Long 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 from, and distraction for, their child, but is also after good food for themselves (and their kids).

An old butcher shop converted into a smart cafe, dressed eclectically with homage to the Peter Sellers film, The Party, after which it’s named, leads out the back to the play area. It’s 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’s relaxed, generous and full of combinations to satisfy and surprise.

The menu’s highlights include big, fat steak sandwiches and crisp squid salads. The coffee is a Toby’s Estate blend. With children of his own, owner Christopher Vivian, who has been a manager and sommelier of The Botanical in South Yarra and Footscray’s The Station, has created a space that is all about young families and serving quality product to inner-city locals.