It’s long been touted as an oasis for parents of very young children with a sandpit out the back and lots of room to have a little wander. Birdie Num Num is a bit of a saviour for the tired parent who wants respite and distraction for their child, but is also after good food for themselves (and their kids).

An old butcher shop that is now converted into a smart cafe, dressed eclectically with homage to the Peter Sellars film after which it’s named, leads out the back to the play area, well-heated with a simple concrete floor, tables and chairs. If kids aren’t your thing, or your responsibility, the front cafe is the spot to sit and enjoy a menu that is relaxed, generous and full of combinations to satisfy and surprise.

The menus include big, fat steak sandwiches and crisp squid salads to coffee (they use a Toby’s Estate blend). Christopher Vivian has been a manager and sommelier of some good restaurants around town - The Botanical, South Yarra and Footscray’s The Station.

With children of his own, it’s all about young families and serving quality product to inner-city locals.