Tucked away inside an Ipswich church in Brassall, you’ll discover The Foundry Café – a spacious and modern café which hits the rare playground, good coffee and affordable food trifecta. A “hidden gem” is an apt title for this suburban sanctuary where families are welcomed and children are invited to move, play and socialise in an environment designed with them in mind.
The Space
The café space is unexpectedly large with a mixture of low tables, cosy leather couches and wooden picnic style benches outside. High ceilings and polished, concrete floors create a contemporary vibe while the blanket-adorned sofas provide a homely, relaxed feel and a comfortable space for feeding mothers. There is ample room to move between the tables allowing for the use of prams and wheelchairs.
Outside is the fully fenced ‘Pat’s Playground’ complete with all the favourites such as slides, swings, see-saw, ladders and pretend shop front. It is well shaded (although not rainproof) and has a soft fall bark base. There is some nearby seating to allow for close supervision while also being able to enjoy a drink or bite to eat.
The Kids’ Menu
While there is no specific kids’ menu, little ones will surely be satisfied with the items on offer including hot chips, nuggets, cookies, muffins and milkshakes. Prices are very reasonable with meals starting from around $10 and food and drink deals available to help boost the affordability factor.
Order at the counter and take a buzzer back to your table or out to the playground where the kids can continue to play. There can be delays during peak times, due to limited staffing, however there is plenty to keep the minis busy while your coffee is brewing.
The Parent Factor
Coffee dates and playground adventures form the perfect pairing for keeping everyone happy from the caffeine enthusiasts to the young explorers. The stylish interior provides a sense of sophistication for the grown-ups while the inclusion of a generously sized playground and well equipped indoor play space encourages children to feel right at home.
While the unpretentious food is well priced, you can’t put a price tag on the peaceful and accommodating atmosphere to be found at The Foundry Café. It makes for a wonderful parents’ group destination where the big, open spaces allow for wiggly kids to stretch their legs and for loud conversations to be had.
The Magic Ingredient
Surprise, surprise! It’s the playground. The ability to enjoy a coffee while the kids are occupied and safe can provide a real lifeline especially while in the depths of those early baby and toddler years.
Pat’s Playground sets the bar for ‘café playgrounds’ offering a total playground experience with all the tried and true equipment from climbing to swinging and imaginary play. It’s best designed for toddlers and early primary school aged children to enjoy while the indoor place space is ideal for small hands with its collection of building blocks and Lego.
Big kids can select from a range of classic board games and puzzles to flex their problem solving skills and get the competitive juices flowing.
The Facts
- Location: Catalyst Church, 142 Pine Mountain Road, Brassall
- Hours: Open 7:00am to 1:00pm Monday to Friday
- Highchairs: Yes
- Pram access: Yes
- Outdoor seating: Yes
- Kids’ menu: Not specifically however the menu contains kid friendly options.
- Parking: Large outdoor carpark
- Bookings accepted: No – plenty of tables and seating available.
Brisbane Kids Says
You had us at fenced playground and hot coffee! We don’t say this lightly, however The Foundry Café at Brassall really does tick all the boxes with its big, shaded playground, inside play options and budget friendly food menu. Add it to your play date rotation or make a whole day out of it. There are some fantastic attractions located in surrounding suburbs of Ipswich including the free Ipswich Nature Centre and Bob Gamble Park.
The Foundry Café is located within the Catalyst Church Ipswich at 142 Pine Mountain Road, Brassall QLD 4305. Visit their website or phone 07 3813 4999 for more information.
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