If caffeine is your love language, you’ll be extra peppy to learn of a brand new brick-and-mortar espresso bar for Whyld Coffee Roasters. Promising ‘genuine connection fuelled by bloody good coffee’, expertly extracted brews are just the beginning for this up-and-coming bean slinging crew.

Founded by Rachel-May Follan, an all-round coffee fanatic and barista of some 16 years, Whyld Coffee Roasters has been bounding along on the local coffee scene channelling the strength of a triple espresso since 2021. Bursting with the exact type of enthusiasm that only someone with an unfettered supply of the finest beans can possess, owner Rachel-May’s passion for all things coffee and community is palpable.

Dropping their most exciting project to date (in our totally un-biased opinion *sips coffee*) – the made-with-love micro roastery has officially set down roots in Miami with a brand spanking new espresso bar and roasting facility. From humble backyard beginnings roasting 100g batches at a time, these days the tireless Whyld crew powers a handful of cafes and coffee vans across the coast with their roasted onsite selection of imported and locally-grown beans.

Flaunting a soul-soothing shade of forest green as far as the eye can see, Hillcrest Parade’s latest are supplying the smoothest of brews to get us glowing from Wednesday – Sunday, in addition to a tasty selection of grab-and-go goodies courtesy of Burleigh Baker.

For those that remember Miami’s I Like Ramen days, Whyld’s smooth specialty brews will need no introductions – after a stint dutifully slinging caffeine fixes every weekend out of the pop-up window where Holliday Coffee now resides. During this fateful time Rachel-May ‘fell in love with the community of Miami’.

As someone who’s dedicated her whole working life to slinging lattes and soy caps, Rachel-May had always been keen to delve deeper into her craft and learn the ins-and-outs of where the cup comes from. Talk about living and breathing the bean life! With a little help from some local legends at Burleigh’s Profile Coffee Colab in 2021, Rachel-May embarked on the rollercoaster of learning to roast coffee. And bean’s yer uncle, Whyld was born not long after!

These days, the micro roastery’s small but mighty team consists of Rachel-May and her partner, Tiago Sperb, and who could forget ‘Big Shaz’, the trusty 12kg Probat coffee roaster.

Requiring all hands on deck to pull off, the crew has taken great pains to pour good vibes into their brick-and-mortar milestone. Equal parts eclectic and energising, the result is a charming and sun-drenched spot to swing by for your daily fix, with a rag tag assortment of repurposed milk crate and vintage thrones on which to perch with your morning cup of Joe.

If this sounds suspiciously like your new #happyplace, we have an inkling that might just be by design. “It’s real connections and liquid gold that keep our souls happy” Rachel-May muses, which gets a #HardAgree from our haplessly-addicted selves.

“How often do you meet someone at a cafe? Or say ‘let’s go get a coffee?’ It’s the biggest connector we have”, she adds.

Sounds like a great excuse for one more cup to us!

Where: 8/43 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
When: 6am–1:30pm, Wednesday–Sunday
Website: www.thatswhyld.com.au
Instagram: @thats_whyld_coffee

Words by Kellie Leader
Images by Mathilde Bouby

Breakfast and Burleigh go together like all of our favourite things. Bread and butter, eggs and bacon, macaroni and cheese, gin and tonic… you get this gist. And as you can probably tell, we’re partial to a good old breakfast.

What’s not to love about breakfast? And even more, what’s not to love about Burleigh? You’ve got sun, sand, surf and a boat load of egg-cellent spots to fill up and fuel up to get the day going. It is the most important meal of the day after all.

We took it upon ourselves to do the hard task of eating our way around one of our fave beachside suburbs to determine who exactly has the best brekky’s on offer and it did not disappoint. Here’s our pick of 10 of the best breakfast eats in Burleigh. Just don’t scramble to get to them all at once!

