Author: chidywf87

* 2026 Update (Originally Published: January 2025): Following my move from Google Blogger to this new WordPress site, I’ve updated this LG CordZero vacuum review with 2026 Australian market insights and a long-term performance report after 18 months of real-world use.

Why I Switched from Corded to Cordless

My old vacuum was a corded model, which was a constant hassle to plug and unplug. To make matters worse, the retractable cable was broken, often shortening on its own while I was in the middle of cleaning.

Beyond those technical issues, the biggest change was our living environment. My previous place was a carpeted apartment, but our new home features hybrid flooring, which requires a different cleaning approach. I needed something lightweight and cordless for quick, daily maintenance of these hard floors.

After researching various models, I chose the LG A9N Multi Stick. It stood out for its reasonable price and, most importantly, the inclusion of a second battery—a rare bonus that many competitors charge extra for.

LG A9N Unboxing: Dual Batteries & Accessories

The set comes with everything needed for versatile cleaning:

• Two rechargeable batteries (easy to swap for longer cleaning sessions)
• Multi-surface nozzle for carpets and rugs
• Hard-surface nozzle for tiles, hybrid and wooden floors
• Floor-standing dock
• Additional attachments for corners, furniture, and delicate areas (Combination and Crevice tool, Handy tool kit)

Having different heads makes this vacuum much more versatile, since I can switch attachments depending on the surface.

Suction Test: Best Performance on Hybrid & Tile Floors

I’ve been using the A9N for a month now, primarily on my hybrid flooring (wood and tile mix). It excels at picking up:

• Fine dust and crumbs.
• Small debris and dirt from outdoors.
• Long hair (without annoying tangles).
• Quiet Operation: It’s significantly quieter than my old vacuum, allowing me to clean without disturbing the whole household.

Real Battery Life: Is the Dual-Battery System Enough?

One of the highlights of this model is the dual-battery system. With two batteries, I can clean for a longer time without waiting for recharging. On average, each battery lasts around 30–40 minutes depending on the suction mode, which is more than enough for my house.

Some reviewers mentioned battery issues after several months of use, but since batteries are consumable parts, I’ll continue monitoring performance over time. At least with a second battery, I feel more confident about durability.

Pros and Cons of LG A9N Vacuum

Pros: Why the LG A9N is a Solid Investment

• Dual Battery System: The biggest selling point. You get a combined runtime (up to 100 mins) without paying extra for a spare.
• Easy Maintenance: All the parts, including the filters and dust bin, are incredibly easy to clean.
• Lightweight & Ergonomic: Glides smoothly on hybrid and tile floors, reducing wrist strain.
• Versatile Attachments: The combination tool is a lifesaver for specific tasks like cleaning ducted heating grills.
• Whisper Quiet: Much quieter than traditional corded vacuums.

Cons: Honest Limitations to Consider

• Battery Degradation: Like all cordless vacuums, battery performance may drop over time.
• Limited for Heavy Carpets: It can’t replace a high-end, deep-cleaning vacuum for thick, wall-to-wall carpets.

Is the LG A9N Vacuum Worth It?

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly cordless stick vacuum that includes an extra battery, this model is a solid choice. It’s perfect for quick cleaning sessions, particularly on hard floors and hybrid flooring. This vacuum has become my go-to for keeping the entire house dust-free, from spot cleaning to reaching those tricky, narrow spaces. Because it’s so lightweight and the head rolls smoothly, it is incredibly easy to maneuver, even in tight corners.

Cleaning Ducted Heating Grills & Filters

We use ducted heating, and whenever I wash the air-conditioner filters, I also take the time to clean the tiny grooves and corners of the return air grill. The combination tool is extremely useful—it easily reaches all the narrow spots, and afterwards, the dust gathered on the brush comes off cleanly, making the whole process very easy.

* 2026 update(Originally Published: July 2025): Following my move from Google Blogger to this new WordPress site, I’ve updated this review with 2026 Australian pricing and my final recommendation for a natural, SLS-free fluoride toothpaste.

From Grants to Red Seal: Looking for SLS-free toothpaste

I had been using Grants Natural Toothpaste Mild Mint (fluoride-free) for a while before switching to Red Seal Herbal Fresh No Fluoride, and I was quite satisfied with the Red Seal product.

