langwarrin general store, langwarrin
Under the shade of some big leafy trees is the Langwarrin General Store - offering a bit of everything the locals could need!
This is such a cute little store! Under the shade of some big leafy trees is the Langwarrin General Store - offering a bit of everything the locals could need!
Sit outside under the shade of colourful umbrellas, or inside amongst the rows of gourmet produce, and enjoy a simple lunch packed with incredibly tasty sandwiches, subs and hot pastries.
You can also get smoothies, hot/cold drinks, loaded cookies, ice cream - and Mamma's crews favourite - slushies!
It's the perfect spot for breakfast or lunch with the fam or a coffee catch up with the girls, in a peaceful location and with really delicious food.
The store also sells gourmet produce as well as your necessities like bread, milk, eggs, lollies and chocolate!
And - there's a playground at the end of the street - perfect way to spend a few hours with the kids!
the nitty gritty
31 Northgateway, Langwarrin, 3910
OPEN
Monday - Friday
6am - 5pm
Saturday 6.30am - 4.30pm
Sunday 7am - 4pm
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mention:
Head to the end of the road and have a play at the Southgateway Reserve Langwarrin
apple espresso cafe, mornington
Tucked in a corner, between a nursery and produce shop, you will find this little hidden treasure.
Tucked in a corner, between a nursery and produce shop, you will find this little hidden treasure.
Boasting both a sprawling grassy area, with barrel tables under the shade of umbrellas and its own takeaway window; as well as a cute cottage-style cafe, with indoor and outdoor seating area.
The takeaway area is the perfect spot to sit and enjoy a drink or some brunch/lunch, where the kids can run around - perfect for a Mothers group catch up with plenty of room for prams. (Though there is a carpark nearby, so as always - would need to keep a close eye on the kids).
There’s a great menu offering pizzas, an extensive variety of toasted wraps/rolls, Johnny Ripe pies and a HEAP of mouth-watering desserts. You can also grab ice cream from the takeaway window and sit under the shade of a beautiful pear tree!
Oh, it is also licensed so you can sit outside and enjoy a cocktail, too! It’s a great little spot.
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mention:
Head up the road for a play at the Mt Eliza Regional Playground or go for a Heritage Train Ride!
liberty slices pizza, endeavour hills
If you are a fan of pizza, you NEED to do yourself a favour and head straight to Liberty Slices!
If you are a fan of pizza, you NEED to do yourself a favour and head straight to Liberty Slices….Mamma’s crew have tried A LOT of pizza over the years, but it would be pretty hard to top this place!
It might look like a little unassuming shop front when you walk past it, but - trust Mamma, the crisp thin dough, the amazing tomato sauce and the stretchy delicious cheese, make this just the perfect combination for an unbeatable New York style pizza! There are a few tables inside - and out the front to sit and eat in - there’s even colouring pages and pencils!
The kids say it’s the best pizza they have ever had, and Mamma is inclined to agree! We can recommend the meatlovers, pepperoni and the favourite – The Burrata Slice. This one was not on the menu – but ask for it – you will not regret it!
The chef and owner is extremely passionate about his craft, and has spent years perfecting the dough and creating its perfect consistency. He is extremely helpful and accommodating to make sure you get the perfect slice.
Mamma’s crew are super jealous of the locals that get to call this place their regular – and want to only get pizza from here in the future! It’s THAT good!
the nitty gritty
Shop 4, 51 Heatherton Road
Endeavour Hills, 3802
OPEN
Wednesday- Thursday 4pm - 10pm
Friday - Saturday 4pm – 10pm
Sunday 4pm - 9pm
Lunch sat - sun 11am -2pm
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mention:
After you’ve had the best pizza of our life - head for some racing fun at Mr Slot Car!.
sages cottage farm and cafe, baxter
A cafe - a playground - a lake AND animals? This will be your new favourite place!
Let me introduce you to one of Mamma’s all time favourite places!
Not only does this place have THE most gorgeous little cafe with a playground; it also has a small farm, gardens, lake, historic cottage, bushwalks, is set amongst stunning surroundings… and …. PIGS!
The cafe focuses on community integration by employing all ability staff from their partnership with Wallara. Staff are trained in the industrial training kitchen based at Sages Cottage, and once students have successfully competed their training, they are employed to work at the cafe to improve their social skills. Staff are also trained in horticulture and work in the gorgeous gardens- which makes this lovely place even more special.
Now, lets talk about this cafe! It's a gorgeous old wooden barn, decked out with fairy lights and flowers on all tables indoors - and outside there is a new marquee area - with picnic table seating. Here you can sit and watch your little ones play in the playground and play with some of the toys provided - like giant Connect Four and trucks etc. It is just perfect.
The menu at the moment is very simple - but very tasty, and the coffee is delicious. The staff are just gorgeous and very attentive.
After you've had your meal, take a stroll around the lake or into the gardens. Visit the little farm and say hi to the chooks, bunnies and guinea pigs. Then make sure you go to the ‘pig viewing area’ (Mamma’s favourite) and check out the gorgeous girls Edna and Ursula. There’s also goats and miniature horses near the car park, too!
Currently the cafe is only open Monday - Thursday, but by the start of March it should be operating 7 days - AND have some new play equipment!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
7 days
8am - 4pm
* the playground is currently under renovations
Plenty of room for prams - toilet facilities
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mention:
Kids wanting more play fun? Head down the road to the fully enclosed Overport Park Playground.
picoletta, frankston
Gelato and the beach - is there a better combination? Well, yes - when you throw in a smoothie, coffee or sandwich and you pretty much have everything you need!
Gelato and the beach - is there a better combination? Well, yes - when you throw in a smoothie, coffee or sandwich then you pretty much have everything you need! And that is EXACTLY what this mighty little food truck provides!
This brand new van is the newsest truck in town, or Olivers Hill boatramp, and is the combination of the fabulous Paletto’s and Mercettas.
Serving up absolutely delicious (and gluten free) gelato on a stick, coffee, cold press juices, smoothies, sandwiches and gluten/dairy/sugar free treats from Horribly Healthy.
This little boatramp is now one of the BEST places to be in summer - or any time to be honest!
the nitty gritty
Oliver’s Hill boat ramp (off nepean highway) Frankston
OPEN
7 days
12pm - sunset
coffee/ice cream/sandwich van - some seats available
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Drive down to the next carpark and have a play at the Frankston Foreshore Playground.
merricks general wine store, merricks
Nestled underneath shady trees, just opposite the walking trail and across the road from views of the stunning Merricks Beach, lies Merricks General store.
Wow, is this place PRETTY!
Nestled underneath shady trees, at the end of the red hill trail and just opposite views of the magnificent Merricks Beach, stands the hidden treasure that is - Merricks General store.
Walk into an outdoor oasis of tables under the shade of umbrellas and vine-draped canopies, flower beds and majestic trees - and order some food from the Verandah coffee window - or some wine from the little caravan bar.
You can also peruse The Traders, which is a little boutique store selling all sorts of things like plants, bags, clothes and more!
Or if you prefer, dine inside the cosy bistro - with a log wood fire, kids menu and an extensive wine list! You can also sample and purchase some wine from the Cellar Door.
This place is just heaven for a relaxing long lunch with the family, some wines with friends, or any occasion really!
the nitty gritty
3460 Frankston - Flinders Rd, Merricks, 3916
OPEN
7 days
8.30am - 5pm
Verandah Coffee window- 7am - 3pm
The Traders Store - 9am - 5pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Before/after your meal - head down the road and explore the stunning Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens!
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
