Has trying to keep up with the sheer volume of nom-worthy newcomers we’ve welcomed to the GC’s café scene over the past year got your head spinning?

Never fear, our trusty annual café round-up is back again for another year – summarising the most notable new additions, for your brunching, lunching and caffeine worshiping pleasure.

Here’s the year in rebrew…

The Oxley
Nobby has been abuzz following the much-anticipated addition of The Oxley to its neck of the woods. Stage one of the stunning, Calile-esque precinct unveiled a resort vibing spot for residents to grab the weekly essentials at the specialty grocer and butcher – along with, of course, a boutique coffee haunt and snack spots. The café offering, Buoy (pronounced boo-ee) is the newest from the Seadog crew offering a compact menu of classics, complemented by neighbouring noshery, Sub Station’s specialties of sandos, juices, shakes and gelato.
Where: The Oxley, 2217 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Mylk Well
Opening its doors at 5am daily, Mylk Well, run by the dynamic duo Sophia Buntine and Victoria Macbain, promises an unmatched breakfast experience with offerings like Sourdough Crumpets, Chilli Scrambles, and Coffee Supreme brews. Positioned strategically across from Balboa Italian, the café’s Scandinavian-inspired interiors provide a sleek backdrop for its diverse menu, which includes everything from Kimchi Toasties to House Hash Benedict. Boasting a mix of all-day eats and refreshing drinks, Mylk Well is set to become Palmy’s go-to spot for laidback dining.
Where: 1134 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

No Name Lane Espresso
In December No Name Lane gave us a caffeinated gift in the form of No Name Lane Espresso, its adorable mini-me. Nestled just a hop away from its big sibling, this new express-style venue on Surf Parade, Broadbeach is making waves. With a compact footprint and a menu designed for the on-the-go crowd, No Name Lane Espresso is your pit stop for top-notch coffee and grab-and-go cafe classics. From classic B&E rolls to gourmet toasties and signature Janus Deli sandwiches like the Reuben and Pulled Pork, they’ve got your savoury cravings covered. But it’s not just about the savory delights; indulge your sweet tooth with a variety of cabinet-dwelling treats like banana bread and muffins.
Where: 33 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Merlo GC Airport
Operation ‘Gold Coast Airport glow up’ delivered Merlo Coffee Roasters – a chic, pre-flight pit stop for jet setters to refuel with Queensland’s beloved Merlo blend and foodie bites. Operated by Airport Retail Enterprises, the transit haven offers quick bites like signature Lamb Empanadas or Slipper Lobster Rolls, curated by Social Eating House’s Matt Jefferson. Featuring locally sourced products, a slick, 40pax fit out and the signature Merlo bean blend, it’s a new fave among weary and peckish travellers from 5am till late daily.
Where: Inside the Gold Coast Airport, Eastern Ave, Bilinga

Metro Coffee Burleigh
After a ten year reign for Broadbeach mainstay, Metro Coffee, owner Andrew Naismith expanded the legacy with a second location, Metro Coffee Burleigh. Bringing its beloved brekkie bites and brews a little further south – the same ethos of stellar service, quality coffee and simple, yet delicious food still applies. Replacing the former Bulter’s site, the charming, floral inspired fit-out and familiar menu offering also benefits from a selection of local beers, wines, and cocktails to complement the cafe fare.
Where: Shop 12, Burleigh Home and Life Centre, 197-207 Reedy Creek Road, Burleigh Waters

Kirra Sol Café – CLOSED
An offshoot of a Kirra culinary cornerstone, Bread and Butter – Kirra Sol Café officially brings a taste of that Euro-inspired deliciousness to the first half of the day. Southern residents can now rise and dine with handmade panini toasties, mouthwatering pastries and brekkie burritos, courtesy of a takeaway coffee window addition, as early as 5:30am. The sunny, umbrella-studded alfresco is another for paw-rents to add to the pup friendly list, slinging Social Espresso for the humans and pupuccino’s for their furry friends .
Where: 76 Musgrave St, Coolangatta

Janus Deli
The suburb of Molendinar has been movin’ on up in the culinary world – welcoming Janus Deli, the sando haven marking a savoury departure from the donut virtuosos behind D Point Ten, Dean Jeong and Ryan Jung. Featuring a clean white interior and playful retro branding, the diner-vibing spot is slinging all kinds of carby goodness – classic deli style subs, Korean-infused masterpieces, and of course a cameo from the donuts that earned them cele-bread-ty status on the GC. Grab a Seoul Sub and a Fairy Bread donut
Where: Shop 14, Crestwood Plaza, 458 Olsen Ave, Molendinar

