Ever wanted to bite the head off of a T-Rex? Or maybe sip on a delicious chocolate milkshake while under the watchful gaze of a suspended bottle nose dolphin skeleton? Maybe you’ve never thought about it, but our point is, eating out with kids around 91������ý doesn’t have to be expensive, or boring. We love the South Australian Museum, hello FREE, airconditioned, indoor activity.

Heading to the Museum Café is a highlight for our family outings. The relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a coffee break while the kids enjoy a bite to eat. We love how they offer a variety of options to please everyone’s tastes. From healthy choices like the fresh and vibrant ‘Little Dippers Snack Box’, packed with fruits, veggies, and dips perfect for little hands, to more indulgent treats like hot dogs and dino nuggets, there’s something to keep everyone happy.

What we think sets the Museum Café apart is how it combines great food with a fun, educational experience. The kids are fascinated by the museum exhibits, we always have to see the giant squid (any one else?) and after exploring, they’re eager to refuel with a meal that’s as exciting as their museum adventures. The dino nuggets are a particular hit, sparking their imaginations and adding a playful twist to their meal, while the healthy grazing box helps balance out their energy levels. More of a hot dog family? These are huge! Further to this the coffee is great and there is a big range of uncomplicated options for parents too, including a rotating specials board.

The cafe’s location obviously allows us to seamlessly integrate a meal with our museum visit. It’s not just about filling up; it’s about slowing down and enhancing the overall experience. The kids can enjoy their food while discussing their favorite exhibits, making it a great way to combine learning with dining. A lot of people also miss the undercover outdoor seating tucked around the corner. Highly recommend for kids like mine who are professional level crumb droppers. Plus, a bit of fresh air and some lawn to burn around on never hurt.

Give it a try next time you are in the city. The tram makes access easy and you’ll all love the family-friendly environment, ensuring that everyone from toddlers to adults, can enjoy a pleasant meal before diving back into more museum exploration.

Last thing. The cookies and goodies on the counter are the absolute cutest thing ever. I hope they never ever take them away!

Find The Museum Café at South Australian Museum, North Terrace 91������ý City

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Hot pot is an interactive, much cherished and currently on trend, traditional Chinese dining experience where you cook your meal right at the table, and yep, kids love getting involved! First, you choose your broth (we went with a delicious chicken coconut base, the chicken here is for flavour, so you’ll still choose your own proteins) and then add your selection of meats, veggies, and noodles. We tried beef, corn, broccoli, cauliflower and noodles, which bubble away in the fragrant broth until ready to eat. There’s also a sauce bar with endless flavour options like chilli, garlic, and soy, so you can make every bowl your own. For something extra, we highly recommend their entrees and found the spring rolls, chicken skewers, and fried rice were all winners with our crew.

Families love The Hot Pot Guy not just for the food, but for the little extras that make dining with kids easier. Each table has a service button so you can order more or ask for help without waving frantically, and the friendly wait staff were more than happy to guide us through our first hot pot experience. We have saved the best until last….. there is also a mini playground tucked away at the back of the restaurant, complete with a slide, trampoline and ball pit. How perfect is this for letting the kids burn off some energy between bites while the grown-ups finish their meal.

It’s a tasty cultural experience and a fun night out rolled into one. Highly recommend! Some menu items can be a bit confronting for kids, and we did have to strategically hide a chicken foot under some noodles in the big shared hot pot broth from one of our kids. Just something to note.

Location: 151-155 Gouger Street 91������ý SA 5000
Opening Times: Monday to Friday 5pm to 12am | Saturday and Sunday 11.30am to 2.30pm + 5pm to 12am
Phone: (08) 7006 0708
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Once the garden gates close to the public at 5:30pm, dinner guests are personally escorted through the gardens to the restaurant. It’s quiet, it’s intimate, and it honestly feels a little bit cinematic (cue the soft lighting, twinkling trees and zero background traffic noise). It’s the kind of night that starts with a deep breath and ends with a full belly and happy heart.

