Adventure, baby!

brunch

An Upper West Side Standard: Isabella's, UWS, New York

Isabella's: #kidfriendly #restaurants in #nyc via brunchwithmybaby.com

Isabella’s has been our go-to restaurant of choice when we visit the American Museum of Natural History for the past two years. It’s a truly delightful combination — fuel up on really delicious food, then hit up the dinosaurs and then Central Park. We’ve been taking Missy E to Isabella’s since she was about 6 months old. Taking her as an almost 3 year old means we really get to enjoy all the kid-friendliness this restaurant has to offer.

Isabella’s is popular. It has a great reputation for a reason — it’s REALLY good. As such, you need a strategy to get a table with minimal wait on a weekend. Arriving when they open is one option, or after the first rush is over, at around midday. If you arrive after 1pm, forget it. The wait is pretty long. (Isabella’s takes reservations, but not for brunch.)

We took E to see a new dinosaur exhibition at the AMNH during the early members hours, and then to Isabella’s for late breakfast. After a short wait, we sat at our table, and were greeted by a friendly staff member bearing a “welcome pack” for our toddler. The pack contains crayons, some cool sticky stick things and a kids’ menu that doubles as a coloring page. We ordered her a Bagel with Cream Cheese ($4) and asked for one of their complimentary straw cups for kids filled with water.

I always order the same thing — the Goat Cheese Omelette with marinated tomatoes and basil ($14). It comes with home fries, which I swap out for regular fries. E loves to pick at a lot of different foods, so this way she eats a decent amount of omelette, fries and bagel. She adores cream cheese. Alec ordered the Classic Breakfast Sandwich (scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, $15). On Sundays, brunch includes a beverage of choice, so we had our bellinis included. Cheers to that!

Isabella's: #kidfriendly #restaurants in #nyc via brunchwithmybaby.com

Isabella's: #kidfriendly #restaurants in #nyc via brunchwithmybaby.com

Isabella's: #kidfriendly #restaurants in #nyc via brunchwithmybaby.com

Last Bite: Isabella’s is a hit with the whole family. Adults love the elegant atmosphere (without the snootiness) and absolutely delicious food, while kids are happy being well attended to and given new things to play with. 

Highchairs: Yes.
Stroller storage: Yes. Bring a folding stroller though, as during rush hour, you’ll struggle to find a place for anything bigger.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: Yes.

Isabella’s
359 Columbus Ave
New York
Prices: $$
Phone: (212) 724 2100
Hours: Mon-Fri 11:30am-10pm Sat & Sun 10am-11pm
Reservations
Get Directions

Brunch & Play at Cafe 2773; Glenbrook, Blue Mountains

Cafe 2773 #glenbrook #bluemountains #sydney #Australia #kidfriendly #restaurants vi brunchwithmybaby.com

A drive to the Blue Mountains makes a great city escape. On our most recent expedition, a friend recommended we break our journey this time at one of her favourite finds, Cafe 2773 in Glenbrook. The cafe is almost exactly halfway from where we were starting our journey in Sydney’s south-west, and our final destination (Katoomba), so it seemed like a good idea to try it.

Cafe 2773 #glenbrook #bluemountains #sydney #Australia #kidfriendly #restaurants vi brunchwithmybaby.com

2773 was everything I’d been promised. The cafe seemed like the type of place I would frequent in the Inner West, which was somewhat surprising to find in a tiny little town on the outskirts of the mountains. Despite it being an absolutely freezing day, the cafe was packed. Diners braved the outdoor tables, prevented from getting frost bite by a few heat lamps. We requested an indoor table because it was frigidly cold, and only had to wait about 15 or 20 minutes for one to finish up and be cleared. If the weather had been finer, the perfect place to dine with children is actually outside, at a table overlooking the playground area.

Cafe 2773 #glenbrook #bluemountains #sydney #Australia #kidfriendly #restaurants vi brunchwithmybaby.com

While we were waiting, E kept warm by running around the little play area like a maniac. A few steps past the play area lay some pens with piglets and chickens — another great entertainment device not unlike the famous Grounds in Alexandria.

Cafe 2773 #glenbrook #bluemountains #sydney #Australia #kidfriendly #restaurants vi brunchwithmybaby.com

The menu at 2773 focuses on use of local organic produce, with an extensive selection of local beer and wine. And, as a plus for parents like us who love great food, 2773 pride themselves on being a family-friendly venue for the local community to enjoy.