Made With Love Bakery
Tucked just beyond the bustling Ferry Road precinct, this plant-based bakery is a culinary win for the suburb, introducing a range of fanciful and flaky treats such as cinnamon scrolls, croissants, Nutella donuts, and potato pies, all 100% vegan. The husband and wife duo, Alana and Brady Borg, embarked on this ambitious debut despite their lack of hospitality experience, fuelled by their passion for plant-based eats. With a modern and moody boutique feel, the bakery boasts a chic black finish complemented by timber and white elements. Made With Love Bakery is a guilt-free haven for vegans, diners with dietary requirements, and anyone with a penchant for scrumptious plant-based delights.
Where: 19 Alicia street, Southport

Kinship
The new kid on Currumbin SLSC’s block, Kinship, is the Club’s community-minded cafe offshoot – conveniently nestled under its new Junior Activity Centre just across the road. The compact, coffee window style spot is punching well above its weight with an array of hearty and portable options for peckish beachgoers – with Halloumi, Egg, & Hash Burgers, brekkie tacos (and burritos!) that turn into Fish Tacos as lunchtime looms. The profits go back into Currumbin Vikings Junior activity program, so go ham on those toasties, y’all.
Where: 766 Pacific Parade, Currumbin

UE Bagels
Locals have been flocking from schmear and far to get their UE Bagels at the popular Varsity bakery, this year expanding its offering with a brand new, beachside bae-goals of a spot for Palmy. Inspired by adventures abroad, founders Mitch Barling and Emily Hugo use locally sourced ingredients to create their traditional, North American style bagels and hole-y moley are they good. Get a-round their signature house coffee blend, classic Everything Bagels, oozing S’mores French Toast Bagels – and everything in between, daily. (If we must).
Where: 5/10 Palm Beach Ave, Palm Beach

Dipcro Pastry
Life is just butter with a freshly baked pastry and Dipcro has caused a flaky frenzy with its carefully crafted offerings. Located on Chevron’s Thomas Dr thoroughfare, this patisserie is a haven for pastry enthusiasts, founded by the dynamic duo, Evelyn and Michael. Born and bred for the #breadlyf, they introduce Dipcro Pastry as a play on ‘Dip’ and ‘Croissant,’ emphasising the signature mode of serving croissants with a variety of toppings and fillings for dunking pleasure. The Clui Design-influenced interior exudes a chic French vibe, enticing patrons with the aroma of freshly baked goods and Campos coffee. With an impressive lineup of signature pastries like Cinnamon Buns, Croissants, Mille Feuille, and Palmiers, Dipcro Pastry is a welcome addition to Chevron, promising a delightful and flavourful experience that’s certainly not flaking around.
Where: 55 Thomas Drive, Chevron Island

Arketa Café – CLOSED
Owners Iszaya and Keeley’s vision of opening a central, dog-friendly coffee destination for Mermaid has come to life in a sun-soaked haven tucked just off Markeri St. Going with a modern industrial vibe, the menu includes a faithful selection of cafe stalwarts – acai bowls, fresh juices, and smoothies, with a special V.I.P (very important pawson) menu also dedicated to the pooches. Famished? The everything-but-the-kitchen-sink big brekkie, Arketà The Lot will hit the spot.
Where: Shop 5, 90 Markeri Street, Mermaid Waters

Basque
Our dreams came true (not the lotto, but pretty close) when owners Laura and Zac Guertin brought to Chirn Park the concept of a sippery-style bakehouse specialising in artisan cheesecake and Champagne to swoon over. Talented pastry chef Laura whips up an incredible array of sweet treats, including the signature, burnished Basque cheesecake and a must try lemon tart. Wash it down with everything from cold brew, Australian Pet Nat & Prosecco, to a fine selection French Champagnes – by the glass or bottle – or to-go, thanks to some very chic gift pack options (we’re a size ‘Cheesecake & Champagne pack’, incase anyone asks).
Where: 33b Musgrave Avenue, Chirn Park

Willy’s Beans
Willy’s Beans is more than a cafe—it’s a destination celebrating the journey of coffee from bean to brew. The warehouse-style space is adorned with iconic symbols of Colombian coffee production, including a signature red Willy’s Jeep. Offering a diverse selection of single-estate origin beans and a specialty menu featuring exotic options like the Summer Gesha bean, Willy’s Beans elevates the coffee experience. Beyond the brews, Willy’s Beans offers private tastings, providing coffee enthusiasts with a truly immersive experience.
Where: 1/4 Ramly Drive, Burleigh Heads

