I've been going to Alternative Glow for a few years now. Renee (the owner) is absolutely fabulous - she's really friendly and relaxed, and a great beauty therapist. She has provided me with great skincare advice, waxing is brilliant and lots of other services available (although I haven't tried them all). The salon is fresh and funky looking, appointments are easy to get as long as you book ahead and there is an SMS reminder sent out for appointments. They have also just started a new customer reward system which looks good too.

Asakusa is the sort of restaurant that we feel lucky to live close to! A very authentic Japanese restaurant which is reasonably priced and also allows BYO. The sushi/sashimi here is extremely fresh (we've heard that the sushi chef is ex-Daimaru, but not sure if that's true!), some of the best we've found in Melbourne. Service is always friendly and prompt and it treads that lovely fine line between always having lots of diners, but easy to get a booking. Highly recommended.

Whilst the food and coffee is great at Our Kitchen Table, unfortunately every time I've been there the service has been so slow it verges on the ridiculous. Waiting 45 minutes to get your breakfast (and that's from the time we ordered, not from when we sat down!) is just ridiculous. The prices aren't cheap either. Always packed with families on weekends, perhaps they don't mind waiting?

I've been a member at Perfect Fit for quite a few years now and have also done some personal training there. This is a small 'boutique' style gym catering for a wide range of clientele, from a few high-school age students right through to 60+ year olds. The great thing about this gym is how friendly both staff and fellow members are - it's a very welcoming environment and a nice community to be a part of. The trainers always have time to give you a few pointers, and exercise programs are carefully built to individual needs. Very highly recommended, especially if you're over big, soulless gyms!

Operating both as a cafe and a cellars, Chaucers has consistently great quality coffee - we think it's the best in the area. Food is simple but always fresh, tasty and reasonably priced. The staff there are lovely and get to know regulars quickly. They also have great knowledge of the different wines in stock and are happy to provide suggestions.

Approximate cost: $15

I've been going to Barberella hair for years now. The staff are extremely knowledgeable, always up with the latest trends, and are equally able to listen carefully to what you want OR suggest a new style or cut for you. Tea or coffee while you wait for your appointment, nice fresh looking salon and they also offer a reminder SMS service for appointments.