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5 Best Kids Friendly Cafes in Melbourne

By 10 August, 2021October 1st, 2021Travel Australia, Victoria

So you’re planning to visit a kids friendly cafe? Well, you’ve landed in the right place. Discover the best cafe for kids (and adults) in and around Melbourne.

Let’s be realistic as a parent it’s probable your social life has become a little less favoured, which is why it’s crucial to include your children in days out.

Consequently, these eateries are the perfect middle-ground for children and parents. Be sure to meet with other parents or family friends to enjoy an afternoon while the children entertain themselves.

Finally, all of these cafes offer vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options for dietary inclusivity.

Read more: 20 Fun Things to Do in Melbourne With Kids

Things to Consider When Visiting a Family Friendly Cafe

While visiting a cafe for kids, there are a few things to consider, and preparation is key to ensure the day runs smoothly.

To start, be aware that these cafes are likely to get busy, and staff may be overwhelmed. Therefore, expect wait times and ensure you have plenty of time to spare.

Also, it may seem obvious, but these environments are not the best for any work-related tasks. While visiting, enjoy being in the moment and allowing yourself to relax.

Keep in mind children may want to continue playing instead of sitting down to their meal. However, this is an excellent opportunity for kids to socialise and gain some social skills.

Finally, encourage good behaviour with a delicious treat at the end of their play session. They’re sure to not muck up if they’re aware of receiving something nice at the end.

The Best Kids Friendly Cafes in Melbourne

The Farm Cafe

With an evergrowing list of kids friendly cafes to visit, it isn’t hard to find a lovely place for lunch with family and friends. Moreover, for one of the most popular and fantastic cafes for kids, be sure to stop in at ‘The Farm Cafe’ in Abbotsford.

The delightful venue offers an outdoor eatery which is perfect for a beautiful Autumn or Spring afternoon. Not to mention, they are open every day and are located near the Collingwood Children’s Farm.

Sit down to a classic dish of modern Australian cuisine and tuck into the warming, comfort meals. Also, the majority of the food on your plate comes from local produce.

Finally, the exceptional presentation and lovely rustic setting are enjoyable for both children and adults. And, the venue is also a popular wedding destination!

Address: The Farm Cafe, Children’s Farm, Main Yarra Trail Collingwood, 18 St Heliers St, Abbotsford VIC 3067

melbourne kids cafe

Happy as Larry

Drop into the Happy as Larry Cafe in Mentone, which is open daily for a nutritious lunch or breakfast. Moreover, this child friendly cafe is the perfect spot for brunch after a morning stroll along the beach.

Select from the list of baked goods and hearty meals made from fresh ingredients. This cafeteria is a local favourite for fresh coffee and warming homemade meals.

Finally, this cafe for kids provides a sheltered play area for children’s entertainment. Be sure to catch up with a friend or get some work sorted while the kids play.

Address: Happy as Larry Cafe, 106 Charman Rd, Mentone VIC 3194

kids friendly cafe

Foodrinkery

Enter into the bright and welcoming interior of the Foodrinkery in Burwood. Also, choose from the indoor or outdoor dining options, both of which have benefits for children.

Moreover, this kids friendly cafe has a playground next to the outdoor terrace space, so parents can watch their children play. Otherwise, if you choose to sit inside, there are many toys for children’s play.

Finally, this cafe for kids is open daily with tasty breakfast options and yummy choices for kids.

Address: Foodrinkery, 22 Banksia St, Burwood VIC 3125

Ten One Ate

Fulfil your child’s sugar cravings with a crazy shake. These enormous drinks are sure to have your child eagerly waiting for them to arrive. Besides, it’ll be fantastic to watch your kids face light up as they receive this enticing drink.

Meanwhile, as your child works their way through the biggest milkshake they’ll ever tackle, be sure to enjoy a cocktail or wine with your lunch.

There is an extensive range of food and drinks on the menu including lots of options for vegan and vegetarian requirements. Finally, this is a fantastic location to meet with family or friends for a delightful lunch.

Parents: You have been warned, your children will want to revisit this cafeteria!

Address: Ten One Ate, 1018 Mt Alexander Rd, Essendon VIC 3040

cafe for kids

Cowderoys Dairy

Cowderoy’s Dairy is the best cafe for kids, with a reserve and playground right next door. Additionally, borrow or bring a picnic rug to enjoy your coffee in the sunshine while the children amuse themselves with the recreational space.

This old-fashioned milk bar also provides well-presented food and is easily accessible with plenty of parking close by. Not to mention, there is heaps of space available for prams.

Lastly, this family friendly cafe has numerous options for kids that they are sure to devour. And delectable choices for adults to consume. Finally, check the weekly specials on the menu board for a delicious bargain.

Address: Cowderoys Dairy, 14 Cowderoy St, St Kilda West VIC 3182

kids friendly cafe

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, most cafes or restaurants have kid-friendly options, except they might not have the correct atmosphere for children. Nonetheless, there are plenty of places suitable for little ones who will feel like a sanctuary was made just for them.

Be sure to visit one of the locations in the list above to support small and family-run businesses. There’s no doubt the service and experience will be exceptional. Besides, your children will let you know if they’d like to return.

Finally, visit these cafes for kids during weekdays, weekends or school holidays and meet with family or school friends. These are perfect opportunities for children to gain social skills.

Which cafe will you take your kids to? And, which one do you think will be their favourite?

Read more: 40 Free Things to Do in Melbourne
Read more: 10 Best Places to Visit in Victoria in 2021

For more options, use this website to discover more kids friendly cafe options.