Yabba dabba

Tucked away in the quiet streets of Dalkeith sits a local favourite, Yabba (fantastic company) Dabba (fantastic eating) cafe and kitchen. Yabba Dabba is located along Dalkieth’s very own cafe strip, Waratah Avenue. It is a great cafe to visit be it just for coffee and cake, breakfast, lunch or to enjoy their famous wood-fire pizza. There are plenty of seating both inside and outside and spacious enough for big groups and prams as well.

Yabba Dabba

Wood fire pizzas

We were there one afternoon after the park (sunset heritage precinct) and really enjoyed our relaxed afternoon tea there. As it was a pretty hot day, I ordered a chocolate milkshake and it was simply awesome! We also shared a raspberry white chocolate muffin which was perfectly warmed up. The little one enjoyed his babycino as usual.

Chocolate milkshake and Raspberry white chocolate muffin

Kids are very well catered for at yabba dabba. They have an extensive kiddies menu with a dessert section as well. Kids can also help themselves to some kids colouring, activity books, story books and also games for the older ones such as connect 4 etc.

“kids corner”

Busy with his search and find colouring activity

So grab some yabba and get your dabba on! When you’re there don’t forget to check out the new nature playscape, Sunset Heritage Precinct as well.

Yabba Dabba Cafe Kitchen

99 Waratah Avenue, Dalkeith

Mon – Cafe only (7am – 12pm)
Tues – Sun (7am – Late)

Accepts bookings.

The orange box – Leighton beach

The Orange Box is the latest edition to hit Leighton Beach. It is located right next to Fremantle surf life saving club and you wouldn’t miss its bright orange building, which kinda resembles a huge orange shipping container. It is a casual cafe kiosk which serves all day breakfast and lunch, coffee, cakes and ice cream. The little nippers are not forgotten as they have quite an extensive kids menu.

Menu for the little nippers

There are seats outside, or you can take a picnic mat and sit on the huge grass patch just adjacent to it while the kids run amok. The beach is also a stones throw away. On the side, there are also deck chairs provided for your comfort and you can set them up anywhere you want. There are also a couple of swing chairs to relax in, think coffee, book and sea breeze, Bliss.

Big field just right next to it

deck chairs under the big umbrella

chairs and swings

We went there for morning tea and had coffee and a carrot cake. The little one saw ice cream and had to have one and boy it sure was a generous scoop at 10am in the morning! No fear as he burnt it all off running in the field.

Coffee and cake

Il Gelato

Gelato

Pack a mat, bring a footy or a good book the next time you’re in the area and give Orange Box a go.

The Orange Box at Leighton

Leighton Beach (next to Freo surf life saving club and Bib and Tucker)

Mon – Sun: 6.30am – 4.00pm

Crown Metropol Perth Hotel

It was the little one’s birthday and since we didn’t throw him a party this year, we thought we’ll surprise him with a last minute staycation at Crown Metropol Perth. We literally booked it in the morning and 2 hrs later boom! we’re at the hotel ready to check in. C has always been yearning longingly to go into the pool whenever we dine at Nobu or Bistro Guillaume. Finally the day has come and he’s over the moon!

We got to the hotel just before 12pm and despite the last minute booking, to our surprise our room was ready before check-in time and we were also given an upgrade! This is one big birthday surprise indeed! Checking in was a breeze and C was also presented with a kids activity pack. We got to our room and waited for our suitcase to be brought up. The room was equipped with 2 double beds and a luxurious deep soaking tub with a separate shower room. The room and bathroom is separated by a screen so you can still watch over the kids playing in the tub whilst relaxing in the room, or soak in the tub and watch tv! Our room was facing the wonderful picturesque swan river and the grand pool. Luggage was delivered promptly and we got changed into our bathers, ready to hit the pools. No time to waste.

Kids activity pack that C got at check in

2 double beds, deep soaking tub

And now the highlight of the hotel. The pool! Its massive!! It has various sections, cabanas, lounge chairs deck chairs, umbrellas. There are also different pool depth to cater to everyones’ needs. There are also water slides, an outdoor heated spa and a water feature playground thing with water spray spouts and dumping buckets. We could literally stay here all day!

