Lone Pine Riverside Cafe

Lone Pine Riverside Café is a secret gem of a casual riverfront eatery tucked away in Fig Tree Pocket adjacent to the koala sanctuary. And it's just outside the gate so there's no need to buy a ticket to dine here.

Food comes from a small kiosk on the edge of the eating area, which is vast and consists of a bunch of patio furniture on brick paving, sheltered by sail cloths. To one side is a gate leading to the Children’s Play Garden, which is a fenced off area containing kids size tables and chairs, a cubby house and ‘wombat hole’ tunnels to crawl through.

Meanwhile dogs have their own zone inside the café, with special hitching posts, bowls and a hose to fill them with fresh water.

Views are peaceful and lovely, looking across the river to mansions on the other side and up-river to bushy vistas while the sounds of kookaburras ring out from the trees and the scent of eucalypt fills the air.

Food is ordered from the kiosk and despite the ready-made nature of the menu, manages to be tasty and is great value. Choose from a small selection of heat-ups such as quiches, frittatas and vegetable curry ‘tarts’ , which come with a side serve of fresh salad, while there are also pre-made salad rolls and pre-packaged sandwiches of various fillings.

Or drop in for something sweet like luscious fruity muffins or slice of daily baked cake with a chai latte or freshly brewed coffee. For kids there are single cone ice-creams too – just ask what flavour.

Otherwise light beers, wine by the glass and a selection of juices, ginger beer, mineral water and soft drinks are available.

And by all means bring the laptop, iphone or ipad - the cafe has free wi-fi.

Need to know: On weekends Lone Pine Riverside Café hosts fantastic family friendly events: Friday night BBQs and free movie nights, as well as one off occasions like July 4th.

Tip: This is the ideal mother’s group gathering spot on weekdays, with plenty of parking, coffee to go, free wi-fi, option for a glass of wine, scenic views, a children’s play area, casual eats, loads of seating, river views and pram access.