MUM ABOUT TOWN

Our mum about town spends a wholesome Sunday in the city

We’re getting back to basics this month. We kick off with a trip to a little-known spot which supplies fresh organic vegetables - perfect for cooking up a storm during the cooler weather. Every Sunday, Central Pier hosts a local farmer’s market from 11am-5pm. I coaxed three-year-old Mimi along to stock up on fruit and veggies with the promise of a Mister Softee soft serve once we were done. It’s a great place to source organic produce directly from local farmers. Mimi loved the hands-on experience and one of the producers from Hok Tau Potted Organic Farm spent time introducing her to new vegetables.

When we’re in the area, we always enjoy lunch at the aptly named Café 8 at Pier 8 on the rooftop of the Maritime Museum. Founded by The Nesbitt Centre in 2013, Café 8 offers employment opportunities for adults with learning needs. It’s bright and airy with a large terrace which is great for soaking up the sun at this time of year. Mimi devoured her lasagna, but it was the cake counter that really grabbed her attention. The carrot cake is a huge hit and daddy recommends the strawberry cheesecake, the lemon tart, and the banoffee pie - the list of delicious treats goes on!

After lunch, we headed to Causeway Bay for some retail therapy. Shopping with a three-year-old is super fun when she cooperates and completely exhausting when she doesn’t. Lee Garden Two is an extremely child-focused shopping centre and offers something for everyone. Even the toilets are down-sized for little children. The second floor is dedicated to kids and we normally spend a considerable amount of time choosing books at Book Castle. I also love browsing the designer kids’ fashion stores with my mini-me fashionista.

Mimi adores the free play areas which offer toys, books, games and plenty of dinosaurs! There is a much bigger (and better) playroom on the third floor called Playdot. This one has slides and climbing walls. To gain 30-minute access, you need to show on-the-day proof of purchase by credit card for $50 or more. I’ve got a great tip for what to spend that $50 on - head to NINETYs on the first floor for an award-winning artisan coffee. This place serves up some of the best coffee in Hong Kong and each cup is served alongside accompaniments to enhance the taste of the blend. It’s one of the best kept secrets in Causeway Bay for on-the-go mums, like me!