The Best Kid-Friendly Cafes in Melbourne

There are no two ways about it: parents need their coffee. And they need their coffee in a place where the very sight of their kids won’t send the cafe staff into a panic-induced spin.

So here you have it, folks; some of the best kid-friendly cafes in Melbourne, aka Australia’s coffee capital.

Each of these not only serves a serious latte but also has an open-arms policy when it comes to bringing your little ones—win-win!

The Best Kid-Friendly Cafes in Melbourne

1. Cowderoy’s Dairy

This place is something of an institution for many an inner-Melbourne parent—and not just because it sells lolly bags.

Cowderoy's Dairy started has blossomed over the years into a cosy, vintage-style, milk bar and cafe in Melbourne that is a total magnet for young families and coffee seekers who love a pretty latte. Now, while Cowderoy’s Dairy delivers a fabulous home-inspired menu, the true beauty of this place lies in its location. Literally, right across the street from Jacoby Reserve and a hop, skip and a jump from the foreshore—the kids can happily run off their milkshakes while you sip a cup of something delicious. Heaven!

Location: 14 Cowderoy St, St Kilda West

2. Cubbyhouse Canteen

The ultimate family and kid-friendly cafe in Melbourne, Cubbyhouse Canteen in Armadale is situated slap bang in the middle of a park, complete with two secure adventure playgrounds for your little ones to run amok in. 

Breakfast, lunch and early children's dinners Tuesday and Wednesday nights are served up throughout the week, as well as a host of park-friendly snacks and treats. The environment is one that truly values the experience of the kids—making it a super-popular pick on our list!

Location: 43A Union Street, Armadale

3. The Farm Cafe

If you’re after activity as well as a cafe, The Farm Cafe is an absolute gem.

Situated adjacent to the Collingwood Children’s Farm and only a few kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD, this is one of the best cafes in Melbourne and is perfect for unwinding. The Farm Cafe is a very popular venue for kids' parties, with excellent catering options, tonnes of grassy space to play, and of course, adorable animals lolling about. With earthy décor and a great menu for kids as well as adults, this will undoubtedly be one the kids beg you to return to.

Location: 18 St Heliers St, Abbotsford

4. Brighton Schoolhouse

In beautiful Bayside Melbourne, Brighton Schoolhouse never fails to disappoint for coffee or lunch with the kids in tow.

Upon arriving at the stoic nineteenth-century building, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were going to lunch with Queen Victoria. But, once you enter the Brighton Schoolhouse, the atmosphere is warm and inviting – a gorgeous place to get cosy with the kids on a wintery day.

There is plenty of space for kids, with kid-purpose areas designed to keep them entertained. And the food? Well, you’ll find there is something at Brighton Schoolhouse for everyone – with a particular emphasis on organic produce and healthy eating.

Location: 19 St Andrews Street, Brighton

5. Brother Hen

Known for its spacious courtyard with real-life chickens, Brother Hen is your family-friendly local in Moonee Ponds!

This popular Melbourne cafe has a mouth-watering menu with plenty of delights for both adults and the "little hatchlings", and there's plenty of space for kids to roam while their parents or carers sit back and enjoy a plate of something delicious and a cup of something hot. You're welcome! 

Location: 154 Pascoe Vale Rd, Moonee Ponds

6. The Stables of Como

The Stables of Como is a great, inner-city cafe in Melbourne for parents needing a caffeinated pick-me-up with the kids in tow.

Set at the rear of the main Como House building, just off a sunny and secluded courtyard, the light-drenched space gives off an inviting, warm, farmhouse vibe—and the menu is a true winner among adults and kids alike.

Families can pre-order picnic baskets packed with sandwiches, ancient-grains salad and cupcakes, to enjoy on the spacious grounds that are great for exploring. It's definitely up there with the best cafes in Melbourne.

Location: Lechdale Avenue, South Yarra

7. Mabel Jones

A true neighbourhood gem right in the heart of Greensborough, Mabel Jones is all about spreading joy through amazing coffee, delicious food and an easy, comforting vibe that's perfect for the whole family.

With a divine breakfast spread, a brunch that never ends, and an idyllic setting that sets the stage for magical moments, this place is simply unbeatable. Trust us, once you've been here, you'll keep on coming back for more!

Location: 67 Grimshaw St &, Howard St, Greensborough

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