The pool

After an hour or so at the pool, we were getting hungry but at the same time not wanting to get out of the pool We decided to have pool-side dining, something we’ve never done before! We went up to the poolside bar and grill and ordered up a pizza and a kids fish and chips. The waitstaff then said ‘Don’t worry, go back and relax and we will being the food out to you when its ready’, ahhh music to my ears! C thinks its such a treat eating right by the pool! There’s also complimentary icy cold water by the bar.

Poolside bar and grill

Pizza and kids fish and chips

After an afternoon in the pool, we heading back to the room to shower and relax before dinner. C was enjoying the tub while the hubs was enjoying Foxtel sports. Just before dinner, we went to check out the kids playroom, located near the pool. It is very well equipped with a mini cubby house with a slide, foosball table, chalk board, books, lego, puzzles, games, a pretend kitchen and lots more.

Kids playroom

We went to C’s favourite restaurant, Nobu for dinner. Service and food was faultless as usual. With full bellies, we were more than happy to just head back up to the room and relax.

We were given a late check out the next day so off to the pool we went again! What an amazing time we had at Crown. Definitely be coming back again no doubt! Check out their website for regular deals and specials. Join Crown direct and get 15% off the best rate! A great place for a family staycation.

Crown Metropol Perth

 Great Eastern Hwy, Burswood

 

Kinder gym at Bounce inc, Cannington

“I had so much fun!”. Those were the exact words said when the little one’s KinderGym class finished at BOUNCEinc today. We got to attend a KinderGym class today held at the indoor trampoline park, BOUNCEinc in Cannington. BOUNCEinc is an indoor trampoline park, filled with more than 100 interconnected trampolines. Here, you’re in your own element where you can free-style jump, slam dunk, do gravity defying aerial jumps, bounce off the walls (literally), a great all rounder work-out the whole family can enjoy. They offer birthday party deals as well.

A recent program that they run for kids is called KinderGym. The 1hr specialised program, designed by Gymnastics Australia is aimed at kids aged 3-5 years old. It incorporates both fun as well as the many health benefits of trampolining. The class conducted in a safe and multi sensory environment and structured to allow kids to develop socially, physically, emotionally and cognitively.

After checking-in, C was presented with a wrist band and special grippy non-slip socks enabling for maximum bouncing fun. Kids were gathered together before the class with their instructor and general safety rules were read out before anyone is allow into the arena.

BOUNCEinc, Cannington

Grip socks

When the kids are with their coach, they start of with some free-style jumps just to warm up, followed by group warm-up and other activities. They also get to do different obstacle courses, and more trampolining in the different arenas.

Parents and carers can view the entire class from above, right next to the ‘tuck shop’ where you can grab coffee, tea, drinks, snacks, sandwiches and ice cream. Plenty of after jump treats as well. Toilets are easily accessible with baby change facilities available too.

KinderGym classes:
WA venues: Classes start Monday 17th October (you can still join for current term or check website for next term’s dates)

Term Price: $140 for a 10-week term, includes:

• 1 weekly 60min class
• Annual membership with the state gymnastics association
• BOUNCE silicon wristband for the child
• 5 free coffee card for mum or dad

It is a great class for kids and it sure tires them out.

BOUNCEinc, Cannington

1371 Albany Highway, Cannington

Mon – Fri: 10am – 9pm
Sat: 9am – 9pm
Sun: 9am – 7pm

Nic and kolo

Love it when theres a new cafe that is scootable from home! Nic & Kolo in applecross took over formerly Jacs in June and have revamped the place and it is now looking very bright and airy. A much needed addition to Applecross village. We took the opportunity to try it out one fine sunny morning. Nic & Kolo is located towards the applecross end of Ardross street.

