cocoa rouge chocolaterie and ice creamery, red hill
Nestled amongst the vines and trees at the back of Mont Rouge Estate in Red Hill, is this charming little family-owned chocolaterie and ice creamery
Mamma and her crew are big chocolate and ice cream fans, so finding this little hidden treasure, in our most favourite part of Melbourne, has been one of our best discoveries yet!
Nestled amongst the vines and trees at the back of Mont Rouge Estate in Red Hill, is this charming little family-owned chocolaterie and ice creamery with the most delicious hand-made chocolate and scrumptious smooth and velvety ice cream - all made in store!
You can find such delights as chocolate caramel covered hazelnuts, crisp coated honeycomb, salted caramel clusters, bon bons and SO much more. They even have little party-packs for the kids in Dinosaur, Unicorn and Star Wars themes - as well as chocolate lollipops!
Then there’s the ice cream with seriously amazing flavour - Mamma’s crew highly rates the Chocolate Hazelnut and Mango sorbet - so GOOD! You can also have a hot drink, an iced-drink or sample their premium wines made right there at the vineyard!
You can take your goodies and sit outside in the courtyard, surrounded by beautiful trees and listen to the abundant birdsong. Nature, fresh air and the aroma of chocolate - is there a better combination?
The nitty gritty
232 Red Hill Rd, Red Hill 3937
(at the back of Mont Rouge Estate)
OPEN
Monday/Tuesday: CLOSED
Wednesday - Sunday: 11am – 5pm
wanna know more? click here.
Mamma's special mention:
Red Hill is home to so much fun!
Feel like a good meal? Head to Red Gum BBQ
Feel like fruit picking? Head to Ripe n Ready Cherry Farm or Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm.
Looking for adventure? Head to Enchanted Adventure Garden.
Thirsty? Green Olive Winery is perfectly kid-friendly.
red gum bbq, red hill
Red Gum BBQ in the spectacularly stunning Red Hill, is the perfect family restaurant
Red Gum BBQ in the spectacularly stunning Red Hill, is the perfect family restaurant. BBQ meat for the meat lovers, veggie options for vegetarians, a wide range of amazing cocktails and beer - AND there’s a dedicated indoor play area - with a cubby house - to keep the kids happy! They also have pencils and colouring sheets for when you manage to get them away from the play area.
The tables here are mainly long wooden benches; the communal dining adding to the great atmosphere.
The food is AMAZING! It is ‘Aussie-smoked, American-style BBQ’, and it is simply divine.
The meat is slow-cooked in a large smoker, which fills the shed with a smokey scent.
The menu is predominantly meat-filled, however - there are still lots of options for vegetarians like; creamy mac and cheese, buffalo cauliflower, bean chilli, salads and delicious fries. The kids even have their own menu with such offerings as brisket or pulled-pork rolls and mac and cheese. Mamma’s crew can highly recommend the ribs and LOVED the mac and cheese and the little ones couldn’t get enough of their meat rolls!
Mamma says this is a MUST VISIT!
The nitty gritty
87 Arthurs Seat Road, Red Hill
OPEN
Monday/Tuesday: CLOSED
Wednesday – Thursday : 11am – 8pm
Friday – Saturday: 11am – 9pm
Sunday: 11am – 4pm
wanna know more? click here.
Mamma's special mention:
Red Hill is home to so much fun!
Feel like fruit picking? Head to Ripe n Ready Cherry Farm or Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm.
Looking for adventure? Head to Enchanted Adventure Garden.
Thirsty? Green Olive Winery is perfectly kid-friendly.
revolution roasters, somerville
Revolution Roasters in Somerville roasts the most AMAZING coffee AND it is super kid-friendly with games, colouring and even an arcade machine!
If you are after truly awesome coffee, head straight to where it is roasted! Revolution Roasters in Somerville roasts the most AMAZING coffee AND it is super kid-friendly with games, colouring and even an arcade machine!
