dainton brewery taphouse, carrum downs
Mamma loves finding a local gem that the whole family can enjoy - and Daintons Brewery in Carrum Downs is exactly that!
Mamma loves finding a local gem that the whole family can enjoy - and Dainton Brewery Taphouse in Carrum Downs is exactly that!
The vibe here is very laid back and welcoming to families, there’s even a little playground in the courtyard with a cubbyhouse, stepping blocks and some toys!
Seating covers all weather options - there’s the heated under cover marquee (next to the playground), a more open courtyard for those balmy nights, and plenty of indoor seating too.
The beer is what you come for, and you will not be disappointed! Mamma suggests getting the tasting paddle, which you can tailer to your individual preferences - so you can sample more of their extensive range.
The menu is your standard brewery faves - pizzas, burgers and salads, whilst the kids have their own menu of nuggets, burgers and pizza as well.
It’s a great spot for a relaxed family meal - oh and there’s plenty of take-home beers to choose from, so once you have finished sampling you can take home your favourite!
Head to the taphouse on the weekend and you will find a jumping castle and lawn games to entertain the kids (between 12pm and 4pm) while you enjoy a tipple and some food!
the nitty gritty
560 Frankston - Dandenong Rd, Carrum Downs, 3201
OPEN
Wednesday 4pm - 10pm
Thursday - Saturday
12pm - 10pm
Sunday
12pm - 8.30pm
wanna know more? CLICK HERE
Mamma's special mention:
Whilst you’re in the area, complement your beer tasting with some chocolate tasting at Chocolate Grove
wombat cafe, dromana
Located directly opposite a bushy reserve, offering views of beautiful trees and a sound track of kookaburras laughter, it’s the perfect accompaniment to fresh, colourful and delicious vegan food and smoothies.
This gorgeous, bright cafe is one to add to your books! Located directly opposite a bushy reserve, offering views of beautiful trees and a sound track of kookaburras laughter, it’s the perfect accompaniment to fresh, colourful and delicious vegan food and smoothies.
The menu offers a range of food from breakfast faves like smashed avo on sourdough and granola - through to meals like banh mi and burgers. Kids have their own menu with pancakes and nutella on sourdough to name a few.
There’s also an extensive smoothie list - so grab one to go and head across to the reserve to soak in the beauty of the bush!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
7 days
8am - 4pm
wanna know more? CLICK HERE
Mamma's special mention:
Head across the road to have a scoot at the awesome Dromana Pump Track
doppiozero pizzeria, moorooduc
Friendly staff, great vibes and yummy food make this the perfect spot for your next family dinner
Nestled amongst the trees beside the highway, lies this gorgeous family-friendly pizzeria.
You can sit outside in the undercover decking, with cushion seats and candelabras, if you’re lucky you may hear the laughter of nearby kookaburras! Or sit inside in the relaxed, cosy atmosphere, near the fireplace perhaps, and let the kids colour while you sip on a local wine.
There’s a great range of delicious Italian food on offer from woodfired pizzas, hand-made pastas, seafood and steak! Kids have their own menu as well.
Friendly staff, great vibes and yummy food make this the perfect spot for your next family dinner!
the nitty gritty
475 Moorooduc Hwy, Moorooduc 3933
OPEN
Monday - Saturday 5pm - 10pm
Sunday
12pm - 10pm
wanna know more? CLICK HERE
Mamma's special mention:
Have a pre-dinner play at Mt Eliza regional playground across the road!
burger bae, sandringham
This burger shop serves up burgers of all sizes. Whether you're craving a classic cheeseburger or something a little more adventurous, like a waffle burger - they've got you covered.
If you're looking for a burger joint with beachy vibes and delicious food, then look no further than Burger Bae in Sandringham.
This dedicated burger shop serves up burgers of all sizes. Whether you're craving a classic cheeseburger or something a little more adventurous, like a waffle burger - or perhaps a bunless lettuce burger - they've got you covered.
Oh and if you love fries you'll be in heaven with these options - crinkle cut fries with the perfect seasoning, sweet potato fries that are perfectly crispy on the outside and soft and sweet on the inside - or potato tots; accompanied by a big range of dipping sauces.
And for the little ones, Burger Bae has a menu just for them. From mini burgers and potato tots or curly fries, there's plenty to keep them happy; including delicious dessert shakes like cookies and cream or Nutella flavours.
