eats in melbourne's north
If you are looking breakfast, lunch, ice-cream or you just love a good cuppa there are lots of fabulous places for you to choose from. Mamma's eats is a selection of our favourite family and kid friendly cafes and eateries in Melbourne’s North handpicked to give you some inspiration, making it super easy to uncover something new for you and the crew to enjoy.
We love bringing you kid friendly places to eat, great pubs for the family and every now and then, a great place for the Mammas to catch up. Browse though our collection or search below for your suburb or fave spot!
Attention! Attention! Mamma has found another Banh Mi delight but this time they come that little bit longer!
Gaffney’s bakery is the perfect spot to stop and have a feed in Heathcote. It has a huge range of bakery classics, such as pies, pastries, fresh sandwiches, cakes, slices, biscuits and more! And even has a play space for the kids!
Shiraz Republic is one of the great family friendly wineries in the North! This absolute gem is open Friday-Monday and serves up delicious pizzas, flavourful wines and cold beers, all made on site!
Within the tree line streets of Moonee Ponds the most darling cafe can be found. Darling St Espresso is serving up fresh and delicious food in a welcoming and cosy space. Mamma’s little ones love coming here and be greeted with their own menu, that includes a colouring page, pencils and a special kids sized cutlery set and cup.
Mamma’s…..we have a good one! Play cafes are some of the best places in the world according to this Mamma. Switch and Sip has an enclosed play area including a cubby house with lots of imaginary play items- kitchen, cooking, even a coffee machine!
Black Vice Cafe is hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Hurstbridge! It has super high ceilings and a rustic charm, with ample space for prams, high chairs and up to groups of 12.
Shillinglaw Café is the kind of spot that feels like a home away from home, where the vibe is cozy and welcoming. It’s tucked away in a serene corner, but this charming café is a special spot when the sun is shining! It has a HUGE outdoor area at the back, shaded by a stunning tree.
Fornoria is the latest food destination to hit La Manna Direct Supermarket in Essendon Fields.
Katin in Carlton is the home to Indonesian cuisine and the famous ‘dirty sponge’ cake.
Well, Anglers Tavern have pulled out ALL the stops when creating an amazing space for family dining. This newly refurbished gem has a new lease on life and with its prime spot near the Maribyrnong River, this is going to be a favourite for many, many years to come.
Bam Bam's in Reservoir is your favourite family-friendly burger joint with all the trimmings. The menu includes loaded fries, burgers of all kinds and macaroni and cheese - plus they even have a kids menu. Bam Bam's is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner.
Mamma and the crew love a pub meal and Republic Tavern in Epping is no exception.
Mamma LOVES some Hecho en Mexico! How can you not love the tasty food, large colourful space.
Have you ever tried a Japanese taco? Tacoya in Brunswick East has you sorted.
Joan the cafe, tucked away in a quiet part of Brunswick East, is known for its delicious, straightforward meals, including fluffy scrambled eggs with mushrooms and chili jam. The staff is incredibly friendly and accommodating, making everyone feel welcome, even the fussiest eaters. Using fresh, local ingredients, Joan’s Café serves up a cozy dining experience that feels like home.
Gold Leaf Chinese Restaurant in Preston provides an authentic yum cha experience with a variety of traditional dishes served from trolleys. Located near the Preston Market, it's celebrated for its delicious cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, promising memorable visits for families and food lovers alike.
Restaurants with kids play areas are really such treasures. Slices in Keilor is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner AND has not one, but TWO play areas for the kids - how convenient can you get?!
Pascoe Vale's buzzing with a new spot for families—acai bowls and frozen yogurt galore! Mamma opted for creamy frozen yogurt with fresh strawberries, while the fam dove into acai bowls topped with bananas and Nutella drizzle. It's the perfect mix of healthy choices and indulgent treats, making it a must-visit for those seeking both flavor and fun.