Tarte Beach House
Christmas came early last year (August, to be exact) when reigning pastry queen, Chloe Watts launched a sister venue to the cult-fave cruller spot, Tarte. Plonked right alongside the swaying palms of the picturesque Currumbin Creek foreshore, the Hamptons meets Parisian style stunner restored the beach shack site to its former glory (and then some), fitted with vintage fixtures and thankfully, famous, flaky pastries a plenty. There’s a more formal restaurant upstairs, slinging cocktails, Crab Linguine and (real) Lobster Rolls, plus an events space serving high tea, Tarte style (read: OMFG good). Just try to keep us away.
Where: 2 Thrower Dr, Currumbin

Humble Café
Tucked in a quiet Southport backstreet, Sennie Tee and Stanley Lam’s Humble café is a hidden gem on the Northern Gold Coast. Their compact caffeination destination embodies warmth and humility while serving up tempting, boujee brekkie options like Croffles, Chilli Crab Scrambled Eggs and Panko Soft Shell Crab Benedict. Limited seating offers prime real estate to perch up in the sunshine, while the beverage menu includes everything from Hong Kong inspired creations to Puppuccinos and Babyccinos – making it a must-visit brunch spot with something for everyone.
Where: 1/9 Nesbit Street, Southport

Bake House Gozen
Bake House Gozen emerges as a rising star in the Gold Coast’s pastry scene, tracing its roots back to the humble beginnings of weekend markets.  Positioned between the coffee van and organic zucchinis, Bake House Gozen’s journey from Palm Beach markets to a Molendinar shopfront has been nothing short of spectacular. Owned by Maki Jinno, the pastry haven gained a cult following with its buttery, flaky croissants, prompting a well-deserved expansion. Maki’s vision for a Japanese bakery-inspired HQ, brought to life by local creative powerhouse Owen Thompson, sets the stage for a warm and welcoming space. The constantly rotating menu introduces new, seasonally-inspired flavors alongside beloved classics like almond croissants and Pain au chocolat. Flake your way down to Bake House Gozen and indulge in the daily deliciousness ASAP.
Where: Shop 7B, 458 Olsen Avenue, Molendinar

Pagi Pagi
Launched by coffee maestros Dinh Van and Carlo Christo, newcomer Pagi Pagi is a caffeine sanctuary for the suburb of Ormeau, whose mission is to beam its sunshine-y vibes unto the locale’s otherwise bleak offering – in the form of top notch sandos and specialty brews. With their proven success in Brisbane’s coffee scene, the duo brings a modern industrial-style cafe to the Northern GC, where locals can get amongst tantalizing toasties like the Reuben and Pumpkin Halloumi, plus cups of joe emblazoned with the trademark grinning sun mascot.
Where: Norfolk Village Shopping Centre, Shop 1/174 Pascoe Rd, Ormeau

Banksy
Owned by coffee enthusiasts Alex Mears and Paul Rosenkranz, Banksy Bar & Kitchen in Broadbeach is a venue that marks the duo’s food-first debut following the success of Quest Coffee Roasters – a local name renowned for their topnotch brews. Their passion for food, sustainability and their Visla pup, Banksy, shines through here. Framed by soaring, double-height windows and a lofty, industrial chic interior – the spot’s paw-dorable mascot is a common sight, alongside plates piled with Big Vegan Scramble and the Chorizo, Coffee Bacon, or Avocado studded Banksy Big Breakfast.
Where: The Spot, Shop 1/2763 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

Side Piece Coffee
Sporting a trendy interior of polished concrete, copper accents, and a splash of olive green, Side Piece Coffee is the work of Dylan Jamsa, Miles Gaebel and Lee King, tucked under Varsity’s new residential tower precinct. Run by a team who cut their teeth in renowned local nosh hotspots like No Name Lane and Moo Moo, the gourmet sandos, brunch fare and The Black Lab Coffee they’re slinging from 7am daily have been received to rave reviews. Opening out to a sunny, spacious patio, it’s also pooch friendly… need we say more?
Where: 2 Capital Court, Varsity Lakes