Cafe 2773 #glenbrook #bluemountains #sydney #Australia #kidfriendly #restaurants vi brunchwithmybaby.com

Cafe 2773 #glenbrook #bluemountains #sydney #Australia #kidfriendly #restaurants vi brunchwithmybaby.com

Cafe 2773 #glenbrook #bluemountains #sydney #Australia #kidfriendly #restaurants vi brunchwithmybaby.com

We ordered E the kids’ Egg On Toast (usually comes with bacon and sausage, $10), and a Babyccino, $1.60. After we ordered her food we realised we hadn’t even asked how it would be cooked, so asked our server when she came back for our orders. After we were informed it was usually fried and asking if she could have it scrambled instead, it was no problem to have our order changed, despite it being pretty much done.

Cafe 2773 #glenbrook #bluemountains #sydney #Australia #kidfriendly #restaurants vi brunchwithmybaby.com

E’s babyccino came with sprinkles and a freckle chocolate on the site. She was so delighted. Chocolate for breakfast!

Cafe 2773 #glenbrook #bluemountains #sydney #Australia #kidfriendly #restaurants vi brunchwithmybaby.com

Alec and I ordered Green Tea (China Jasmine) $4.00 and a Latte $3.90, and the same meal: the design your own breakfast option. Our choices were: Toast (sourdough 2 slices, $4), 2 Eggs (poached, fried or scrambled, $7), Spinach ($3), Roast Tomato ($3), Avocado ($3), Haloumi ($3).

Cafe 2773 #glenbrook #bluemountains #sydney #Australia #kidfriendly #restaurants vi brunchwithmybaby.com

Cafe 2773 #glenbrook #bluemountains #sydney #Australia #kidfriendly #restaurants vi brunchwithmybaby.com

Cafe 2773 #glenbrook #bluemountains #sydney #Australia #kidfriendly #restaurants vi brunchwithmybaby.com

Cafe 2773 #glenbrook #bluemountains #sydney #Australia #kidfriendly #restaurants vi brunchwithmybaby.com

Our food was absolutely delicious. Perfectly poached eggs, soft sourdough with crispy edges, a giant hunk of haloumi cheese. What really topped of our already fantastic experience was the staff. Our server came over multiple times just to check on how E was doing and to make sure she couldn’t bring us anything else to make our dining experience even better.

A truly wonderful breakfast, and we will make it our regular stop when driving to the mountains from now on.

Last Bite: Great food in an environment where kids can run free. 

Highchairs: Yes.
Stroller storage: Yes.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No but there is a low shelf/table in the ladies that could be used in a pinch.
Kids’ menu: Yes.

Cafe 2773
19 Ross Street,
Glenbrook, NSW
Phone: 02 4739 5908
Hours: Mon-Wed 7.30am-4.30pm, Thu, Fri & Sat-7.30am till late, Sun 7.30am-5pm

2773 Glenbrook Cafe on Urbanspoon

Best Babyccino in Sydney at Bar Contessa, Balmain

Bar Contessa #Balmain #Sydney #kidfriendly via brunchwithmybaby.com

Ever in search of cool cafes that remind us of New York, Bar Contessa “a casual cafe/restaurant which brings a unique slice of New York City cool to the streets of Balmain” sounded right up our alley. In fact, on walking through the entrance, Alec remarked, “this is just like Brooklyn”. Result!

Bar Contessa #Balmain #Sydney #kidfriendly via brunchwithmybaby.com

Bar Contessa is actually one of the longest-standing eateries on Darling St (it was established in 1992). The current owner and head chef, Marco Adoncello, took over almost 10 years ago. Since then, this family owned and operated cafe has become renowned for its American-inspired fare infused with Adoncello’s Italian heritage. Recent renovations brought a New York-feel to the cafe, with a bold, sprawling street art mural, leather booths, bare bricks and swinging bulbs.

Bar Contessa #Balmain #Sydney #kidfriendly via brunchwithmybaby.com

Adoncello sources his fresh produce from friends and family who operate a range of fruit, vegetable and butcher businesses within Sydney. Bar Contessa’s free range eggs are delivered directly from a farm on the Hawksberry River, and their breads and sweets are delivered straight from the Luxe Bakery ovens to their café at 6am every morning.