Brunetti Classico has opened their latest store in Coburg North, Brunetti’s Classico Boutique. Designed like a jewelry store for easy selection of Italian-style drinks, celebration cakes, Danish pastries, and savory bites. It's ideal for quick snacks or drinks to go, with limited seating available. Additionally, they offer a click and collect service and a custom cake consultation for personalised cakes for weddings and birthdays.
Explore Sacca's Fine Food in Coburg North for affordable produce, delicious pastries, gelato, and a family-friendly atmosphere with a nearby playground.
The Rocket Society in Brunswick East is serving up Lebanese mezzes and snack from ‘sunrise to sundown’.
Discover Ocab Bakery, tucked away in Moonee Ponds, offering mouth-watering sweet and savory treats, from croissants to custom cakes, in a cozy setting with plans for expansion, promising delightful flavors and a charming dining experience.
Embark on a flavor-filled adventure at Brunswick's newest Fluffy Torpedo, where quirky flavors and vibrant decor await for an unforgettable culinary experience!
Head to Lamanna Supermarket for tasty bites at their café before or after your shopping spree! From favorite crispy chicken wraps to culinary adventures.
It’s the little convenience store that serves delicious treats, good coffee and fresh bread.
Sunbury’s new local, The Court Coffee Bar, is such a great space for your little ones… Mamma can’t wait to come back!
Wowee Mammas, the Ball Court Hotel in Sunbury is back after a HUGE renovation and we are OBSESSED!
Two Franks in Coburg is the neighbourhood cafe cross general store that you have been looking for.
The latest in unique sangas has hit Thornbury. Juju’s Deli is bringing a focaccia vibe to the tasty sanga.
What was a traditional corner-block milk bar for decades now is the coolest Emil’s Cafe!
Sammich in Greensborough is delivering epic toasties which everyone will love!
It isn’t only in the Summer-time you deserve ice-cream. Ice cream is for ANYTIME!
A little hidden Korean gem in Preston that you will want to check out.
Caffe Vista is the perfect spot for good food, great views and time with family and friends.
Matched with cold beer on tap, a kitchen busting out hot pub-grub and enough room for all of our mates, the Panton Hill Hotel is a perfect country style pub.
Check out Pascoe Vales South’s NEWEST restaurant Bar Tobala for authentic Mexican cuisine.
Now, this place is a nortside institution and if you know, you know. Danny’s Burgers has been around longer than Mamma and that’s a fair while.
There is nothing quite like an ice cold beer, a slice of pizza and a place for the kids to play after they’ve spent some time in the car. Anvil Brewing Co hits the perfect spot at their family friendly brewery and restaurant in Mansfield.
If you're a fan of delicious country-style baking, then the Provender Bakehouse is a must-visit. This popular bakery in Yea is well-known for its mouth-watering range of pies, cakes, pastries, and specialty breads.
Mansfield Coffee Merchant, the quality-focused café and roaster in Victoria's North-East, is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers. With an all-day menu, it's the perfect place to savour delicious treats and satisfy your cravings.
Mamma loves exploring country bakeries on road trips. Buck's Country Bakehouse in Yarack is a standout with a delicious range of freshly baked goods.
Flinch Coffee & Play is the PERFECT spot where you can enjoy a scrumptious meal while having a blast with the family.
Welcome to The Lab - not just any ordinary dessert lab this place is the NEW flagstaff addition to the delicious Pidapipo Gelati!
BAM Cornerstore really hits the spot - whether you’re looking for something to eat, drink, or a quick pit stop for some local grocery goods for you and the kids. BAM (stands for Bread And Milk) is a family owned business that has really reinvented the corner store concept.
Johnny, Vince, and Sam's Ristorante in Carlton is a one-of-a-kind restaurant that takes you back in time.
We all know that Mamma and her crew love searching out an excellent-tasting burger joint in the north, and we have found another one. Located in Coburg North, Burgrill is serving up some delicious mouth-watering burgers.
