Origin Cafe opens up second venue in Broadbeach Waters.
Origin Cafe opens up second venue in Broadbeach Waters.
An origin story is how we make sense of where something began. For Origin Cafe, its beginnings make this new chapter even sweeter.
You may have grabbed a quick coffee from the Origin Cafe kiosk at the Surfers Paradise tram stop. Husband-and-wife duo Alberto Raposio and Leanne Beirne have been slinging top-notch coffee in that six-square-metre hole-in-the-wall faster than the G:link pulls in. As their GC community grew, so did their dream of a bigger space.
For Alberto, hospitality is in his DNA. He comes from three generations of restaurateurs, cutting his teeth at just 14 in his father’s restaurant. At 18, he moved to London to learn more. After working through multiple roles, he made another bold move to Australia, managing fine dining venues across Sydney before relocating to Darwin. It was there, behind a coffee machine, that fate stepped in.
Leanne had started working in cafés at 15 and never quite shook the love of hospitality even while studying to become a kindergarten teacher in Dublin. During regional work in Darwin, she returned to making coffee, and that’s where she met Alberto.
Their story brewed slowly, bonding over a desire to create something of their own.
Seven months after moving to the Gold Coast, the couple opened Origin Cafe at the tram stop in Surfers Paradise. Frustrated by inflated pricing and shrinking value in hospitality, they wanted to bring things back to basics. No ridiculous prices here. No weekend surcharges.
Fourteen months later, they’ve expanded into Broadbeach Waters, opening from breakfast to dinner, where families can enjoy a meal without breaking the bank.
Nestled between two kindergartens, the space felt serendipitous for Leanne. A neighbourhood hub where everyone feels welcome.
The design was entirely DIY with late-night painting sessions and concrete floors sealed by hand. Earthy tones of sand, timber and stone create a calm atmosphere that complements the coastal locale.
One of their favourite features is a full glass panel into the kitchen, offering diners a front-row seat to the chef’s magic.
So what are they cooking up?
Breakfast classics like smashed avocado, feta, lemon and dukkha on sourdough bread and a Benny with ham and spinach on sourdough, topped with poached eggs and hollandaise.
Lunch is satisfying sandos like a Meatball Focaccia with homemade polpette in a rich tomato sauce topped with parmesan and rocket. Another go to is the Chicken Schnitty with house-made schnitzel, melted swiss cheese and slaw.
In the evenings, it’s a nod to Alberto’s Italian roots. You can’t go wrong with Lasagna stacked with layers of homemade bolognese sauce, bechamel and parmesan cheese. Pasta alla norma is a comforting bowl of rigatoni with salsa al pomodoro, deep fried eggplants and ricotta salata.
It’s BYO for pasta nights so just add your favourite bottle, order the tiramisu and settle in like famiglia.
Where: 11/1 kalimna drive Broadbeach Waters
When: Mon–Fri 5am–2pm, Sat and Sun 5am–12:30 pm, Pasta nights Fri and Sat 4.30–8pm
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Liam McDonald
See more from Origin Cafe in our reel here.
February’s freshest foodie finds.
The last month of summer has gone by in a flash, but luckily a fresh batch of brand-new venues has made sure it didn’t go unnoticed! From nostalgic chicken shops to a steakhouse with serious honky-tonk vibes, here’s the latest scoop on the hottest openings last month that you’ll want to sink your teeth into.
Tedder Avenue’s newest Italian stallion is here to wow. Bar Ricci in Main Beach is serving coastal Italian glamour with limoncello buttered barramundi, blue swimmer crab pasta, and arancini that’ll steal your heart. Think Aperol Spritz like Amalfi, Michelin-worthy mains and a wine list that’s world-class. With breezy terraces, private rooms and service as stylish as the interiors, Bar Ricci is perfect for long lunches, intimate dinners or Italian family feasts.
Where: 20 Tedder Avenue, Main Beach
All you need is Lovi! Lovi is serving love on a plate with Italian-Mediterranean classics and heart-melting brunch favourites. Minimal coastal vibes and a cosy alfresco corner make lingering a must. Devour Baked Cauliflower, Mezze Maniche in vodka sauce, and cocktails that kiss you back. Whether you’re loved-up, flying solo or brunching with friends, Lovi turns every bite into a little love story. Eat, sip, swoon, repeat.