Commune
Back to where it all began, Commune has stood the test of time when it comes to bringing the breakfast goods and if you’ve been, you’ll know why. Recently taken over by the Blackboard crew, the menu is brimming with classics and new flavours. Their Eggs Florentine stacked on one of the best potato rosti’s going around is an all-time pick of ours. They’ve got acai bowls on tap along with their fan-fave chorizo burrito – it’s an IYKYK situation.
Where: 1844 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Palm Springs
You’ve no doubt seen this Palm Springs inspired brekky haunt taking pride of place on the Gold Coast Highway. It’s hard to miss the slice of California desert in the heart of Burleigh. Take it from us, the food is as fabulous as the space is gorgeous. Their Breakfast Tacos are an obvious front-runner for our favourite breakfast pick. We adore the Chicken & Waffles with southern fried chicken, chipotle mayo and maple syrup for a delicious taste of the US.
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Tarte Bakery
It’s the spot that almost doesn’t need an introduction because if you haven’t been to the Euro-inspired café then where have you been?! They’ve been reinventing the breakfast game with dishes like their loaded bagels (hello Bullseye Bang) and their iconic Tomato Soup – if you’ve seen it, you’ll get it. If you’re more about a liquid breakfast then the Parisian Hot Chocolate is a no brainer, or the Breakfast Mary if you like a bit of a kick. We’re also pretty sure it’s illegal to leave without one of their baked goods. Get the strawberry muffin top and thank us later.
Where: 1748 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Local
Right in the heart of Burleigh you’ll find this spot that’s become a firm favourite among locals – that’s right, it’s not just in the name. It’s big, it’s busy and it serves up a mean breakfast – which is obviously a prerequisite on a breakfast list. Local is our go-to for those tried and tested brekky must-haves, think French Toast for the sweet tooth and Chilli Scramble (because what’s not to love). No acai bowl? No problem because they’ve done one better – the Acai Panna Cotta with coconut sorbet is the freshest twist on a GC staple but we’re into it.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Social Brew
James Street has long been the heart of Burleigh when it comes to all things food, fashion and fun and tucked away in the Big B Arcade is Social Brew. A bustling melting pot of Gold Coasters, from brekky dates to catch ups with friends and people working over a bite to eat, the people watching is almost as good as the food. Stay for a good time and a long time if that’s your vibe, with breakfast turning into lunch on the reg. The Truffle Mushroom Bruschetta and Nasi ‘Brew’eng are must-try’s for a reason.
Where: 34-36 James Street, Burleigh Heads

Paddock Bakery
Remember when Paddock Bakery changed the game with their epic sweet treats and loaded donuts? How could we ever forget, we’re grateful for it pretty much every day. But they’re so much more than just baked goods, tucked away in their little weatherboard haven is a bakehouse so as you can imagine – they’re big on bread and their menu shows. The best part? After you’ve filled up on food, you can take home some of their bakehouse goods – whether it’s an Almost Croissant Cookie or their signature Sourdough.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads

Two Yolks
If anyone knows a thing or two about eggs, it’s these guys – some may even call them eggs-perts. And what’s breakfast without eggs? As far as we’re concerned, even breakfast time is burger time so you bet we were pumped when we saw the menu loaded with things like the Triple B (Big Brekky Burger) and the Two Yolks Grande Burrito filled with scrambled eggs (naturally), tater tots, guac, bacon, halloumi and chipotle aioli. The unsung hero of their brekky menu is the Tater Tots aka potato gems though, get the morsels of crispy goodness as a side or you’ll have fomo later.
Where: 13 Connor Street, Burleigh Heads

Pretty Handsome
They’re baaaack and they’re better than ever, if we do say so ourselves. With a schmick fresh look and their ripper original menu – plus some new additions of course – Pretty Handsome has been a sight for sore eyes and we’re just pretty darn happy that we’ve got their Breaky Wrap Combo back. Seriously, what’s not to love about a wrap and a coffee combo for $12.50 – we’re in a cost of living crisis, people!
Where: 18 Christine Avenue, Burleigh Heads

Plantation House Cafe
This pretty little spot is all about great breakfast and gorgeous interiors, with fresh clean interiors, a lush green wall and of course, a hot pink neon it’s giving Instagrammable and we love it. The team at Plantation are big fans of a sweet breakfast moment and you will be too with Pancakes served with poached pear, salted caramel, crumble and ice cream – we’re drooling just thinking about it. If savoury is more of your flavour then try the Fritter Stack, we promise it won’t disappoint.
Where: 1/43 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Burleigh Heads

Parlour Coffee
It might not be in the centre of the Burleigh hustle and bustle but does that mean we love Parlour Coffee any less? Absolutely not. In fact, that’s one of the things we love about it most. Seasonal menu. Tick. Epic coffee. Tick. Space to soak up the sunshine (with SPF obviously). Tick. Dog friendly. Tick. It’s got everything we look for in a brekky spot and more. Treat yo’self with the Benny Croissant and if that’s not enough indulgence, try a twist on your usual coffee with their Tiramisu Latte.
Where: 34 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Burleigh Heads

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski

Oh Burleigh you little beauty, what’s not to love right? Since the dawn of time (or the dawn of the GC at least) Burleigh has been one of the most-loved suburbs amongst a slew of strong contenders.

