Saint Coffee Collective will caffeinate you on your commute.
Saint Coffee Collective will caffeinate you on your commute.
When it comes to things Gold Coasters cannot live without, the list is small but unwavering. The beach, because it’s life; our four-legged friends, they’re the best; and coffee, well, because without it, how is somebody even supposed to face the day!? Speciality coffee and the love and adoration behind it is without a doubt one of the integral parts of our rampant café scene here on the Gold Coast. Who needs to visit our big southern neighbours for a decent cup of joe anymore? Not us!
Saint Coffee Collective is the caffeinated pit stop — if you’re up the northern end of the Coast — you should be adding to your day. Located at the busy Gold Coast University Hospital G:Link tram station, the two-person team, led by owner Hal Cozens, are steadfast in ensuring only the finest coffee makes its way into your cup. The kiosk itself is set back from the tracks and even has small tables and seating to one side, meaning you can take a break from the world and watch the afternoon light cascade down from above ground — your own private moment with a great of coffee is one of life’s greatest yet simplest pleasures, are we not right?
Hal only uses the finest beans from long-established roasters, Supreme. These guys date back to 1993 and have operations in Melbourne, Brisbane, Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and not forgetting Tokyo. It’s a reasonable assumption with so many locations and a long history of roasting, these guys are making some mighty fine coffee — and they most certainly are. Many of the Coffee Supreme team were baristas and cafe owners in previous lives, and in the cup, it shows.
There are two different blends of beans available, one preferred for those who like it black and another who must have theirs with some type of milk. Got milk? They most certainly do. Using only the best kinds of milk around, like Bonsoy and Norco, and then measuring the weight of coffee for each shot means the experience is only elevated. Consistency is critical in knocking out great coffee and making people come back — day after day — and Saint Coffee Collective expects to see your face regularly!
As well as top-rated jitter juice, you’ll find a small assortment of sweets and cookies available, as well as the option to purchase the beans behind your coffee so you can continue the flavour fiesta at home on your own time.
Starting the day right is paramount. And Saint Coffee Collective is the only way to step off the tram and into a deftly made cup of motivation.
When: Monday — Friday: 5.30am – 4pm
Saturday: 7am – 12pm
Where: Kiosk 1, Gold Coast University Hospital Station Corner Hospital Boulevard and Parklands Drive, Southport
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
Cool beans.
A wise person once said that coffee makes the world go ‘round… or was it money that makes the world go ‘round? Either way, money buys coffee so same thing if you ask us. And let us tell you there’s an abundance of incredible coffee beans roasted right here on the Gold Coast.
And what’s not to love about the humble coffee bean? Well, these guys would say nothing, because what else is versatile enough to bring the energy in the morning before turning into the GOAT of cocktails in the evening – can you tell we’re a fan?
So, whether you know your coffee or you just like to think you know your coffee, we’ve found the best coffee roasters in our very own backyard so you can walk in and flex that knowledge like you’ve been studying the humble bean for years.
If you’re the kind of person that needs a brew at home before you even think about being an actual human (same), then here’s your key to take home and brew up the pearls of their labour or sit back and get them to do it for you, here they are for your jitter juice slurping pleasure.
Merlo Coffee Torrefazione
Escape our subtropical climates for just a moment, and pretend you’ve found your way to Italy at Brickworks Ferry Road in Southport. Italian for coffee house, Merlo’s Torrefazione is a haven of all things coffee and features an in-store air roaster, meaning a constant steady flow of the freshest espresso. Chat all things coffee and let their staff teach you about their blends and make you the perfect grind on the spot depending on what method you use at home.
Where: Brickworks Ferry Road, 107 Ferry Rd, Southport
First Fruits Specialty Coffee
Found in both Labrador and Southport, First Fruits believe coffee is an art form. Beans are ethically sourced and of the highest quality, and the team are very knowledgeable on all aspects of coffee. They roast in medium and city roast styles which bring out the oh-so delicious flavours of the bean and offer a smooth, balanced flavour.