Nic & Kolo, 45 Ardross Street

Plenty of outdoor seatings

Bright clean crisp interior

Their menu is extensive and even has a special kids menu. Its always good to know that the little ones are well catered for. We decided on the buttermilk pancakes with slab bacon and the nut and seed cracker with avocado and poached eggs. Both were heavenly. Do also check out their website for meal specials such as $17 chargrilled rump steak and fries (wednesdays from 2.30pm) and also $15 Angus burger and beer (Thurs from 2.30pm).

Kids menu included

BUTTERMILK PANCAKES, SLAB BACON, CARAMEL CRÈME, VIOLA

NUT AND SEED CRACKER, AVOCADO, SHAVED BEETROOT, POACHED EGGS (GF)

When we were there they were having an opening special, free cupcakes from Marguerite Cakes, We had the matcha black sesame and salted caramel and they were simply to die for! They sell them on the weekends so do look out for them, flavours changes weekly.

After our yummy breakfast, we continued our scooting journey to applecross foreshore, which is only a 5 minutes walk from the cafe. The little one had great fun running around the field and watched some fishermen fishing off the jetty. We finished our lovely morning with a play at the playground. Twas a lovely morning indeed.

Nic & Kolo

45 Ardross Street, Applecross

Sun – Tue: 7am – 4.30pm
Wed – Sat: 7am – 10pm

Frisch and Barć

Frisch and Barć opened its doors a couple of months ago and its proven to be a big hit. We managed to pay them a visit for breakfast one day before heading to the zoo. It is conveniently located along canning highway in Como, South Perth. Easily identified by their iconic ‘fly’ logo.

When we got there, there were a couple of people before us waiting for a table. A lady came up and promptly took our names down and we waited outside till our table was ready, which wasn’t that long after all.

Orders are taken at the counter. While I was lining up, these gluten free cakes caught my eyes and boy do they look good, especially the one with the syringe filled with salted caramel goodness (from the gluten free table).

All parents will probably recognise where their table number picture comes from, good talking point with the kids. We ordered out usual coffees but instead of a babycino for the little one this time, we ordered the hot chocolate with toasted marshmallow on the side. It was heavenly. Skip the babycino this time and treat your little munchkin to this.

Hot chocolate with toasted marshmello.

Little one’s scrambled eggs on toast.

Their signature Brioche french toast. Coconut and pandan custard, berry and apple compote with crushed pistachio.

Apple and pear bircher muesli with yoghurt, toasted coconut flesh, freeze dried lychees and mix berry compote.

Our meal was very satisfying. Service was very friendly and accommodating. We will definitely be back and this time I’ve got my eyes set on the Singapore chilli crab omelette.

Frisch and Barć

297 Canning Highway, South Perth

Tues – Sun: 7am – 3.30pm

Closed monday

Health Freak Cafe Applecross

New cafe with a playroom?? YES PLEASE!! And even more wonderful when its within walking/scooting distance from home. You might have seen Health Freak Cafe opening up NOR in the last few months and now it has entered the south side, in Applecross. Their slogan is “everything gluten and sugar free”, so what you get is wholesome fresh food. Their menu includes an extensive range of “Raw, Gluten-free, Vegetarian, Vegan, High Protein, Low Carb  food– there is something for everyone”. And they also do a special little freaks menu too.

Health freak cafe

Upon entering, the little one made a bee line for the kids corner and it is one of the most well-set up one i’ve seen! A huge chalk board, colouring, games, books, puzzles and even games for the older kids. They also have a little table and chairs for the kids to have their own little gathering too. There are tables near the kids corner so you can keep an eye on the little ones and still have an enjoyable meal. They have plenty of seats both on the inside and outside too.

kids corner

little freak kids menu

I decided on the Paleo stuffed kale egg white omelette and coconut water whist the husband had the Cocowhip and fresh fruit jar and a mean and green smoothie. The little one had scrambled eggs on toast. We had a wonderful breakfast there and heaps of fun with the hungry hippo game. Thank you so much heath freak for the amazing service too.

