What’s the first thing kids look for when they go to a restaurant? A play area and meals they can devour quickly, so they can get back to the fun. Blueberry Beacon in Cornubia Mall has quickly established itself as that spot where both parents and children can relax, grab some good food, and have fun.
The concept of creating a place where kids and parents can enjoy together started with owner Dane Hartley and his business partner, Chris Mouzouri and his wife, Anessa. With their diverse backgrounds in the restaurant industry—Dane in nightclub and lounge entertainment, and Chris and Anessa in child-friendly restaurants—they combined their expertise to create something unique. Their vision was for a spot that brought joy and light to the lives of families, their inspiration being to create a place of fun and happiness. The name comes from their first location, Blueberry Square, and the restaurant’s ability to attract children to it like a beacon. It became a viral hit, spreading love and joy, allowing parents to relax without taking away from family time.
And the Cornubia branch does just that. We got to visit Blueberry Beacon and experience what makes the place so special. Approaching from the upper level, you can see the giant play area with children running, climbing and laughing all over, having the time of their lives. Immediately, I could see the excitement in my brother’s eyes, it was like heaven for kids.
As we took our seats, you could see how they managed to fuse aspects that appeal to both adults and children. The lights and disco-type atmosphere with the characters dancing and interacting with the children creates something for them to do and entertains the adults who look on, amused by the shenanigans the children get up to. The indoor and outdoor seating also provides a great view of the play area for parents to keep an eye on their kids. Our friendly waiter helped us choose some great drinks to start off with. Their colourful menu is designed to attract the eye, and we found the gourmet milkshakes with ease, eager to try them out. We opted for the “To the Moon” milkshake, a combination of strawberry and bubblegum flavours, topped with a frosted ring doughnut, whipped cream, astros and sprinkles! A colourful explosion of flavour.
While we sipped on our drinks, the leader of the Autobots, Optimus Prime, made an appearance! This unique concept that they introduced to the restaurants is what initially attracted the children and increased the popularity of the brand. Bringing these characters to life for the children is a special part of what they do. When a little kid meets Elsa or fist bumps Bumblebee, it’s a special experience, and Blueberry Beacon lets them make those memories. Imagine having a dance party with Spider-Man and Bluey!
Satisfying the little ones’ fussy palates can be a challenge sometimes. Blueberry Beacon’s menu offers a range of meals that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. We got a little spread for our table, consisting of a pizza, some fries (a must), jalapeño poppers, and crumbed chicken strips and chips. While we ate, we heard the music turn up, and we turned around to see Spider-Man leading a dance competition on the other end of the restaurant! Not wanting to miss out on the fun, the kids joined in for a while before returning to the table to finish their meals.
One of the reasons why the Cornubia branch is so beloved is the surrounding communities of families which flock to the restaurant. They visit for family time, and with the June holidays coming up, it’s bound to be a choice destination. They encourage families to stay longer and allow the children to play to their hearts’ content until they tire themselves out. Bedtime will be a breeze!
The restaurant plans to expand its offerings to keep everyone busy. Activities like face painting, pottery, arts and crafts, rides and toy ranges will be coming to the Cornubia branch. So, be on the lookout for them when you visit! After the kids tired themselves out, reluctant and yawning, they returned from the jungle gym. It was an amazing experience that entertained us, seeing the kids having so much fun.
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Words: Cristina Govender