a little tucked away, but that's intentional. Set away from busy main roads, it provides a calmer, less stimulating environment for the staff.

And the cookies are deliciously decadent! There are SO many yummy flavours to choose from. Mamma’s crew have indulged in Mars and Oreo, Choc-mint, and Nutella Bueno - and there are so many more that we can’t wait to try!

In the cafe you can also treat yourself to some yummy icecream - either by itself or scooped ontop of a warmed up cookie - YUM!

Feel like something a little more savoury? You can grab some hot lunch items like toasties and loaded fries!

Treat yourself knowing every delicious cookie helps create employment opportunities, support and greater independence for youth and adults living with autism.

the details

14/2135 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Hastings

Opening hours:

Monday - Friday
10am - 5pm
Saturday
10am - 4pm
Sunday - closed

wanna know more?
 click here

Mamma’s special mention
Grab some to go and head to Hastings foreshore and Fred Smith Reserve playground

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

rhyll tavern, rhyll

There’s exciting news for Phillip Island locals and visitors, with Rhyll’s waterfront venue The Rhyll Tavern now open!

Perfectly positioned overlooking the bay in the cute little fishing village of Rhyll, this gorgeous tavern is already becoming a favourite spot to gather with family and friends.

There’s exciting news for Phillip Island locals and visitors, with Rhyll’s waterfront venue - The Rhyll Tavern now open!

Perfectly positioned overlooking the bay in the cute little fishing village of Rhyll, this gorgeous tavern is already becoming a favourite spot to gather with family and friends.

Expect yummy pub classics, refreshing drinks, live music on weekends and those stunning water views that make Rhyll so special.

The Rhyll Tavern has a laid-back coastal vibe, and is super family-friendly. With a dedicated kids menu that offers your faves like nuggets and chips and a big bowl of pasta! Grown ups can enjoy a great parma, burgers, salads and fresh fish and chips. There's even a pool room for a little friendly competition!

If you're planning a Phillip Island day trip or weekend getaway, this waterfront gem is well worth adding to your list!

the details

11A Beach Rd, Rhyll 3923

Opening hours:

Open 7 days
12pm - late

wanna know more?
 click here

Mamma’s special mention
There is so much to see in Phillip Island - check out our list of MUST DO’s here!

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

toolshed, noojee

Set at the base of Mt Baw Baw, at The Toolshed in Noojee, you are surrounded by breathtaking beauty in every direction you look. Huge colourful trees (spectacular in Autumn!) and a abundance of beautiful birdlife, this hidden gem feels like something straight out of a storybook.

If you didn’t already know that this STUNNING restaurant exists, let Mamma introduce you to your new favourite day trip lunch destination; you are going to love the amazing Toolshed Bar and Bistro in Noojee.

Set at the base of Mt Baw Baw, you are surrounded by breathtaking beauty in every direction you look. Mountains, huge colourful trees (spectacular in autumn!) and an abundance of beautiful birdlife, this hidden gem feels like something straight out of a storybook.

The Toolshed isn’t your average country pub. Think hearty, home-style meals with family favourites like juicy steak sandwiches, crispy schnitzels, and the most delicious woodfired pizzas. And parents, don’t worry they have a fantastic kids' menu too (with very generous portions!).

It’s rustic, it’s cosy, and it’s bursting with charm. Inside, you’ll find warm timber interiors - with the ceiling and walls decorated with all types of tools, crackling fireplaces in winter, and friendly staff. And the outside area is even better! The huge garden area is perfect for kids to explore, there’s a little swing set, and you might even spot a cheeky kookaburra or an array of colourful and musical birds joining you for lunch.

If you’re looking for your next family-friendly adventure with a side of incredible food and unforgettable scenery, the Toolshed in Noojee is your answer!

the nitty gritty

38 Loch Valley Rd,
Noojee 3833

Opening hours:

Monday - Tuesday 11am - 3pm
Wednesday - Sunday 11am to late

wanna know more?
 click here

Mamma’s special mention
Make a day of it and head down the road a bit to the stunning Toorongo Falls

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