I thought it would be fun over the winter to do a little series on some of our favourite kid friendly places in our neighbourhood and beyond.  We live in Pyrmont – just a short stroll over the bridge to the CBD and the large tourist destination that is Darling Harbour.  To some, that might mean that we sacrifice a cozy, neighbourhood feeling – a sense of belonging that is often associated with living a bit further out or in the suburbs.  It might indeed mean you have to search a bit harder for places that make you feel at home, but they are definitely there.  We’ve lived here for over five years now and I love that we have so many places that feel like home.

Hands down though is our favourite place is Cafe Kebo on Harris Street.  The owner is Steve who my kids adore and the rest of the staff are just as great. Kebo has been our go to destination for about four years. I was hooked when on my third visit Steve knew my name, my daughter’s name and what coffee I liked when I walked in the door!  The quality of the coffee is what got me in the door for the third time, but it is the friendly five-star service that has kept us loyal customers for so many years.  The food is cooked in the kitchen on site with hot breakfasts and delicious muffins, fresh salads, soups and sandwiches for lunch.  The babycinos are complimentary and come with the required marshmellow – which seems to be disappearing in so many places.

My kids definitely think Kebo is an extension of our lounge room.  They have their own specials they order, favourite places to sit, and Steve always has a game or two on hand for his Fun Friday Challenges.  Right now they have a crush on a huge stuffed dog that is guarding the cafe and if he is not around, they are busy tormenting a poor fish in his fish bowl in the back of the cafe.

As if all of the above is not enough, Steve implemented a texting and account system a few years ago when my kids were much littler.  A lifesaver for this mum as it meant I could text my coffee and food order when I left the house and when I arrived at the cafe, it was ready and waiting.  And as long as there was money in my house account, I didn’t even have to stop to pay.  No waiting in line with a crying baby or a curious toddler.  That alone made me never look at another cafe unless Steve for some reason was closed.

Kebo is such a part of our daily life, I thought it would be fun to do a casual photoshoot.  It was a cold, wet day when we stared snapping and we finished up on a day with a bit more sun.  I love how these images show how much my kids love their special place at Steve’s cafe.  Who wouldn’t love a barista that delights you with extra marshmellows, and let’s the steam wand cover you with magical smoke? Steve puts a smile on their face and mine on a daily basis.  The only sad part is that Steve is off on an adventure at the end of the year.  We’ll unfortunately have to find a new cafe to call home.  But until then – you can find us at Kebo!

I’d love to capture your special places too!  Contact me to book your session