The shop is small but super cute with pastel cushions and decor - or grab some to go and head across the road to the beach!
the nitty gritty
80 Station St, Sandringham, 3191
OPEN
Tuesday - Sunday
12pm - 10pm
closed Mondays
wanna know more? CLICK HERE
Mamma's special mention:
Grab a shake to go and head across the road for a play at the Beach Park Playground
blitz bar, malvern
Have you ever heard of a self-serve acai bowl experience? Well - check this out!
So you have all heard of DIY frozen yoghurt shops- BUT - have you ever heard of a self-serve acai bowl cafe? Unlikely - considering that this is the very FIRST of its kind in all of Melbourne, and we are lucky to have it right here in the SOUTH!
Mamma’s crew are massive acai bowl lovers so were super excited to hear about this pretty cool experience of getting to use the self-serve acai machine, and then top up the bowl with their favourite toppings!
You can choose from an assortment of toppings such as; fresh fruit like strawberries, mango, kiwi fruit, banana and more; then granola, chia seeds, slivered almonds, coconut flakes and house-made peanut butter and even nutella!
You can also grab a smoothie, coffee and iced-chocolate too. The kids will love getting to make their own bowl - and it’s delicious - bonus that is healthy too!
the nitty gritty
183 Glenferrie Rd, Malvern, 3144
OPEN
Monday - Friday 7.30am - 5pm
Saturday - Sunday
8am - 4pm
wanna know more? CLICK HERE
Mamma's special mention:
Grab a smoothie to go and head down to the amazing Caulfield Park that has THREE playgrounds!
penni ave distillery, rye
Did you know that there’s a VODKA DISTILLERY in the South? This Mamma did NOT, and WOW, this place is amazing!
Did you know that there’s a VODKA DISTILLERY in the South? This Mamma did NOT, and WOW, this place is amazing! It’s one of a very few dedicated vodka distilleries in Australia.
The idea for this distillery came about while owner Gen was on maternity leave and started creating vodka at home, and then along with her brother, Penni Ave was born! Here they distill the most INCREDIBLE botanical vodka, infused with native botanicals like Lemon Myrtle and Kakadu Plum; you will just love the smooth, and fruity flavours.
You can sample all the flavours with a tasting paddle, or opt for a signature cocktail. Mamma highly recommends the Kakadu Mule - it is incredible! When you discover your favourite, you can buy a bottle to take home or there’s even delicious ready-to-drink cans you take home as well. The Kakadu Plum vodka with lime, ginger and soda is spectacular!
There are rotating food trucks here, so you can grab some food to go along with your beverages, and yep - the kids, and dogs - are more than welcome, too!
There’s also a cafe area serving up amazing coffee if you come along in the morning - with heaps of room for prams it’s a great mothers group catch up space, too!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday - Wednesday 6.30am - 11.30am
Thursday 6:30am - 11:30am, 5pm - 9:30pm
Friday 6:30am - 11:30am, 5pm - 9:30pm
Saturday 7am - 9:30pm
Sunday 7am - 6:00pm
wanna know more? CLICK HERE
Mamma's special mention:
Head down the road for a play at Rye Forehsore Playground while you’re in the area!
del mar, carnegie
This great, tropical-themed cafe has a gated play area complete with all kinds of toys and ride-on cars, so you can finish you coffee in peace!
This beautiful cafe in Carnegie is super kid friendly, with lots of space inside and out, plenty of room for prams!
There’s a very tropical vibe here, with lots of island paintings, greenery and leafy plants throughout.
The best space for families is out the back, offering a gated play area complete with all kinds of toys and ride-on cars, so you can finish you coffee in peace, whilst keeping your eyes on the kids playing from the comfort of your seat!
The kids will LOVE the ice cream bar and you will love having time to enjoy your meal!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday - closed
Tuesday -Sunday 7am - 3.30pm
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mention:
Grab a coffee to go and head down the road for a play at the fantastic Packer Park!
tomboys canteen, chelsea heights
Brilliant location (close to an awesome playground) fantastic staff, great food, games and colouring books for the kids, and FANTASTIC coffee - and Mamma means FANTASTIC!
This gorgeous cafe ticks ALL the boxes!
