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
What a superb spot to have finally found. The lawns at Groot Constantia offer an amazing view over to False Bay with pleanty of space for ball games and picnic parties.
The Aquarium has become a favourite for the whole family with Grandparents having membership cards too. It is a wonderful indoor activity for rainy days with displays and activities which appeal to all ages. We first visited when Nathan was 6 months old and he would just stare at the colours, lights and bubbles in the tanks. Now at 17 months he enjoys watching the fish as they swim close up to the glass and can appreciate the touch pool as well as just wandering wherever his little legs take him.
The Barnyard has had a revamp recently and is loads of fun for children. We went on an outing with Grandparents and I am not sure if Grandpa or Nathan had more fun making piggy noises! There are penned goats, chickens, ducks, pigs, rabbits and a tortoise which can be fed with seed bought there. Pigeons fly in to make the most of the free meals too so there are loads of birds to be seen. A Jungle Gym and large sandpit kept Nathan busy while we had yummy marshmellow hot chocolate.
We were totally amazed to find this spot just 20mins drive from home. Once you turn off Ou Kaapse Weg it feels like you are heading into Lord of the Rings country with not a hint of the city anywhere nearby. A short tar-road drive takes you to a parking area and then excellent pram-friendly paths lead you on a short walk to a small dam. One can continue to walk around the perimeter of the dam on wooden deck paths while looking for the ideal picnic or braai spots which are all cleverly situated amongst the rocks at the water's edge.