The Holliday Coffee
The Holliday Coffee leveraged an otherwise unused sidewalk space delivering a chic coffee window to Nobby’s bustling GC Hwy strip. With umbrella-studded street tables and happy pops of peach throughout, the M.O. for Olivia Ayres and Nook Espresso co-owner, Marcus Wilkins, was to create perfect spot to caffeinate whilst soaking up the morning sun. Coupled with the likes of Spaghetti and cheese stuffed jaffles and Macadamia & honeycomb buttered crumpets and you’ve got the perfect way to start the day.
Where: 2251 Gold Coast Highway (corner of Wave St), Nobby Beach

Eight Fifty Espresso
Southport’s new goat-to, Eight Fifty Espresso has been boosting productivity and happiness levels of CBD perambulators – a Melbournian laneway-vibing hole-in-the-wall, doling out weekday caffeine fixes out of its sidewalk dwelling, sapphire green digs. The pet project of and owners of Yakk marketing next door, Elise & Broden – with seven quirky, goat-themed signature blends on offer, this place is the GOAT for coffee connoisseurs.
Where: 12 Short Street, Southport

The Bread Social
Byron’s beloved carb-slingers, Bread Social (and the artisan loaves that have earned them a cult-like following) landed in Currumbin earlier this year, in what is their first foray this side of the border. Sam Saulwick, Tom Scott, and Paul Giddings unveiled the first stage of their forthcoming flagship HQ – a sidewalk vibing coffee window stocked with all the good stuff: cakes, bread, sambos and golden, buttery pastries, and of course coffee. The new production facility is slated to include an educational space (hint: bread-making classes) and a dedicated café – so watch this space.
Where: 2 Queensbury Avenue, Currumbin Waters

Piknik
A satisfying salad sanga is a commodity that is (was) surprisingly hard to come by on the GC, and Piknik – founded by health aficionado Maddi Turner – officially solved those plant-based and coffee cravings in one fell swoop. The signature ‘Burleigh Basic’ sandwich is a standout, featuring a tantalizing mix of veggies and the secret house relish. With sunny outdoor seating and delicious smoothie options like the ‘Coffee Lover’ or ‘Clean Green,’ Piknik has quickly become the go-to spot for a fresh and tasty fix.
Where: 7 Deodar Drive, Burleigh Heads

Social Espresso
Holding local coffee royalty status for some seven years now, owners Mitch and Hayley debuted Social Espresso 2.0 earlier this year – a brew-tiful second site just around the corner from their OG Burleigh-based coffee roasting facility. Tucked within the suburb’s industrial precinct, the chic new digs serves up the likes of signature coffee blends, cold-pressed juices, and moreish brunch options like the BLAC Bagel or Bacon & Egg Roll, from Monday–Friday.
Where: 1/9-11 Fremantle Street, Burleigh

Chut & Co
Founded by Joey Vevjoda, a coffee enthusiast and former carpenter, Chut & Co champions renowned Australian coffee roaster, ONA Coffee. Head Chef Fernando Giorgi crafts a delectable menu of Mediterranean flavours. The Pesto Joe and Burrito are standouts, while the Choc-Chip or Blueberry Pancakes cater to sweet cravings. Joey’s carpentry skills shine in the cafe’s unique design, featuring modern aesthetics with a homely touch.
Where: Mermaid Plaza, 2400 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Golden Times
Founded by Luke Andrews, Jono and Jaye Schollum, Golden Times brings cafe classics to the beachside village of Bilinga, with a charming, retro-inspired facelift for the fibro shack that was formerly home to Mervyn Roy’s. Head Chef Jasmine Darcy crafts an irresistible all-day brekkie menu featuring signature dishes like the Miso Avocado on Sourdough and the Eggs Benny Bagel, along with coffee a plenty – all served with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere for the tight-knit, seaside community.
Where: 169 Golden Four Drive, Bilinga

Nan’s Coffee – CLOSED
Founded by the delightful couple Hannah Chan and Jamiti Jamir, Nan’s charms with its coastal-meets-mountains aesthetic. Dog-friendly and adorned with a sentimental logo featuring the couple’s Labrador, Pablo, Nan’s is not just visually pleasing but also heartfelt. The food menu is a delightful mix of savory and sweet treats, including delicious toasties, homemade cookies and incredible smoothies. Nan’s Coffee stands out as a must-visit spot for a warm and inviting café experience in Broadbeach.
Where: 2763 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