Brilliant location (close to an awesome playground) fantastic staff, great food, games and colouring books for the kids, and FANTASTIC coffee - and Mamma means FANTASTIC!
There’s seating outside under the shade of large umbrellas - doggie friendly - as well as indoors amongst greenery and a shelf of games and books for the kids. The menu ranges from toasties to smoothie bowls and waffles in between!
Owners Emma and Georgia have really captured the community feel here, making sure every customer feels seen and leaves well fed and happy. It’s super family-friendly and whilst there’s no specific kids menu, there are plenty of options for the kids like waffles with ice-cream, smoothie bowls, croissants, toasties, kids size milkshakes and more!
Mamma can highly recommend the smoothie bowl (and the coffee!) and the kids say the waffles are the BEST!
the nitty gritty
191 Thames Promenade, Chelsea Heights 3196
OPEN
Monday - Friday 6am - 2pm
Saturday 7am - 2pm
Sunday 7.30am - 2pm
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mention:
Grab a coffee to go and head down the road for a play at the fantastic Bicentennial Park
brownstone micro brewery, doveton
Can you picture a better spot for your Friday or Saturday night than at this micro brewery offering … live music, great food, delicious craft beer and … KIDS EAT FREE?!
Can you picture a better spot for your Friday or Saturday night than at this micro brewery offering … live music, great food, delicious boutique beer and … KIDS EAT FREE?!
Yep, on Friday and Saturday nights kids eat free (with a main meal ordered), and the kids menu is YUM! Crispy, succulent chicken served with crunchy golden fries or cheesy hand-stretched pizzas to name a few.
The kids can be kept busy with one of many boardgames, puzzles, coloring sheets, and UNO, while the adults can sit back and enjoy the live music, pool table and cold award-winning craft beers.
Mamma recommends getting the tasting paddle, where you can sample 4 different styles. If you’re unsure what to choose, just ask the helpful staff and they will narrow the choice for you. They are all great - but the clear winner has to be the gold-medal winning Doveton International Pale Ale - so punchy and delicious.
This brewery has a great, laid-back vibe, and it’s the perfect spot for a family meal - that everyone will enjoy!
the nitty gritty
5/17 Doveton Ave, Doveton 3177
OPEN
Monday - Saturday 3pm - 9pm
Closed Sunday
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mention:
Make a day of it and check out the gorgeous Myuna Farm before your visit!
aspendeli, aspendale
New, fresh and super tasty is Aspendeli.
Here is a little gem smack bang in the middle of a suburban neighborhood!
New, fresh and super tasty is Aspendeli. Bringing you loaded toasties packed with flavours like Rueben- with New York style pastrami, roast chicken with pickled onions and also bagels with roast veggies and salmon.
Also on the menu are gourmet salads, fresh baguettes, and a delicious assortment of cakes and slices, with raw and gluten free options, too.
The toasties are served with a side of crisps, and the coffee is from their very own roastery and is seriously one of the very best this Mamma has ever tasted!
You can also get milkshakes and smoothies and pick up loaves of fresh bread, milk, eggs, cheese and fruit to take home. Perfection.
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday - Friday 6am - 4pm
Saturday 6.30am - 3.30pm
Sunday 7am - 3.30pm
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mention:
Grab a coffee to go and head to the train park at Albany Crescent Reserve
nature cafe bar, frankston
This is one of the prettiest cafes this Mamma has ever seen!
This is one of the prettiest cafes this Mamma has ever seen!
Full of leafy plants, vibrant paintings and an outdoor courtyard with a jungle-themed wall mural, it’s such a beautiful vibe from the moment you walk in.
Parents will love the couch area, where there’s a play kitchen, books and some toys to keep the kids busy.
The cafe serves healthy, vegan food, which is colourful and delicious; hot tip - the Acai Bowl is as tasty as it is stunning! The cold pressed juices and smoothies are divine, and there’s a diverse menu offering everything from avo on toast through to burgers, pasta, spring rolls and cocktails! The kids also have their own menu with options as ‘beef’ burgers, pancakes and smashed avo.
Mamma can’t wait to come back and try out the cocktails! Keep your eyes on their socials as they also have live music on Friday nights.
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mention:
Head across the road and have a some ten pin bowling or arcade fun at General Public.
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.
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!
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!