At the helm is Executive Chef Tom Tilbury, who brings a love of seasonal South Australian produce to the menu. Dishes are fresh, beautifully balanced, and full of flavour – this is food that knows when to be comforting and when to show off a little.

We started with a few small plates to share: sourdough with Dairyman butter marbled with Vegemite, BBQ’d pickles in olive oil, and plump marinated Coriole olives. It was simple and absolutely delicious. The pumpkin and goat’s cheese tart was a standout, rich, silky, and bursting with herby, garden-fresh flavour. The lamb sausage, served with roasted onion and beetroot, was hearty and packed with bold, earthy depth. And then there was dessert. The Golden Gaytime parfait with shortbread crumb…just wow! Creamy, nostalgic, and ridiculously good – the kind of dessert you don’t want to share… but probably should.

The menu changes with the seasons, and the dishes strike that sweet spot between feeling a little bit fancy but not too fussy. Pair it with a local wine or a cocktail, and you’re winning.

The Lodge’s styling nods to vintage Australiana in a subtle, tasteful way, but it’s the service and setting that really steal the show. There’s both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can cosy up inside or soak up the lakeside views alfresco. By day, The Lodge is a relaxed space that’s totally family-friendly – open seven days for lunch from 11:30am to 3:00pm with a menu that’s similar and just as impressive as the dinner offering. It’s the kind of spot where you can swing by for a coffee after a wander through the gardens with the kids or stay for a laid-back lunch that feels a little bit special. By night? It transforms into something quietly magical.

Whether you’re sipping cocktails by the lake, splitting a bottle of local wine, or simply catching up without the soundtrack of “Mum, Mum, Muuuuuum,” this place feels like a breath of fresh air… literally.

Need to Know:

• Lunch: Daily, 11:30am to 3:00pm
• Dinner: Friday & Saturday from 6:00pm (escorted entry after gates close)
• Coffee and Cakes: 9:30am – 4pm
• Access: Best via Friend’s Gate on Plane Tree Drive
• Parking: Paid parking nearby, free on Sundays and public holidays
• Dietaries? Absolutely catered for – just speak with the team
• Location: Right inside the 91������ý Botanic Garden, just west of Restaurant Botanic

So, start planning your next date night. Round up the girls. Lock in the sitter. Throw on something that’s not activewear (we dare you). The Lodge is your go-to for a grown-up night out – no stress, no traffic chaos, just seriously good food and wine in one of the most beautiful spots in 91������ý.

Location: Main Lake (Kainka Wirra), 91������ý Botanic Garden, Plane Tree Drive,
91������ý, SA, 5000, Kaurna Land
Email: hello@botaniclodge.com.au
Phone: (08) 7082 0177

Nestled in 91������ý’s vibrant west end precinct, Peter Rabbit Cafe on Hindley Street (yes we know, unexpected right?) is an quaint little oasis offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you’re in search of a whimsical setting paired with a delicious menu, look no further. Even the name is ridiculously cute.

Step into the garden and you will feel like you are a world away. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the buzz of conversation. The lively yet comfortable ambience, the outdoor / indoor feel invites you to sit back, relax, and indulge in some gorgeous dishes that are sure to please your taste buds. Take your pick of seating options – whether you choose to dine on the undercover deck, bask in the sunshine amidst the umbrella-peppered lush garden, or cosy up inside the intimate cafe, wherever you choose to settle, you’re in for a treat.

While you scour the menu, the kids can keep an eye out for all the rabbit statues scattered throughout the cafe grounds – it might just keep them entertained long enough for you order in peace. Or, grab them a babyccino and enjoy a coffee before you eat. The coffee alone is worth a visit honestly.

