Finding the perfect spot to dine with family can be a challenge—somewhere that caters to all tastes, welcomes every generation and serves up consistently great food. Whether you’re after a relaxed brunch, a hearty Italian feast or a burger loaded with flavour, these five venues offer the perfect combination of atmosphere and family-friendly fare.
Brighton the Corner – Petersham, NSW
Tucked away on leafy Palace Street, Brighton the Corner is more than just a café—it’s a neighbourhood staple where locals gather for exceptional food and warm hospitality. For six years, this inviting spot has been a haven for artists, students, families and coffee lovers alike. The space is cosy yet vibrant, with rustic touches and a menu celebrating wholesome, locally sourced ingredients.
Start your day with a nutritious breaky bowl packed with roasted sweet potato, kale, spinach, broccolini, snow peas, cherry tomatoes, poached eggs, toasted almonds and creamy hummus. Come lunchtime, the Wagyu steak sandwich steals the show, layered with caramelised onion, rocket, aioli and relish, served with crispy chips. For something truly indulgent, the slow-cooked pulled pork burger delivers the ultimate comfort—topped with coleslaw, mango chutney, rocket and aioli on a soft brioche bun, with a side of golden fries.
The Ladybird Café – Mount Colah, NSW
Nestled within a lush nursery, The Ladybird Café offers a tranquil escape from the hustle of the Pacific Highway. With timber walls, hanging greenery and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s the ideal spot for a relaxed coffee or a long lunch surrounded by fragrant blooms and aromatic herbs.
The menu is designed with variety in mind, catering to all tastes. Light options include a selection of fresh wraps and salads, while heartier dishes like a chicken, avocado and cheese toasted Turkish sandwich or a BLAT (bacon, lettuce, avocado and tomato) hit the spot. The gourmet quiches are a standout—think pancetta and leek, served alongside a crisp garden salad. Pair it with a mango smoothie for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Palavas les Flots International Restaurant – Torquay, QLD
Located within the Riviera Resort on Charlton Esplanade, Palavas les Flots International Restaurant brings a taste of the world to Hervey Bay. A tropical coastal aesthetic sets the scene, with white-clothed tables, aqua accents and alfresco dining under swaying palm trees—ideal for soaking up the balmy Queensland air.
Brunch-goers will love the eggs Benedict, served on housemade brioche with bacon and a velvety Hollandaise sauce. As the day progresses, seafood takes centre stage—fettuccine loaded with prawns, calamari and black mussels in a garlic, olive oil and parsley sauce is a must-try. For an indulgent dinner, the pan-fried chicken scallopine is a standout, featuring a rich marsala and brandy demi-glaze with mushrooms, asparagus and a prosciutto wrap. Or go all-in with the freshly made linguine, tossed with Moreton Bay bug, prawn, calamari, spring onion, tomato, zucchini, garlic, white wine and a touch of chilli.
Criniti’s Karrinyup is all about family, food and good times. Voted Australia’s favourite Italian restaurant, this Perth dining institution is renowned for its warm hospitality and extensive menu, blending traditional Southern Italian recipes with contemporary Australian flavours. Whether you’re craving wood-fired pizza, housemade pasta, or succulent ribs and steaks, there’s something to satisfy everyone at the table.
Kick off your meal with tempura popcorn prawns and chilli aioli or grilled scallops with tomato bruschetta and avocado. Pasta lovers will revel in dishes like fettuccine with slow-cooked lamb shank, Napoli sauce and confit cherry tomatoes. Pizza enthusiasts, meanwhile, can’t go past the gourmet Azzurri, featuring a Napoli base topped with mushrooms, artichokes, semi-dried tomatoes, prosciutto and ricotta—best enjoyed with a glass of red wine for the full Italian experience.
Set opposite the lush greenery of Taylor Park, Gypsy Burger is the go-to spot for top-notch burgers with a side of coastal charm. The sun-drenched alfresco area is perfect for balmy afternoons under market umbrellas, while the eclectic indoor space features cartoon-style murals, recycled timber and potted greenery for a laid-back, urban vibe.
Start with something a little different—perhaps sticky Asian chicken wings or cheeseburger spring rolls—before diving into a signature burger. The double beef and bacon burger is a crowd-pleaser, loaded with double American cheese, smoky BBQ sauce, onions, pickles and house-made burger sauce. Seafood fans will love the beer-battered flathead butty, stacked with cheddar, house slaw, dill, aioli, onion and pickles, served with a side of loaded fries. If you’re after the ultimate classic, the Angus Beef and Bacon Burger delivers in every way, with an Angus beef patty, American cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion, Westmont pickles and house burger sauce.
Family dining is all about great food, warm hospitality and an atmosphere that welcomes everyone, from little ones to grandparents. Whether you’re after a relaxed brunch, an indulgent Italian feast or a next-level burger, these five venues tick every box. So, gather the family and enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
