via battisti cafe, mt martha
Along side the gorgeous Mt Martha Bay, bask in the sunshine as you sit at an outdoor table and enjoy delicious food!
This is a big call - but Mamma's gonna say it; this cafe serves possibly the BEST muffin that Mamma's crew has tasted! White chocolate and blueberry - do yourselves a favour, and try it!
Along with the amazing muffin, they also serve the cutest little hot chocolates, with a bear made out of foam and a marshmallow, of course!
Along side the gorgeous Mt Martha bay, the scenery is just stunning. Bask in the sunshine as you sit at a table outdoors; make use of the coffee window, too.
Or you can sit indoors and admire the funky decor.
It's quite a busy little cafe- but the staff are very welcoming, attentive and patient. There's a kids menu, and healthy sweet options as well.
Mamma will back for another muffin soon!
Mamma's special mention:
Make sure you visit the stunning Balcombe Estuary Reserves and go on an adventure.
cubbyhouse canteen, armadale
This little treasure is a clubhouse made for little ones, and boy do they know what little kids like!
Mamma may be a little late to the party and has only just discovered the amazing gem that is - Cubbyhouse Canteen. This little treasure is a clubhouse made for little ones, and boy do they know what little kids like! Just check out that babycino for example!
The Cubbyhouse Canteen is located in the Union Street Reserve alongside the tennis club; but, more importantly, is located between two cute playgrounds - one which is directly connected to the cafe, and then a larger playground just opposite.
This truly is such a great, family friendly place - with gorgeous staff and delicious food, including lots of healthy options. (That's IF you can resist the decadent sweets like chocolate chip banana bread - yum!)
Worth noting that they also hold and cater for some magnificent kids parties with the most amazing looking cakes!
Mamma's special mention:
Whilst in Armadale, if you have a little doll lover you just HAVE to visit Florrie Dolls & Cafe!
twisted sista, frankston
Mamma has never seen so many sweet temptations within the one shop!
SPECIAL NOTE - CHECK OUT MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL HOME DELIVERY OPTIONS.
Looking for a sweet treat? Look no further! Frankston has just opened a sweet-lovers paradise.
Here you are sure to find what you are craving. Mamma has never seen so many sweet temptations within the one shop!
Feel like ice-cream? You are in luck. SO many delicious flavours. Mamma can never resist Ferrero Rocher!
Craving cake? Yep - you will find PLENTY to choose from. From cheese to fruit varities.
Wanting something small? Who can resist a macaron or cookie?
And for those sugar addicts looking for a totally twisted bit of decadence - there are varying sizes of loaded freakshakes, some that come with an icecream cone AND a macaron as well! Best to share these ones!
There's also a lunch/dinner menu, serving up burgers, fries and salads to balance everything out.
The shop itself is very funky with bright orange decor and cool hanging light fixtures. Some room for prams - with tables and bench-style seating.
Mamma's special mention:
Why not visit on a Sunday and make a day of it by visiting the awesome Frankston Sunday Market as well?
eeny meeny, frankston
Not only is the food delicious, the coffee amazing, the staff gorgeous and attentive - but the music is terrific, too!
Mamma loves a good breakfast, and this cafe serves a wonderful all day breakfast menu - making it the perfect brunch cafe!
Not only is the food delicious, the coffee amazing, the staff gorgeous and attentive - but the music is also Mamma's favourite - the best of the 70's and 80's! You'll be singing along to the tunes without even realising it!
There is a cute little fish pond out the back that will keep the kids busy, as well as plenty of colouring in options and some toys - meaning you will actually get to enjoy your meal! Oh, and if it is still on offer - you must try out the coffee in a cone option!! Delicious!
Of course, you can't go wrong with smashed avo - this one has a twist, served with corn and black bean salsa and chipotle mayo, yum!
Mamma's special mention
Grab a coffee for the road and head around the corner to peruse the wonderful Robinsons Bookshop - there's free storytime from 11am every Monday.
the nitty gritty
Open
Monday - Sunday 8am - 3pm
toilet facilities (no change table) - room for prams - outside dining - toys/colouring in options for kids
wanna know more?
click here
ocean view hotel, kilcunda
Mamma loves a pub with a view!
