The Petite Crêpe brings authentic French crêpes to the Gold Coast.
The Petite Crêpe brings authentic French crêpes to the Gold Coast.
If you’ve ever daydreamed about proper French crêpes on the Gold Coast – the lacy, buttery kind that make you shut your eyes mid-bite and mumble something borderline inappropriate – consider your cravings officially handled. Robina’s dessert game just got très serious with the arrival of The Petite Crepe, the newest sweet little number from the legends behind My French Pastries. And oui, it’s every bit as swoon-worthy as it sounds.
Here’s the plot twist: this isn’t a shiny new spot, it’s a sweet evolution, giving the people exactly what they’ve been craving (hint: more treats, more hours, more “oh wow” moments). By day, it’s all flaky croissants and pastries at My French Pastries, open Tuesday to Friday 6:30 am–1 pm and Saturdays 7 am–11:30 am. But come Thursday arvo, the lights stay on, the batter starts swirling, and The Petite Crêpe takes over, stretching the hours and turning the space into a full-on, late-night crêpe wonderland. Très, très chic.
Tucked in the heart of Robina, The Petite Crêpe is all about the magic of paper-thin batter, swirled by hand on a traditional crêpe plate, flipped with flair, folded just so, and crowned with toppings piled high. Simple? Yes. Authentic? Absolutely. Dangerous? Also yes. One bite and you’ll be hooked (trust us, we’re already obsessed). The space itself is rustic, cosy and welcoming, with greenery out front and relaxed outdoor seating that’s perfect for a takeaway dash or a slow, savour-every-bite kind of sesh.
Each crêpe here is basically a one-way ticket to a Parisian café – warm, fluffy, sweet, and entirely irresistible. Cultural education? We’d argue oui. The Petite Crêpe keeps it real with proper Breton-style technique: crêpes for sweet, galettes for savoury, no shortcuts, no nonsense. Quality ingredients, expert flips, and a menu that’s split into Classic, Loaded, Signature, and Savoury sections means there’s something to hit every craving, from nostalgic childhood faves to full-on indulgent creations you’ll want to Instagram before inhaling.
The Classics keep things beautifully simple- butter, sugar and lemon (like, come on) and Nutella dusted with icing sugar, proving sometimes minimal effort can equal maximum joy. But if you’re here to go big, the Loaded range is where things get exciting. Imagine crêpes folded around Nutella with strawberries and banana, or the rich and creamy Choco Fruit Cream drizzled with chocolate sauce and layered with banana or strawberries and cream.
There’s Strawberries and Cream for the purists, plus a cheeky Banana Salted Caramel that hits that sweet-salty sweet spot in the best way possible. And because more is more, you can dial things up with add-ons like biscuit crunch, fresh fruits, chocolate sauce, chantilly cream, extra Nutella, gelato, custard and even crème de marron.
The Signature Crème de Marron crêpe is the standout for those wanting something a little more refined. Filled with chestnut spread, it’s slightly nutty, soft and sweet and feels like something you’d stumble across at a winter market in France. It’s indulgent without being over-the-top.
True to French form, The Petite Crêpe doesn’t stop at sweet. The savoury line-up is just as tempting, bringing café comfort to the fold. The Parisian combines ham, cheese and béchamel for a rich, gooey classic. The Forest layers mushroom, spinach, béchamel and cheese for something earthy and satisfying. And The Complete– a French staple- brings together ham, cheese and egg in one perfectly balanced package that works just as well for lunch as it does for a casual early dinner.
If My French Pastries taught us anything, it’s that authenticity matters. The same care and craftsmanship that made its croissants and éclairs local favourites now goes into every golden swirl here, from batter to toppings to that final fold. Whether you’re chasing a midday pick-me-up, an après-shopping treat or a late-night Nutella moment, The Petit Crêpe is proof that sometimes the simplest things- a girl and a crêpe dream- really are the sweetest.
Where: Shop 5, 361 Robina Pkwy, Robina
When: Thursday-Friday, 1:30-7 pm and Saturdays 3-9 pm
Instagram: @the_petite_crepe
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Images by Liam McDonald
See more from The Petite Crepe in our reel here.
All the authentic goodies.
Well the last few days of healthy eating were fab(ish) but we’re done with that and you will be too once you see what rolled into Robina on Christmas Eve.
It’s called My French Pastries and it’s the perfect way to kick off our 2020 food tour of the Gold Coast because as everybody knows, pastries are life and French pastries are even better than that.
The newbie isn’t technically all that new – husband and wife duo Jen and Antonio Marchesi have been baking authentic treats from home for the last few years, selling via an online page and wholesaling to local cafes.
Lucky for us, they decided to open their very own café at Robina Quays so we can pop in every single day for a sweet, indulgent treat (or two).
Antonio has been a pastry chef for 17 years and Jen is French, which is obviously the perfect combination. The pair decided they wanted to create a place that felt exactly the same as walking into a French patisserie with authentic, simple and quality eats and here we all are.
How good.
Everything is made from scratch using the very best produce (Belgian chocolate for example) and it’s extremely delicious.
So what can you eat?