At Peter Rabbit’s Garden Cafe, the dedication to seasonal produce shines through. We took the whole Kids in 91������ý team for a working brunch, along with some of our youngest KiA crew members (who’s approval is perhaps the most important of all) on our most recent visit. This gave us the opportunity to *really* give their menu items a good run, and legitametly we couldn’t fault any of it.

For the little ones, Peter Rabbit’s Garden Cafe offers a delightful kids’ menu. While not extensive, with only three options; Eggs on Toast, French Toast, and Fries – each dish is a hit with young diners. You also can’t miss the iced milo – just trust us on this one. Our bigger kids loved the smoothies and juices from the too.

As for practicalities, parking is available nearby at Wilson Parking, or you can try your luck finding a free spot on the street (easiest on Saturday and Sunday mornings). While space for prams may be limited, highchairs are readily available, and there’s even a convenient change table in the bathroom.

Just be warned: with Peter Rabbit’s fantastic reputation, it can get super busy so we suggest booking a table. It’s also very popular with dog owners so there’s often a friendly four-legged friend to wag a tail at the kids too.

With its whimsical charm, delectable cuisine, and friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder this hidden gem has captured the hearts of many families and firmly positioned itself as a consistently excellent, iconic, casual 91������ý dining experience. Hop on over and see for yourself, you won’t be disappointed.

Lastly, if you love what they do here, you need to check out their newest nearby venture . McGregors is a beautiful event space available for private hire. Think christenings, elaborate first birthday parties and on fleek celebrations that run well into the night.

���dz����پ��Dz�:��Corner of Hindley & Liverpool Street, 91������ý
Opening times: Monday – Friday 7:30am – 3:00pm | Saturday & Sunday 8:00am – 3:00pm
Find them on �����Ի���

General Opening hours:

Closed Sunday and Monday | *Selected stalls open

Our favourite family friendly places to eat and must see stalls at the 91������ý Central Markets are:

The Old Lolly Shop

91������ý’s biggest and best lolly shop, offering a huge range of confectionery from all around the world. In business since 1906  this is a traditional lolly shop where you’ll find many of your nostalgic and retro favourites including the boiled fish lolly, gobbstoppers and Bertie Beetles!

Smiley’s Tuckshop

Classic, retro favourites at great prices is what you’ll find at Smileys! We’re talking toasties, meatball subs, milkshakes, mixed lollies and more.

Of course, all served with a SMILE!

The Turkish Delight

SA’s only dedicated Turkish Delight store. Full of delicious Mediterranean sweets including handmade Turkish delights.

Central Market Books

For over 30 years Central Market Books has been stocking a variety of great books, magazines, comics and more at great prices.

OMG Decadent Donuts

Now in stall 16 in the South Eastern corner of the market at the Gouger street end. These donuts are Vegan, Gluten free, Dairy Free, Australian made and OMG Delicious!!

Giant Freckles, Cupcakes and Cookies on a stick and other goodies from The Providore

The Providore would have to be one of our favourite stalls at the 91������ý Central Market. They have a huge range of delicious sweet treats and a big Belgian chocolate fountain! 

House of Health

The raw desserts at House of Health are worth a trip to the 91������ý Central Markets just for that. You’ll also find a huge range of health and wellness products, bulk wholefoods and raw treats which contain no dairy, refined sugars or gluten.

Big Table

Mountains of fresh, delicious food, share tables, fast service, good prices. What more could you want?

Stop and smell the Rainbow Roses from Central Market Flowers

You’ll find them right in the middle of the 91������ý Central Market. Filled with fresh cut flowers and bouquets at Market prices. Beautiful!

Thompson’s Fruit and Veg

Our favourite strop for fresh fruit and veg and we love trying something new every time we visit. Our favourite part are their fruit cups which are perfect for snacking while exploring.

Babyccinos from The Coffee Bean House

Stocking a large range of coffee beans from around the world you’ll find them at stall 58

Le Souk

Le Souk is a family-run 91������ý eatery created by Azou and Julia, blending their love of fresh, healthy food with global flavours and a warm, welcoming vibe for all ages.