Aaaaah, a pub with a view. Mamma loves a great pub meal, and when a pub has views of the ocean and the sunset, well, it's kind of unbeatable.
The Ocean View Pub in Kilcinda (The Killy) is a must if you are passing through the area, or just take a road trip to this magical spot. Make sure you get a spot on the deck at sunset or on the cooler months, sit inside near the fire. Families are welcome here and there are some toys and a pinny, and an amazing old school country pub vibe.
Mamma's special mention: The beach is just over and up the road so make sure you go for a walk over the old railway bridge; oh and check out the playground too!
the nitty gritty
Pub open 11.30am to close daily.
Bistro open 12.00pm to 2.30pm,
6.00pm to 8.30pm 7-days a week over Summer.
Thurs - Sun over cooler months (May-Oct)
wanna know more?
click here
dolce house, mckinnon
For a decadent treat, you can't go past the Oreo Waffle - it's heaven for your taste buds!
Do you have a sweet tooth? If so, you really need to check out this amazing dessert place!
Their delicious home-made gelato is made on site; and the flavours are incredible. This Mamma highly recommends trying the cookies and cream - scrumptious!
Oh and the waffles are also a must try. For a decadent treat to share - the Oreo Waffle special is heaven for your taste buds!
There are also brownies, cookies, sundaes, special shakes, fruit crushes, hot/cold drinks - and more!
There's plenty of seating available, so you can sit down and slowly devour your delights- with some room for prams downstairs (although a bit squishy) and more space outdoors.
Perfect for your next sweet craving!
Mamma's special mention
Take the kids to burn off some of the sugary energy at the nearby Booran Reserve
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday to Friday 2pm - 10pm
Saturday and Sunday 12pm - 10pm
Indoor and outdoor seating available - some room for prams downstairs and outdoors.
wanna know more?
click here
green olive winery, red hill
This place has it all - and it's not the wine talking - Mamma promises!
Wineries. Surely the perfect sunny day outing for families these days - especially when they cater for the kids as well as the adults.
This place has it all - and it's not the wine talking (promise). The grounds are lovely with plenty of green grass for rolling down the hills, a (gated) dam for yabbie spotting, a TRAMPOLINE (yes) and plenty of room to move - and that's just for the kids!
For the adults the scent of delicious garlic and fresh food make you instantly hungry, the wine is amazing (pinot!) and there is a great area to buy some treats and gifts to take home as memento's. The menu is tapas with plenty of delicious options. No kids menu but the sausages, meatballs and potatoes will keep them happy. Mamma loved the service - it was a super busy day and they were so accommodating and always had a smile on their face. What a great place!
Mamma's special mention:
Make a day of it and head up early to visit the Mornington Racecourse Market! (Held on the second sunday of the month)
the nitty gritty
Lunch bookings for 4 or more 12-2.30pm (Mamma says just book anyway and get there on time - it gets VERY busy on the weekends or be prepared to wait for a bit and have a drink while you wait!)
Open 7 Days a week from 9am to 5pm Public Holidays 9am to 5pm
Christmas Day & Boxing Day Closed
Our All Day Tapas Menu is served from 9am – 4pm. Coffee, wine and dessert served until 5pm
Wine Tasting by appointment only. Wine Paddles available all day.
wanna know more?
Click here
jimmy grants, ormond
If you love traditional greek street food, then Jimmy Grants in Ormond is for you
If you love traditional greek street food, tossed with grainy salads, crunchy chips garnished with feta or homemade dips with fresh pita - Opa!!! Then you've got to head to George Calombaris’ souvlaki bar, Jimmy Grants in Ormond.
Mamma and her crew opted the 'Feast like a Greek'. This is the perfect way to try a little of mostly everything Jimmy Grants has to offer. The Lamb shoulder, slow-cooked for 12 hours, is sticky and caramelised was to die for – have it as a plate with a slice of lemon and tzatziki, or stuffed in the Mr Papadopolous souva with onions, Dijon mustard, a few chips and fresh parsley - And there you are, transported to a world of deliciousness.
