stuartm12

Great shops both at Phillip and in town in the Canberra Centre. The range of toys available in the boutique setting makes it hard not to spend money - and the play area in the Canberra Centre store is one of my kids' favourite places. It must be difficult for small stores such as these to compete with the bigger companies on price, but Little Sprout does its utmost to make up for this with its service. A good example of this service happened recently, when my son got a little fixated on a particular toy and refused to leave the store without it... enter the Little Sprout staff member, who reassured him that she would look after it so that when he came in next time, it would still be there - magical! We always go to these shops and will continue to do so.

Sake restaurant was a massive surprise - talk about sensory overload, wonderfully relaxed setting and great service. The range of sushi and sashimi available is fresh, original and importantly, done with perfection. The drinks list is impressive, and the sake variants that we tried were quite simply beautiful. Was a great night out for my wife and I - it costs a bit, but it was completely worth it. Get there if you have a chance - it is no wonder that this restaurant is revered in Sydney.

I felt like Thai and my wife felt like 'just a small meal' - and whilst wandering the options in Garema place, we saw the words 'Thai Tapas' - we both did a double take, but sure enough, this place, Rice Tapas Bar and Restaurant, had been found. I must admit that my expectations weren't too high, but after the trip upstairs, we were seated and really well looked after by the staff. The Laos spring rolls were a highlight and the pork belly was superb. The fish cakes were average, but all other dishes were brilliant. Unsure how child-friendly this place would be, but for something different, it is worth a look for couples. They have some great vegetarian meals too.

The name may be a little pretentious, and the service may make you feel as though you're just another one of those many consumers here to eat just a few of those hundreds of dim sum... but... Landmark Restaurant is pretty reliable when it comes to Yum Cha on any given morning (or whenever it is you like to consume a dumpling). Very seafood-driven dishes, and a massive floor... great atmosphere on a Saturday morning. We always have a great time here on our visits to Brisbane.

This place is so much better than the run-of-the-mill Body Shop chain. It is beautifully presented shop and the staff are clearly proud of the products that they offer. While I wasn't too much interested in the soap products, there were a few other quirky things available - this place is well worth a visit - the prices aren't sky high and the quality of product is high. Would be a great candidate for something handmade for Christmas / Birthday gifts!

We either caught the Mingei Store House on a good day, or this place is always awesome. Out the front, two lovely ladies had a chat with us and had homebaked goods for tasting...just because... when in the shop, we were transported back to some little shop in Kyoto's older precinct... and the quality and novelty of the items for sale was just fantastic. Some beautifully crafted items including pottery and fabric-based.

This is the gem of Bungendore - it is a world class gallery - it is priced accordingly of course, but we're talking about some absolutely beautiful pieces for sale at this place. Some great gift ideas for Christmas - the service was also fantastic - the children were being a little boisterous, so the were supplied with a 'wooden marble tower' and it amazed them while we made our purchases... gold! A must see if you're on your way between Canberra and the Coast!