Where: 133 Laver Drive, Robina
Purrfect Catch Cafe is reeling in Gold Coast locals hook, line and whisker. This new Hope Island spot is pet-friendly, serving up seriously good brunch with clever cat-and-fish vibes from decor to dish names. Think Crabby Kitty Croissants, Sweet Catch Bao, and Tiny Purr Pancakes for little ones. Matcha boba, Tropical Purr-adise smoothies and house-baked cakes make mornings and lunches irresistible. It’s witty, whimsical and a total purrfect catch for humans, pets and taste buds alike.
Where: 26/340 Hope Island Road, Hope Island
Chasing the sunset never tasted so good. Sunset on Chevron is giving a Gold Coast fave a shiny new glow, serving brunches that roll into lunch with cocktails that sparkle when the sun dips. Enjoy fish tacos with zing, katsu burgers with crunch and espresso martinis on cue. It’s bringing fresh coastal energy to one of the Gold Coast’s most community-minded pockets. And yes, we’ll absolutely stay for one more round!
Where: 1/64 Thomas Drive, Chevron Island
Chicken tonight? Don’t mind if we do! The Salty Chook is spinning golden birds in Rainbow Bay and serving pure post-surf satisfaction. Think free-range rotisserie chook with crackly skin, Nashville hot burgers that bring the heat, and chippies dusted in extra chicken salt (obviously). It’s nostalgic with no-fuss, where sandy feet and salt-of-the-earth souls are always welcome.
Where: 13 Ward Street Coolangatta
Forks at the ready! A yummy new chapter has begun for baker Heya Yum, turning her cult cake biz into a real-life sugar haven in Mermaid Beach! Serving ready-to-go celebration cakes that make 6am feel like sweet o’clock, this little shop means you can whip up an impromptu party any day of the week. Think mini masterpieces, cupcakes and pastries with flavours from Biscoff to raspberry. It’s sweet, soulful and sprinkled with Yum’s magic.
Where: 1a/2475 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Turn over a new leaf at Leaf Cafe & Co in Broadbeach. This newbie is serving breezy easy mornings with a side of brunch. Tuck into Pistachio French Toast, Truffle Mushroom Bruschetta and pasta-before-noon energy. The house-roasted coffee hits just right, whether you’re a short black sipper or oat latte lover. Bonus points for being close to the beach, it’s the kind of spot where one sip of coffee will help you leaf your worries behind.
Where: Meriton Suites, Shop 8, 2669 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Rowdy Ranch Steakhouse is raising the steaks and the roof in Surfers Paradise. Think smoky brisket, a show-stopping 1kg Tomahawk Steak, and wings that deserve their own fan club. There’s a mechanical bull daring you to hold on, a d-floor for line dancing and a stage for live country music straight outta Nashville. It’s boot-scooting, bucking-bull fun for both family get-togethers and full-throttle nights out. Saddle up!
Where: 3/15 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Words by Lisette Drew
Leaf Cafe & Co brings fresh flavours and easy mornings to Broadbeach.
We’re back in Broadbeach with a new cafe crush, and yes, we’re already obsessed. Sitting pretty beneath Meriton Suites Broadbeach, Leaf Cafe & Co has opened its doors, bringing specialty coffee and all-day brunch to a prime Broadbeach location. Three of our favourite things – brews, brunch and Broadbeach. Let’s get into it.
Perfectly positioned just moments from the beach Leaf Cafe Broadbeach is designed for pretty much everyone: locals on their daily loop, commuters in need of caffeine, and holiday-makers chasing a proper coffee that isn’t your average hotel lobby brew.
The fit-out keeps things fresh and modern, with bold orange accents balanced by light grey stone and clean whites. The result is a coastal-meets-city feel that works just as well for a quick takeaway as it does for a long brunch catch-up. There’s indoor and outdoor seating, plenty of natural light, and a relaxed vibe that has a habit of turning one cuppa into two – not complaining here.
This opening also marks a big moment for Leaf Cafe & Co, with Broadbeach being the brand’s first Queensland location. Yep, this isn’t their first rodeo, with multiple venues across Sydney and regional New South Wales. In other words, they know coffee. Having previously partnered with Meriton as a retail tenant, opening directly beneath the Broadbeach hotel felt like a no-brainer. The result? A café that blends proper Australian café culture with hotel-level convenience.