Wonder Pies is the home of wonder(ful) pies. They have moved their warehouse and opened a flagship store here at Coburg North. There’s nothing like a bangin’ hot pie! Especially here, where fillings including cauliflower and leek, steak and mushroom, tandoori chicken, sausage rolls, Cornish pasties and vegan lentil shepherd’s pie make it hard to choose.
That’s Amore Cheese - Deli, and Cafe has everything you need for breakfast, lunch, a picnic or a big family event. Located in Thomastown this cheesery is part of the Whittlesea Council precinct.
The Dairy Queen, a popular cafe in Glenroy's central area, is known for its scrumptious breakfast and lunch choices that are sure to leave you wanting more. The cafe is situated in the Hume Council Precinct, making it a favoured spot for Melbourne locals and families.
Small Axe Kitchen in Brunswick brings a warm space with all the dining thrills that Mamma loves.
Jackson Dodds Cafe is your easy-vibe Preston brunch spot. Across from the local Maternal Health Centre, this cafe is often a mother’s group coffee hub.
A1 Bakery and Grocery is the heart of Brunswick and once you step foot inside, you will know why.
You feel at home when dining at Poppy Cafe and Pantry! This Pascoe Vale Cafe is a favourite among the locals and for a good reason.
30+ flavours of delicious popcorn made onsite at Pop Lab Popcorn in Fairfield.
The NEW refurbished Heide Kitchen is simply delicious and located perfectly amongst two of Mamma’s favourite places.
Want to enjoy a cuppa and a little treat away from all the noise and hustle? Then Craftwork Roasting in Eltham is your spot.
If there’s a cafe in Greensborough that ticks all of Mamma’s boxes, it’s Mable Jones.
Stones Throw cafe is a bright, green-filled cafe with lots of space for kids and prams.
Floyds Deli is the hippest new addition to the Warrandyte cafe scene that all the locals are talking about. This cosy plant filled haven does seriously good coffee, has the MOST delicious deli style lunch options, and buttery sweet treats that'll keep you coming back for more.
A drive-through chicken charcoal serves some deliciousness. Yes, please!
Baketico by Wonder Pies is receiving acclaim for its delectable pastries, captivating customers even before they enter the shop.
The north is home to some of the most delicious falafels you'll ever taste. Have you been to Just Falafs in Fitzroy North?
It is said that during the 1840's, Pretty Sally lived in Wallan. But as is the case with most bush legends, details about her life are sketchy.
A relaxed food hall with a range of eateries, arcade games, beer garden and indoor tables. Think of wandering down a little Japanese laneway - soba noodle bar on the right, lanterns hanging outside a private dining space to the left, comic book graphics on the walls and retro arcade games in the corner. It’s fun for kids and adults alike!
A relaxed food hall with a range of eateries, arcade games, beer garden and indoor tables. Think of wandering down a little Japanese laneway - soba noodle bar on the right, lanterns hanging outside a private dining space to the left, comic book graphics on the walls and retro arcade games in the corner. It’s fun for kids and adults alike!
Mamma and the kids love ice cream, and Happy Eats Gelato is one of our fave spots. There is loads of choice here between the gelato and sorbet and you can get it in a cup, cone, waffle cone or mixed into a shake. Delicious!
With the Union Square popup park, the footpath of The Vale is a great place for family friendly dining - adults can enjoy some cocktails and everyone can enjoy seriously fine food.
This tiny little bar is what dreams are made of! Featuring an entire wall with every flavour of cordial from the famous Billson’s Brewery - you can order cordials, sodas, milkshakes and even spiders at this Soda Bar in Beechworth.
This cordial factory is super impressive. Established in 1865, the brewery is one of Australia’s oldest and has recently been lovingly restored and revitalised into this thriving tourist destination - and top notch beverage producers. Drop in for a meal, a tour, buy your sodas OR taste the entire range of traditional cordials at the tasting bar.