I have to admit however, that Bar Contessa came to my attention through an Instagram photo I saw of their babyccinos. The most adorable babyccinos ever. And yes, that is what we are all about these days. Something to entertain the kid, and (hopefully!) exceptional food for the adults.

Bar Contessa #Balmain #Sydney #kidfriendly via brunchwithmybaby.com

Bar Contessa #Balmain #Sydney #kidfriendly via brunchwithmybaby.com

Bar Contessa #Balmain #Sydney #kidfriendly via brunchwithmybaby.com

We were quickly seated during prime brunch hour on a Saturday, by a very friendly waitress. I couldn’t see the famed babyccino on the menu, so I asked the waitress if they had one. She confirmed that they do indeed, have the fancypants babyccino from my instagram feed, commenting that they get a lot of families dropping in particularly to try one.

Alec and I ordered the same dish, Rosa’s Breakfast Bruschetta (named after Adoncello’s wife: thick slice of toasted organic soy linseed sourdough w/smashed avocado, fresh roma tomato, basil, rocket, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic reduction & free range poached egg $16.50), and we shared a side of the Chunky Beer Battered Fries (served w/ ketchup & mayo). Bar Contessa doesn’t have a kids’ menu, but they do make dishes to order for little ones. We asked for a small scrambled egg and sourdough as it’s Miss E’s current go-to breakfast dish.

Bar Contessa #Balmain #Sydney #kidfriendly via brunchwithmybaby.com

Bar Contessa #Balmain #Sydney #kidfriendly via brunchwithmybaby.com

Bar Contessa #Balmain #Sydney #kidfriendly via brunchwithmybaby.com

Our meals were delicious. The bruschetta had the prefect mix of creamy avocado, poached egg with balsamic cutting through it. The thick fries were to die for. Piping hot, soft on the inside, with a tasty batter that barely needed sauce.

We enjoyed our meals and entire dining experience so much that Bar Contessa is sure to become one of our regular haunts.

Last bite: There’s something for everyone at this stylish, Inner West cafe.

Highchairs: No.
Stroller storage: No.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: No.

Bar Contessa
371b Darling St,
Balmain
Phone: (02) 9555 7399
Prices: $$
Hours: Daily 7:30am-3pm
Get Directions

Bar Contessa on Urbanspoon

Jack’s Wife Freda: Kid-Friendly Restaurants, SoHo, New York

Jack's Wife Freda: #kidfriendly #restaurants #soho #newyork via brunchwithmybaby.com

On what can only be called a crazy whim, we decided to brunch at Jack’s Wife Freda on an early spring morning. The wait for this restaurant is always out of control. We put our name down and went shopping during the hour and a half it took for our table to free up. The restaurant is absolutely tiny, and the tables are small and squished together. Not much room for baby stuff, so pack light and be prepared to leave the stroller outside.

What the restaurant lacks in certain kid-friendly accommodations, it makes up for in its friendly atmosphere: The staff were incredibly friendly (our server was a fellow Aussie!) and obligingly gave Missy E crayons to color in with, as well as a really cool pop out 3D elephant puzzle that entertained her for the majority of the time we were there.

Jack's Wife Freda: #kidfriendly #restaurants #soho #newyork via brunchwithmybaby.com

There is a reason people line up for hours to get in: The food is absolutely delicious. The dishes are small, so order a few sides if you’ve been waiting for a while for your table. We ordered the Soft Boiled Eggs with Soldiers ($7) for missy E, Poached Eggs with Grilled Tomato and Haloumi ($12) for the three of us in our our party, and the French Fries ($5). Perfectly cooked eggs, great bread, fragrant tomatoes. Absolutely delicious.

Jack's Wife Freda: #kidfriendly #restaurants #soho #newyork via brunchwithmybaby.com

Jack's Wife Freda: #kidfriendly #restaurants #soho #newyork via brunchwithmybaby.com

Jack's Wife Freda: #kidfriendly #restaurants #soho #newyork via brunchwithmybaby.com

Jack's Wife Freda: #kidfriendly #restaurants #soho #newyork via brunchwithmybaby.com

Last Bite: Arrive when it opens for a better chance of a shorter wait, or put your name down and enjoy shopping in Soho. Your brunch will be worth it when you finally get it!