Where: 129-133 Olsen Avenue, Labrador and 1 Griffith Way, Southport
Willy’s Beans
One of the newest roasters on the block, there’s a reason we ‘willy’ love what these guys bring to the table… errr, cup. Tucked away in Burleigh Heads, the coffee warehouse opened its doors in July and locals can’t get enough of the specialty coffee that Willy’s Beans have been brewing. Celebrating the art of coffee making, the boutique roastery pays homage to the heritage of the Colombian-grown beans that are expertly roasted onsite. They’ve got a range of blends for any style of coffee you’re looking to brew at home, so let the expert team guide you to your perfect match.
Where: 1/4 Ramly Drive, Burleigh Heads
Profile Coffee Colab
Don’t let its size fool you, Profile Coffee Colab is a hive of activity and if you’re a frequent visitor like us, you’ll know what we’re talking about. Bringing the buzz (and we don’t just mean the coffee) this local roastery is the home of Joy Organic Coffee Roasters and boasts the Gold Coast’s biggest range of specialty coffee! The line-up grows each and every week so if you’re looking for incredible coffee to enjoy at home, look no further. Not only do they have coffee en masse and beans roasted onsite to take home, but there’s also a co-roasting space, coffee training centre and coffee courses in case you’re looking to certify those coffee snob skills.
Where: 109 West Burleigh Road, Burleigh Waters
Kuki Coffee
Kuki by name, Kuki by nature but in the best kind of way – these guys have been fuelling some of your favourite coffee spots so if you’re a Rafiki stan you’ll have tasted the sweet flavours of Kuki Coffee before. Using an air roasting method that brings hot air to circulate and roast the beans, a unique approach that means you’re getting a more consistent roast and flavour profile so you can trust your daily cuppa tastes the same every. Single. Day. Pop into their espresso bar which is right near their roasting warehouse for a brew to go and to ask the team all things coffee – they’re guaranteed to find your perfect match.
Where: 2/40 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh
Silipo Coffee
The team at Silipo Coffee use the very best green coffee beans from farms around the world. They’ve been in the coffee business for over 20 years, so they know what’s up when it comes to the perfect brew. Where possible, Silipo Coffee sources organic and fair-trade beans, and the end result is some of the tastiest coffee around. Sip in-store or take some beans home for yourself.
Where: 9/54 Bailey Crescent, Southport
Paradox Coffee Roasters
Speaking of people who know all about coffee, Paradox Coffee Roasters are all about the journey. They purchase quality green coffee beans from estate farms and co-operatives where farmers receive a fair wage for their work. The roasting team has over 15 years of experience, and they are committed to producing the highest quality of coffee there is — just ask the locals!
Where: 10 Beach Road, Surfers Paradise
South Coast Coffee Co.
Formerly known as Pomeroys Coffee Roasters, this Isle of Capri based roastery has a strong ethos: Great coffee isn’t created by accident; it is designed to be great from the start. And the proof is tasted in every cup. Multi-awarded with national titles over the last five years, the team take mountains of care when it comes to crafting blends considering what regions beans come from, the altitudes they grow at and what sort of soil they come from. Don’t just take our word for it; visit their café at Capri on Via Roma Shopping Centre and taste it for yourself.
Where: Capri on Via Roma Shopping Centre Shop 3G10, 15 Via Roma, Surfers Paradise
Koko Coffee Roasters
Passionate about roasting coffee and serving it to the people, Koko Coffee Roasters are all about trying new ideas and honing their skills so they can ensure you get the absolute best brews possible. Offering both espresso and filter coffee, drop in for a chat to learn a little more about coffee or grab some beans and equipment to take home and make your own.
Where: 17 Karen Avenue, Mermaid Beach
Blackboard Coffee Roasters
With almost a decade under their belt, these guys are one of the Coast’s best-known producers of fine coffee beans. What they do with them is utter magic. If you don’t believe us, try any number of their products, from innovative biodegradable coffee capsules to high-grade instant specialty coffee — these guys are true thinkers outside the box. And if you haven’t had the chance to delve into their deliciousness, change up your local cafe to one of MANY cafes located across the Coast that offer their beans!