This family-owned roastery used to only roast their delicious coffee and supply it to local cafes (like Tomboys Canteen) but now they have extended their warehouse into a cafe, so you can grab a coffee as well as some beans to take home.
The vibe here is very family-friendly; the kids will love sitting at their own table to colour, play some games like Connect 4, or play Street Fighter on the retro arcade machine - allowing parents some peace to savour their liquid gold.
Whilst they are not serving food just yet, you can enjoy a decadent pastry, donut or cookie alongside your coffee. There are different types of coffee to try as well, and all of them are INCREDIBLE. Coffee lovers - make sure you add this to your list!
wanna know more? CLICK HERE
Mamma's special mention:
Make a day of it and head to Dinosaur World for some roarsome fun!
yo-bar acai & frozen yoghurt bar, bentleigh
It’s always a good time for frozen yoghurt and acai bowls - especially ones that you can enjoy DIY style!
It’s always a good time for frozen yoghurt and acai bowls - especially ones that you can enjoy DIY style!
Mamma’s crew are big fro-yo fans, and couldn’t wait to check out Yo-Bar in Bentleigh - the newest joint in town. If you love frozen yogurt or acai bowls - you are going to want to check this one out!
Along with frozen yoghurt flavours like salted caramel, coconut, strawberry, chocolate, vanilla and vegan mango - there is also organic acai and maqui berry!
Once you have chosen your flavour, head over to the toppings bar and load up! You can opt for healthy items like fruit, coconut and seeds, or if you’re like Mamma’s crew - head straight for the sweet stuff like freckles, M&Ms, sour straps, marshmallows and more. If you feel like being really decadent you can top it off with nutella or peanut butter drizzle. Yum.
There’s plenty of seats inside or outside - or grab a bowl to go and visit a nearby park.
the nitty gritty
422 Centre Rd, Bentleigh, 3204
OPEN
7.30am - late
(check socials for more info on opening times)
wanna know more? CLICK HERE
Mamma's special mention:
Grab a bowl to go and head to Allnut Park for a play.
saltwater, phillip island
Saltwater is the first place you see as you cross the bridge into Phillip Island, so it really SHOULD be your first stop! This stunning building is perched on the water overlooking Western Port Bay so it really does have prime position!
Saltwater is the first place you see as you cross the bridge into Phillip Island, so it really SHOULD be your first stop! This stunning building is perched on the Newhaven Jetty overlooking Western Port Bay so it really does have prime position!
Inside is bright and warm as the sun streams in, with an upper mezzanine level as well as ground floor where you can spy the wood fired pizza oven. Or sit outside with the lovely bay breeze.
The food here is AMAZING, and Mamma really wanted to try it ALL. You have a choice of tapas and share menus, plus great main options, pizza AND a kids menu.
Oh, and they make their own beer and wine if you are in the mood for a glass for two!
the nitty gritty
Jetty at Beach Crescent Newhaven
OPEN
Open Thu-Sun 11:30am till Late
wanna know more? CLICK HERE
Mamma's special mention:
Phillip Island is FULL of fun!
bellevue farm gate, officer
Set amongst the apple trees you will find Bellevue Farm Gate, home of summer snow juice.
Set amongst the apple trees, with views of kangaroo-sprawled hills, you will find Bellevue Farm Gate, home of summer snow apple juice. With a wide range of apple juices to choose from, Mamma loves the pink lady sparkling juice while the kids favourite has to be the granny smith slushie!
The kids will be kept entertained with buckets of crayons, pencils and colouring books - AND - there’s even a sandpit with a digger, too!
Enjoy a pizza, toastie or other options available from the food truck and visit Little Luka, the sweetest looking on tap van for an apple cider or beer. The outdoor seating is undercover with outdoor heaters, there’s even a warm and toasty enclosed marquee - for those especially cold days - and blankets are also available.
The farm gate has a beautiful rustic feel and sells a selection of fresh produce. It’s the perfect spot to pick up something for dinner and some fresh apples for the school lunch boxes.