At first, I thought Red Seal only offered fluoride-free options, as all I could find at Coles and Woolworths were non-fluoride products. But I later came across a fluoridated version of Red Seal toothpaste at Chemist Warehouse—even on sale! Without trying it first, I ended up buying four tubes.

First Impression of Red Seal: Herbal Fresh No Fluoride

The first Red Seal product I tried had a slightly murky gray colour and a soft, creamy texture. Upon checking the ingredient list, I found it contains bentonite, which likely explains both the colour and the texture.

However, it turns watery very quickly, similar to Grants Mild Mint, which made it hard to keep in my mouth for long. I had to spit it out shortly after starting to brush.

The herbal flavor gave a gentle sense of freshness, although it didn’t linger. While it doesn’t lather like SLS-based toothpastes, it still produced a decent amount of foam to leave the mouth feeling clean.

Red Seal Complete Care with Fluoride: Feeling and Texture

Red Seal Complete Care comes in two versions—fluoride and non-fluoride. The fluoride version has a clear, soft gel-like texture with a mild mint flavour.

What I appreciated most was that it is not as watery as the others I tried. It feels more stable, letting me brush at a slower pace without feeling like I have to spit it out quickly. It creates a good amount of foam and leaves a light, fresh minty aftertaste.

Red Seal Complete Care with Fluoride: Functional Ingredients

Because this isn’t a colored makeup item, I can’t see any difference in appearance after using these products, but the fluoride version includes zinc oxide and totarol, ingredients known for supporting plaque control and gum health.

It also contains sodium monofluorophosphate (MFP) with 1,000ppm fluoride, making it a good choice for natural cavity protection with antibacterial effects.

Quick Tips for Your Teeth

• To make teeth stronger: Look for Nano-Hydroxyapatite, Calcium, or Phosphate.
• For healthy gums: Look for Zinc, Propolis, or Arginine.
• If you have sensitive teeth: Look for Potassium Nitrate or Hydroxyapatite.
• If you want something gentle: Look for SLS-free, Xylitol, or Baking Soda.

Price and Value for Money

It’s hard to find an SLS-free toothpaste with fluoride, and the ones available are often quite expensive. The original price for this Red Seal product is around $5.50 for a 100g tube, but I got it on sale at Chemist Warehouse for $3.29. That’s a pretty good deal, especially when compared to other non-SLS options.

If you prefer natural and gentle ingredients, Red Seal is a brand worth exploring. Beyond the two products I’ve discussed, they offer a wide range—including versions for kids, whitening, propolis (for natural antibiotic action), baking soda (for natural whitening), and extra-strong mint flavours depending on your preference.

🛒 Right now in May 2026, the price has gone up a little to about $5.90 for 100g. It was around $5.50 a year ago, so it’s a bit more expensive now. Sometimes Chemist Warehouse has a sale for $3.50, but it’s not very often. So when I see a sale, I usually buy a few tubes to keep at home.

Final Thoughts: Willing to Repurchase Red Seal Complete Care

Since switching to SLS-free products, I haven’t experienced the white film that sometimes forms in the mouth after brushing. Also, non-SLS toothpastes don’t leave that dry, heavy coating often caused by chemical preservatives.

Overall, I’m very satisfied with the texture, flavour, and affordability of Red Seal Complete Care with Fluoride. Unlike other non-SLS products I have used, it doesn’t turn watery too quickly, which makes it more comfortable to use.

*This review is based on my personal experience, and results may vary for others. Please take it as a friendly reference.

*Updated May 2026: Following my move from Google Blogger to this new WordPress site, I’ve updated this review with 2026 Australian pricing and my final recommendation for a natural, SLS-free fluoride toothpaste.

The Hunt for SLS-Free Oral Care: Why I Chose Grants of Australia

I was specifically searching for a toothpaste without SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate). SLS is a common surfactant used in many personal care and household products, such as shampoos, toothpastes, hair conditioners, and laundry detergents, because it creates bubbles and improves cleaning power.

However, SLS has been controversial due to potential irritation to the skin, scalp, and eyes, and some studies suggest it may affect the hormonal system over time. This toothpaste replaces SLS with a plant-based surfactant called Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, derived from coconut. It’s considered safe, though it can occasionally irritate very sensitive individuals. Other than this, the formula is free from controversial ingredients.