Sure, the beach is beautiful (that Hill is iconic for a reason) and James Street boasts all the best eats and acai bowls galore but it’s more than that, Burleigh has a soul of its own born of cruisy, barefoot, salty seabreeze vibes you simply won’t find anywhere else.

Gushing aside, we’ve found the best of Burleigh so you don’t have to.

We say when in Burleigh do as the locals do, so here’s our guide to the best eats, bars, shopping spots and places to visit so you can see why the locals love it and you should too (or else).

Fine Dining
Restaurant Labart
The fine dining venue has become part of the fabric of Burleigh’s bustling heart, but it’s also become one of the Gold Coast’s premier dining destinations. Tucked away on West Street, the five-star, seasonal produce-led restaurant is an absolute must-visit and your dining experience there is one you won’t long forget. The produce is sustainable and the wine list is filled with some of the most stunning natural wines in the world. The service is impeccable too, but in a fun, not-too-formal way. We LOVE.
Where: 2A/8 West Street, Burleigh Heads 

Rick Shores
Literally opening out onto the sand at Burleigh beach, Rick Shores is loved (not only locally) for its stunning sunset views and those tiny little taste sensations otherwise known as Bug Rolls. If you’ve never tasted one, you’ve been wasting your life, make a booking RIGHT NOW and order them all. Wash them down with one of Rick’s signature cocktails and you’re a bonafide Burleigh-ite.
Where: Shop 3, Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

Mr Hizola’s
Yum, contemporary Cantonese food, we love you. Mr Hizola’s is dishing up the goods in the form of tasty share-style dishes and we are here for it. Particularly the sizzling steak dish that is all kinds of delicious and an array of epic cocktails to match.
Where: 1730 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Jimmy Wahs
If you’re looking for fancy food but with the relaxed vibe that’s quintessentially Burleigh, look no further. The stunning space offers incredible Vietnamese dishes inspired by Head Chef Jake’s trip through Vietnam and a desire to eat some of the very best street food in the world every single day. Same. It’s a refined style of dining paired with mouthwatering cocktails and a sleek, paired back vibe. Jimmy Wahs is one of the Gold Coast’s most impressive eateries and we are big fans.
Where: 1724 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Casuals Eats
Burleigh Town Hotel
If you haven’t seen this new reno, then where have you been? One of the best glow ups on the GC recently (in our humble opinion), Burleigh Town Hotel has nailed the pub-style menu and good vibes. The perfect place to set up for the arvo with your besties and the kids, there’s loads of space for the little ones to roam and plenty to keep them entertained while you kick back with a beverage in hand. Say less.
Where: Tsipura Drive, Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Gelato Co
We’re softies for the sweet deliciousness that is gelato. Burleigh Gelato Co know how to deliver on flavours worth melting for, they’ve got all the classic Italian flavours you know and love along with their own signature specials. Guaranteed you’ll love them un-cone-ditionally.
Where: 9 Connor Street, Burleigh Heads

Coffee Hangs
Seadog
The guys behind Seadog know coffee. Starting as a humble little hole in the wall – literally – Seadog has become the go-to for a quick bite and a brew. And don’t worry, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you – you really are seeing double because you’ll find the crew on the bustling James Street or down the other end at the old faithful Burleigh Bowlo, perfect spot for a piccolo and park hangs.
Where: 8/50 James Street, Burleigh Heads and 1, Bowls Club, Connor Street, Burleigh Heads

Tarte Bakery & Cafe
There’s good reason this gem is heaving at all hours, the home of the iconic muffin top (IYKYK) and some of the best coffee in town, it’s not just locals who love it – you’ll find Gold Coasters and beyond flocking here for a taste of the goods. Come for a coffee and to get around their huge menu with something for everyone – literally, it’s impossible to not love something. Plus, we’re pretty sure it’s mandatory to leave with a pastry in tow – go on, you deserve it.
Where: 1748 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Social Brew
Social by name, social by nature – Social Brew is one of Burleigh’s best coffee hangouts whether you’re looking to catch up with the crew or a spot to work for the day, there’s a reason these guys have stood the test of time. A staple spot to visit in Burleigh for their signature iced coffee, come for the caffeine and stay for the bites.
Where: 34-36 James Street, Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Baker
The baked goods that come out of this friendly little bakery are honestly something else. Owners Geoff and Lisa are passionate about baking and opened Burleigh Baker to provide us with the best tasting and most nutritious Artisan Sourdough and boy do they deliver. They use only the finest ingredients and the traditional process of fermentation. Do not buy bread anywhere else. You’re welcome.
Where: 13/50 James Street, Burleigh Heads

