I've been searching all over Ballarat for a decent Baklava, something similar to the ones you can find all over the place in Oakleigh. Well my search ended when I ordered one from Yummy patisserie. This was just like Yaya and Nona used to make - rich with syrup, not a dry flake of pastry to be had.

I was impressed.

The interior of Yummy is funky, if a little small and narrow. The service was fast and friendly. The coffee was good, though the soy chai latte did taste like it had been made with those powders rather than brewed separately.

They offer gluten free food - so please ask the counter.

A very groovy little place to go for morning tea or even lunch.

Approximate cost: $15.00

The staff in the accounts section are very helpful, the nursing staff are dedicated and caring. However St John of God is very, very expensive. Especially for someone without private health insurance.

They charged the full rate for everything, which all needed to be paid upfront. The refund did eventually come back, but they had use of my money for over a month, which no doubt earned them some interest.

Approximate cost: $4000

Searching for some parts for the pump purchased from Bunnings, these guys helped us out cheerfully. They enquired what we were using the pump for, how often it was going to be used, and then found the parts for us. They were happy to share with us their knowledge.

Prices are more expensive then those you would find at the large hardware stores, but there are times when you just need the parts and someone who knows the technical side.

Approximate cost: $25.00

Like a cross between Officeworks and Bunnings, Masters new store in Ballarat is clean and well presented. The staff however are pretty scarce, and there is a long wait if you require additional help in sourcing the hardware you require to finish your project.

There is a large range of pictures for you to add to your room renovation, but if you're after something a little more hardware oriented I would suggest heading to another hardware store to save yourself the waiting time it takes to find someone who will help you.

Approximate cost: $10.00

A great family friendly restaurant, we were warmly welcomed and quickly shown to our seats. The service was fast, and the pizzas were the best we've had in Ballarat - loaded with yummy toppings, and with not the heavy bready crust that plagues pizza shop offerings.

The children's menu was good value, and they were friendly and engaged with our child, ensuring that he felt welcomed.

We'll go back, the pizza won us over, and so did the relaxed atmosphere.

Approximate cost: $16.00

This opportunity shop is a great place to pick up a bargain while supporting a range of charities and the Macarthur Street Primary School.

The prices are low - there is a 50 cent rack at the front of the shop, clothes are priced at $2.50, and books 50 cents and under.

There is a range of clothes for all the family, a small area for furniture and electrical goods (which are all tested), and there are towels, sheets and the usual array of napery all at really reasonable prices.

The service is friendly, and you feel like you're contributing to the community by shopping here.

Approximate cost: $2.50

$4.00 for adults, $2.00 for children.

A great tram ride along the lovely Lake Wendouree. The staff were friendly, and knowledgeable, easily answering the questions of the interested parties on the tram about how old the trams were, where they were built.

A really enjoyable time was had by all.

Approximate cost: $4.00

A fantastic dining experience! Taking interstate friends to the Burger Company was the best decision we made. The super friendly service impressed everyone, and when the milkshake was accidently knocked over, the service person who helped clean up, was so kind to my child, she made a real impression on him.

The serving sizes were large, and very very tasty. The chips are some of the best in Ballarat.

This place was very busy on a Sunday afternoon, and I can understand why, it's great value, great customer service and a fantastic feed!

Approximate cost: $13.00

My son needed his hair cut before going back to school, and because he hates haircuts we needed to find one we could get into quickly without excessive waiting times.

Anita at a Head's Turn has a no appointment necessary policy, so without any long waiting times, my son was on the stool and having his haircut. Anita was very good with him, she was patient and listened to what he wanted, she adapted to his moods as the haircut went on and was very friendly and kind to him.

The hair cut was the best he's ever had, it looks good and is easy to maintain.

Approximate cost: $15.00

I needed a chemist, and walking into this one I found the place well stocked with all the usual chemist goods. The staff were efficient and polite, listening to me while I explained what I needed, talking to the pharmacist and then returning with a suggestion on how best to treat my condition.

The prices were reasonable, and the service very good. The shop was well stocked, and clean.