PALEO STUFFED KALE EGG WHITE OMELETTE …. $18.20
Egg whites stuffed with kale, roasted capsicum, mushroom, tomato, chives, topped with capsicum puree and fresh coriander

scrambled eggs on toast

COCOWHIP AND FRESH FRUIT JAR …. $14.95 Layered with veganola and topped with fresh mint MEAN AND GREEN …..$8.00 Apple, cucumber, celery, kale, lemon, ginger

They also offer a huge range of raw organics cakes. slices and protein balls. Heard the peanut butter slice is amazing.

There is so much to try at health freak cafe and another visit will be on the cards very soon. Already eyeing off the matcha tea nutella protein pancakes. And how awesome does their lunch menu sound too? Their food is healthy, fresh and they certainly do not compromise on taste. A must-try! Do look out for their other branches and also more of their locations opening up. Am very extremely excited for their King’s park branch.

Health Freak Cafe, Applecross

Shop 5, 787b Canning Highway, Applecross

Mon – Tues: 7.00am – 3.00pm

Wed – Sat: 7.00am – 9.00pm

Sun: 7.30am – 4.00pm

High chair: Yes

Change facility: No

 

 

Perth Night Noodle Market

Perth Night Noodle Market 2016 is currently on and its taking place at the brand new Elizabeth Quay. We took advantage one cool evening to venture on down and see what all the hype was about, and also to sample that much talked about watermelon cake hailing all the way from Sydney. We decided to park the car at south perth and take the ferry across, which stops right smack bang at Elizabeth Quay itself. After you disembark, just look for the cloud of food-smoke and there you’ll find the Perth Night Noodle Market. Check out my top tips (end of the post) to help you plan your visit.

Ferrying into Elizabeth Quay

Elizabeth Quay

Entrance (bags will be checked)

With a whole selection of all sorts of cuisine from both local, inter-state and international food being represented, we were indeed spoilt for choice! From Bao Stop, Hoy Pinoy, Roti road, N2 extreme gelato to Black Star pastry, there sure is something for everyone. Check out the amazing list of menu here.

The event is fully licenced and NO BYO alcohol is permitted. Bags are check upon entry. Once we entered, we could smell meat being char-grilled and oh boy it smelt amazing! With mouths watering, we queued up at Hoy Pinoy and got ourselves some chicken skewers. Although the queue seemed extremely long, it was fast moving. Rows and rows of skewers char-grilling constantly ensuring that everyone is well-fed.

Charcoal flames arising from Hoy Pinoy

Chicken/pork belly skewers. 2 for $13.

Next, seeing the line for N2 extreme gelato and Black Star pastry was rather short, I seized the opportunity to grab the watermelon cake. I ain’t leaving till i try it and it did not disappoint. We also grabbed the ferrero gelato and cake smash gelato from N2 extreme gelato. Lip smackingly good.

N2 extreme gelato and Black Star Pastry

Ferrero Gelato $9

some Liquid Nitrogen molecular gastronomy action happening

Black Star Watermelon cake $9

Next stop Bao Stop. Couldn’t decide on the trifecta (trio of traditional taiwanese buns stuffed with pork belly, peking duck and fried chicken) or the peking duck fries. Ah well, we grabbed them all. So so good.

Trifecta $20

Peking Fries $15 (and yes thats hoisin sauce. Yum!)

The little one spotted some BBQ chicken wings from Roti Road that he fell in love with in Singapore and we got some for him. The charcoal aroma just reminded me of home.

BBQ chicken Wings 3 for $12

Armed with all our goodies, we then proceeded outside and sat on the benches (or grass) to fully savour our meal. It was such a amazing experience.

As the sun was setting, we got treated to some lion dance as well. Just like Chinese New Year!

Lion Dance

The night noodle market is on from the 30/3/16-10/4/16.