There are colouring books and textas to keep the little ones busy as well as tasty options to keep them full too.
Don't forget to try the Loukoumades donuts before heading home. There are a couple of flavours to choose but it's the perfect end.
Ormond features booth seating and a larger event space for groups and parties. Eat-in or take-away.
Mamma's special mention
Check out the water play at Booran Reserve in Glen Huntly for a little play before heading home. Great way to let the kids burn that extra energy and it's only a 7 minute drive away.
the stables of como, south yarra
Grab a bite to eat at the cafe and enjoy one of the most beautiful spots in Melbourne.
Take a step out of the current year and find yourself transported back in time. This absolutely gorgous 160 historic converted stables, grounds and gardens here are just amazing to explore. It is hard to believe you are so close to the busy city life. Grab a bite to eat at the cafe and enjoy one of the most beautiful spots in Melbourne. Mamma loves to grab some yummy food and venture into the kitchen garden for a picnic among the herbs, veggies and chickens. There are all kinds of events that happen here throughout the year too so keep an eye on their events page.
Mamma's special mention: Paris to Province would have to be the BEST foodie festival and it is happening here in November/December - don't miss it.
The National Trust of Victoria gardens will again be transformed into a slice of France for you to you explore while discovering French food and boutique beverage offerings, Christmas marketplace, masterclasses, seminars & cultural elements in a vibrant, lively village atmosphere bursting with tradition and colour.
Friday 29 NOVEMBER from 12pm to 9pm
Saturday 30 NOVEMBER from 10am to 9pm
Sunday 1 DECEMBER from 10am to 9pm
the nitty gritty
Monday to Saturday
9am to 5pm
(kitchen closes at 3pm)
Sunday 10am to 5pm (kitchen closes at 4pm)
wanna know more? click here
Cnr Williams Rd & Lechlade Ave
South Yarra
glace, windsor
Ice-cream filled macarons!! ENOUGH SAID!
Just when you think nothing can compare to a good macaron - in comes Christy Tania (from MasterChef fame) who recently opened an incredibly delectable frozen dessert shop, that sells.. wait for it...ICE-CREAM FILLED MACARONS!
Two of this Mamma's favourite things combined, it's like stepping into sweet-tooth heaven!
Not only are these the best macarons this mamma has ever tasted, but they also sell unique individual ice-cream flavours like; lychee rosewater and raspberry sorbet, sticky date pudding with salted butterscotch, and lamington - to name just a few!
There is also the incredible, MasterChef inspired - frozen s'mores dessert that comes on a stick and looks AMAZING!! Plus frozen eclairs and different specials every week.
The shop itself - both inside and out- is bright neon yellow, set up to look like a 'yellow submarine'. Inside is filled with equipment like pressure guages, pipes, lifesaver rings, and air-lock doorhandles.
Mamma will most definitely be back to get some more frozen macarons- and try some different flavoured ice cream!
Mamma's special mention
After you get your sweet fix, why not burn off some sugar at the fabulous Catani Gardens not far away!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday - Sunday
Coffee from 7.30am
Full range from 10am - Late
wanna know more?
Click here
commonfolk coffee, mornington
Behind this metal roller-door lays a hidden gem; a coffee lover's paradise!
In a suburban industrial street, hidden behind a metal roller-door - is the most funky, arty haven this Mamma has ever seen!
Once you walk in the door you are surrounded by fairy lights, bright decor, hessian sacks, working artists, and an intoxicating aroma of roasting coffee beans.
This cafe doesn't just sell coffee - it roasts it own!
There are also artist rooms available to hire and then sell the art made. They have little viewing windows where cafe patrons can see all the love that goes into making the creations.
It is great for kids, too! The spacious outdoor courtyard has a garden and watering cans scattered around where kids can help water the plants.
Great food and even better coffee - Mamma says you've gotta try this one!