The Great Fluoride Debate: My Stance and Finding the Right Balance

My husband and I have tried several SLS-free toothpastes, and this one has become his favourite, so we’ve been using it regularly.

That said, I’m still on the lookout for an SLS-free fluoride toothpaste, which is surprisingly hard to find. I personally believe that fluoride, in the proper amounts, is effective for preventing cavities, even though there are ongoing debates about its safety.

Some toothpaste brands offer hydroxyapatite-based formulas as a fluoride alternative. These are promising for tooth remineralisation and cavity prevention, but unfortunately, they tend to be more expensive.

Quick Comparison: Grants vs. Red Seal

Affordable Natural Care: Is Grants of Australia Worth the Price?

In terms of price, this toothpaste is moderately priced compared to other brands in the 90g–110g range, making it a reasonable option for those seeking SLS-free oral care without breaking the bank.

🛒 Shopping Tip in Australia: As of May 2026, the original price is approximately $4.50 AUD, and it is available for purchase at Coles and Woolworths. Since they often run promotions on toothpaste, I recommend keeping an eye on their weekly catalogues and stocking up when they are on sale. Additionally, while the standard size is 110g, a 25g travel size is also available at various online shops for around $2.50 (RRP)—perfect for testing the product or for your next trip.

The Science of a Healthy Smile: Testing the pH Balance

A slightly alkaline toothpaste is considered ideal because it helps neutralise acids in the mouth, which are a primary cause of cavities. Based on my pH test, this toothpaste appears to have a near-neutral pH of 7–8, which is good for maintaining oral balance without being too harsh.

💡 Tip: A small lesson from my pH testing: because the toothpaste is so thick and opaque, putting it straight onto the strip can hide the actual colour change. If you’re trying this at home, I’d suggest mixing a bit of toothpaste with distilled water first for a much clearer result. Even with the thick paste covering the strip, I could see it leaning towards a healthy, neutral-to-alkaline pH of 7–8.

The Honest Verdict: What I Loved and What I Didn’t

Pros:

• The mint flavor is subtle, so brushing feels gentle without any spicy or overwhelming sensation.
• Leaves a mildly fresh feeling after brushing, suitable for sensitive mouths.
• Free from SLS and other controversial ingredients, making it a safer, plant-based option.

Cons:

• Freshness doesn’t last as long compared to conventional SLS-containing toothpastes.
• The texture becomes watery quickly, making it slightly difficult to brush for the recommended 3 minutes. (Tip: Use a dry toothbrush!)

⚠️ Note on Whitening Version: From the same brand, we’ve also tried a baking soda toothpaste aimed at whitening. While it performed adequately, it left a white film inside the mouth even after thorough rinsing. It might be due to the alkaline particles reacting with the oral mucosa, so I’d suggest rinsing extra thoroughly if you choose that specific line.

Final Thoughts: A Gentle, Eco-Friendly Choice

Overall, this SLS-free toothpaste is a gentle and reasonably priced choice, especially for those concerned about sensitive teeth or gums. While it doesn’t provide the long-lasting freshness of traditional SLS toothpastes, it offers a safe, plant-based alternative for daily use. If you’re looking for fluoride-free, gentle, and eco-friendly oral care, it’s worth giving this one a try.

*This review is based on my personal experience, and results may vary for others. Please take it as a friendly reference.

My husband and I recently set out to visit two of Canberra’s famous Banh Mi spots. However, things didn’t go exactly as planned. While one place was great, the other one we wanted to visit was closed, so we ended up trying the shop right next door instead. Since I tried Banh Mi in both areas, I’ve put together a summary of the differences in bread texture and the balance of filling.

1. Wanniassa – Vietnamese Bakery: The Perfection of Crispy and Soft Bread

Located in Wanniassa, this bakery is already quite famous on Reddit and some blogs. While there is no indoor seating, there are about four outdoor tables available for a quick bite, though most customers seem to prefer takeaway.

🥖 Wanniassa Vietnamese Bakery Menu and Prices we ordered: Traditional Pork (Cold) $10, Crispy Pork $12

Bread Quality:

The biggest highlight here is definitely the bread. It was warm and soft inside, but had that signature Banh Mi flakiness and crunch on the outside. I felt the bread here was even better than the one at [29 Cafe & Eatery Curtin] that I previously posted about.