Mamma has got stars in her eyes for this place! The Star Hotel is THE place to be in the sweetest of all towns - Yackandandah. The American style BBQ menu is delicious and full of flavour. A must when visiting Victoria's High Country and Beechworth area.
If you want to learn about any small Australian town - head to the local watering hole. In Stanley, the entire heart of this tiny village is the Stanley Pub. This establishment which was first opened in 1854, has had a resurgence in recent years under the guidance of new ownership and it has made its mark with the locals as well the visitors to Victoria’s High Country.
You can’t really say you have done Beechworth until you have been to Beechworth Bakery. This place has been an institution since 1984 and you just HAVE to try a pastry, or a pie, a snot block, a bee sting AND a meringue.
It's probably the smallest, cosiest pizza restraurant you'll find in the north but boy, it's delicious!
NEW ice cream joint Fluffy Torpedo will send you straight into outer space with their out-of-this-world flavours! Chocolate and Vanilla are the only ‘normal’ ice cream flavours on the menu here. Flavours include orange and poppyseed cake batter; blue Powerade; Vegemite and white chocolate; marshmallow, grape Aeroplane jelly and pink salt; and chocolate mud cake and chocolate milk ice cream. I mean, c’mon - as if you don’t want to go to here right now!!
What a glorious place! Imagine a huge garden centre with two cafes and foodstore, gift shop and wellness centre - all in the one fabulous location. Well, you don’t need to imagine it, you can just go to Rivers of Yarrambat!
This is a family friendly, cosy cafe. The menu has a South American influence and includes some Latin favourites like guacamole, tamales, empanadas and pupusas. There are also Latin spins on regular cafe fare like a chicken burger. A kids menu has some fine options for little tummies, too.
Park St really is the holy grail of family dining! It has everything you could need for a perfect family meal experience, a wonderful cafe overlooking a gated playground!
Two chefs, some chooks and some damn good food - that’s their tag line and there you have it, Brother Hen. Mamma first came here 5 years ago and recently came back for a revisit. It’s still the great family friendly cafe we love!
Brewdog has opened in Pentridge and will soon become your local weekend fun with the family.
Our favourite fish n’ chip place has just multiplied and this time they are in Preston!
Croissant? Nah, Mamma says you should try CroiXssant - a new pastry bakery with LOADS of UNIQUE croissant flavours.
This great local brewpub in Preston is super spacious and family friendly. It’s exactly the place you’ll want to spend a sunny afternoon with family and friends.
Tancks Corner is Mamma's kind of cafe. Not only do they have great coffee, delicious food, and the most friendly staff, they also have a wonderful little retail space full of super lovely homewares and gifts.
Local Folk is so pretty, there are tables nestled under a gorgeous shady tree outdoors this is a great option to sit - or if you want to keep the kids contained you can pull up a chair inside. Mamma says there is even a cute mezzanine with a chalk board, mini table and chairs with pencils for the kids too.
If you’re looking for a little scenic drive, a delicious meal, some great wine and a picturesque view, Shaws Road Winery is the place for you!
This Wine Bar, Cafe & Beer Garden in Eltham is HUGE and it has one of the best KIDS PLAY AREAS Mamma has ever seen! Now open for breakfast on the weekends too!
Delicious food and community vibe that will have you back for more!
Oh what a lovely spot for a stroll through a gorgeous nursery before a delicious brunch or lunch while the kids play happily!
These waffles are exactly the fresh, crispy, golden treat you are looking for!
Lebanese food franchise El Jannah Charcoal Chicken has opened it’s first Melbourne location since its establishment in 1998, in which time its chicken has developed a legendary status. The new diner AND drive-thru location in Preston is huge, with indoor and terrace seating available.
Northern Perk is the home of the Breakfast Tower, a multi-level pillar of savoury and sweet breakfast delights - that you can purchase per head - including eggs, bacon, toast, tomatoes, mushrooms, Halloumi, hash browns, salad, sausages, dips, goats cheese, olives, pancakes, ice cream and fairy floss! If you’re really hungry this is the place to go!
