This one is easily one of my personal favourites!
Tucked away on a busy Newport street, just a short stroll from the train station, is a teeny café with a hidden surprise out the back — a big turfed courtyard (hence the name The Backyard).
I first discovered it with my husband on the way home from Williamstown Beach, and I’ve been bringing Archie here since before his first birthday.
What makes this spot such a gem is the play space. Instead of towering play equipment that toddlers can’t quite manage, you’ll find all the things you’d expect in an actual backyard: ride-on cars, little bikes, a cubby house, seesaws, and a toddler-sized slide. Yes, the toys are well-loved and a little sun-faded from being outdoors, but it doesn’t take away from the fun one bit.
Personally, I didn’t enjoy play centres or big playgrounds until Archie was over two — before then, I felt like I had to shadow him constantly while he climbed and explored. Here, everything is toddler-friendly, which means you can safely pop your little one down to play while you keep a relaxed eye on them and sip your latte. The layout is basically a giant square, so no matter where you sit, you’ve got clear visibility of your child.
And the café itself? The food is fresh and delicious, the coffee is spot-on, and there’s both a kids’ menu and all the café classics — think cookies, cakes, and more.
It’s the kind of spot that feels easy, familiar, and welcoming — like your own backyard, only with better coffee.
