Organic Living - Plumstead

Nathan and I have visited this Coffee Shop/Deli a number of times with the Mom's and Babes group. Today we went with a couple of friends to test out the play area for the first time, thinking it is time for him to be able to play a bit on his own. Unfortunately for us, the sandpit and jungle gym are separated from the tables by a hedge, so I couldn't leave N to play on his own. It will be great for slightly older children who can cope with climbing and sliding on their own. There was a little black bike and kiddies table with colouring in which the children could all share.

There is no specific children's menu, but N has enjoyed the fruit and veg juices since he was old enough to slurp them out of a teaspoon. Today he shared my sandwich (R18 choice of bread, type of cheese, salad ingredients and sauces) - ciabatta with cheddar, lettuce, sprouts, fruit chutney, pickles and sun-dried tomatoes. We also had a freshly juiced Pear drink (R9) while my friends enjoyed their White Hot Chocolate (R14) and Cheese Cake (R18) with some left over to take home for the dads. It has a lovely outdoor setting with blankets and heaters for cooler days, as well as some indoor tables and even one more private room which we have been able to take over in the past.

Opening times 8.30 - 5

Shade: Great tree cover and umbrellas

Attitude to kids

Kids menu: No specific items

Stuff to do

Safe/contained : Only one access to play area from the seating area

Outdoor/indoor : Tables in both

Space

Cost (entrance, food prices) :

Food range and quality : Excellent organic ingredients whenever possible

Parking : Pleanty of space off Gabriel Rd

Party potential

Scarecrows - Hout Bay

We were keen for a family outing to a place where Nathan could stretch his legs a bit and so this afternoon we went for tea at Scarecrows where I knew there were Jungle Gyms. It was a very hot afternoon and unfortunately the play areas were not in shade but he enjoyed following the restaurant cat around and playing around the ride-on toy animals.

Investigations found another play area at the back of the restaurant. This large space was the size of a paddock complete with more Jungle Gyms, a sandpit, tee-pee and more seating designed for kids parties. In fact we had seen 2 birthday cakes waiting in the restaurant for parties to be held there the next day.

Shade: Not great in the play areas the tables were under cover.

Stuff to do : Jungle Gym near restaurant, Paddock play area with climbing, sandpits, tee-pee and seating for large groups.

Safe/contained : Fenced with one exit

Outdoor/indoor : Tables in both

Space: Can accommodate very big parties

Party potential : Great