Fillings and Balance:

The size is perfect for taking a big bite. The cucumber and pickled carrots were seasoned just right. I especially liked that the sauce wasn’t overpowering; it provided just enough moisture without masking the natural flavours of the ingredients.

The Appeal of Crispy Pork (Husband’s Choice):

The meat was juicy and tender, and the crackling was perfectly crispy without being too hard to chew. It was sliced thinly, making the texture very smooth.

My Choice – Traditional Pork:

It contained about three different types of meat that blended together beautifully, creating a rich layer of flavours that wasn’t boring at all. The meat was packed so generously that it was satisfying both visually and in terms of actual volume.

Perfect Harmony:

The ratio of pate, mayo, pickles, and veg was perfect for the amount of meat. It wasn’t greasy or tasteless at all, so I could finish the whole thing without getting tired of it.

💬 Overall Thoughts:

It was a very satisfying meal with great overall harmony. Interestingly, it didn’t taste salty at all while we were eating it, but we both found ourselves reaching for water quite a bit afterwards.

2. Gungahlin – Banh Mi House: A Slightly Disappointing Experience

To be honest, I didn’t originally plan on going here, but the place we wanted to visit was closed, so we tried this one next door. I had heard good recommendations before, but it seems they have become a bit inconsistent over the last year.

🥖 Gungahlin Banh Mi House Menu we ordered: Traditional Pork (Cold) $10, Meatball $10 (There is a 2% surcharge for card)

Bread Texture:

The bread was a bit disappointing as it was cold rather than warm. Instead of being crispy, it felt a bit rubbery and tough, and it didn’t have that typical Banh Mi crumbly texture at all.

Flavour and Filling:

My husband tried the meatball and said it was tasty since it was served warm, and I agreed after trying a bit myself. The quality of the meat in my traditional pork was also decent, but the overall volume was lacking. The bread felt smaller than other places, and because the fillings weren’t very generous, it didn’t feel like the typical “value-for-money, filling meal” you expect from a Banh Mi.

💬 Overall Thoughts:

While the amount of sauce and salad seasoning was fine, I probably won’t go back because it lacked that full, loaded look and the proper bread texture.

3. Summary and Recommendation: Which Banh Mi Spot is for You?

Both shops are in the standard price range ($10–$12), but there was a clear difference in satisfaction.

• 💡 Wanniassa Vietnamese Bakery: A great choice if you appreciate fresh, warm, and crispy bread. It feels like a proper, filling meal because the portions are generous.
• 💡 Gungahlin Banh Mi House: Might be okay if you’re just looking for a light snack, but it felt a bit lacking in volume compared to other places.

If you’re deciding between the two, I found Wanniassa to be a more satisfying option for the price, especially if you value the texture of the bread and a decent-sized serving.

*This review is based on my personal experience, and results may vary for others. Please take it as a friendly reference.

✅ 2026 May Update:

It has been confirmed that Murbar permanently closed its doors at the end of April. I will keep this post active for archival and record-keeping purposes.

First Impressions: Chic Black Interior and Parking Tips in Barton

The restaurant has a very cool, slightly dark black-toned interior. It feels more like a trendy cafe or a modern bar than a normal restaurant. There are bar-style tables and also regular tables. The staff were very friendly and welcoming, so we felt comfortable as soon as we arrived.

🅿️ Parking Info: There is a car park right next to the restaurant, but it costs about $5 per hour, which is a bit expensive. Since Barton is a business district, it is very busy during the day. If you don’t go at peak times, I reckon looking for a street parking spot is a better idea.

Exploring the Menu: Why You Should Choose the ‘Trial Menu’

When we don’t know what to order, we always pick the Trial Menu ($69 per person / min 2 people). The service was very fast, and the food came out quickly without any long waiting. For drinks, there are many more options written on the wall than on the paper menu, so make sure to check the walls before you order.

Entrees: The Perfect Match of Raw Beef Yukhoe and Salmon

• Raw Beef (Yukhoe): You mix the raw egg yolk with the beef and wrap it in seaweed with radish and fresh sprouts. The fresh meat is very savory, and the vegetables are crunchy, so it is a great match. It’s not greasy at all because the vegetables make it very fresh. It’s a perfect first bite.

