This groovy little cafe is full of quirk. The tables are large wooden dining tables, all different, for larger group, or cozy little wooden desks for just you and your coffee buddy. This place is a haven for a quiet coffee and cake, or a sandwich, they make a mean omelette. There's a selection of books in a corner in case you forgot yours. The staff are cheerful, the coffee good. Their chai has gone downhill but the bohemian feel of the place makes me overlook that and order a latte instead.

I found this place listed on the Coeliac Society of Victoria's website and I wasn't alone, as a woman sitting next to me happened to mention as I got the waiter to list what I could eat. A varied menu, European influences rather strong, the mushroom risotto with caramelised onion was tasty, the chicken breast with bacon and avocado a little dry, the ice cream served with dessert delicious. The live music was ambient rather than intrusive and the location of the place was excellent. A trifle cramped in the laneway restaurant is my only major complaint.

Approximate cost: $25

This place is great. It's got a casual, laid back atmosphere that is perfect for a light meal and a coffee while sitting back and watching the people go by. They make a mean chai latte, drool worthy cakes and sandwiches and a pretty decent menu, this place is worth a look. And a plus for all the gluten intolerants out there- they know what it is and are currently double checking suppliers and will adjust menu items for you.

I love Spotlight. It's a great place for any crafty type person. Unfortunately, I don't recommend calling them. The service in store, when you have a number, is great, and the staff helpful. But on the phone I have this feeling that they would rather hang up and let me come into the store.

I often head into Lincraft for bits and pieces for my sewing projects. The company was recently sold and after this I've found that they have a tonne of extra stock. Trimmings and ribbons are plentiful finally and there are heaps of fabrics to choose from. The service is mediocre and not plentiful. I would not recommend shopping at a lunch time or just after work time.

We had just stopped in for a quick bite before heading into the ACMI cinema to see a movie but this place is worthy of more than that. Unpretentious and kid friendly this place is comfortably hip. They don't have much in the way of gluten free options in their normal menu, but they very nicely let me order from the breakfast menu a little late in the day. Wonderful service and lovely coffee away from the snobbish trendy vibe that some of Fed Square has.

Approximate cost: $13

This theatre is beautiful. It's old, it's ornate and wonderful shows are put on there. Unfortunately if you are in a wheelchair or accompaning someone who is, as I was, it has some flaws. The wheelchair seats are in the stalls to the far left of the stage, limiting what can be seen on that side of the stage. The placement of the wheelchair also blocks two rows of seats, forcing the wheelchair to be the last in and the first out of both rows which is hard with the large amount of people and the limited room to wait out the rush. I dread to think about how people would get out of the row in an emergency, or even to go to the toilet part way through a show. The disabled toilets (according to the invalid I was with) are less than perfect, with not enough room to turn a wheelchair effectively and not enough arm rails to assist in getting in an out of the chair. And if they had fallen, the wheelchair and their body would have blocked the door. While staff were helpful, getting through the crowd at the bar to get to the bathroom was also difficult. The Theatre has made efforts to allow those with disabilities to attend, but at the moment I'd suggest a video.

The European is a beautiful restaurant, small and cosy with a definate European feel to it (no surprise there!). Our wine waiter was lovely and was very helpful with his suggestions. Our other waitress was not as helpful. Their menu is not fabulous for vegetarians who don't eat fish or those with milk and/or gluten allergies. They will change things for you if necessary, but considering the prices, this isn't a place you'd go to except for a special meal and removing the dairy from a risotto does tend to make it less than special. Good for those without dietry issues, a great wine list and a good pre-theatre menu.

Approximate cost: $30

The Groove Train is a great place for a coffee or quick meal before heading up the escalator to catch a movie. The coffee isn't bad, the chai is pretty good and they have a fairly good menu. Nothing spectacular about this place, it's just plain, solid foods like pizza, foccacia and burgers, you can get a beer or a wine with your meal and it's not too dear. A vaguely trendy atmosphere and good opening hours, this place may not be great but it sure is handy.

Approximate cost: $15

I love love love this store. I can't afford most of what is in it, but they have lovely things. Jewellery and art inspired or reproduced from items at the Metropolitan Museum of Art store in New York, it's all timeless and classic and a wonderful place to buy a gift for a special someone, if you can afford it!