Where: Roastery located in Burleigh
Quest Coffee Roasters
Burleigh’s beloved coffee aficionados Quest have been roasting up a storm for many, many years, and their brews’ quality is always exceptional. Their roasts are hand-crafted and organic and create the absolute perfect brew. Beans are as fresh as can be, selectively sourced, and only the best will do. You can pop in for a cuppa at the espresso bar or take some home to work your own magic with them. Quest recently branched out to a brand new cafe in Broadbeach, Banksy Bar & Kitchen.
Where: 20 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Laughing Pug Coffee Company
If their name doesn’t grab your attention, then maybe their innovative coffee drip bags will. Ideal for the next time you go camping — or are experiencing the hangover from hell — you can have speciality grade coffee with just the flick of your kettle switch. No grinding, no mess, and no fuss! They’re also quite the experts on brewing methods and offer friendly advice on how to brew and which of their blends work best with what. And if you are the organised type, sign up for a subscription and have your monthly caffeinated supplies delivered right to your door. — Now you’re talking!
Where: Brewed in Burleigh Heads, available online. Pickup from Pug HQ available.
Social Espresso
The Burleigh Heads team have nailed it when it comes to smooth, tasty brews and we’re big fans. Not only can you visit them at their brand new HQ (it’s where you’ll find us most mornings), but you’ll also find their roasts in cafés across the Coast, and you can take them home to pop in your machine. Their perfectly crafted coffee comes with a side of passion and all of the knowledge, and you can rest assured you’ll be handed the perfect cuppa every single time.
Where: 1/9-11 Fremantle Street, Burleigh
Good coffee, great food and city vibes.
Our sweet, sweet So-Po. There’s something we just love about Southport, maybe it’s the fact that they’ve got bulk bars and restaurants so hunger never has to enter our vocabulary again. Or maybe it’s how you can get a coffee hit and hit of golf done in half a day and then soak up those Broadwater views for the rest of it – shall we go on?
All we know is that there are so many goodies in this CBD gem we couldn’t list them all or you’d be here all day and we know you’re all about less reading and more doing! (same). Here’s our round-up of local approved must-do’s!
The retailers in Southport get that you’re busy – it is the CBD after all – so time is of the essence and efficiency is the word over here. Brickworks Ferry Rd has everything from the Standard Market Co to get those dinner essentials or to make the perfect charcuterie boards, to Cardamom Pod, bring those ‘gram-worthy acai bowls and a brunch menu that will have you coming back for more.
Upping the ante with a little bit of everything, Queen Street Village is just off the Smith St Motorway, so you can pop in for the essentials from gourmet grocer Jones & Co IGA. No time to meal prep? Grab some Asian eats at Wu Kong with peckish plates to keep you going, or a classic pub feed from The Queen’s Arms for your parmy fix. When all that eating has got you zonked, get your caffeine hit at Sens Coffee and pop into DENDY to catch the latest flicks and a moment of peace and quiet.
Now, did we hear you say retail therapy? Enter: Australia Fair. With the big names in fashion all in one spot, along with our biggest vice Kmart, on the store list, say goodbye to your savings, but hello to a fresh new look. Once you’ve shopped till you dropped, it’s time to start your Tour-de-Food at Australia Fair Metro, think pho, dumplings and desserts by the dozen.
No man is left behind at Made With Love who delivers on 100% vegan cakes, pies and pastries– because you know what they say, a doughnut a day keeps the doctor away…or something like that. And why should our vegans not be part of the action?!
Keeping the Euro-bakery vibes rolling is 5B2F Ciabatta, the Southport spin-off from the cult-fave Chirn Park bakehouse, slinging everything from flaky croissants and glossy danishes to ciabatta sandwiches stuffed with all the good things (hello truffle ham and cheese toastie). It’s a grab-and-go carb paradise where sourdough, dreamy pastries and show-stopping cakes are baked fresh daily – basically your daily bread, but make it boujee.
Coffee addicts, Southport’s got you covered with experiences like SupermarCat Cat Café, which – you guessed it – comes with a side of kitty cuddles with your caffeine fix, it’s so good we won’t judge if you start purring along with your furry friends.