• Salmon with Chojang Sauce: The salmon pieces are thick and come with a Korean-style gochujang and vinegar based sauce (called Chojang). Salmon has a lot of fat, so it can be a bit heavy, but the tangy sauce balances it perfectly. It wasn’t too spicy because the sauce was nicely diluted, and the perilla leaves on top gave it a very clean taste.

Fusion Food at Its Best: Delicious Duck Bulgogi Tacos

We both really loved this dish. It is a fusion-style duck wrap with soft, well-seasoned duck, crunchy veggies, and some fresh cheese on top. It tastes like something everyone would enjoy, and the cheese was a great “kick” for the flavour.

Main Course: Authentic Korean Table with Beef and Bulgogi

The main is a traditional Korean style meal. Each person gets their own soup and rice, plus seven different side dishes (Banchan). We could choose between Beef Bulgogi and Spicy Pork Jeyuk, so we had one of each as our main dishes.

The seasoning was perfect—not too sweet and not too salty. My husband can’t eat spicy food well, but even he enjoyed everything without any problem.

On the day we visited, the banchan selection included mashed tofu salad, stir-fried zucchini, braised eggplant, seasoned soybean sprouts, green onion kimchi (pa-kimchi), grilled barramundi, and even japchae. I’m not sure if the menu rotates daily or seasonally, but the variety made for a satisfying meal.

• Grilled Fish (Barramundi): The fish was actually the best side dish. We love fish, but we don’t cook it at home often because of the smell and the bones. The barramundi here was grilled perfectly and had no bones, so it was very easy to eat.
• Sides and Soup: To be honest, the tofu was a bit bland and the spring onion kimchi was a bit dry. The soup tasted like a “big brand” product (like Bibigo), but I don’t expect a local restaurant to boil bones for over 10 hours like in Korea, so I was okay with it.

Dessert: Refreshing Rice Gelato to Cleanse the Palate

For dessert, we had the rice gelato. It was not too sweet and had a nice chewy texture, but it wasn’t too sticky. It was a very good way to finish the meal on a light and refreshing note.

Final Thoughts: A Modern Twist on Korean Dining in Barton

• Who is it for? It’s a perfect spot for younger crowds who love a hip, moody vibe and clean Korean food. It feels more like a trendy bar than a traditional restaurant, so it’s great if you’re in the mood for nice cocktails or some quality soju to go with your meal. Since they focus on ‘Anju’ (dishes that pair well with drinks), it’s a fun place for a night out in Barton.
• Things to Note: To be honest, the menu is quite unique. Instead of the usual Korean staples, they offer bolder options like chicken feet and beef intestines. It’s definitely a bit different from your standard Korean BBQ place, so it might depend on your personal taste. I’d recommend checking the menu online before you go!
• Overall: If you’re looking for a stylish, modern take on Korean food and a cool place to grab a drink, this is a solid choice.

*This review is based on my personal experience, and results may vary for others. Please take it as a friendly reference.

Finding the Best Toner for Oil-Deficient Dry Skin

After cleansing, I usually use Sukin toner as a ‘wipe-off’ (toner padding) to tidy up my skin texture and remove any leftover makeup. For your information, Sukin toner is a watery type where most of the ingredients are purified water. As someone with dry skin, I felt a desperate need for a thicker, more elastic toner to apply right after that.

While searching through many options, I found the ‘Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner’. It’s a long-selling item that has been around for nearly 10 years and has a very good reputation. I previously tried the famous ‘Milk Toner’ types, but they didn’t really suit my skin. For more details, you can read my full [Thayers Milky Toner review here]. So, I decided to buy this one with high hopes for that ‘essential’ hydration.

Value for Money: 200ml for $15.50, is it cheaper if you look around?

The price is quite reasonable. There are many websites selling Korean cosmetics, so I bought the 200ml bottle for $15.50. However, while preparing this post, I noticed some other sites were selling it for as low as $10.35. Please keep in mind that this toner comes in both 100ml and 200ml sizes, so make sure you don’t get confused when ordering.

Although shipping costs can vary, comparing prices across different sites is a must! I highly recommend grabbing it at a sale price rather than the full retail price.

Ingredient Analysis: The power of 91% ‘Milk Vetch Root Extract’ instead of water

Unlike many toners that are water-based using purified water or green tea extract, Pyunkang Yul uses Milk Vetch Root Extract as the main ingredient, making up over 90% of the formula.