Something To Drink
Paloma Wine Bar
From the brains that brought us Labart is the one and only Paloma. This small but mighty wine bar has one of the largest selections of boutique wines (we mean, it is in the name) with some seriously epic eats to accompany. We can’t go past the steak frites – seriously, don’t sleep on this – and if you don’t know where to start on what to sip the expert team always nail the reccos. Pop a Pet Nat on your must-try for something a little bubbly or if you’re more of a red drinker, their signature chilled reds are the ultimate for a hot summer’s day.
Where: 12 James Street, Burleigh Heads

Rosella’s 
It’s the good time, slightly fancy Australiana bar of your dreams and it is perfectly at home in Burleigh Heads. Rosella’s very quickly became a firm local favourite when it opened last year and with both a drinks and food menu made up entirely of Australian produce, we are in love. There are cocktails made with Nutri Grain, some of the tastiest toasties around and all the very best Aussie beers. It’s refined, beautifully decked out and created by a couple of absolute legends. Love.
Where: 6/1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Justin Lane Rooftop
Don your finest frock and rally up your girlfriends for a Sunday session and a spot of people watching on the roof at Justin Lane. With cocktails in hand and a balmy breeze blowing in through the windows, you need never go anywhere else again. After a few hours, pop downstairs for one of Justin’s famous pizzas and that’s your Sunday sorted.
Where: 1708 – 1710 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Lockwood Bar
A somewhat hidden little speakeasy in the heart of Burleigh Heads, Lockwood Bar specialise in all of the very best varieties of whiskey along with many a local tipple transformed into tasty cocktails. It’s a laidback, jazz bar kind of vibe, low lit, often with live music and once you’re inside, you likely won’t want to leave. We dig it.
Where: Justin Lane, Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Brewing Co.
If there’s one thing Burleigh deserves (the big legend), it’s a brewery and Burleigh Brewing Co. certainly delivers. After opening in 2006, Burleigh Brewing Co. has produced nine delicious drops with delightful names such as ‘My Wife’s Bitter’ and ‘FIGJAM’ – perfectly Burleigh. Get a sixer for Netflix and chill or head into the brewery from Wednesday to Sunday afternoons to get amongst it. There’s live tunes too, what a combination.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads

Something To Do
Burleigh Hill
Well hasn’t this simple little piece of Mother Nature become a local legend? No matter the day of the week (but particularly Sunday arvos) “the hill” as it’s affectionately known is packed with picnic rugs, ball games and groups of revelers basking in the sunshine. Looking out over the ocean and with the city in the distance, it’s the perfect spot for a late afternoon lemonade or early morning coffee date with the crew. If you’re feeling energetic, take a stroll around the hill to Talle Creek for some Insta-worthy scenery or if you’re into hill and chill then order some takeaway and perch up on a picnic blanket to soak up the scenery.
Where: The south end of The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Bowls Club
A relaxing little beachside club loved by young and old alike, Burleigh Bowls has been around since 1937 and is certainly a prime piece of real estate these days. Barefoot Bowls roll on from 12 to 5pm every Sunday and it’s a measly $5 per person including coaching and bowls (AKA ball whipper snappers). Live music can be heard on Sunday arvos from 2 to 6pm. Get down and support your local while sipping on a schooner.
Where: Connor Street, Burleigh Heads

David Fleay Wildlife Park
Nestled in the heart of Burleigh Heads, David Fleay’s is a wildlife park with a difference. Stroll through the tranquil surroundings to experience some of Queensland’s most iconic natural habitats and meet the resident wildlife — all in just one day. Explore the park solo or join the dedicated Park Rangers at the daily wildlife shows.
Where: Corner of West Burleigh Road and Loman Lane in West Burleigh

Shop With Us
James Street
If you’re in need of some retail therapy then James Street is the only place you need to go. The range of shopping has everything you need whether you’re looking for some new additions to your home from Maison & Maison or to update your wardrobe at Emte you’re guaranteed to leave suitably more stylish. If you’re looking for the perfect piece of art to dress your walls at work or home, Art Yarramunua is our pick for their incredible collection of indigenous art, expertly curated to celebrate the rich cultural history of Australia’s indigenous communities.
Where: James Street, Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Farmers Markets
Everyone’s favourite Saturday morning market adventure. Get up early, grab your basket and set out in search of fruit, veggies and of course, your first coffee of the weekend. These days the farmers market also boast locally made clothing and homewares, flowers, meat and seafood and delicious breaky and lunch options. There’s also live music and plenty of laughter floating around. Happy days.
Where: Burleigh Heads State School, Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads