Landcox Park, East Brighton

My grandparents used to take me to Landcox Park when I was little.  I have fond memories of afternoons spent there, throwing breadcrumbs to the ducks, breadcrumbs which Nanna had specially made from the crusts of bread left over at home.

It wasn't until we got a dog that I have returned to this park, and now make it a regular walk for Mya and I.  The lake in recent years has been fairly empty, but on today's visit after all the rain we have had, it was full to the brim and duck life was plentiful.  It was very much a "wind in the willows" moment!

The duck feeding is now discouraged but there are plenty of other things to do in this park.  Perfect for walking the dog, having a picnic (no BBQs though) or just lazing and reading a book.  There is a great play equipment area for the kids and a huge hill just made for running up and rolling down!  One word of warning for the doggy lover though, BYO bags... Bayside council do not provide poo bags in this park.

Even though Landcox park is so close to Nepean Hwy, barely a breath of traffic can be heard.  It truely is a lovely, peaceful park.

Magic City, Camberwell

Magic City's dining area

The pin ball machines are all gone, but the neon sign outside pays a subtle homage to days gone by. Opening in 2003, Magic City takes its name from the amusement parlour it once was. The conversion to restaurant has seen the original large windows kept, providing a light and airy space and a great view down over the Camberwell shopping precinct.

Upon entry at street level, Magic City has a great bar area, perfect for meeting before dinner or simply to have a drink or a coffee. And in winter, there is a cosy little lounge area in front of a fire place.

Upstairs is the main dining area.  Magic City's dining experience is modern Australian. I find it is one of those few venues where there are many stand out options on the menu, making a decision extremely difficult.  The wine list is solid, and the staff friendly and attentive. Every meal I have had at this restaurant has been exceptional.

My most recent visit to Magic City began with a main of Hapuka fish served with squashed peas and almond sauce with a side of potato and almond croquettes.  The fish was cooked perfectly and the marrying with almond worked well. (Mains $25-$35)

Dessert followed and again with a list of many desirable options, a friend and I decided to share the Salted Caramel Semifreddo with toasted marshmallows and Persian Fairy floss (pictured).

The semifreddo was deliciously smooth but with just enough salting to cut through the sweetness.  The fairy floss added a fun touch and seemed almost reminiscent of the amusement parlour of days past. (Desserts $15-$18)

All in all, another great night at Magic City.

Magic City is open Tuesday-Sunday for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
871 Burke Rd
Camberwell  3124
9882 7788

www.magiccity.com.au

Caulfield Farmers Market

Farmers markets have become increasingly popular over the past few years.  Although they were once seen as a bit trendy and very expensive, times have changed.  With ever increasing supermarket prices, and the realisation that the "fresh food people" aren't really that fresh, farmers markets are a food lovers haven.  Not only is the produce in season and good for the body and soul, but you are helping out the local growers.  And there is nothing better than talking to the growers and getting their insight into the product you are buying.

The Caulfield farmers market is held on the second Saturday of the month, from 9am-1pm, on the corner of Neerim and Booran Rds, Caulfield East (opposite Glen Eira Secondary College).  Entry is via $2 donation to charity and it is a dog friendly event.  There is ample parking in the school grounds opposite but I do suggest getting there early as it does get quite busy.

The October market I attended was outstanding.  It was the largest in terms of the number of stalls but also the variety. I do have a few favourite stalls, but there is always something new to try too.

Red hill cheese produce the most beautiful goats cheese, with my latest purchase being their Arthurs Peak Goats cheese. Absolutely beautiful with some crusty bread and a crisp glass of white wine! redhillcheese.com.au

The Smokehouse is my favourite for bacon and trout. (1/15 Lathams Rd, Carrum Downs 9775 1527) and my dog, Mya, loves the hand made natural treats from the lady at PawPrints  www.pawprintz.com.au

You can find everything from fresh fruit and vegetables, to organic wine and beer, ready made meals to fresh licorice and home made cakes.  I also like to have brekkie there too, as some of the stall holders whip up snacks based on their produce and there is usually a mobile coffee van for the caffeine fix.