• Benefits of Astragalus Membranaceus Root Extract (also known as Milkvetch Root): It is rich in saponins and flavonoids, just like ginseng. This helps with skin vitality, brightens the complexion, and strengthens the skin’s foundation.
• 7 Minimalist Ingredients: It is a very simple combination with no fragrance, no artificial colours, and no alcohol. It only contains ingredients helpful for hydration and soothing, along with a thickener (Hydroxyethylcellulose) and a stabiliser (Disodium EDTA) to prevent the product from spoiling. Looking at EWG standards, there are no harmful ingredients found, so the formulation is very clean and gets a passing grade.

Honest User Review: Real elasticity for my skin, or just a thick texture?

First of all, the exterior design looks very cool and stylish with its blue bottle. I was worried there might be a herbal smell because of the root extract, but it is actually almost scentless.

Compared to watery toners, the texture is definitely thicker, slippery, and elastic. It gave me the impression of being “better than water toners” and “quite clean.” However, my actual experience as a person with dry skin was a bit different.

• Absorption vs Evaporation: Rather than feeling like it was deeply soaking into and wrapping around my skin, it felt more like my face became a bit sticky for a moment and then simply evaporated.
• The Limits of Hydration: Even when I layered it several times (like the ‘7-skin method’), I couldn’t really feel the deep moisturising effect mentioned in the advertisements. I started to wonder if the slight stickiness left on my face was true hydration or just the natural texture of the Milk Vetch Root. My best solution was to quickly apply a highly moisturising lotion before the toner dried up.

Extra Tip: pH Test & My Realisation

I Personally Tested This Toner, And The Result Was A Steady PH 6. For A Toner, The ‘Sweet Spot’ Is Usually Around 5.5 To Quickly Restore The Skin’s Balance After Cleansing. While PH 6 Is Still Safe And Slightly Acidic, It Is Just A Tiny Bit Higher Than That “Perfect” 5.5.

For Someone With Oil-Deficient Dry Skin Like Me, This Tiny Difference Might Be Why The Hydration Felt A Little Subtle Rather Than Being Deeply Locked In.

Comparison with Thayers Milk Toner: Is pH really everything?

Before This, I Tried The Famous Thayers Milky Toner, Which Has A Slightly More Acidic PH Of 5. It’s Technically Closer To Our Skin’s Natural Balance, But Honestly? I Still Got That Same “Evaporating” Feeling With Both. After Looking At The Ingredients Like Glycerin And Snow Mushroom, I Realised Why.

Just Like Pyunkang Yul, Thayers Uses Certain Ingredients To Make The Texture Feel “Milky” And Slippery. It Feels Great At First, But For Really Dry Skin, It Just Doesn’t Stay.

I’ve Learnt The Hard Way That If A Toner Doesn’t Have A Bit Of Oil Or Something To “Lock” The Moisture In, It Doesn’t Matter If The PH Is 5 Or 6 – The Hydration Just Vanishes, And My Skin Feels Tight Again In No Time.

Conclusion: A bit short of being called a true ‘Essence’

In Conclusion, It Felt A Little Lacking Compared To The ‘Essence Toner’ Name I Was Expecting.

• Official Guide: It Is Listed As Suitable For All Skin Types.
• Recommended Target: Personally, I Think It Might Be More Suitable For Sensitive Or Oily Skin Looking For A Clean Finish, Rather Than ‘Oil-Deficient’ Dry Skin That Desperately Needs Nutrition And Moisture Deep Inside. (Of Course, Skincare Is Always ‘Your Mileage May Vary,’ So Everyone’s Experience Is Different!)

If You Are A Dry Skin Type Like Me Looking For An Extremely Hydrating Texture, I Recommend Not Using This Alone But Instead Moving Quickly To Your Lotion Or Cream Stage After Layering It.

Alternatively, If You Have A Carrier Oil, Try Adding Just One Tiny Drop To The Toner. It Can Significantly Boost The Moisture-Locking Effect. However, Be Careful Not To Overdo It—Adding Too Much Oil Can Make The Texture Feel Heavy, Greasy, Or Suffocating On Your Skin. Just One Small Drop Is Enough For That Perfect Balance.