For the more traditional café vibe, Humble Café might be humble by name, but they’re big on variety from classic cold drips to matcha espresso.
Joining the caffeine crew, but with a twist, is Yellow & Butter. Tucked neatly inside Cloud 9 Car Wash, they’ve officially upgraded your car washing experience with a side of brunch. Our advice is to start with the cheesecake!
Cheek Café serves up wholesome bites, knockout coffee and top-tier banter, all wrapped in a peachy-pink, personality-packed space. While Broadwater Café is a local fave for its stellar brews and arguably the most scenic sip spot in Southport. Coffee with a side of waterfront wow.
If you prefer your coffee topped with cold foam, or paired with a sweet treat on the side (hello, Dubai Mochi Cookie) Milestone should be at the top of your hit list.
You already know we’re partial to a cold beverage to round out the day, but if you’re after a side of live music with that, then Vinnies Dive is the only place to get your fix and an ice-cold brew all in one.
Just across the tram line, nothing says Southport more than a cocktail (or 5) on Mr PP’s rooftop, perched above Nerang Street so you can people watch till your heart’s content. Keeping the rooftop vibes going strong, Aviary Rooftop at Southport Sharks have an epic cocktail menu that talks a big game, and luckily for us, it doesn’t just live up to expectations – it’s even better.
Also at Southport Sharks, Kaktus Bar is your go-to for a vibrant cocktail. Yep, this place delivers a thirst-quenching margarita as you’ve never tasted. One of those (or a few), paired with live music and a lineup of tacos, and you have yourself a fiesta!
Carafe Wine is an eco-conscious space offering top-notch wine from all the most renowned vino regions and zero-waste practices, plus a unique menu of sharing boards.
Hello foodies, thought we forgot about you? We could never! Kicking us off is the Japanese eatery, KatsuCo which churns out iterations of its namesake dish – traditionally coated in crunchy panko crumb and slathered in curry sauce.
For those on-the-go looking for the ultimate grab-and-go, Shiro Gelato & Snack knows what’s up with a selection of Japanese market eats like housemade Onigiri to get you fueled up and ready to tackle the day and gelato to finish because there’s always room for a sweetie treatie.
River House brings waterfront dining to the table with relaxed Broadwater views and a modern menu that works just as well for long lunches as it does for sunset dinners.
A bit of a two-in-one is Fire Baby & Ember. Upstairs, Fire Baby serves up comfort by the slice; wood-fired pizzas crafted from premium ingredients. Downstairs, Ember is where you can get flame-licked steaks and charcoal-grilled seafood.
Since we’re on a food journey around the world, you’ll be happy to know that Southport is pretty much THE place to get your Korean BBQ fix – yep, we found and 6 smokin’ hot Korean BBQ spots on the GC and would you believe 5 of them call our humble CBD home. Yep, Southport officially has a license to grill.
So, you’ve got your coffee fix and tum full- now you’re looking to get at one with nature? Obviously, your next stop has to be Broadwater Parklands. It doesn’t matter if you’re just there for a hot girl walk or trying to find a way to keep your tribe occupied, the shared pathway makes it the ultimate for everyone, whether you’re in your running era or just keen to take in the Broadwater views while you bike and play.
Fancy a bit more adventure, we hear you say? We got you. Tee off for a full day of fun at Southport Golf Club so you can let your inner Tiger Woods run wild on the green. If land has got you feeling like a fish out of water, then pop on over to the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre for a mermaid moment with things like group fitness classes – hello aqua aerobics – as well as Olympic-length swimming pools for the pros and splash pads for the little tackers.
If you’re keen to try something a little different, the Gold Coast Indoor Shooting Centre and The Shooting Centre both deliver a high-adrenaline experience with a strong focus on safety and guidance, making them approachable for first-timers and seasoned shooters alike.
If switching off and resetting is more your vibe, Vikasati Bathhouse is Southport’s answer to full-body bliss, offering hot and cold pools, saunas and spa-style experiences designed to melt stress away without ever leaving the city.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
