Since debuting a year ago, showing what a $10.8 million kids’ playground looks like – for the record, it includes flying foxes, in-ground trampolines and a water park – Glen Huntly’s Booran Reserve hasn’t had a quiet day. But what, no coffee?
This is where Upsy Daisy has come in, providing a vital community service since opening in April opposite the park – like an oasis in the desert to parched guardians in need of a life-giving latte while junior hits the swings.

Named after a character from the trippy kids’ TV series In the Night Garden, the corner café – its interior resplendent in turquoise – is a collaboration between two hospo teams with Caulfield’s Mr Brightside and Holy Moly in Hawthorn among their stable.

Hit the servery window for takeaway or dine in at the 30 or so seats. Healthy fare or sometimes food is your call.

The applause-worthy Take it Easy jaffle is seamed with rich slow-cooked brisket and creamy mac’n’cheese, while the Miso Hungry bowl is a hearty pile of hummus, salsa and (slightly dry) falafel with a fat wodge of avo on brown rice.
You can also build your own Upsy Bowl by choosing a base (rice, noodles or quinoa) and loading up toppings. I’ll be back for the sweet promise of Gimme Moar, fruit toast with strawberry, banana and peanut butter.

Downsides? The layout. The front area which serves frozen yoghurt is empty this cold Saturday. Are they open? A push on the door reveals yes. That room opens to the back dining area and kitchen. It’s a super-narrow space made to feel even more enclosed with the kitchen on the window side of the room. The ordering system needs refining if you’re eating in, too.

But it’s all child’s play when the coffee is a good brew from Coffee Supreme and the pastries are from Noisette. All fortitude to face the fort.