*This review is based on my personal experience, and results may vary for others. Please take it as a friendly reference.

A Day Out at Gold Creek Village, Canberra: Ube Jam and Filipino Cuisine at Northside Garden Cafe

I Recently Got Some Ube Powder From A Friend And Tried Mixing It With Oat Milk Using A Milk Steamer At Home, But I Was A Bit Disappointed With The Taste. I Used To Think Ube Was Just A Purple Sweet Potato, But I Learned It Is Actually A Type Of Yam. Since I Heard There Is A Cafe Famous For Its Delicious Ube Jam, I Decided To Go And Give It A Try.

As it turns out, Northside Garden Cafe is not just a regular cafe; it is a specialty spot that serves authentic Filipino cuisine alongside its cafe menu!

Northside Garden Cafe Review: Ube Jam and Filipino Specialities

👉Pet-Friendly Cafe with Easy Access in Canberra

The cafe is quite large with plenty of outdoor seating, making it very Dog Friendly. Even if you do not have a car, it is easy to get there by bus, so the accessibility is great for everyone.

👉The Perfect Match: Crispy Sourdough with Creamy Ube Jam

Our main reason for visiting was the ‘Sourdough with Ube Jam’.

• The Surprise of Ube Jam: To be honest, ube jam itself does not have an incredibly strong flavour. However, its nutty taste and smooth, cream-cheese-like texture were absolutely excellent.
• A Balanced Combo: The bread was toasted perfectly crispy and had a hint of sweetness. Pairing it with the savoury, nutty, and smooth ube jam created a perfect balance.

👉Drink Choice: Weak Oat Milk Flat White vs Sweet Ube Latte

For drinks, I ordered my usual Weak Oat Milk Flat White, and my husband went for their signature Ube Latte with Oat Milk.

My coffee was the familiar, decent taste I always enjoy. I tried a bit of my husband’s ube latte, and it was quite sweet. Since I do not usually drink sweet things, it felt a bit sugary for me, but it gave me a great idea. I think if I add some honey or allulose syrup to the ube powder I have at home, I can make a great drink. I am ready to give ube drinks another go at home.

👉 Exploring Filipino Cuisine: Beef Tapsilog and Pork Belly Bowl

Since we haven’t had many chances to eat Filipino food, we decided to try the ‘Special Menus’ highlighted with boxes on the menu.

• Marinated Beef Tapsilog: The beef was perfectly marinated—not too salty and not too sweet. It was already delicious on its own, but the spiced vinegar sauce served on the side was the highlight! Adding the acidity of the sauce to the seasoned beef made the flavour so much deeper.
• Pork Belly Bowl: It was served crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Even the slightly drier parts became tender and moist when dipped in the sauce. I am not very familiar with Filipino sauces, but it was amazing how it enhanced the meat without being too pungent or overwhelming.
• Personal Preference: I loved that all the sauces were served ‘On the side’. The garlic-infused rice was also delicious. I usually hate it when food is smothered in sauce, but I think this place took my preference a bit too literally—even the salad had no dressing at all! I ended up just munching on some very “fresh” plain greens. I guess it was a bit too healthy for me this time! 😂

🦖 Gold Creek Village: A Hidden Paradise for Families

After lunch, we walked around the village to digest our food, and I was surprised by how big the area is. When we visited a few years ago, I only saw Cockington Green Gardens and left, so I didn’t realise there were so many other gems nearby.

• Highly Recommended for Families: With the National Dinosaur Museum, Canberra Walk-in Aviary, and the Reptile Zoo all in one spot, it is the perfect place to spend a whole day, especially if you have kids.

🎄 Christmas Spirit at the Local Shop and Lemax Village – “Under the Mistletoe”

We happened to stop by a local Christmas shop, and even though it wasn’t massive, it was full of that heart-warming Christmas vibe. While it wasn’t as large as the [Bredbo Christmas Shop which only opens six months a year], the colourful and sparkling decorations were eye-catching. It is a dream spot for anyone who loves building Christmas villages.

They had a wide range of Lemax products, and seeing all the animated buildings and moving miniatures was so much fun. If you are a fan of Christmas village displays, you should definitely check it out. Also, you can even shop their collection through the Under the Mistletoe official website, as they have an online shop available.

*This review is based on my personal experience, and results may vary for others. Please take it as a friendly reference.