The Eastern Bloc is one of those feel-good, family-run cafes that is perfect to bring the little ones to.
We really love a spacious, family friendly brewery and you’ll be hard pressed finding one with a view as tranquil as this.
We love a family meal here or to pop past for a take away coffee and pie - we’ve even ordered crowd-pleasing catering from them for small events.
Oh My Goodness! The magical creature that is a cruller is about to send you out of this WORLD.
So we love a coffee-slash-cookie date. We love heading to the park. We love all kinds of fun transport. Mamma is proud to present you with ALL THREE!
We can’t let a family friendly brewery go by without stopping in for a visit. Golden Hills Brewery is a brilliant spot to take the kids for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
This 160+ year old pub has just been given a truly lovely makeover and it’s the perfect family-friendly spot for a meal - it’s cosy and just a little bit fancy!
Old Man Drew is arguably the MOST beautiful kid friendly cafe courtyard in the North…possibly even in Melbourne!
Rusty’s Sandwich Parlour began serving up their fresh, delicious, sandwiches and great coffee late last year. We love a place that keeps the focus on simplicity and great quality!
Farm Vigano is a hidden treasure and one of our favourite spots to celebrate!
It’s a treat to even look at the food here, let alone to eat it! And being a floral cafe, you can expect to find flowers in every single dish.
Moon Dog World... what can mamma say?! Other than that her new favourite summer hang out has arrived!
Beer, beer and more moreish BEER! This vast warehouse has been converted into a pretty cool beer hall and dining space and Mamma loves it!
No, you don’t need to enter Urbnsurf to eat at this AMAZING restaurant. YES, you need to come here specifically to experience this AMAZING restaurant!
We love a family meal at an old country style pub and this 165 year old hotel is particularly gorgeous.
Well this has got to be one of the best playground/cafe set ups Mamma can think of!
Wow - this is some seriously good gelato! Fellow Northside Mum, Lilly Stuckings - formerly ‘Papa’- is head gelato maker at this awesome Gelato Papa store in Fairfield.
Blueberry lovers unite! Did you know there is a whole farm dedicated to this delightful fruit? You can taste blueberry wine, blueberry jam and even blueberry ice cream!
Taco Truck Tres has been kicking around Northside lately, serving up their delicious tacos and burritos for lunch and dinner.
These guys have wasted no time during lockdown. Not only are they offering delivery, they now also have a cool drive up window in their carpark! You can even order and pay online and then swoop over to collect your meal.
Beautiful, creative gelato as well as cannoli, custom cakes and ‘design your own’ milkshakes in a cute shop in Brunswick!
Great coffee, delicious food and a kids’ corner! The perfect spot for a family meal out in Gisborne.
A socially, environmentally and KID friendly cafe that Mamma is totally digging!
Mamma is so excited to add this modern, family friendly authentic, Vietnamese eatery and bar to her Sydney Road favourites!
Ruby’s Cafe is such a perfect spot for breakfast, brunch or lunch with kids in tow! It’s spacious and bright and there is a large courtyard out the back with toys and a SANDPIT!!
Mamma can’t think of much of a better set up for an alfresco meal out with friends and kids than Major Tom’s!
Mamma remembers this great, unique cafe venue from childhood visits with her Grandma! Now it’s Kissaten - a bright and spacious, kid friendly, Australian/Japanese restaurant mixing classic brunch staples with Japanese flavours.
Mamma loves kid-friendly cafes so much and Field Black is a particularly gorgeous one!
Mamma thinks this is the best kind of bar that the day-time has to offer! A coffee and cake bar!!
Roomy and drenched in natural light, the vibe is cool and relaxed. This is a great spot to meet for coffee, brunch or lunch, with enough space for accommodating prams and larger groups.
