Cheeses are handmade with milk from a small Yarra Valley herd, and are different every time. The range is somewhat limited - ausiago, pecorino, camembert-cross-gouda, feta and caerphilly, with the addition of a locally sourced goat cheese, but the quality is excellent. A local yoghurt is also available, together with various jams and preserves. The owners are friendly and the number of cars and buses pulling in are testament to the impact this small business has made in the relatively short time it has been in operation.

Approximate cost: $43/kg

This small cafe in the Block Arcade is slightly crowded, but not oppressively so. Tables are also available in the arcade itself, providing the vibrancy of al fresco dining. The food and coffee are excellent and reasonably priced and service is friendly.

Possibly the best Ocean Trout I have ever tasted. House-cured, it was served with a mix of greens garnished with pansy and carnation petals and complemented with a light dressing, together with lightly toasted artisan bread. The coffee was also excellent. The cafe is situated in the chambers of the historic National Mutual Building, later the premises of the Bank of New Zealand.

Approximate cost: $17

This was a first visit. I was able to make my appointment online, a definite plus. A sole operator, Chris was pleasant, personable and professional. The work was done efficiently and effectively. Situated in a period home at the quiet end of the street it was a pleasurable experience. I will certainly be returning.

Approximate cost: $60, first visit

I have been a regular client for many years. The service and expertise are first class. It is a friendly, welcoming salon where the staff have a good relationship with the owner and with each other. I would recommend them to anyone with confidence.

Approximate cost: $40 short hair blow wave

Food is of the highest quality, perfectly cooked, locally sourced, artistically served. A local singing group entertains on Friday mornings. The owner/manager is enthusiastic, friendly and welcoming. The decor features Charlie Chaplin. A small art gallery is alongside, with entry from the cafe precinct. A regular stop for me and one where I always take visiting friends and family.

Approximate cost: $9, coffee and cream/jam scone

Meal was well presented and HOT! Fish batter was crisp; chips were long and fat; salad was better than most - a good variety of greens and other veges. Ambiance of dining area is great and tables are well-spaced enabling private conversation.

Approximate cost: $19

Paramparaa is relatively new in Healesville. I love Indian food so was very happy to see it open. The restaurant is beautifully appointed and the staff friendly, but I was disappointed in the food - not all that good and quite expensive.

Approximate cost: $15-17

Wanting something different for my dinner one night I decided to try Express Noodles. They have a "dine in" or "to go" option so I took some home with me. The service was quick and the staff friendly.

Approximate cost: $10

My garden muncher was not working so I tried this business on the off chance that they could help me. They suggested that I looked for a reset button - which I did. This fixed the problem - and it cost me nothing!