Well sweet goodies like Key Lime Chantilly, Lemon Meringue, Blueberry and Chocolate tarts, which are both beautiful and very yummy.
There’s also Flan Patissier, which is the French equivalent of a custard tart, French Apple Turnovers, croissants (SO GOOD) and Croque Monsieur; a baked ham and cheese sandwich that will probably change your life.
So all the greatest buttery, sugary things.
Pop in for a coffee and a sit down or grab one of everything to take home and enjoy in peace.
Happy days Robina, we’ll be seeing you very soon.
LOCATION: Robina Quays Shopping Centre, 5/361 Robina Parkway, Robina
HOURS: Tuesday 6.30am until 2.30pm, Wednesday to Friday 6.30am until 3pm and Saturday 7am until 2pm
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
This ‘burb has all the bells and whistles.
Pop quiz! Where’s one place on the Gold Coast, where you can shop till you drop, eat your body weight in quality nosh, wander amongst stunning natural parklands and more? It’s Robina! There’s also a hospital and train station, but unfortunately, they’re not exciting enough to make our list.
Here are 18 things that are exciting enough to make our list.
Say ciao to Robina’s (perhaps, Gold Coast’s) most authentic and downright delicious pasta joint! The artisan pasta boutique store is brought to us by a European mother and daughter duo – how could it not be? Made with high-quality durum wheat semolina (rich in fibre, protein, vitamin B, and also digestion-friendly), their fresh-as pasta can be paired with a selection of their no-nasties, slow-cooked sauces. The best!
Where: Easy T Centre, 514 Christine Avenue, Robina
The Euro food tour continues at My French Pastries- a slice of Paris right in Robina. They deliver made-from-scratch croissants, tarts, and decadent desserts, with each pastry crafted with high-quality ingredients that keep locals coming back for more (and more and more). Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat.
Where: Shop 5, 4226/361 Robina Pkwy, Robina
Home of our beloved Titans, CBUS Super Stadium is one of the best regional stadiums in Australia and it’s ours, all ours (insert wicked snigger). Not only do Gold Coasters spend their weekends cheering on the boys here, but we’ve also been lucky enough to watch A-league and international football games, the Nitro Circus, and the Rugby 7s as part of the Commonwealth Games. High five to CBUS for being our homegrown hub of sporting joy.
Where: Centreline Place, Robina
An intimate 24-seat Asian bar and restaurant offering a modern take on Southeast Asian cuisine. The menu showcases creative dishes from Laos, Thailand and Vietnam, inspired by vibrant street food flavours and regional classics. With its cosy setting, flavour-packed plates and a Chef Hat from the Australian Good Food Guide for 2025, it’s a top pick for both date nights and group dining.
Where: 44 Commerce Dr, Robina
She’s smart, she’s stunning- she’s Bond University. Yes, Robina is home to the prestigious and world-class institution that helps current and future generations reach their biggest goals! Bond combines innovative teaching, a supportive campus community, and beautiful surroundings to create an inspiring study environment.
Where: 14 University Drive, Robina
The spacious, sports-themed bar and restaurant made a big splash on Robina Town Centre when it first moved in and continues to do so in 2023. Within The Sporting Globe there are no less than 50 high definition screens including two 5m2 screens and a nine-screen video wall, so yeah nah, you’re not missing a single second of the action. They’re also serving up perfect sport-watching food, frosty bronsons galore, and an all-round cracking good atmosphere. It’s a sure thing.
Where: The Promenade, Robina Town Centre, Robina
Calling all dog lovers! This expansive dog park is the perfect place for your furry friend to run, play, and socialise safely. With plenty of open space and shaded areas, it’s ideal for a weekend outing with your four-legged family members.
Where: Lot 21 Robina Pkwy, Clear Island Waters
A vibrant café serving wholesome, flavour-packed meals crafted from fresh, local ingredients. Harvest Foodhouse is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a relaxed lunch, with mouthwatering options like lamb shoulder tacos, cauliflower steak with a white bean hummus, loaded savoury croissants and triple-choc waffles. You’re gonna need to make a few trips.
Where: 361 Robina Parkway, Robina
The playground to end all playgrounds! Greenheart Robina Parklands is a 22.5-hectare wonderland with towering slides, net bridges, trampolines, swings, water play, and a toddler zone, all fully fenced with an onsite café (hallelujah). Kids can pedal off to the bike track with humps, bumps, and traffic signs, while parents chill under shady umbrellas. Add in walking paths, a boardwalk, half basketball court and a dog park, and you’ve got the ultimate family day out.
Where: Stadium Dr, Robina
A tried and tested (regularly. Very regularly….) favourite, Robina Pav features a sleek look’n’feel, dreamy deck overlooking the water, a specialised kids area, and plenty of good vibes. Boasting a menu packed with epic eats from woodfired pizzas to stacked burgers, it would be rude not to get involved with the impressive cocktail menu #IfWeMust. It’s the perfect spot for sun-soaked afternoon sessions with you posse.
Where: 229 Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina
A modern Australian rooftop bar and restaurant, Green Fields serves up flavour-packed dishes with a focus on quality produce and sustainability. The stylish rooftop setting makes it ideal for enjoying a meal while taking in the Robina skyline.
