Reviews by MER82
Picnic is another great addition to the Venzin Group (The group behind Green Papaya, Paw Paw & Mons Sebai). Modern Australian cuisine served in a 'picnic' style. The menu is AMAZING however unfortunately we could only choose from the cabinet as the kitchen was closed. We had the lasagne and some rosewater tarts - delicious! They also do good cocktails so it's a great spot to meet for drinks.
We struggle in this area to find good local cafes, and this one is great! Small but well laid out and the Merlo coffee is divine! Perfect for a quick take-away before work (you can order outside through the window) and they also do breakfast and lunch. Food is nice, we had a little tart from the cabinet but the rest of the menu looks simple but delicious. A small husband and wife team seem to be at the helm who are both friendly and hospitable. Make sure if you're local you frequent this place - we need more places just like it and it's certainly improved this small strip of shops! We'll be back.
Approximate cost: $10
Great play centre - I went with my mothers group and despite my little one being to small to use the playground itself, I paid $3.50 for entry and this was then redeemable for a free beverage (water, coffee, etc). The size and variety of this place is pretty great, and good value from what I can tell! Only complaint was that the aircon isn't great, so I can only imagine how hot it is in Summer when it's full of kids! Apparently this is something they are working on though.
Approximate cost: $3.50
Pony dining is one of many great restaurants at Eagle St Pier. Pony is different in that whilst it looks like a fine dining restaurant, the food is pretty appetising to most and isn't just fancy ingredients! Lots of great meat dishes, they cook their meat in a wood smoke pit in the restaurant - so when you walk in it smells amazing! Portion sizes are reasonable and I've enjoyed everything I've tried here so far. The locations is also pretty special, as you overlook the river and there's a lovely outdoor terrace. The decor is also funky and fresh. I must say that on a couple of occasions I've received attitude from the female that greets you at the door, however the other staff are helpful and friendly. Great for a work lunch or to take out of town guests as they do great share plates
Approximate cost: $35
The Fairy Door Store is a small business run by a working Mum. Sarah's customer service is second to none and her product is far superior to others on the market - and yet still remains competitively priced. The store not only does fairy doors, but also sells fairy dust, fairy stationery kits, and other cute accessories that your little ones will love!
Approximate cost: $36
We first had Mos burger in Japan, so it's great that they've opened in Australia now! The burgers are basically Japan's spin on fast food, so it's burgers but with a twist (Thousand island dressing, wagyu beef, even rice buns!). It's tasty and a bit different and very family friendly.
Approximate cost: $10
I've eaten here several times and every time the Schnitzel never disappoints! The service is good and the food is served in large portions - so bring a big appetite! They also have all kinds of German beer to try, including a non-alcoholic variety! This place is popular on the weekends and of an evening so make sure you book to avoid disappointment.
Approximate cost: $35
Gusto's has just opened in Carindale where Hell Pizza used to be. They apparently also have a store in Bardon, and we decided to try them out last night. We both got regular sized pizzas (perfect for one person) I had the Plum Porchetta (Pork and plum sauce - Yum!) and my partner had the Hawaiian. Both pizzas were yummy and fresh. We got takeaway and it doesn't look like there's any room to eat in except for a couple of tables at the front, but these would only accommodate 2 or 3 people. The pasta's on the menu also looked nice, and when I picked up the pizza's it seemed as though they had a chef cooking these, so I'm looking forward to trying these out next time!
Approximate cost: $15
What a great location, but so disappointed by the food and service. We had hamburgers and they were basic and the meat pattie tasted processed and store bought. Staff were friendly but undertrained and despite trying their best, it wasn't great. Fantastic view but room for improve in the kitchen!
So nice to have a decent Japanese place in the burbs! Very cute interior, love the wood block wall! Try the teriyaki chicken and the Gyoza. Yum! It's not cheap but the food is yummy and fresh.