Mudgeeraba’s café sweetheart, Mudjira Village Eatery celebrates a decade of delicious.
Mudgeeraba’s café sweetheart, Mudjira Village Eatery celebrates a decade of delicious.
If you’ve spent even five minutes in Mudgeeraba over the past decade, there’s a high chance you’ve already crossed paths with Mudjira Village Eatery. Maybe it was love at first latte. Maybe it was the double smash cheeseburger toastie that sealed the deal. Either way, this local fave has been dishing out warm brews and warmer vibes since 2015, and now, it’s looking fresher than ever thanks to a brand-new glow-up.
The recent refit brings all the charm you know and love, just with a touch more polish. Think British Colonial touches, warm textures, and a leafy garden courtyard that basically begs you to stay for “just one more coffee.” It’s modern, yes, but still unmistakably Mudgeeraba, cosy, down-to-earth, and quietly cool.
But let’s get one thing straight: Mudjira’s magic has never just been about the fit-out. It’s the people, the consistency, the kind of place where your barista knows your name and your coffee order (even if you don’t quite know it yourself before 8am). It’s the kind of café where your dog gets more attention than you do, and honestly, that’s the way it should be.
Kate and Graham Bennett opened Mudjira with a clear vision: create the kind of neighbourhood spot they wished existed. With years of hospitality experience and a whole lot of heart, they rolled up their sleeves and made it happen. No shortcuts, no fuss, just great food, real coffee, and a whole lot of community spirit.
And that spirit? It’s in everything. The name “Mudjira” itself was gifted to the couple by Uncle Graham Dillon, it’s the traditional Yugambeh name for the area, and a beautiful reminder of the café’s connection to Country and community. You feel it the moment you walk in.
As for the menu, it’s anything but basic. You’ll find everything from a flavour-packed Korean Pork Bowl to the ever-popular Maximillian Bircher, light, fresh, and big on taste. And those pancakes? They’re a rotating monthly special, so there’s always something new and delicious flipping onto the menu. Think lamington one month, sticky date the next. The real kicker? Nearly everything is made from scratch, including the condiments. Yes, really.
Mudjira has never tried to be trendy, but somehow, it’s always ahead of the curve. Maybe that’s the secret. While other cafés come and go with the seasons, Mudjira just keeps doing its thing, serving quality food and drinks with care, consistency and heart.
So if you’re after a café that feels like a big warm hug, where the coffee’s always good and the people are even better, Mudgeeraba’s OG is still your best bet. Glowed up, but still as grounded as ever.
Where: 3 Swan Ln, Mudgeeraba
When: 7am–2pm Monday – Saturday, 7am–1.30pm Sundays
Website: mudjiravillageeatery.square.site/
Instagram: @mudjiravillageeatery
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
You won't be stumped finding the goods in this timber town.
Locals love Mudgeeraba, and clearly, we do too. It’s easy to get swept up in the allure of our iconic coastline, but when was the last time you popped into this hinterland haven? It’s a 15 minutes from Burleigh, so you can escape the hustle of the beachside burbs and take our word for it when we say it’s got some of the best eats the Gold Coast has to offer. Big claim, we know, but we stand by it.
We’ve taken the task of finding the best feeds and dos in Mudgeeraba very seriously, so you can just pop in and live like a local for the day. Let’s get into it.
This has got to be one of the Gold Coast’s best-kept secrets, nestled in the heart of Mudgeeraba’s Village, Anekawa shines a whole new light on traditional Japanese food. Created by chef Koki Anekawa (ex Rick Shores), the menu is a glorious celebration of ethically sourced Australian produce and traditional Japanese fare that we don’t so often see, set to the backdrop of one of the most intimate restaurant spaces we’ve dined in. The menu is ever-changing based on the seasonality of produce and availability of specialty seafood, so you know that what they’re dishing up is fresh AF.