Other markets around town can be found on the website www.inseasonmarkets.com.au and the City of Kingston hosts the Cheltenham market on the first Saturday of the month.

The stash

Next market date Saturday 13th November

Spring time in Melbourne - Allnutt Park, Bentleigh

This last week, Melbourne has FINALLY come out of the depths of winter and produced some beautiful weather.  So after months and months of disruptions to my routine because of bad weather, it was back to the early morning walks with our dog, Mya.

The park of choice this week has been Allnutt Park on Wheatley Rd, Bentleigh (between Centre and McKinnon Rds).  With the wet winter producing lush greens and lots of spring flowers the park is looking great.  For the four legged visitor, there is a substantial off lead area for foraging but if you prefer to not let your dog run a-muck, the other half of the park is on lead only.  And if further walking is required, the park spills through to a nice path which runs between the houses, heading west and onto Thomas St.

I must say, the City of Glen Eira do cater for dogs in their parks.  Poo bags are in abundance and the water fountains usually have some kind of bowl attachment for dogs to quench their thirst too.

Every year as the good weather comes around I mean to organise a picnic at Allnutt Park.  The council takes bookings for the two BBQ areas and there is plenty of play equipment for the kids.  Off street parking can be found at the south entrance on Wheatley rd or on the many side streets leading into the park, and indeed on Wheatley rd itself.  There are plenty of park benches, but as you can see from the photos, the lush lawn is just asking for a sprawling picnic!

Bookings and enquiries for the BBQ areas (called Allnutt Park - Wright St) can be made through Glen Eira City Council  9524 3253 

Marmalade Cafe, Brighton East

I have eaten at Marmalade Cafe on two prior occasions earlier this year but was lucky enough to visit twice in one week this week.  It's the kind of cafe I get a little excited to go to as you just know you will not be disappointed.  They claim to have the best BLTs and they aren't pulling your leg or using the claim for shameless advertising!  These BLTs are good!  It's the added extras to this classic that makes the Marmalade BLT the item on the menu that you just keep returning to.  Chutney and avocado are the secret weapons, and all served on a toasted Turkish bread - yummo!

So on my second visit for the week, I really had to push myself to try something different. Smoked chicken and cheddar toasted wrap was my pick for the day. Again the chutney made an appearance and didn't let me down. Friends I was eating with picked the Chorizo Omlette with fetta and olives (I have also had this and it is delicious and filling) and the Egg and Bacon sandwich (huge! with lashings of bacon, lucious eggs and tomato sauce).

And the coffee..... creamy, not too hot and oh so perfect.  And unlike some other cafes around town, it doesn't matter which day of the week or which barista is on, the coffee is good.

Often a cafe can be let down by either it's food or it's coffee.  Marmalade has definately nailed both.  

Marmalade Cafe

763 Hawthorn Rd

Brighton East  (near the junction to Nepean Hwy)

Open daily for breakfast and lunch, Dinner on Thursday/Friday.

Approximately $15-25 per head (for brekkie and lunch)

9593 2244

Fresh Fresh Flowers

Last weekend marked a family members 80th birthday so it was off to my favourite florist, Fresh Fresh Flowers.  Located on the corner of Centre Rd and Thomas St Bentleigh, at the end of a little group of shops, you are sure to find a suitable match for any occasion.


I love buying flowers, for home, for birthdays, for thankyous, and I have tried many, many florists over the years.  Now I don't go anywhere else.  They are open late too (till 7:30pm Mon-Thurs, 9pm Fri/Sat and 7pm Sunday) which is great for those last minute OMG moments!


Fresh Fresh always has an extensive selection of flowers, potted plants and greenery, and so so fresh (as the name suggests!).  I find them to be very reasonably priced too, especially when you consider the exceptional quality.  Last weekend I purchased one bunch of blush pink tulips and one bunch of white Ranunculus which the always friendly staff mixed together and beautifully wrapped for me ($27 total).  I have also used their delivery service and ordered flowers sight unseen and the recipient was overjoyed with the surprise that arrived for them.


So whether it be flowers for home, a special gift, a sad time or a cheer up for someone in hospital Fresh Fresh Flowers is my recommendation.

www.freshfreshflowers.com.au