Chapters, as it’s affectionately known by regular visitors, is a bit of a local Ipswich institution giving book lovers a friendly and conveniently located place to meet up over a cuppa or two. Children are nicely catered for with large indoor/outdoor spaces, a kids’ menu and dedicated play-mat area which is well suited to young babies and toddlers.
The Space
This café is located within the large and modern Karalee Shopping Village which also boasts two major supermarkets and a host of medical, beauty and professional services.
There are two distinct sections to the café including a super cosy indoor space with rows of books for sale from the latest novels to gorgeous children’s classics like Winnie the Pooh and The Rainbow Fish. While these books are only available for purchase and not for general reading in store, it does give the café a lovely and family friendly vibe.
Also in stock is a range of locally sourced products such as honey providing the perfect opportunity for some impromptu gift buying.
The outdoor area is large, consisting of several low and high tables plus plenty of space to park prams and place highchairs. This is also where you’ll find a play-mat loaded up with a variety of toys including building blocks, stepping stones, puppets and wooden puzzles.
This outdoor environment gives little guests more freedom to move around and is more accommodating for noise.
It’s important to note, there is no fencing or any real barrier between the outdoor seating space and the busy surrounding car park meaning constant supervision is a must.
The Kids’ Menu
The kids’ menu at Chapters has all the tried and true favourites including chicken nuggets, cheeseburgers, pancakes and eggs on toast. These kids’ meals are arguably on the slightly more expensive side but are generously sized and always neatly presented. A highlight from the kids’ menu is a milkshake complete with whipped cream and colourful lollies, making it the perfect morning tea treat or after school snack.
The Parent Factor
The appeal for grownups here, is the versatility of the space which suits so many occasions from coffee with the parents’ group, to book club meet ups and romantic lunch dates.
The menu offers plenty of variety, staff are accommodating and meals generally arrive quickly which is always a nice bonus when young kids are in tow. You do need to order at the counter and therefore might need to queue for a little while during peak times.
The Magic Ingredient
Chapters Book Shop, Café and Wine Bar is in the regular rotation due to its kid friendly considerations and relaxed, bookish, community atmosphere. The simple inclusion of a play-mat area with age appropriate toys, creates a sense of inclusion while promoting the development of social skills such as sharing and collaborative play.
A hot coffee and a peaceful moment, while the kids are happy and engaged, can provide a real mood boost especially in the early days of caring for young children.
Chapters also holds frequent live mic sessions and trivia nights making it a fun outing for families with older children too.
The Facts
- Location: Karalee Shopping Village
- Opening Hours: 7am – 4pm Sunday to Thursday, later on Friday and Saturday for takeaway orders.
- Highchairs: Yes (wooden)
- Pram/Wheelchair Access: Yes
- Outdoor seating: Yes
- Kids’ menu: Yes
- Toilets Nearby: Yes
- Parking: Ample spaces available in the shopping centre car park.
- Bookings: Yes, but probably only required for big groups or on special event nights.
Brisbane Kids Says
A comfortable gathering place for locals where kids are welcomed, the coffee is dependable and avid readers will feel right at home. It also provides a great, central meeting point for those looking to catch up somewhere between Brisbane west and Ipswich.
Chapters Book Shop, Café and Wine Bar is located at 52 Junction Road, Karalee QLD 4306. Visit their Facebook page to find out more or call 07 3413 6951.
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