Visited the Melbourne Zoo, on a Sunday, it was extremely busy, the car park was packed, but all for good reason! When the sun is shining and the animals are frolicking, there's no better place that the Zoo. It is fairly expensive, especially for the average family, however pack your bags for a picnic which helps to alleviate the cost. The new Elephant walk is presented really well, feeding times are always enjoyable to watch, and the staff are informative and happy. Some of the enclosures are probably a little lack lustre for the animals, however, overall the zoo is well presented and an enjoyable way to learn or just relax and watch the amazing animals on offer.

Approximate cost: $23

IGA at Wantirna Mall is a great place to stop on the way home to find those last minute ingredients. The store is set out well, and the aisles are clearly indicated, so it is easy to find your product. Have never had to queue up for an extended period of time, making it convenient and timely. Although, sometimes they are limited on stock, especially if it is on sale, such as skittles!! But, usually it has all you need.

On a Friday night, there is nothing better than ordering a large pizza, pepsi and garlic bread...but Friday nights got even greater, because Nero's knows how to make a spectacular pizza. So, you think you have just ordered a supreme, well, their traditional supreme has gigantic prawns atop, plenty of sauce, the toppings are overwhelming and the price is fantastic for this type of pizza and service. Home deliveries which is convenient, and timely.

Approximate cost: $20

Visited the Irish pub at the Stamford for a Sunday session. It was actually occupied by a battle of the bands competition, it was enjoyable to sit back and relax with a few drinks listening to future Australian talent. The drink prices are average, the bar staff were never flustered even when busy and were polite. Pretty much like any other Irish pub, dark and paraphanalia of Ireland.

Not that impressed with Sofia's at Wheelers Hill. Went on a Sunday night, and it was absolutely packed, so if you are after some conversation...skip this restaurant. After all, it is a family restaurant, so a great place to take the kids, especially with the huge array of gelati ice cream and the servings are massive. Our order took a long time to come through, probably due to the excessive patrons on the night. The actual meal, I had risotto was tasty and good value. Also ordered a chocolate mousse, however, this was not up to standard, it had not yet set, and was still runny, a bit disapointing.

Approximate cost: $15

La Porchetta in Lilydale is a double story restaurant, where you can sit and wait for your take away pizza below, or head upstairs for a table and meal. The menu is like every other la porchetta, pizza, pasta, veal, steak and even fish! Specials board was enticing, with a variety of options at fantastic value. I ordered a vegetarian pizza, it was delicious, with a respectable amount of toppings. Staff were friendly and accommodating.

Approximate cost: $15

Have been to Warran Glen Nursery many times...and surprisingly its not for the vast array of plants!! Instead, it is scones and hot chocolates in the sun, on the balcony of their cafe. The cafe over recent times has gotten busier and busier, expanding outside into a lovely court yard. Lunch menu is now quite extensive, but the just because the business has expanded has not meant that quality has decreased. Friendly service in an ideal location. I recently even had a quiet Hens Party here which was perfect, with catering available for large groups, and now a licensed bar. However, in Summer there is some problems with bees...all adds to the character.

Approximate cost: $15

I have been happy with this Chinese Restaurant located in Wantirna. Whilst I have only ever had take-away, I find the value quite reasonable, the spring rolls are delicious and have never had a problem with them. Prawn crackers are usually included free yay! They also do lunch packs for $7.95 where you can mix rice and a main meal.

Approximate cost: $15

Quaint and quirky restaurant off busy Nicholson St in Fitzroy. The restaurant offers intimate dining, in old fashioned French style boutique. I visited this restaurant quite late on a Saturday night, 10.30pm, the Chef hung around to cook us our meal, and there was no brush off. The meals were absolutely superb, and the wine that was offered delicious. Loved this place!!

Approximate cost: $25

Active feet is a shoe shop in Heathmont which supplies running shoes for the elite sportsperson to the average walker. The staff are all trained in podiatry or other sporting fields and offer extensive advice when it comes to selecting your next runners. They use a treadmill to gauge your style and foot mechanics before choosing the correct shoe for you. Properly fitted and time given each customer to ask questions.
I came out with a new pair of runners and enthusiasm to hit the pavement! The shoe variety includes: Asics, Nike, Brooks, Saucony and others, but they are expensive.

Approximate cost: $150 +