The brains behind the brews is Evan - local barista turned coffee roaster. Now he as stepped out from behind the machine at Locavore and now into his very own roastery, at the back of the newly renovated studio. Here is where all the coffee magic happens in this beautiful space. You can purchase beans, sample the filtered coffee or just chat all things espresso.
Read MoreLocavore has become an absolute staple in the Lilydale Main Street and they have just upped the game with a brilliant new renovation with the addition of the providore and the resident coffee king - Proximal - opening their very own roastry at the back.
Read MoreBring on the beautiful weather and long lazy weekends full of friends, great food and some delicious drops! Helen’s Hill in Coldstream ticks ALL the boxes for an ideal venue for a family catch up in the Yarra Valley.
Read MoreTalk about perfect. The Healesville Hotel has had a refresh and Mamma’s favourite addition… the family friendly backyard. Plop yourself down at one of the many outdoor picnic tables under the market umbrellas and the canopy of elm trees and may yourself at home.
Read MoreThe Carriage Cafe is exactly what the name suggests - a cafe in a 100 year old carriage situated alongside the Warburton rail trail, paying great respect to the history of the area. Choose your seat in the dining carriage or sit on the balcony and watch the trail buzz on by.
Read MoreYou can’t go past a cafe with a courtyard out the back. My Little Kitchen in Healesville hits the nail on the head by catering for families. This zone at the rear is fully enclosed and in the warmer months, has some space for some chalk drawings.
Read MoreMamma might KNOW the east but it is the Storehouse who KNOWS all there is to know about coffee. After establishing themselves as cafe masters in Mt Evelyn, the Storehouse continues to spread their wings and have a dedicated Roastery and espresso bar further up into the ranges, in Olinda.
Read MoreThis Mamma knows that you need to have a great gift shop, florist and cafe in your hood. The Posie Project ticks all THREE of those boxes. Coffee, flowers, homewares and amazing service.
Read MoreIf you are on the hunt for wonderful coffee while exploring the windy roads of the Dandenong Ranges, you really can not go past a brew from Storehouse. This little shop has amazing toasties, pies and exceptional coffee.
Read MoreNothing can compare to a great Thai meal. Imm Son Thai in Lilydale has to be one of the east’s BEST. This local restaurant is only open for dinner and it is always a popular spot for diners and takeaway orders.
Read MoreYou can’t go past a pub meal when you have hungry kids in the car and a weekend adventure to complete. The Alpine Hotel in Warburton offer amazing food and great spaces to enjoy it.
Read MoreMamma LOVES the fact that you can grab your plants for your weekend project, the gift for the next kids party or Nanna’s special birthday AND grab a coffee or an entire meal, all in the one trip.
Read MoreMamma just LOVES The Trail Cafe! With kids play areas both inside and out as well as delicious food, what’s not to love?
Read MoreWhere can you grab some lunch, some fresh fruit and veg AND pick your own strawberries? Gateway Market in Coldstream.
Read MoreThe golden shivering man is keen for some company! The local eastie brewery loves a great brew and a pizza or two at the entrance to the Yarra Valley.
Read MoreStep back into the 1900’s at King Henry’s in Sassafras. This beautiful old guest house has been renovated and is now a stunning historical restaurant in the Dandenong Ranges.
Read MoreA trip to the Dandenong Ranges isn’t complete without a stop at The Kallista Tea Rooms. There’s lots of variety on the menu, whether you are popping in for a cuppa and a scone, or a delicious lunch with wine, there is something for everyone. Mamma even spotted a little play space for the kids!
Read MoreWe can’t go past a good pub meal - and seeing that the Home Hotel in Launching Place has been given a new lease of life - we had to head for a Mamma road test!
Read MoreFollow that neon sign to the NEWEST and coolest burger joint in town - Lulu’s Burgers on YARRA GLEN.
Read MoreGrant’s is the perfect place for a feed and rest after exploring Sherbrooke Forest. Sitting pretty at the edge of the forest, this cafe boasts massive windows that shower you with beautiful light and offer leafy views
Read MoreInspiring families in Melbourne's East to uncover amazing stuff nearby. You will find inside local knowledge on parks, playgrounds, cafes, family activities, markets and more all waiting to be uncovered, rediscovered and enjoyed.