Top Tips:

1. Park at south perth and catch the ferry (2 sections). You might be able to spot some dolphins.
2. Bring cash. Most (if not all) stalls do not take eftpos or credit cards.
3. Bring a mat so you can sit outside on the grass as tables inside the market itself gets pretty packed.
4. Don’t get put off by the long queues. They do move pretty quickly,
5. If you can, grab the watermelon cake in a take away box first whilst everyone is lining up for mains. That way you can enjoy it after your dinner without the need to re-queue again.
6. Pack your own water, especially for the kids. I’ve noticed not many stalls sell water.
7. No BYO.
8. Pack a jacket or cardigan as it cools down quite early.
9. Head down early, enjoy yourself and soak in the atmosphere,

Perth Night Noodle Market

Elizabeth Quay

Free Entry

Mon-Wed: 5-9pm
Thurs-Fri: 5-10pm
Sat: 4pm-10pm
Sun: 4pm-9pm

City of Perth Library

Perth city has a new library and it is an architectural stunner. Located next to the newly restored Cathedral square precinct, sits the circular building which is the new perth library. We went to check it out during the long weekend while we had a day out in the city and the little one can’t get enough of it and has already planned his next visit.

City of Perth Library

This multi level library has a entire level dedicated just for kids, with the tree of life sitting right in the middle of it. There are books for older kids on one side and books for younger kids on the other. All kids can come to middle to lounge on the beanbags and read amongst the ‘animals’ with natural sunlight beaming in. There are toilets and also baby facilities such as change table on this level.

Level 4: Children’s Level

Tree of Life

Shelf height perfect for kids to choose and return their own books

There is also a Wii U station.

Wii U

The library runs both baby rhyme time (0-2yrs old) on thursdays from 10.30am -11.00am. This session includes stories and songs catered specially to babies and younger toddlers. For kids aged 2-5 yrs old, there is story time which happens on a tuesday from 10.30am – 11.30am. This includes stories, songs and finishing with a craft session. Both lots of fun and its the perfect way to introduce babies and kids to the wonderful world of books. Both story time and rhyme time are held on level 4, around the tree of life.

The library also features levels dedicated to young adults, a history centre, an outdoor terrace, wi-fi throughout, multi function room etc. For more info visit their website.

spiral staircase

outdoor terrace overlooking the beautiful swan river

ceiling mural

At the entrance, there is the information counter where you can sign up for free membership to enjoy all the library has to offer. You can also sign up via the online registration website and collect your card in person when you get there. There is also a cafe within the library opening very soon.

Proposed cafe opening soon.

Next time you come to the city, pack some morning tea or lunch and sit on the beautiful lawn just outside the library.

” The more that you read, the more things you’ll know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go “. Dr Suess.

Perth City Library

573 Hay Street, Perth

Monday to Friday: 8.00am – 6.00pm.
Saturday: 10.00am – 4.00pm.
Sunday: 12.00pm – 4.00pm.

 

Jersey Jack Gelato

Finally a gelato joint south of the river! Como welcomed Jersey Jack Gelato just last month and it has since been a hit amongst the locals and not so locals alike. It sits along Preston Street in Como, complete with street art and all, it has now fast becoming the ‘it’ place to be. Jersey Jack originated from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Jersey Jack Gelato

Jersey Jack Gelato features ample seating inside as well as avouch area. Head out the back you can find a cozy court yard area (the secret garden), which is lighted up at night too.

The vast range of gelato flavours includes the usual suspects like chocolate strawberry vanilla yada yada but they also do lots of asian inspired flavours such a durian, lychee, matcha and my personal favourite, the black sesame. Other very interesting special flavours that they do includes Vanilla pear and caramelised fig, sweet and sour green apple and calamansi gelato with candied plum and a MA18+ baileys. Their gelato flavours are ever changing so keep in the loop by visiting their Facebook page. Not up for ice-cream? They also do cakes, macarons, coffee and tea too.

They open mid afternoon (weekdays) and mornings on the weekends to late, perfect for an after school pick up treat or an after dinner treat.

Jersey Jack Gelato

22 Preston Street, Como

Tues-Thurs: 3.00pm – 9.00pm

Fri-Sun: 10.00am – 10.00pm

Highchair: No

Change facilities: No