21 Dec 2021

Outdoor dining has always been a feature of the Melbourne food scene and the food and beverage traders of the City of Whittlesea have embraced the council’s push to develop the outside eating areas. Cafes and Restaurants throughout Whittlesea have spent the last two years adapting to Covid restrictions and providing access to takeaway coffees and meals for their communities during lockdowns. Beer gardens have been extended, seating has been added to shopfronts, marquees have been set up and restaurants all around the region have been preparing to welcome locals and visitors to their Covid-safe establishments.

If you want to socialise with your friends and family but you’re still a little nervous about having visitors to your home, dining outdoors is the perfect solution. We’ve put together a list of relaxed dining spaces out in the fresh air that you can book for breakfast, lunch or dinner so you can get out and support your local businesses.

Bundoora

When you’re out and about grabbing the essentials for the party season, you’re sure to work up an appetite. Plan a coffee break with friends or just refuel after you’ve done the grocery shopping at one of Bundoora’s cafes.

Armaniis Uni Hill, Bundoora

Café Lucio, Bundoora

Jolly Miller Café, Bundoora

Mini Me Mango, Bundoora

Donnybrook

Grab a great coffee and a cooked breakfast or lunch and let the kids burn off their energy at the all abilities Gumnut playground while you eat.

Shared Cup Café, Donnybrook

Doreen

Hitting the shops for all those last minute bits and bobs for Christmas and the holidays? Book into one of your favourites for a relaxing outdoor meal to replenish your energy.

Appret Café, Doreen

Jojayz Café, Doreen

La Porchetta, Doreen

Magnolia on Orchard, Doreen

Mustbar, Doreen

Slices, Doreen

Mernda

Want to meet with friends and family for a pre or post Christmas catch up? Mernda has excellent outdoor dining options for small and large groups. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Billys Junction, Mernda

Split Bean Café, Mernda

Turners Bakehouse Eatery, Mernda

Two Beans and a Farm, Mernda

Mill Park

With the indoor part of the Westfield centre busy with extreme Christmas shopping, take a break and grab a seat at one of the outdoor cafes or restaurants. Destress, eat up, then shop again!

Against the Grind, Mill Park

Angie’s Dumplings Bar, Mill Park

Groove Train Plenty Valley, Mill Park

Kinn Thai Restaurant, Mill Park

Martini & Co, Mill Park

Miss V Espresso, Mill Park

The Sporting Globe, Mill Park

South Morang

Make time for a long lunch at one of South Morang’s charming restaurants, or slot in a coffee date with your significant other at one of the lovely cafes. Life is made up of moments.

Farm Vigano, South Morang

Maple Tree Café, South Morang

Thirtyfold Café, South Morang

St Ivy Café, South Morang

Thomastown

You won’t regret stopping in at That’s Amore for a quick meal, coffee and cannoli. You can pick up all the cheese for your Christmas gatherings too.

That’s Amore Cheese, Thomastown

Wollert

Celebrating something special or just need some time out from the hectic Christmas lead up? Book a seat outdoors at Bluestone and enjoy the country hospitality.

Bluestone Café Restaurant, Wollert

Whittlesea

Local favourites have extended their seating making it super easy to gather with friends for a meal outside. Celebrate the end of the year in Whittlesea.

Corner of Thai, Whittlesea

Whittlesea Kebabs & Grill, Whittlesea

Whittlesea Pizza, Whittlesea

Whittlesea Deli Cafe

Cafe 59 on Church, Whittlesea

Olivia’s Cafe, Whittlesea

Whittlesea Bakehouse