Vintage Cellars is fairly formulaic; range mainstream and popular brands, have a few select and exclusive ranges, have nice wood paneling and spotlights for that exclusive, home cellar feel. Problem in Mentone is that the VC's is in a store that's too big, is green and lacks the comfort of the other sites. One gets the feeling that the bottles are filthy because the floors are lino and dust just flies everywhere. Shouldn't Coles reconfigure this store to something better? The range looks fine but is neither a barn like Dan's and isn't cosy enough to be like a true Vintage Cellars

It's a dingy old parlor, reminiscent of an old fish and chip shop, but don't let that fool you. The pizzas here are amazing. They smell fantastic and not a hint of bovine or porcine input. They are hearty and filling.

My wife and I have eaten dinner here and had the take away pizza. This is no run of the mill Italian restaurant. Eating in house requires a booking because the food is crisp, refreshing and wonderfully simple and refreshing. The prawn pizza is divine and it isn't anything like the standard pizzas you find. The wood-fired pizzas are outstanding because of the great base and the sparseness of toppings, letting you focus on the wondrous simple flavors.

My wife and I celebrated our first year anniversary here, considering that paper was the traditional gift. We were impressed by the decor, the traditional room layout, Japanese massage and fantastic breakfast. With rooms limited to 6, it was a wonderfully intimate affair. The staff service is excellent and the surroundings pristine and relaxing. It is the perfect romantic getaway.

Visiting with a bunch of Mums and their prams, Java was unwilling to accommodate a group booking. On arrival, the staff were clearly unimpressed with 6 hungry mothers and their prams, gathering for a quick meal and warm drink. They didn't assist in putting together a group of tables and ignored all attempts at ordering, bordering on discrimination. Furthermore, they do not have credit/EFTPOS facilities making the experience even worse. Despite the comely decor, the service, staff attitude and food don't make for a good experience. In an area in bad need of good food, Java really blew it.

We've only ever had take away from the Cinnamon Club, but we've always enjoyed what we got. The meals are familiar to those who love Indian but the difference is that the staff are more than happy to make recommendations based on your personal preferences. It never feels like one is being short-changed or that there's more gravy than there is meat in the meals.

Parenthood is one of a new phenomenon, the specialist kid store. Think of it as a cross between Bed Bath n' Table, Ralph Lauren and Baby Bunting. The store is bright and airy and loaded with only the best accouterments for the current or pending little one in your life.
We visited on a Monday and had the store to ourselves. The range is phenomenal and very well-presented. We found the most obscure toys and decor; certainly these are things you won't find at Bunting or BabyCo. The only thing that I find less than satisfying is the slight coldness of the place. It seems very corporatised and lacking somewhat in warmth.

An Elwood institution, the Turtle (they've dropped cafe) is a place for great coffee and some nice simple meals. The interior is cosy with mostly wooden tables and polished concrete floor (it can be noisy when busy). The pikelets are luscious and sweet (perhaps too sweet?) but so satisfying nonetheless. The same can't be said for the 3-egg omelet which is too dry, and in the end, way too much egg.

Once focused on Japanese groceries, Tokyo Deli has renovated to focus on its great value meals. There are now tables (inside and out) for that quick lunch or snack, but for the most part, business is take away. This place is not for evening dining. The food is simple fare but of very good quality. When waiting, there are still Japanese groceries lining the walls, so if you're looking for kombu, dashi or mirin, this is the place.

A friend recommended we use the agency to find a house cleaner to do 3 hours of work every fortnight. The agency recommended Viv who does an excellent job. She's so thorough, she even picks out any wilting flowers from any bouquets we have in the house!

Approximate cost: $25