The 91������ý Central Market have launched a new, FREE Audio Tour hosted by Adam Liaw and Katie Spain!

Our kids love the sights, sounds, smells and of course the tastes of the 91������ý Central Market, so we were so excited do the Audio Tour to learn about the history of the Market together with them!
You just need to take your own headphones, search ‘91������ý Central Market’ in your podcast app and grab a map from the Info Booth before you start. Enjoy learning about this delicious slice of SA’s history.

Upcoming Events at the 91������ý Central Market

Things to know before you go to the 91������ý Central Market

• Parking is available in the multi-storey car park, plus along the nearby streets (if you’re lucky!)
• The 91������ý Central Markets are located right next to Chinatown and Gouger Street, both great places to eat and enjoy.

If you’re looking for a healthy, fun, and affordable meal option for the kids while you’re out and about or on the go around 91������ý, Soonta is a must try. Our kids loved their fun meal boxes, including the most plain of our fussy eaters (who delighted in the very simple option of plain rice and some chicken on the side).

With almost twenty locations across 91������ý, you really don’t have to go far to find one. Our favourite bight and vibrant spot for a bite to eat is in Rundle Mall Plaza.

The kids’ meal pack, priced under $10, is the perfect solution for families on the go, offering a delicious combination of fresh ingredients that are sure to keep your little ones happy and satisfied without the sugar or fat overload of other fast foods. You get the choice of a mini rice bowl with a protein, half a boiled egg and some sauce OR choose a mini fried bucket PLUS the meals come with a juice and a pack of Soonta trading cards. Big taste, mini price!

Older kids and adults love Soonta for their fresh Vietnamese noodle (bun) bowls, salad bowls, rice bowls, cold rolls, crispy sprig rolls and of course the delicious Banh Mi Rolls.

What makes Soonta stand out for us is not just the tasty food, but the way it’s made to suit the needs of busy families. Their meals are packed with nutritious options like grilled chicken, veggies, and rice, making it a guilt free choice for parents who want to make sure their kids are getting a balanced meal during their shopping trips, outings or even just for take away night at home!

We think the Rundle Mall Plaza location is ideal for families looking for a peaceful spot to refuel. It’s clean, modern, and just far enough from the hustle and bustle of Rundle Mall to give you a relaxing break while still being conveniently located for a quick stop.

Whether you’re taking a breather or needing a quick bite, Soonta offers a great solution for busy families in 91������ý.

  Rundle Mall Plaza, Rundle Place, Waymouth Street, Torrensville, Edwardstown, Elizabeth, Norwood, Prospect, Golden Grove, Kurralta Park, Harbour Town, Marion, Port 91������ý, Colonnades, Ingle Farm, Pasadena, 91������ý Oval Kiosk
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We certainly don’t mind a cheeky burger or two, so when we heard the news that Milky Lane was coming to 91������ý our ears pricked up immediately and like many we waited eagerly for the doors to open. If you’ve been living under a rock and for some unknown reason are unfamiliar with Milky Lane (like seriously, where have you been?) then here’s all you need to know.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Rundle Street, Milky Lane is not just a burger joint; it’s a celebration of hip hop and R&B culture serving stacked-to-the-max, grandiose burgers, and a dash of delicious over-the-top food. When you walk in the door, a two-level open space awaits with what can only be described as a star-studded wall adorned with murals of hip-hop royalty including Jay Z, 50 Cent, Biggie Smalls, Rihanna, and Kanye West. The ambiance is borderline edgy, with an aesthetic that’s actually as cool as the carefully curated playlists, regular DJs, and live music that help to elevate the experience and really shape the Milky Lane brand identity. 