Mamma's special mention
Grab a coffee for the road and head around the corner to The Messy Shed for some more arty fun!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday to Friday
6.30am to 5pm
Saturday- 8am to 5pm
Sunday- 9am to 5pm
wanna know more?
click here
the oakleigh doughnut co, oakleigh
These doughnuts are NO ordinary doughnuts!
In the words of a well known and highly respected food critic, 'mmmmm, doughnuts..'
And these doughnuts are unlike the rest!
Formed around the owners Greek heritage, you will find such delicacies as; the bakladough, galakdough (mamma's favourite!), doughloumba - and other wonderful flavours like, red velvet, strawberry cheesecake and nutella ion!
There's also spectacular coffee - which makes for the perfect accompaniment.
Whilst there may be plenty of doughnut shops around, there aren't many that have the originality of these wonderful creations. The two brother's who own this little shop are most definitely on to a winner here!
Mamma's special mention
Why not get some to take away and enjoy a picnic at the wonderful Booran Reserve not too far away?
carousel, albert park
Location, location. location!!
Mamma cannot believe the views that surround this awesome cafe!
Location, location. location!!
Mamma cannot believe the views that surround this awesome cafe!
Whether you are sitting inside or out on the deck, you will have astounding city views and the sprawling shimmering lake in front of you.
Extremely kid-friendly, especially outdoors - as the little ones can watch the swans and ducks swim from the deck - or wonder on down to the water's edge and run around on the grass.
Amazing food and coffee, friendly, attentive staff - mixed with the gorgeous views - makes this the perfect lazy lunch spot!
Mamma's special mention
If you come on a Saturday, make sure you check out the Gasworks Farmer's Market.
22 Aughtie Dr
Albert Park
daniel's donuts, springvale
Who can resist a decadent, delicious donut? Not this Mamma!
Who can resist a decadent, delicious donut? Not this Mamma!
Whether you love the traditional cinnamon or hot jam donut, or like something more fancy like a peanut butter and jelly, salted caramel and pod encrusted- or my favourite - nutella and kit-kat; this place knows their way around donuts! They are delicious.
What's even better than a shop with over 20 unique flavours to try? It NEVER closes!! That's right, it is open 24/7. Perfect for those late night cravings!
Oh yeah, there is also a bakery part - serving delicious sausage rolls, pies etc.. but who is Mamma kidding - it's all about the DONUT!
Mamma's special mention:
Why not work off some donut and take the kids to the amazing Crocs indoor playcentre not far away?
6-7/819 Princes Hwy
Springvale
rickett's point beachside cafe, beaumaris
Delicious food, friendly staff and an unbeatable location makes this cafe a winner!
This is a local favourite. No matter the weather, you will always find this cosy cafe full of happy customers.
During the Winter weather you can sit by the gas log fire, enjoy a warm drink and watch the rain come across the bay.
In Summer, you can walk 50 metres from the water to bask in the warmth on the outside deck, enjoy an ice cold refreshment and watch the kids make sandcastles nearby.
The scenery is just beautiful here (as is the coffee!) and this Mamma often finds herself using the cafe as her 'office'.
Delicious food, friendly staff and an unbeatable location makes this cafe a winner!
Mamma's special mention
Keep the fun rolling and head up the road to the awesome Black Rock Foreshore playground!
243 Beach Rd
Beaumaris
cool bean kitchen, moorabbin
Hungry?? Check out these deliciously decadent burgers and shakes, a little bit extravagant yet not over the top! They're totally cool beans!
Hungry for something deliciously decadent? You cannot go past the burgers and shakes from this amazing burger bar!
They come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. If you want a simple delicious beef burger on a brioche bun? Easy! A vegetarian pumpkin burger? Simple! Or are you up for a challenge and want to attempt the cool bean challenge? Go for it!
Then there are the shakes. Oh my beans they are something! They come in kids or gorilla sizes. Decorated with all sorts of sweet delights, yet not too over the top that your body goes into diabetic warning-mode!