Where: 94 Laver Dr, Robina
A yakitori-focused Japanese-Korean grill in Robina, known for its smoky binchotan charcoal skewers. The menu features wagyu beef, free-range chicken, veggie options, and fresh seafood, paired with Japanese whisky, beer, and wine. Perfect for casual dinners or a night out.
Where: 126/128 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina
If open spaces and oodles of greenery, in the middle of a city no less, is your thing (yes please), Cheltenham Park is the business. There are plenty of areas for the kids – human and fury – to run themselves ragged (#yeahmums!) bushwalking tracks, and big leafy trees to stretch out beneath with a picnic and your favourite people. Perfect for escaping the rat race without chewing through the petrol in search of a tree change.
Where: Cheltenham Drive, Robina
Cocoflufferia by Goji is the all-new dessert wonderland, where dairy-free decadence meets a candy-land of toppings! Grab a bowl of their light and fluffy vegan soft serve, then go crazy with a line-up of delicious toppings like pistachio kanufa, Bueno, pistachio and Nutella sauce, Biscoff crumbs, mini mochi, M&Ms and fresh fruits!
Where: Robina Town Centre, Robina
Step into a world of optical illusions and interactive 3D art. Artvo is not only visually stunning but also a playground for your imagination, offering endless photo opportunities and fun for all ages.
Where: Ground Floor, Near the Kitchens, next to Lush, Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina
Riva is the home of sleek and stylish premium workspaces that make the 9-to-5 grind feel…well, less grindy. They’re designed to foster productivity and creativity by combining comfort, style, and convenience, with both private and co-working options.
Where: 2/14 Edgewater Court, Robina
Small Fry offers a modern twist on classic Australian seafood. One of their signature dishes is the Bug Bao– lightly battered bug meat in a steamed bun with coleslaw, chilli, shallots, lime, and sriracha mayo. Don’t walk, run! Pair that with a serve of their Family Parmesan and Truffle Fries, and damnnnnn!
Where: 273 Scottsdale Drive, Robina
Your most Instagrammable matcha moments await at Matcha Therapy- where everything is made with ceremonial grade matcha powder from Uji, Japan. Sit, sip and shop your way through matcha heaven.
Where: 129 Laver Drive, Robina
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Romance is in the air at Robina’s new hotspot, Lovi.
February may be the official month of love, but if you’re anything like us, you’ll agree that showing affection shouldn’t be a seasonal fling, it should be dished up all year round.
Robina’s newest cafe, Lovi, shares this sentiment, built on the belief that love can be celebrated daily, preferably with good coffee and great food.
Whether you’re deeply loved up, flying solo or somewhere in between, Lovi has a way of making everyone feel special. If the way to the heart is through the stomach, then consider Lovi the scenic route.
Lovi is the passion project of owner Negin Shahani and her partner, who quite literally built the space with love. Before settling on the sunny shores of the Gold Coast, the pair spent three years running a much larger operation, the 400-seat Paulownia Lounge in their homeland of Iran. But when Australia captured their hearts, they knew they wanted to create something more intimate here. This new cafe is shaped by the love Negin has felt while making Australia home.
The design reflects that vibe perfectly. Think minimal coastal cool infused with simple luxury of rich red accents and handcrafted details that invites you to linger. There’s indoor seating plus the cosy Lovi Corner alfresco area, with capacity currently at 40 seats and plans to grow to 100 in the near future.
The food is Italian and Mediterranean at heart, with every dish made fresh and served with care. The menu is thoughtfully crafted to be easy to choose from (no commitment issues here!), filled with dishes everyone loves and flavours that will make you smile.
Breakfast brings all the classics: Eggs Benedict, Chilli Scramble and Smashed Avo, alongside nourishing favourites like the Smoky Cauliflower & Lentil featuring slow-cooked house-made lentils, smoky baked cauliflower, roasted pepitas, fresh herbs and lemon. The Mediterranean Tortilla wraps roasted chickpeas, house-made feta yoghurt, herbs and fresh veggies in a flour tortilla that’s love at first bite.
Sweethearts will swoon over the Lovi Pancakes – fluffy vanilla stacks topped with seasonal fruits, whipped cream and maple syrup — while savoury fans can fall hard for the Bruschetta with marinated cherry tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, basil and parmesan on sourdough.
Lunch and dinner leans into indulgent dishes like Mezze Maniche served lovingly in a bath of Vodka Sauce with Stracciatella. Skewers of Eye Fillet, Salmon and Chicken are all delightful bites of happiness, or for something heartier, order a standout steak pizza topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, beef fillet, roasted red pepper, rocket and parmesan. Perfect for sharing… or not.
Coffee comes courtesy of Seven Miles Coffee Roasters, but nothing says girls’ brunch (or date night) like cocktails. Order the signature Lovi Sunset and toast to a cafe that truly wears its heart on its plate.
Where: 133 Laver Drive, Robina
When: Breakfast & Lunch 7am-2pm Monday to Sunday and Dinner 5pm-9pm Tuesday to Sunday
Words by Lisette Drew
Image by Kirra Smith