Kids are well catered for with a colouring-in sheet and crayons and as parents, this is something we really appreciate. A small detail that makes eating out with young ones so much easier – a few uninterrupted minutes to browse the menu and order a much-needed drink. Take your pick of indoor seating in cushioned booths or at scattered tables and chairs. Alternatively, if the weather is nice, outdoor seating is available. Although, a word of caution – the outdoor seating is close to the road, so it might be best to opt for the indoor comfort if you’re dining with kids. Plus, they’ve got highchairs for the littlest members of the family.

If you love messy, ‘be sure to leave your belt at home’ burgers then take a squiz at the , which is sure to get your stomach grumbling – it’s FEEL GOOD food with a distinctly American twang. There’s ten tempting burgers to choose from. Hardcore carnivores and those with a HUGE appetite will point to the Insta worthy ‘Big Poppa’, but it would be a sin for us not to try the delicious ‘Chic Kayne’. The tender, perfectly fried Southern Chicken is smothered with melted cheese and topped with all our favourite foodstuff in a soft toasted bun. We were seriously drooling before we even took a bite. Order a side of the Pop-Korn chicken – you won’t regret it and just a heads up, the loaded fries on offer are a meal within themselves. Although the kids meals are limited with only two choices – chicken nuggets or kids burger, a selection of share plates and platters make this menu is perfect for families. Treat the kids to a loaded milkshake or a ‘Fatman Scoop‘ (a really clever name for a dessert which is technically ice cream and topping).

Milky Lane knows how to keep things exciting with an impressive selection of yummy cocktails that are as visually stunning as they are palate-pleasing. The ‘Bubble O’Bill‘ and ‘Bueno Cocktail‘ are just the tip of the iceberg, and with two bars keeping the party going until late, it’s the perfect spot for both family dinners and late-night outings.

The Milky Lane experience is FUN! You only have to do it once, but we have a sneaky suspicion, you’ll be tempted to return. It’s a meal you often waddle, rather than walk away from so parents, close your calorie-tracking app and dig in – no health kick is worth missing out on this. If we could eat here everyday without worrying about the damage we’re doing to our cholesterol AND bank account: we would! 

272 Rundle Street, 91������ý, SA 5000
Trading Hours: Sun – Thurs: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Fri – Sat: 11:00 am – 12:00 am
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Nestled amidst the lush greenery and vivid backdrop of the Gardens, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a delightful meal or a simple coffee break! Families will appreciate the inviting, fresh air atmosphere that makes it easy to relax and savor their time together while surrounded by all things good. There is plenty of room to easily maneuver a pram and the expansive alfresco dining ensures kids can move about and explore while waiting on their food and drinks. Additionally, you will find accessible bathroom amenities here for everyone.

While we love the coffee, the house made focaccia sandwiches and cold pressed juices are incredible, and last but certainly not least (probably our favourite) the granola gives ‘luxe honey crackle’ vibes and is so beautifully presented that it almost feels like a work of art. The kids menu is thoughtful (lids on their juices for example) and your preschoolers will be especially drawn to the whimsical and fun options like fairy bread, with its colorful sprinkles. Such a nostalgic treat that never fails to delight young diners. The babyccino, with its frothy, kid-friendly appeal and a marshmallow is a hit for little ones who enjoy a playful coffee experience.

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As you might expect, Evergreen Deli is all about mindful practices to reduce the carbon footprint, and its wonderful to see the team prioritise the use of reusable, biodegradable, and compostable products.

Next time we return to the Botanic Garden, we look forward to pre ordering a Picnic Box from Evergreen Deli. You can then set out to find your favourite quiet spot and soak it all in with some high quality nosh. Picnic Boxes require 48 hours notice, sort your self out with more info or an order .

The Botanic Gardens offer many fascinating educational experiences for children, featuring a myriad of unusual and intriguing plant species that ignite interest and learning. Located at the Schomburgk Pavilion, adjacent The Diggers Club and Information Centre – there is always something new to see when you visit. For more on the educational opportunities available in the gardens, you can explore .