The kids haven't been forgotten with their own menu options like dinosaur nuggets and mini burgers. Plus they have colouring books and pencils and a fooseball table.
Next time you get a burger craving - check this place out!
Mamma's special mention: Keep the fun alive by having an adventure at WildBuggy which is around the corner!
the nitty gritty
Closed Mondays
Tuesday and Wednesday
11am - 8pm
Thursday - Saturday
11am - 9pm
Sunday
11am-8pm
sandbar beach cafe, middle park
When Mamma can sit and have a cuppa, a bite, listen to the waves and watch the kidlets run around on a beach - Mamma is HAPPY.
When Mamma can sit and have a cuppa, a bite, listen to the waves and watch the kidlets run around on a beach - Mamma is HAPPY. The super spot is ideal on a sunny day be it summer OR winter. Bring along the buckets and spades and enjoy what they have on offer on their seasonal menu. The are lots of sandwiches, cakes and a small kids menu, the staff are friendly and it is hard to take the smile of anyone face dining here. The location is absolutely incredible!
Mamma's special mention: still got energy to burn? You have to head over to Albert Park Lake
the nitty gritty
Monday - Friday
8am TO 4.30pm
Saturday and Sunday
8am TO 5pm
closed all public holidays
wanna know more? click here
175B Beaconsfield Parade
Middle Park
cowderoys dairy, st kilda
A cool cafe with an old milk bar vibe nestled in amongst the trees in the quiet part of St Kilda and plonked right next to a park and playground.
Cowderoy's Dairy has been many a mums and bubs favourite for many years, and regularly visited by Mamma before she was a mamma! A cool cafe with an old milk bar vibe nestled in amongst the trees in the quiet part of St Kilda and plonked right next to a park and playground. Great food and coffee, a cute outdoor area where you can still be near the kids if they're off at the park or take your goodies to go and sit on one of the park benches.
Mamma's special mention: If you want even more adventure play head to nearby Plum Garland Playground for some beachside action.
the nitty gritty
Monday - Friday
7am-3pm
Saturday- Sunday
7.30am-3.30pm
Free parking - kids menu - nearby playground -outdoor seating - take away
ginger fox, beaumaris
Craving something sweet? Check out the cake window at this place!
Craving something sweet?
Check out the cake window at this place!
Such a variety of flavours to choose from!
There's decadent choc-hazelnut expresso cakes topped with honeycomb - and traditional favourites like carrot cake and brownies.
Not to mention the delicious savoury items like their speciality burgers. The little ones have their own 'Little Fox' menu items to choose from. As well as miniature cupcakes and sweet items.
To keep little hands busy, they supply pencils (adorably kept in little teapots) and colouring pictures.
With plenty of space, both indoors and outside, it is easy to see how this is a local (and not-so-local) favourite!
Mamma's special mention: after indulging, why not have a play down the road at the awesome Playdays?
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday to Saturday
7.00am - 5.00pm
Sunday
7.00am - 4.00pm
wanna know more?
Click here
coffee train cafe, seaford
This is one cafe that EVERYONE can enjoy - even your dog can have breakfast!
Where else can you have a dog's breakfast? Like, literally - A. Dogs. Breakfast?
Yep, this is what happens once a month at this terrific dog - and kid-friendly cafe. Bring your dog and treat him to free samples!
With a shaded, spacious courtyard - perfect for prams to fit and puppies to frolic; an inside kids corner complete with train tracks, light up oven, tea set, books and more - it's perfect to keep all the kids (canine and human) entertained through every season.
This cafe is very cute, with its train theme running throughout. Each table is named as a train station, there are local artwork and old photographs of local train stations and trains spread throughout; as well as a bookshelf full of books based on local attraction.
Delicious food and coffee, served by wonderfully friendly staff.
Mamma's special mention: located close to Kananook Creek Walking Trail, mamma suggests a walking adventure before or after your visit?
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday
7am - 4pm
Tueday - CLOSED
Wed- Fri
7am - 4pm
saturday and sunday
8am - 4pm