Highchairs: No.
Stroller storage: No.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: No.

Jack’s Wife Freda
224 Lafayette St,
Manhattan, NY 10012
Phone: (212) 510 8550
Prices: $$
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-12am Sun 10am-10pm
Reservations.
Get Directions

Jack's Wife Freda on Urbanspoon

A Day Trip To The Cloisters, New York

Day trip to the Cloisters #newyork with kids via christineknight.me

During the warmer months, a perfect family day trip is just north of the city at The Cloisters.

The Cloisters museum and gardens is the branch of The Metropolitan Museum of Art devoted to medieval European art and architecture. The building and its gardens are located in Fort Tryon Park, in north Manhattan, just a hop, skip and a jump away on the A train.

The architecture and artistic works at the Cloisters are largely from the Romanesque and Gothic periods. Four reconstructed cloisters, sourced from French monasteries and abbeys, are surrounded by early medieval gardens and a series of indoor chapels and rooms.

Walking inside the Cloisters feels very much like stroll through Medieval European monastic life. This is by very intentional and clever architectural design combined with the five thousand medieval works of art on display from the Mediterranean and Europe, mostly from the 12th to 15th centuries.

A Day Trip To The #Cloisters via brunchwithmybaby.com

To get to the Cloisters, take the subway to 190th Street station at the base of Fort Tryon and walk from there. The walk to the Cloisters takes visitors through an herb and flower garden. It’s a beautiful place to wander through, especially with the Hudson River as a backdrop.

A Day Trip To The #Cloisters via brunchwithmybaby.com

The aren’t a lot of food options in the area. Your easiest options are: 1. Bring a picnic lunch; 2. Buy a pre-made sandwich or salad from the Cloisters cafe; or 3. A sit-down brunch or lunch at New Leaf Restaurant.

We chose New Leaf Restaurant & Bar. Housed in a 1930s cottage, the restaurant serves modern American cuisine. On weekends, brunch is served from 11am-3pm. We were given a table on the bright, airy patio, surrounded by trees. Tres tranquil.

While the restaurant is large, it fills quickly, and by 12:30pm it was at capacity. As New Leaf does not take reservations for brunch, get there early.

A Day Trip To The #Cloisters via brunchwithmybaby.com

The brunch menu is a pre-fixe at $19.95 for an entree, juice and tea or coffee. We ordered a croissant ($5) for missy E while we looked at the menu in more detail. Oddly, the croissant came with chutney. The croissant was absolutely delicious, while on the small side (kid-sized, one might say, except E demanded another, making it the most expensive croissants we had ever ordered). Our group ordered New Leaf Scrambled Eggs (goat cheese, scallions, roasted potatoes, field greens), the Market Omelette (tomatoes, peppers, onions and your choice of cheese, with herbed-roasted potatoes, field greens) and the Hanger Steak Sandwich (with salad and potatoes). The portions for the most part were large by New York standards, and we all struggled to finish our meals.
New Leaf Restaurant, 1 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY, Phone: (212) 568-5323

A Day Trip To The #Cloisters via brunchwithmybaby.com

A Day Trip To The #Cloisters via brunchwithmybaby.com

A Day Trip To The #Cloisters via brunchwithmybaby.com

A Day Trip To The #Cloisters via brunchwithmybaby.com

A short stroll through beautiful Fort Tryon Park takes you to The Cloisters.

A Day Trip To The #Cloisters via brunchwithmybaby.com #nyc

Cloisters, New York, USA

My favourite part of the Cloisters was the Unicorn Tapestry collection. These seven individual pieces are among the most beautiful and complex works of art from the late Middle Ages that survive today, woven from fine wool and silk with silver and gilded threads.

Cloisters, New York, USA

Spring is the best time to visit The Cloisters as the gardens are in full bloom. The famous garden you see in all the photographs is filled with bright flowers and a fountain centerpiece.

A Day Trip To The #Cloisters via brunchwithmybaby.com

The lower-level garden is home to plants one would have found in a garden in the middle ages, like herbs and vegetables. Take the time to explore the garden and the different plants on display – many of which you’ll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere.