Now, let’s talk food. The all-day brunch menu is stacked with modern Australian classics alongside a few not-so-classic curveballs (in the best way). Crowd-pleasers include Pistachio French Toast, the flavour-packed Truffle Mushroom Bruschetta, and the ever-reliable Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl for when you want something fresh but filling.
If you’re in the mood to break brunch rules, Spicy Garlic Prawn Spaghetti is here to remind you that pasta before noon is not only acceptable – it’s encouraged. There are hearty breakfast options like Turkish Eggs, lighter picks such as the Granola Yogurt Bowl, kid-friendly choices, and enough variety to justify becoming a regular.
Coffee lovers, you’re in safe hands. Leaf Cafe & Co roasts its own beans, supplying all of its venues with a Signature House Blend alongside rotating single origins. Every cup is brewed by experienced baristas who know their way around an espresso machine, whether you’re a short black purist or an oat latte loyalist. And if coffee’s not your thing, there’s plenty more to sip on too – from rich Belgian hot chocolates and indulgent Bueno drinks to Ruby Kombucha and the crowd-favourite Summer Sunset Smoothie.
Now open from 7am to 3.30pm daily, Leaf Cafe & Co Broadbeach has already slipped comfortably into local life. It’s easy, it’s reliable, and it delivers where it counts – good coffee and great food, all in one stunning and convenient location. Consider this your sign to lock in your next Broadbeach brunch date. Fair warning though: once you visit, this one might stick.
Where: Meriton Suites, Shop 8, 2669 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
When: Daily from 7am – 3:30pm
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Images by Liam McDonald
Blues, brews and bites.
If you love to wine, dine and shop you’ll love Broadbeach. If you prefer to surf, laze in the sun or strut along beachfront esplanades, you’ll also love Broadbeach. From cult-followed cafes to shiny new eats, boujee bars and shopping boutiques, this burb’s an A-grade entertainer that shines bright in the eyes of locals and visitors alike.
There are many reasons locals – and Gold Coasters far and wide – love a bit of Broady, but here are 15 to get you started.
The Star Gold Coast
If ever there was a reason to call up the babysitter, it’s for a session at The Star. Here, you’re greeted with live music and a melange of premium food options- you won’t need to go anywhere else. Start with a few bevvies at the Atrium Bar before choosing your cuisine for the night. Will it be the fresh Garden Kitchen & Bar or the award-winning Cantonese at Uncle Su’s? Why not taste Tokyo right on the Gold Coast at Kiyomi, authentic Italian eats at Cucina Vivo or the ultimate buffet experience at Harvest Buffet? Or maybe you’re looking for the chic rooftop bar at Nineteen at The Star or a sneaky drink at the new look Veladora?
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant
If you’re after a tried and tested, long-standing comedy cabaret, good ‘ole Dracs has been serving up frights, food and frivolity since we were all ankle-biters. Most people are sold when they hear there’s a ghost train alone, let alone the actual show, which changes every so often, so there’s always a reason to go back! Enjoy a quality 3-course dinner and a menu of magical and mystical cocktails and shots!
Where: Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach
Social Eating House + Bar
If you consider yourself a gastronome, then this Oracle Blvd darling is for you. Social serves modern Australian flavours in a casual meets fine dining setting. For this, they’ve secured more hats than a Milliner’s workshop and have just won 3 glasses at the 2024 Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards. This comes as no surprise with Executive Chef Matthew Jefferson in charge. With a recently refreshed menu (promised to please even the most refined palates), you’ll experience a carefully curated range of bar snacks, charcuterie, and small and large share plates featuring the finest Australian ingredients and paired to perfection.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
Blues on Broadbeach
Unlike our other listings, this one’s not here 24/7. However, it’s that much of a Broady icon that it would be criminal not to throw it a mention. As the name suggests, it brings us world-class blues music and jazz from locals and famous acts alike, performing across multiple venues over four unforgettable days. And it’s free. When does that ever happen?!
Where: Various Broadbeach venues
Elk Espresso
This place has never met an empty table; it’s constantly bulging at the seams with raving fans. Of course, we are one of such fans. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the beach, the coffee is all-time, the menus are seasonal and heavenly, and they do a Boozy Bottomless Brunch. And sold!