Ferg’s Café
Miami’s culinary scene has sprouted a new gem with Ferg’s, the vibrant garden-shed-inspired café that’s redefining breakfast and brunch. Ferg’s, which stands for Fresh Eats Really Good Sh*t, embraces a community shed vibe in its location at Hillcrest Parade. Head Chef Wendy Ortiz and Aleesha Forno, curate a menu that exceeds expectations, with standout dishes like Lemon Meringue Crumpets (drool) and the Smashed Avo Taco. If it’s fresh, restaurant-quality eats, smiley service, and a community feel you crave, Ferg’s is your new BFF.
Where: 2/43 Hillcrest Parade, Miami

The Winey Cow
The Winey Cow opened in Main Beach in March, bringing Melbourne’s famed boozy brunch culture to our sunny shores. As the (un)official haven for this delightful mid-morning indulgence, The Winey Cow promises the perfect blend of breakfast and lunch, complemented by a generous serving of giggle-juice. Boasting accolades such as Café of the Year and Best Breakfast Restaurant in Melbourne, this family-friendly café, owned by the dynamic team of Cam and Jill Henderson, Jade Bremner, Rui Lourenco, Britt Ryan, and Magenta Hornsey, has quickly become the talk of the town. The menu, highlighted by the signature Boozy Brunch and a diverse array of mouthwatering dishes, has locals and their furry friends wagging their tails in approval.
Where: 5/11 Woodroffe Ave, Main Beach

Foster & Black
Known for bringing exceptional coffee to unexpected locations, Foster & Black has expanded to Robina Town Centre, marking their third Gold Coast space. The aesthetically stunning interior, featuring moonstone-esque green tones, contemporary roofing, cobblestone floors, and a mottled marble countertop, evokes emotions and engages the senses. Committed to high-quality coffee, Foster & Black source beans globally, roast them in Fortitude Valley, and brew in multiple locations. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just looking for a chic space to enjoy a cup, Foster & Black at Robina Town Centre is a must-visit.
Where: Robina Town Centre, Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina

Sens Coffee QSV
Sens Coffee QSV in Southport is the latest addition to the Sens Coffee family, known for its Japanese fusion delights. The café exudes a Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetic, reflecting rustic simplicity and understated elegance. Head Chef Yuta Hosokawa, with experience in Tokyo and Sydney, curates a menu combining local and Japanese flavours. Highlights include the High Protein Chicken Rice or the Lotus Biscoff Croffle for a sweet treat. The beverage menu offers signature fresh juices, smoothies, and top-notch coffee brewed with Campos beans.
Where: 129 Queen Street, Southport

Cheeky Waffles
Cheeky Waffles has been delighting the senses since January 2023, bringing a dose of playfulness and sweetness to Surfers Paradise. Created by the dynamic duo Amanda Machado and Joshua Luna, this dessert haven is not for the faint-hearted. With a daring concept born out of quarantine creativity in 2020, Cheeky Waffles doesn’t just serve desserts; it’s an experience that combines decadence with sexual wellness, inclusion, and acceptance. The waffle selection is, quite literally, a pick-your-private-part adventure. Dipped in premium Belgian chocolate and topped to your heart’s desire, these waffles are a flavor sensation. So let the Gold Coast’s naughty dessert bar continue to stimulate your senses and tickle your taste buds. It’s a full-package experience that’s as bold as it is delicious.
Where: 3189 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Bean N Brunch
Nestled on Tamborine Mountain, Bean N Brunch offers a refreshing retreat from the beachside scene with its boho-meets-Scandi vibe. It charms with a cosy deck, stylish interiors, and a delectable menu overseen by manager David Csavas. This café promises a delightful escape, where coffee enthusiasts can savour quality brews and delightful treats in a warm and welcoming ambience.
Where: 161 Long Road, Tamborine Mountain

Franquette
Franquette Bakery is a haven of French-inspired indulgence, living up to its name, which means ‘without any fuss.’ Founder and Head Baker, Jérôme Favier, a culinary virtuoso with an impressive resume, brings a touch of traditional artisan methods to craft delectable baked goods using sustainable flours and Australian ingredients. The result? A crust that’s practically prescription-worthy, delivering the most delightful artisan French carb goodness.  The bakery, with its warm and inviting French style, offers an array of bread varieties, sandwiches, and pastries, with standout items like ‘The Mountain Top’ and melt-in-your-mouth almond croissants. Just dough it and embark on a journey for the best bakery delights since sliced bread.
Where: 155 Long Road, Tamborine Mountain

Words by Kellie Leader and Belinda Symons.