In search of the perfect baby-chino

As I step out of the house on yet another expedition into the cafe mad world of Melbourne, I grip my daughter Sabina's hand firmly. Another day, another cafe, another latte and another baby chino. In the car we discuss the benefits of two marshmallows as opposed to one marshmallow or even worse no marshmallow. The froth verses tepid milk argument that has bedevilled the ages, well at least the 90's, and the last but equally as important topic - the cocoa topping. These may seem like trivial considerations but as any parent knows if you plan to met in a cafe with your friends and have any hope of conversation that spans more then thirty seconds without the shrill voice of your closest and once relaxed friend not sending shivers down your spine, then you know that the baby chino is imperative. Only it allows communication between adults while in the company of children.

Children of the 90's are a discerning lot, the quality control at McDonald's has taught them a lot about the way things should be. So as I pull into the car park , my mission is clear: best baby chino or die. The following ratings have been given by my daughter a six year old veteran of the cafe obsessed world of inner city Melbourne. Rating's are given with the following criteria in mind. The helpfulness of the staff, the number of marshmallows, the overall frothiness of the milk and the coca topping. Up to five marshmallows are awarded.

Tin Pot on St George's Road Fitzroy: $1 with 2 marshmallows - 4 marshmallows

Browne's, Lygon Street Carlton: $1.50 - 1 marshmallow

Cafe Del Mar, Bellar Street, Kensington $1, crayons on tables - 4 marshmallows

Turtle Cafe, 34 Glenhuntly Road, Elwood : $1.50, toys - 1 marshmallow

Galleon, 9 Carlyle Street, St Kilda : fifty cents - 2 marshmallows, for the toys

Blue Train, South Gate-free, no marshmallows, 0 marshmallows

Paragon, Rathdowne Street, Carlton: 3 marshmallows

Katherine Knox