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
The Oasis
It’s an everyday escape for locals, and one of our top shopping centres on the coast (for good reason). The Oasis is home to stunning fashion boutiques, and the number of fabulous eateries at hand is impressive in of itself. In addition to the ones we highlight in this article, we’re talking Mario’s, Madison’s Café and Patisserie, Spice Kitchen and Bar, and The Broadbeach Tavern, to name just a few. It’s a #OneStopShop.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Broadbeach Bowls Club
Ahhh, good old lawn bowls. The game that never fails to deliver a good time. If you’re looking for the best way to spend a chill arvo on the GC, it’s with a game of barefoot bowls, brew in hand at Broadbeach Bowls Club. When you’re finished, they have a full bistro menu waiting with big portions of all your go-to pub-grub meals. They also have a canape package perfect for a laid-back birthday or celebration.
Where: 169 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
kōst Bar & Grill
Just over a year old, yet kōst has already wriggled its way onto our hot list… sneaky bugger. Just kidding, they’re here for a reason, and credit is due! The contemporary style bar and grill is perfect for sophisticated sips, flame-grilled eats and boujee’ bar snacks’, all within a relaxed-luxury setting. Champagne with a side of caviar, anyone?
Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
No Name Lane
Well, if it isn’t No Name Lane making a name for themselves as Blake Lively’s favourite coffee. In her exact words “”the best coffee of her life”. We can attest to this, alongside the cafe’s cult local following. Not only are they adored for their cuppa, but their all-day breakfasts and gourmet lunches also go down a treat so if you haven’t been, remedy this immediately.
Where: 16 Charles Ave, Broadbeach
Kurrawa Surf Club
Ocean views don’t come any better than this. With legit THE most prime location, Kurrawa Surf Club has everything you’d want from a Surf Club…and more. With awesome regular members specials and fresh ingredients, there’s no such thing as a bad meal here. They host a trivia night and live music, and of course there’s the obligatory gaming lounge for those who like a flutter.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach
CHA CHA Japanese Restaurant
Gold Coasters have been CHA CHA bound for an authentic Japanese nosh-up which won’t break the bank for years, and that’s not about to change any time soon. The banquet menu is divine and every visit you’ll experience the same level of scrumptiousness. But the soy on the dim sum…it’s BYO and it’s hard to find an already affordable yet high-quality restaurant offering our 3 favourite letters. Score.
Where: 2705 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Pacific Fair
This list wouldn’t be complete without mention of THE queen. Pacific Fair (aka Pac Fair) is any Gold Coasters first point of call when a new ensemble or therapy (retail or other) is required. It has every retailer you could possibly wish for, fabulous food options and indisputably the most gorgeous fit-out you’ve ever seen. Nothing rivals it.
Where: Gold Coast Hwy and Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach
Costa Taco
You bet we did a happy dance when news broke that our fav taqueria from Palm Beach had opened a third location in Broady (the second was Byron). For us, and many (most) Gold Coasters, it was a love at first bite. Costa Taco stole our taste buds with their authentic, flavour-filled eats and there was no turning back. And why would we? You would have to be coco to say no no to coconut margaritas?
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
The Lamb Shop
In a pita shell, you’re getting bangin bar snacks and succulent souvlaki- what’s not to love? After a long day on Broadbeach beach (presumably), when you’re feeling sun-kissed and salt wrapped, is there anything better than biting into a tangy lamb-filled pita wrap to replenish exerted energy? No! The Lamb Shop’s entire menu is prepared in-house daily, using only fresh local produce, premium cuts and authentic grilling techniques. That’s why we love em!
Where: 1 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
The Beach Hotel Broadbeach
There’s no better place to snag a seat and sink a beer (or a Golden Hour Sour) on a Saturday arvy than at the brand new The Beach Hotel in Broadbeach. The airy spaces and indoor-outdoor flow let the sea breeze carry through the beer garden into the public bar. The vibe is set to ‘summer chill’, eats are delish, sips are refreshing and every corner is designed for the perfect gathering with your pals. After some spirited fun, head inside Cora, a restaurant within The Beach Hotel, where fine dining and a laid-back atmosphere come together to deliver palate-pleasing Mediterranean-inspired bites and crisp, cool drinks. Don’t mind if we do.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