With something to please everyone in the family, this hidden little gem of a spot ensures that a visit is both a culinary and visual treat, making it a much loved destination for all.

We usually either park on Plain Tree Drive and enter via the ‘Friends Gate’ or we park on the city fringe and catch the free tram along North Terrace to the ‘Main Gate’ – either way access is easy and pram friendly.

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Visit the Evergreen Deli website

Visit the 91������ý Botanic Gardens website

Open seven days per week, 9am to 4pm | 91������ý City, South Australia

Everyone has a favourite dish (personally my first every Chicken Parmy was at a Fasta Pasta when I was a kid!) From the pastas to pizza, salads and schnitzels. Whatever takes your fancy, Fasta Pasta will have something to offer even the fussiest of kids. Better yet it really is hard to beat the value, with an adult lunch meal (5 choices on offer) setting you back $10.90 and kids eat free on Monday and Tuesday (with every main meal).

Outside of the kids eat free days, the kids meals at only $9.90 which include a drink and ice cream, make it a really good value outing we think. The South Terrace location offers some really unique features which are sure to make us head back again and again, including the food delivering robot! Yep you read that right, they have a robot which brings the food right to your table. Book me in. It can even talk and sing ‘Happy Birthday’. Incredible times we live in. Popular for parties and other group bookings, the robot is certainly one of those core memory moments your kids will remember forever.

Choose from indoor or atrium seating, all offering comfort and space for everyone. We love the atrium, which is fully enclosed and offers superb natural light as you watch the world go past on Pulteney Street. The kids can choose from a great range on the kids menu, which doubles as a colouring / activity sheet (we love a spot that caters to keeps the kids busy and off the devices), and there is even an option for the kids to make their own pasta dish!

For parking we found it super easy, stopping just at the top of Glen Osmond Road which is conveniently right next to Marshmallow Park playground. Better yet are the range of playgrounds on South Terrace, right across the road from the restaurant. Perfect for the kids to run off that big pasta lunch!

Great value, tasty food, friendly staff and right next to top class playgrounds. What more could you want we say!

Find Fasta Pasta  at the corner of South Terrace and Pulteney Street, 91������ý.
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You could literally spend a day here! Where else can you find an excellent cafe, within eyeball distance of the playground, watch planes over head, walk to the train bridge, feed ducks, kick a ball, fly a kite, ride a tram and wash it all down with an excellent coffee and babyccino? There’s so much happening at this delightful little space. Better still, it’s good.

You can also book a birthday party here and have everything taken care of and don’t even get us started about the little Monday community they are building here – Mummas, on Mondays you can pop by for a play and something to eat and they will provide a drink for you free of charge! That sounds like a wonderful way to meet other Mums and kids doesn’t it?

On our most recent visit we absolutely loved the simplified kids milkshakes. Not too crazy, but still very cute and fun – perfect for little hands. Want the cutest cupcake treat? This place!

Ownership changed at the start of 2025, so we gave it a couple of months and decided to check it out. Pleased to report its staying firmly at the top of our list.

Open seven days a week from 8am exceptional breakfast, brunch and lunch, or just grab a coffee and give the kids a push on the swing and a whirl in the hamster wheel. They even open on Public Holidays. Legends.

Enter from Port Road…..there is plenty of parking,walk accross the oval and find them directly at the popular Bonython Park Playground. Loved for many things, including its double flying fox.

You can also arrive by tram if that’s the type of adventure your kids love. Jump on at The Entertainment Centre and ride just two stops to Bonython, or catch the tram in the city out to Bonython – it’s FREE in the city zone.

There are ducks to feed (and yep, you can buy duck food here – also a treat for your dog.). The river is maybe 150 or 200m away and while the playground isn’t fenced, it’s pretty safe, just keep your eyes on the runners.

Congratulations team, you are carrying on an 91������ý icon, FIVE SOLID STARS from the Kids in 91������ý Crew.

Find it in Bonython Park, Port Road, 91������ý

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