Cloisters, New York, USA
The purpose of the plants is explained throughout the garden: medicinal (like St. John’s-Wort, Hollyhock, MarshMallow, Meadow Clary, Liquorice, Comfrey, and Feverfew), magical (such as Bear’s Foot, Ragged-Robin, English Ivy, Cornelian Cherry, and Herb Robert) or for use in the kitchen (herbs like Winter Savory, Leek, Cardoon, Samphire, Chive, Small-Leaved Basil, and Red Valerian). As it was an herb garden and all the plants had such unique scents, we got down close to the gardens and smelled the aromatic plants such as spearmint and lavender.

A Day Trip To The #Cloisters via brunchwithmybaby.com

Cloisters, New York, USA Cloisters, New York, USA Cloisters, New York, USA Cloisters, New York, USA Cloisters, New York, USA Cloisters, New York, USA

Tips for taking kids:
We timed our visit so Cheese would nap in the stroller after lunch, so we were able to see most of The Cloisters before she woke up. Which was a good thing, as the museum is not so friendly for smaller kids. Babies in carriers and older children are the ideal candidates for this cultural experience.

There are lots of tiny stairwells and no ramps or elevators. You can’t leave strollers unattended. No food/water anywhere except in the cafe (including the gardens). Within the gallery rooms, keep children close as there are lots of fragile objects around.

To get to the Cloisters, take the subway to 190th Street station at the base of Fort Tryon. Directly outside of the station entrance is the Jacob K. Javits Playground, where we let Cheese run off steam before brunch. It’s a nice playground with swings, several climbing structures for children of all ages, and also space for scooting or basketball.

A Day Trip To The #Cloisters via brunchwithmybaby.com

The Cloisters
99 Margaret Corbin Dr,
New York, NY
Hours: Daily, 10am-5:15pm
Prices: Recommended $25 per adult

Mother's Day Traditions to Inspire You

Rejoice! It is almost Mother’s Day! The Brunch With My Baby team hopes that you’ll be spoiled rotten by your family, and get to enjoy some quality time with your loved ones.

Haven’t decided on where to go yet? We asked some of our favorite blogger friends for their Mother’s Day plans to give you some last-minute ideas.

#mothersday #traditions via brunchwithmybaby.com

Kristin Strange of My Strange Family
This year I will be celebrating my 4th Mothers Day.  Every year, my Mother’s Day is divided between “me” time and “family” time. We always have a nice brunch at The Harrison restaurant in Tribeca (which we originally picked because it is my son’s name). After brunch we make our way tonearby Washington Market Park for some running-out-the-crazies and slide time. During nap-time on Mother’s Day, I usually sneak out of the house and have a nice spa afternoon at the Langham Place Spa in Midtown. It is a perfect mix of activities for a perfect day of celebrating me as a mom. (The photo is from last year at Washington Market Park, when Kristin was 8+ months pregnant!)

#mothersday #traditions via brunchwithmybaby.com

Allison Cooper of Project Motherhood

For our family, Mother’s Day (and Father’s Day!) have become days that we always spend together as a family, but the rule is that my husband and son are in charge of planning something they know I will enjoy (we do the same for Father’s Day, but with me as the planner). Last year, we spent a wonderfully sunny day at Prospect Park Zoo, which we love because it’s so intimate and friendly. We also do small gifts, which is always fun to look forward to. As my son gets older, many of the gifts become homemade treasures that I value more than anything!
An Interview with #Brianne Manz from #strollerinthecity - brunchwithmybaby.com

Brianne Manz of Stroller In The City
My absolutely favorite thing to do in NYC on Mothers Day is to go to a wonderful brunch with my family! It’s so important to me to spend the day with my 3 children and husband. This year we are actually heading to Langham Place for a fun, family-friendly sing along. I think the kids (and us parents) will have an absolute blast!
#mothersday #traditions via brunchwithmybaby.com

