The parental cries of ‘There isn’t any café I can take my toddler to!’ is akin to the cries of said toddler, busting to be removed from their ever so boring home, in that they both end up doing their parent’s heads in.
For many years coffee has been the solution to keeping parents sane. So, when you realise your baby is a baby no longer, the daily dosage of caffeine getting you through the day tends to elevate. But, standing in the way of that well-deserved moment to yourself is that toddler. The dictionary definition should, instead, read ‘Latte, personal care and shower inhibitor!’
Off the back of Glam Adelaide’s baby friendly café guide, the cries of pain were heard and so off to work we went, searching for similar café’s and eateries in Adelaide with a source of entertainment for a child that will vehemently detest the sight of a high chair or even mum and dad’s lap whilst they attempt a social life. We’ve purposefully left out play cafés, just don’t go there!
The Coffee Barun – 219 Main North Rd, Sefton Park
The excellently central location of The Coffee Barun gives mums, from far and wide, the perfect spot to enjoy fabulous coffee and really great food whilst little hands are kept busy in the corner loaded with toys, bean bags and books. On the menu, you can find your usual café fodder; eggs benny, waffles, avo on toast as well as some kid-pleasing pizza and side plates. We also hear the bacon and egg roll is a real doozy.
Brick & Mortar Creative – 49 George St, Norwood
The small section dedicated to the kiddies has sadly been downsized in recent months, but the hip café/retail store has put aside some books, which is great if your toddler is book OBSESSED. Generally, it’s a quiet space during the week, so fingers crossed you’ll be able to enjoy their excellent speciality coffee and drool-worthy treats, as well as, do a spot of shopping at some of the local sellers’ stalls.
Patch Kitchen & Garden – 143 Mount Barker Rd, Stirling
This place appears to be heaven on Earth for a parent with a small child. It’s a bit like taking your kids to your friend’s place for the day. But, this friend has their shit together and thought of everything to entertain a child; chicken coup, cubby house, sandpit, vegetable garden, blackboards, toys, books and games. And then they make you feel really half-arsed by serving you a really great cup of coffee that you can enjoy HOT! Plus, their food is all locally and responsibly sourced and made into an extensive menu… which then reminds us, it’s an eatery and we can just sit back and enjoy the fine experience!
Croydon Train Park – 24/25 Day Terrace, Croydon
Okay, so it’s not a café, but Croydon has one of the best café strips in the Adelaide suburbs, so it would be remiss to not give this amazing area a mention; it’s just such a family friendly locale. Once you’ve become caffeinated from Queen Street Café, Red Door Bakery, La Lorientaise Creperie or Industrial Revolution take your cup (and cheeky pastry or cake!) and toddler on a short stroll over to the train park where there’re many age-appropriate play areas. The play train is perfect for the newly toddling babies with some close adult supervision.
Café Paesano – 81 O’Connell St, North Adelaide Village
Who doesn’t love Italian food? Café Paesano takes inspiration from Nonna’s recipes to create delicious meals that could never be replicated at home. The kids will be entertained in a designated kids area complete with a chalkboard and toys. The sense of belonging, warmth and the incredible smells will make them feel like they’re in their Nonna’s living room. This will keep the rascals occupied while you and your girlfriends chow down some Haloumi Fritters or a plate of Spaghetti and Meatballs worthy of Lady and the Tramp.
Soul Food Espresso – 10/414 Milne Rd, Redwood Park
Soul Food Espresso is exactly what it states – SOULFUL! With a huge colourful mural and a play area jam-packed with toys, the kids won’t want to leave. The only reason they’d be willing to take some time away from the play area would be for the kid’s menu. Whether it’s a fancy ham and salad plate or a simple Vegemite sandwich, you’re sure to find something for even the pickiest eater. On the weekends they’ve got an all you can eat buffet! Yes, you can fill your soul to the brim with soul food, and keep the little ones busy!
Espresso Royale – 357 Magill Rd, St Morris
Probably the most nutrient-packed choice on the list, Espresso Royale offer gluten free, vegan and wheat free options and their coffee, cakes and bread are all organic. With breakfast from 8am, you can go in for your morning cuppa and send the kids to get dirty in the back garden, which is complete with a veggie patch and cubby house. Or if you go in for morning tea or lunch, you and your small one can enjoy an ever-expanding lunch menu, delicious pre-made rolls or cake and biscuits (they’re locally bought so you have no reason to not devour that carb-y goodness because, hey, you’re supporting the local community). Going here is like having a coffee and snack at home, except you don’t have to cook or clean up: win-win!
A photo posted by Espresso Royale (@espressoroyaleadelaide) on
The Rezz – 20 Hamilton Terrace, Newton
Wow, this place is state-of-the-art. You can sit on one side of the cafe, and still see your kidlets … ‘How?’ We hear you wondering, well, let us tell you! The play area is monitored by security cameras, which are replayed on the TVs throughout the café. It’s like magic, sweet digital magic! When you’re not watching your little tike destroy the three secure kids’ play areas in high def, there’s an incredible view of Thorndon Park in the alfresco area. The menu is Mediterranean-inspired, so you can have a small taste adventure in the middle of the suburbs. Or, alternatively, you can have a traditionally made, wood-fired pizza (which we’re sure your kids will take hostage). Coffee, cakes and Paninis are available all day, so you’ll never have an excuse not to pop in!
We also have heard through the grapevine that the following cafes and hotels have their own playground or similar for bigger kids:
The Exeter Hotel – 152 Semaphore Rd, Exeter
Brunelli – 153 Brebner Drive, West Lakes
Bracegirdles – 190 Main Rd, McLaren Vale
Now that your cries have been heard and answered, we expect you’ll be caffeinated quickly and back to your vibrant social life in no time at all!
More News