Sit inside or out the front, and the kids can play in the fenced off area which also has a chalk board and some other fun play equipment.
Flovie in Carlton is a mix of Mamma’s favourite things. Beautiful food and drink and a stunning display of gorgeous flowers.
The Cosmopolitan Hotel sits proudly on the corner on the main strip and you will be drawn to it’s original pub facade and the scent of wood fire. Inside is exactly what you want - cozy and rustic, with a warm fire place to create the perfect atmosphere.
Belissima! This glorious Italian foodie mecca has been around since 2003 and is a well known icon to those in the know.
Mamma says that if you can drive past Bourkies without stopping for a bite then you must be crazy! This iconic bakery has been serving up the best meat pies, sausage rolls, vanilla slices and more for 30 years!
This place is hidden amongst some of the beauties of melbourne’s north and Mamma learnt why.
Next time you head to Collingwood Children's Farm, save your back from carrying all the snacks and grab some tucker from The Farm Cafe. This beautiful cafe is half in and half out of the farm, servicing the visitors from the stairway or diners can access from the Main Yarra Trail bike path.
This is a real treat folks! A country escape paradise! Built in 1861 from local Bluestone the homestead is glorious. And now the outdoor area is full of bikes, toys a sandpit and cubby house!
Demazzi specialise in burgers and have ridiculously delicious desserts....oh that Nutella burger!
The warm fire, the fantastic musician strumming next to the table, and one (or, maybe two) tasty red wines!
Green Park really is the holy grail of family dining! It has everything you could need for a perfect eating out experience.
With stacks of room for little ones to move around and play in the spacious gardens and peaceful views of the Yarra River from the Tearoom, there is a place for everyone to explore.
All Are Welcome in Northcote are bringing folk in with their simplicity and freshly baked goods.
Takeaway Pizza in Preston is bringing back the local pizza shop with new, fresh and interesting flavours.
This cafe is not only funky, bright and full of fresh tasty food, but they also love kids.
Mamma heard about this place and could not wait any longer to try it. Drum roll please - Piccolina has arrived in Collingwood and is melting hearts.
The Post Office Hotel is a Northside classic and a place that’s sure to make everyone happy
Ohh Mamma loves a little country town cafe, especially when it's everything cute and full of little hidden pockets.
Miinot Gelato ain't your regular ice cream shop. Mamma says you may find yourself visiting here regularly.
And just like that Pascoe Vale has a new resident and it's got families coming from all over the place.
Want an experience the kids will never forget? How about lunch 5 storeys up in an old train?
Time to start your day with a coffee and a little joy, Jerry Joy to be precise.
Clayton & Me is the new buzzing breakfast/brunch spot in Reservoir - Check them out
Bean Counter has a laid back, unhurried, welcoming vibe, which is perfect for any Mamma and her long awaited coffee date.
Follow Mamma down the rabbit hole for a delightful brunch with the ones you love!
This little place in located in the heart of Preston or should say this place 'IS' the heart of Preston.
Northcote has a NEW 'go to, MUST visit' brunch spot - Tinker!
et in early, this place is buzzing!
It's the second largest beer garden and ONLY permanent bar and food truck stop in Melbourne. With a huge indoor and outdoor area, Welcome to Thornbury is perfect for the WHOLE family ALL year round!
Spinach and feta pastries, traditional zaatar, vegetarian pizza with spices.... Yum! Yum! Yum!
Lady Melvilles is a good value family friendly option for some more-ish food.
Quaint, colourful and absolutely delicious. Mexican food is a mamma fave and this place serves up traditional, authentic and flavoursome food.
Mamma loves Mama Bear. It is as simple as that. Mamma loves the service, Mamma loves the pictures on the cappuccinos, Mamma loves the food, Mamma loves the decor and art on the building. Mamma is in love.
The staff are friendly and accommodating for families and there are games, pencils and colouring books to entertain the little ones.