I went to the Rose last night, after a long absence, and wondered why it took me so long to return! This place is simply brilliant. The prices of the food are superb, $15 for a parma. And, the parma has to be in the top 10% of those I have had at venues in Melbourne in terms of quality and size. The food is fresh and of high quality, feels like home cooking, and great value. The service is very welcoming. They treat you like a local, no fuss friendliness is the key. I'll be going back to settle in for a quiet Saturday arvo every now and then with a newspaper, I think!

Approximate cost: $15

We attended this venue on a Living Social deal, I should point out firstly. That being said, we were treated very well by the staff, not like some venues on similar deals. Our waiter had a passion for the food he described, and seemed to genuinely enjoy his role. The food was good for what we paid, but I'd possibly reconsider if paying full price. At the end of the meal, there was no offer of a dessert menu, and we had to go to the counter to sort out the bill, which was a disappointing end to the evening. Overall, we enjoyed it, but think there's room for improvement at the venue, starting from a good base.

Approximate cost: $23

For me, these are the best Fish and Chips in the Croydon South area. The chips are great, the fish is plentiful, the burgers are good, and the dim sims and potato cakes are good. And the free seafood stick, for those who want it, also hits the spot. The place is clean, but not scientifcally sterile, so they look like they know what they're doing. And by the time you've selected your movie at VideoEzy, your order is ready!

Approximate cost: $6

I've had to go in here many a time to sign for parcels received during my working week. The people are ALWAYS friendly, and give advice on the different services they offer. They don't do everything, like passport interviews as an example, but for the most part, you'll be looked after by these guys, even on a Saturday!

Went today for lunch, and as it's a weekday, they have a specialised Lunch Menu. We all ordered off the $10 page, which had options of a Lamb Souva, Chicken Souva, Chicken Foccacia, Steak Sandwich, BLT, Burger with the Lot, Fish Burger, and Quasedilla. All of these option are served with shoestring chips. The quality is definitely not reduced in-line with the prices, my Steak Sandwich was lovely, whilst my partner had the Burger, which was even better! As a weekday lunch option, only 5 mins from our office, this one is definitely a winner, and we'll be going back, regularly.

Approximate cost: $10

I went here for a Mexican feed, and was very happy with the banquet we ordered! Everything was nice and fresh, and the food was definitely a nice focus. The staff were really friendly and looked after us well, perhaps we followed the right footy team! :)

Approximate cost: $20

The quality and freshness at this underrated cafe is amazing! The lasagne was huge, and the omellette was very tasty indeed. The girls who served us were very attentive and helpful, and very pleasant. I'd seen this place many times, but always figured it was more-so for the oldies... not so! The variety looks great, and as I said, the quality and value is pretty-much spot-on! All this in a shopping centre, mind you! I'll be going in again!

Approximate cost: $16

I've never had a bad meal here, and the service is generally always with a smile! The prices are a little high for pub cuisine, but the quality is there. Also worth checking the greatfoodgreatvalue.com.au website to see what special deals are on offer, as these can often be good. It's nice, and even though it is family-friendly, it's not as bad as it sounds!

Approximate cost: $24

Although all airport parking is a rip-off, these guys do a pretty good job. You self-park and take your keys with you, and the courtesy bus is efficient and warm. They don't drop-off at Tiger's T4 Terminal. The trick when parking is to choose the blue BMW bays in the corners, as they're wider than the others, and anyone can use them! And, 90% of the carpark is undercover.

Approximate cost: $30+

I love the Fried Pork Dumplings, 15 for $8.90. They taste awesome, so to me, that is good value. The staff appear rushed and disinterested, but this is outweighed by the dumplings. I've not tried any other dishes there, but they don't look that appetising to me. The restaurant is always cramped and crowded, so you're not going for the ambience.

Approximate cost: $9