Its great family friendly vibe, lovely staff and yummy food and drinks make it the perfect family spot!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Sunday - Thursday
8.30am - 5.30pm
Friday and Saturday
8.30 - 7.30pm
wanna know more? CLICK HERE
Mamma's special mention:
If you’re after a playground, check out Dragon Park Playground
oscar's hangout, mordialloc
Has Mamma got the perfect hangout for you! Grassy area for kids to play, pencils to colour in - and delectable food and coffee!!
Wide open spaces, colouring in, freshly baked muffins and coffee - what more do you need? How about some delicious food as well? Well then, does Mamma have the hangout for you!
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of main street Mordialloc, this hidden gem awaits! A dedicated kids menu - I’m talking homemade chicken nuggets Mumma’s - complete with pictures to colour in and activities for the older ones, an open outdoor area to run around in plus concrete floors and plenty of room for prams and highchairs inside - it’s just perfect.
Oh, but we can’t forget the Mamma’s need to eat too! The coffee and food are fantastic with a range of freshly baked muffins each day (check out their facebook for the daily flavours), great breakfast options and even homemade pies for lunch in winter. Hot tip: Get the pork belly roll!
Throw in the friendly local owner and chef and you have yourselves a complete recipe for cafe happiness!
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mention:
Still want something sweet? Head down the road to Chiavelli Gourmet ice creamery!
the flight deck bar and grill, moorabbin airport
So at the risk of spoiling a local hidden gem - fasten your seatbelts and get ready to explore this wonderful family-friendly restaurant!
At the risk of spoiling the local secret - fasten your seatbelts and get ready to explore this wonderful family-friendly hidden gem of a restaurant!
The Flight Deck Bar and Grill is separated from the Moorabbin airport by a chain-link fence - so enough for the kids to be contained but still with an unobstructed view of small planes and helicopters landing and taking off!
As you relax in the outdoor area (also undercover with heating!), the kids can run around on the open grass, play on the toy plane, or bounce on the jumping castle - yes that’s right JUMPING CASTLE - all while taking in the sights and sounds of the operating airport right next to you.
Inside, you can opt to dine in the ‘First Class Lounge’ with a great menu offering pasta, steak, burgers and more - with a dedicated kids menu - or relax in the “Business Class” bar area with a cocktail and cake - all with floor to ceiling windows and spectacular views!
There’s a relaxed vibe here which is extremely welcoming for families and the staff are just lovely. Definitely need to get on board this one!
the nitty gritty
37 First Ave, Moorabbin Airport 3194
OPEN
Tuesday- Wednesday
11am - 5pm Thursday - Saturday
11am - 9pm
Sunday
11am - 5pm
closed Monday
wanna know more? CLICK HERE
Mamma's special mention:
Come here a bit earlier and explore the amazing Aviation Museum before your meal!
bayside social, albert park
Mamma’s of Albert Park, have you been to this awesome FAMILY FRIENDLY cafe yet?
Mamma’s of Albert Park, have you been to this awesome FAMILY FRIENDLY cafe yet?
Now when Mamma says family friendly, she doesn’t just mean a kids menu at this industrial style urban cafe. She’s talking about a welcoming space that has colouring books, pencils, games and educational tools, toys, books and even playdough! Your children can choose what they want to play with from the cute little cart and bring it back to your table to play with while you enjoy your coffee and brunch! Brilliant!
There’s plenty of room for prams, with highchairs and baby change facilities and your choice of indoor and outdoor seating (blankets too)! The views of the bay are stunning and any vehicle enthusiast children will enjoy the vast assortment of them rolling past too.
the nitty gritty
88 Beaconsfield Parade, Albert Park 3206
OPEN
Mon - Fri:
7am - 2pm
Sat - Sun:
8am - 2pm
wanna know more? CLICK HERE
Mamma's special mention:
Plum Garland Memorial Playground is directly opposite the cafe on the beach, so cross on over the road and drain those batteries!
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.