Jory Lieber of Teeny Tiny Foodie

For Mother’s Day, I like to go out for a nice meal with my husband and daughter and enjoy time outside if the weather permits. The restaurants we like (with the perk of outdoor seating) are Du Jour Bakery and Stone Park Cafe. However, I also like to celebrate by taking a little time for myself and getting a manicure and pedicure too! We love the JJ Byrne Playground in Park Slope for outdoor fun, and we also like to go to the Prospect Park Zoo or just for a neighborhood walk.
#mothersday #traditions from @foodballfoodandmotherhood via brunchwithmybaby.com
Stephanie Barnhart of Football Food and Motherhood
It’s become tradition for us to go to Freeport in Long Island for Mother’s Day — they have the nautical mile which is lined with outdoor ocean/seafood restaurants. You can sit outside on the harbor and have a cold beer and fresh seafood. This year however, we are opting against it since Maximo is so wild and will probably fall off the dock. Stay tuned to see how that plays out! Typically we eat at Otto’s Sea Grill or Rachel’s Waterside Grill. (Check out Stephanie and Maximo last Mother’s Day  at Freeport in the pic above!). The Freeport area was significantly damaged during 2012’s hurricane and only re-opened late last year, so the businesses would love your support!
#mothersday #traditions to inspire you via brunchwithmybaby.com
Serena Norr, Managing Editor of Momtrends and The Shopping Mama
With all of the busyness in my life, I love Mother’s Day as a time to spend time with family. Since I grew up in Bay Ridge Brooklyn, we usually go there to meet my mom and my sister for an early dinner and to visit to the local parks afterward. I also love waking up to the sweet and precious handmade cards that my girls usually make me. There is nothing better (to me) on Mother’s Day then the simplicity of shutting off, eating great food and being with my family.
If these ideas don’t inspire you, here are some of our fave restaurant and outing picks:
Lunch at DUMBO’s Superfine and something sweet from Jacques Torres
Fancy SoHo lunch at Mercer Kitchen
People-watching while dining al fresco at Isabella’s on the Upper West Side
A walk around Union Square and lunch at the Blue Water Grill
Playing in Washington Market and brunch at Sarabeth’s
A day trip to Blue Hill Farm
Touring the gardens at The Cloisters and lunch at New Leaf Restaurant
Enjoy!!!

Oregano Bakery; Kid-Friendly Cafes, South Hurstville, Sydney

Oregano Bakery - #kid-friendly #restaurants - #South Hurstville, #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com/sydney

Having seen Oregano Bakery scrolls at many cafes dotted around the Sutherland Shire and yet to taste their delicious goodness we decided to head to the source and sample some treats on a gloomy late Sunday morning. Arriving closer to lunch time the savoury menu appealed and with good cause.

The menu is succinct yet varied with plenty of options for kids and adults alike. We opted for a Cheese Pizza ($6.50) for the children, Zaatar Wrap 1 – Sonia’s Special ($9.00) and a Sujuc Pizza with Egg ($9.00) and this was plenty of food for us all.

Oregano Bakery - #kid-friendly #restaurants - #South Hurstville, #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com/sydney

Oregano Bakery - #kid-friendly #restaurants - #South Hurstville, #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com/sydney

Oregano Bakery - #kid-friendly #restaurants - #South Hurstville, #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com/sydney

Oregano Bakery is modern and very popular with the locals, with many people having familiar conversations with the staff — a good sign of repeat customers! Our intention was to stick around and enjoy a sweet end to our lunch — however Miss Isla had other plans so we opted for takeaway scrolls to eat in comfort of our warm home!

Oregano Bakery - #kid-friendly #restaurants - #South Hurstville, #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com/sydney

Last Bite: Oregano Bakery is a popular cafe, great for a sweet treat and coffee or some tasty Lebanese food in Southern Sydney with children. Easy going, relaxed with friendly service make this a great kid-friendly place to eat. 

Highchairs: Yes – only one visible.
Stroller storage: Yes.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: No. But Kids won’t starve.

Oregano Bakery
56 Connells Point Road,
South Hurstville NSW 2221
Phone: 02 9546 3666
Prices: $-$$
Hours: Tue-Sat 7:00am-4pm Sun 7:00am-12pm
Get Directions

Oregano Bakery on Urbanspoon

Burnt Orange Cafe, Mosman + Balmoral Beach, Sydney

#burntorange #mosman: #kidfriendly #restaurants #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

In my pre-baby days I used to frequent Burnt Orange for a light afternoon tea on the way to admire the view at Middle Head. Post-baby, it’s good to know that one of my old fave cafes can still be a go-to when I’m craving scones or something a little more substantial.

#burntorange #mosman: #kidfriendly #restaurants #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

The Burnt Orange cafe is housed in an historic sandstone manor overlooking Sydney Harbour. Note: the veranda stretches all around the building but only the front gets the harbour view. If you’re making a reservation, ask for a table overlooking the water, just in case.

