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| It's chocolate heaven at Max Brenner |
The divine Max Brenner opened in South Bank last year introducing Brisbane to 'the bald man's' chocolate culture, inviting us to smell, taste, feel and share his love affair with all things coco. Um...OK! You don't have to ask me twice.
Several Mummas had arrived before me and arranged tables at the end of the counter for our get together. Eight of us fit comfortably in the space with our prams nearby and bouncing bubs on our laps. I'm guessing our mid-morning meeting time was a big part of allowing this to happen because I've heard stories of chocolate devotees queuing for hours to worship at the alter of Brenner. I don't blame them.
Without hesitation I lined up too. A Hug Mug (named after its stylish design which allows you to hug it close to you) of dark chocolate was my bevvie of choice. It was simply sensational. I'll admit, I was nervous that drinking a MUG of chocolate would make me sick, but quiet the opposite. I wanted more. Right away, if not sooner!
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| Tasty Hot Chocolate in a heart warming Hug Mug |
During the course of the morning, my friends were feasting on Banana Bread served with melted hot chocolate, Banana Praline Crepes served with melted hot chocolate and an Exploding Chocolate Shot, among other things (click here for the menu). They all oo'd and aah'd in the right places boasting that their plate was the best of the bunch. It's definitley not somewhere you want to go if you're keen to regain your post-baby figure but it's well worth a visit for a reward once you've achieved it!
Child-Friendly Environment - 3 rattles
Again, the mid-morning mid-week venture to MB was more than likely the reason it felt spacious and bub friendly. Now, don't mistake me, I'm sure kids are welcome all the time, but it can get very busy at night so if your tot likes to run around and make noise, the university students who fill the tables and chairs might not approve. Overall, Max Brenner is very relaxed, casual and suitable for families. It offers Babycinos on the menu as proof.
Nursing (Breastfeeding) - 3 rattles
Several of my companions all nursed at the table and no-one battered an eyelid. The cafe's spaciousness allows your party to feel like it has its own space without encroaching on others, so if you choose to nurse here, it shouldn't be a problem.
Parent Room - 2.5 rattles
The parent room is a well hidden secret. Luckily a Mum in our group had been before and informed us it was located in the bottom of the building opposite. Look for a grey door opposite the side entrance of Max Brenner near several ATMs. You will need to get buzzed in (unsure if this is only available during business hours) but the room is very well maintained, clean, and would fit approx 3 to 4 Mums at a time. If you each have a pram then 3 will be a snug fit. Run out of nappies? For $2 you can purchase one from the vending machine. A microwave and Avent bottle steriliser is also available. An adult and toddler toilet is included.
Parking - 2 rattles
There is plenty of underground parking at South Bank or 2 hour paid parking on nearby side streets. If you visit MB during peak times (weekends, public holidays) be prepared to walk. Note, this is more a reflection of carparking at South Bank not Max Brenner. Elevators are available for prams but again, if it's busy, only a few people can comfortably fit in the lift with a pram. The South Bank car parks offer a hand ful of 'Parents with Prams' car parks but get in very early or very late to grab one.
Playground Equipment - Not applicable
Overall Rating - 3 rattles (out of 5).
Max Brenner
Shop 1.1 & 1.2 Stanley Street Plaza South Bank
07 3255 0411
www.maxbrenner.com.au
Opening Hours:
Mon - Thurs - 8:00am - 11:00pm
Fri - Sat - 8:00am - 12:00 Midnight
Sun - 8:00am - 11:00pm
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