#burntorange #mosman: #kidfriendly #restaurants #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

I have always enjoyed the food at Burnt Orange. They do simple breakfast, lunch and afternoon/morning tea exceptionally well. On this particular visit, Alec ordered the Linguini with Western Australian Blue Swimmer Crab, Confit of Cherry Tomatoes, Garlic & Red Chili ($28) and I chose the Pumpkin, Goat’s Cheese and Walnut Tart with Melissa’s Carrot Jam and Crisp Salad Greens ($22). My tart was perfection — big chunks of cheese and pumpkin, flaky pastry and crunchy walnuts. Alec’s pasta was cooked beautifully, with a generous amount of crab spread throughout. Delicious.

As for missy E, while they do have a kids’ special (a choice of Crumbed Whiting Fillets with Chips, Pasta Spirals with Fresh Tomato Sauce or Mini Organic Cheeseburger with Chips served with a Smartie Cookie and a choice of fresh Orange Juice, Strawberry or Chocolate Milk for $15), instead we asked if they could make her something with egg since that’s what she was asking for. It was no problem at all, and we very soon had an off-menu boiled egg delivered to our picky toddler.

#burntorange #mosman: #kidfriendly #restaurants #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

#burntorange #mosman: #kidfriendly #restaurants #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

#burntorange #mosman: #kidfriendly #restaurants #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

Now, you can’t stop at a cafe renowned for their treats without indulging. I was hoping for a scone, but sadly they weren’t being served till later in the afternoon. Instead I chose one of the Smartie cookies and shared it with an ecstatic missy E.

#burntorange #mosman: #kidfriendly #restaurants #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

#burntorange #mosman: #kidfriendly #restaurants #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

Inside the mansion is the Burnt Orange store. While I used to enjoy the adult section, with gorgeous clothes and home wares, this time I gravitated towards the kids’ section, loving the boutique brands and adorable toys. E was particularly taken with the kid-sized mirror pictured below. I would LOVE to go on a shopping spree here and fit out her room. The “Parisian shabby chic” feel is exactly what I would love for her bedroom, and for our home in general!

#burntorange #mosman: #kidfriendly #restaurants #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

#burntorange #mosman: #kidfriendly #restaurants #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

After our lunch we drove further down to Balmoral Beach. Balmoral has always been one of our favourite beaches because it’s simply stunning. In my opinion, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. We noticed on this trip that it is also extremely toddler-friendly — the perfect beach for toddlers, in fact, as it’s sheltered and doesn’t get many waves. The water is calm and clear, and E thought it was amazing. She ran in and out of the water, shrieking with joy. Walk along the pedestrian path to the kiosk for gelato (there’s also a playground right next to it for days when it’s not swimming weather).

#balmoral #beach #australia via brunchwithmybaby.com

Last Bite: Burnt Orange satisfies all customers looking for a delightful afternoon tea or lunch, from toddlers to their doting grandparents.

Highchairs: Yes.
Stroller storage: Yes.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: Yes.

Burnt Orange
1109 Middle Head Rd,
Mosman NSW 2088
Phone: 02 9969 1020
Prices $$$
Hours: Daily 8:30am-5:30pm
Get Directions

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Clubhouse: Kid-Friendly cafes, Rosebery, Sydney

When friends suggested we meet for breakfast at the Surf lifesaving Clubhouse in Rosebery, my first thought was, “huh?”. Rosebery isn’t known for its beaches but what awaited us at the Clubhouse was a fabulous, kid friendly surprise.

Right on busy Botany Road, the Clubhouse is hard to miss. It’s got an inviting patio with lots of sun-safe umbrellas and comfy cushioned seating. Inside, however, you get more that you expect: a well-appointed wood interior with murals representing the great surf lifesaving traditional in Australia. It’s one of those places that somehow strikes the balance between casual day eating and more sophisticated (but cozy!) night/bar eatery.

Cozy dining
Cozy dining
Inviting lounges, post breakfast
Inviting lounges, post breakfast

And then there’s the menu. I ordered the B.R.A.T (bacon, rocket, avocado, fresh tomatoes, aioli, $14) which is pretty much the best BLT-esque breakfast sandwich I’ve had in years. Lorin ordered the Smoked ham & eggs Benedict on brioche ($20) and his only comment before he proceeded to devour the dish in under five minutes was that the eggs were poached to perfection. Baby Lukas ordered some banana bread ($4) which also managed to be a knock out being surprisingly light and fluffy. Echo after echo of “yum” from Baby Lukas confirmed this assessment.

B.R.A.T, bacon, rocket, avocado, fresh tomatoes, aioli ($14)
B.R.A.T, bacon, rocket, avocado, fresh tomatoes, aioli ($14)
Smoked ham & eggs Benedict on brioche ($20)
Smoked ham & eggs Benedict on brioche ($20)
Banana Bread ($4)
Banana Bread ($4)

Another thing that blew us away was that upon arrival, Baby Lukas was given a “little nippers” goodie bag full of crayons, paper and stickers, which amused him for a good 15 minutes. Which, borrowing the concept of dog years, translates into roughly an hour in restaurant time.

Little Nippers goodie bag for kids
Little Nippers goodie bag for kids

Last bite: If you’re for a kid-friendly place for brunch and are bumping about the far Eastern suburbs, visit the Clubhouse . You and your children will leave happy.

Highchairs: Yes.
Stroller storage: Yes.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: Yes.
Kids’ menu: No, but kids won’t starve

Clubhouse 
789 Botany Rd, Rosebery NSW 2018
Phone: (02) 9669 2828
Hours: Mon-Sun 8am-late
Reservations
Get Directions

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Hospitality Establishment, Kid-Friendly Cafes, Caringbah, Sutherland Shire, NSW

On a chilly Saturday morning we had a craving for bacon and eggs without much fuss so we decided to head to Hospitality Est. in Caringbah to fulfil our needs. The spacious interior and welcoming staff are the first impressions you get when entering this kid-friendly café. Tables are well laid out, there is a play corner with books, colouring and assorted toys, plus a big comfy lounge to house plenty of children if sitting still at your table isn’t happening.

Hospitality Est. - #kid-friendly #restaurants - #Caringbah, #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com

We made sure we arrived in time for brunch, so the breakfast menu was still available and took our picks from the menu. I chose the Breakfast Panini ($10.50), Ross the Standard Bacon & Eggs ($11.50) and pleasingly Jenson was also well catered for with the ‘Little Est. Menu’ Ham & Cheese Melt ($3). This kid-friendly café has put some thought in to caring for the little ones, with a clever play on their name for the menu and all options under $6. Large coffees warmed up the adults ($4) and the signature milkshake order was not going to be missed. At $2.50 for a small size, this is the most affordable milkshake for kids I have found to date.

Hospitality Est. - #kid-friendly #restaurants - #Caringbah, #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com
Breakfast Panini ($10.50)
Hospitality Est. - #kid-friendly #restaurants - #Caringbah, #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com
Standard Bacon & Eggs ($11.50) Photo by Ross Barker
Hospitality Est. - #kid-friendly #restaurants - #Caringbah, #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com
Ham & Cheese Melt ($3.00) Photo by Ross Barker

Jenson loves reading, so he selected a book and surprisingly waited quite patiently for our food to arrive. (Although he did nearly take out the waitress running back to our table when he realised his milkshake arrived). Little things like bringing the milkshake out first are the things which really add to a kid-friendly experience.

Hospitality Est. - #kid-friendly #restaurants - #Caringbah, #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com
Patiently waiting for food, for once! Photo by Katia Barker
Hospitality Est. - #kid-friendly #restaurants - #Caringbah, #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com
The milkshake! Photo by Katia Barker

Hospitality Est. pleasantly surprised us. As soon as you enter you feel like you can relax, and turning up with a big group, or with several spirited children, would not be a problem. It can also accommodate several strollers, just what every family or parents’ group is after in a kid-friendly café!

Last Bite: Hospitality Est. serves good quality, no fuss food for breakfast and lunch in a relaxed atmosphere. Food arrives fast, which is important when dining with little people. We’ll be back soon to try out the lunch menu!

Highchairs: Yes.
Stroller storage: Yes
Easy access: Yes, although restrooms are located down a small flight of stairs
Change tables: No
Kids’ menu: Yes

The Hospitality Establishment
47 President Avenue, Caringbah, NSW, 2229
Phone: (02) 8521 7501
Price: $-$$
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm, Sat 8:30am-4pm
Get Directions

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