Where: Corner of Swan Lane & Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
An institution among locals, there’s good reason why The Wine Barrel has stood the test of time, serving up some of the best tapas and wine (obviously) going around. The menu is loaded with an epic variety of food from Asian-inspired dishes to classic tacos. Our must-trys? We can’t go past the pork belly, chilli caramel, coriander and mint to start, followed by the organic black mussels with Napoli, cream and nduja for a serious flavour bomb.
Where: 59 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
Pangaat Indian is not only one of our favourite Indian spots in the hinterland, but easily ranks among the best on the entire Gold Coast. Recently renovated with a refreshed menu to match, the space feels as good as the food tastes. Expect aromatic spices, bold flavours and a lineup of hearty curries and succulent tandoori specialities that keep locals coming back time and time again. Add to that an AGFG 2025 Readers’ Choice Award, and it’s clear why this spots a true local favourite.
Where: 3/59 Railway St, Mudgeeraba
Tucked away in the most beautiful old Queenslander, Bon Appetea brings that English whimsy charm to Mudgeeraba – made even better with the beautiful hinterland backdrop. You can pop in for your favourite high tea, whether it’s for breakfast, brunch or lunch, with luxe options too if you’re feeling a little bit fancy. In case you needed more mo-tea-vation to Bon Appetea, their lemon… and chocolate… and cherry crepes are to die for. Heading there in winter? You’ll want to snag a spot fireside while you get cosy, sit and sip on your hot beverage of choice.
Where: 7 Johns Road, Mudgeeraba
By now, you’ve surely heard all the buzz about Lenny Pizzeria, the woodfired pizza hotspot that has been buzzing since its iconic entrance to the Mudgeeraba dining scene. Think next-level flavour combinations – we’re looking at you, Chill Kale and Fancy 4 Cheese – you’ll definitely want a pizza this. Perch up under the stars with your nearest and dearest and treat yourself to your favourite drop while you carb load.
Where: Shop 5/58 Railway St, Mudgeeraba
It would be rude of us to miss out on Mudgeeraba’s best breakfast spot. Embrace the laidback vibes of the hinterland at Mudjira Village Eatery, it’s got the country charm you expect from one of the town’s best eats, and a full menu of epic eats. We’re all about the fluffy vanilla pancakes with passionfruit curd, coconut whipped mascarpone, nice biscuit crumb, and a white chocolate ganache pour-over – try it and thank us later.
Where: 3 Swan Lane, Mudgeeraba
For a taste of New York in the heart of Mudgeeraba, you don’t need to look any further than Junior’s Deli. With classic deli sandwiches, toasties and burgers, plus barista coffee supplied by Therefore Coffee, these guys have nailed the casual dining vibe. If you’re more about the grab-and-go life, Junior’s has you sorted with everything suited for easy takeout!
Where: 2/51 Railway St, Mudgeeraba
One of the Gold Coast’s oldest pubs, The Wallaby has been serving up cold brews and great food since 1883. If you’re looking for the ultimate pint-and-parmy combo, you’ve come to the right place. They’ve got all the pub classics you know and love to kick those hunger pains, including an Old Ale Beef and Mushroom Pie that’ll have you coming back to Mudgeeraba for that feed alone.
Where 43 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
Whisky aficionados will feel right at home at the Whisky Lounge, but don’t stress if you’re a newbie – the legends behind the bar will find you the perfect drop to start your whisky lover journey. It doesn’t matter if your palate prefers a smoky scotch or a smooth bourbon, they’ve got pretty much everything so you can pour, savour and enjoy the flavour. Not into dark spirits? Stress less and don’t whisk yourself away, there’s a delish cocktail menu to keep you busy all night long.
Where: Shop 2A/58 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
In need of some retail therapy? The Sensory Boutique has the most aesthetically pleasing collection of goodies, perfectly curated so you can pick up home décor, scents, jewellery, and more. If you’re looking for a fresh fit, the team have hand selected pieces just for you. If buying brand-new is so last season for you, in the name of circular fashion, there’s a selection of pre-loved clothing and accessories (chic, of course) that you can give a new life.
Where: Shop 24, Franklin Square, 60 Railway St, Mudgeeraba
Spice up your dining experience at Panchos, this Mexican spot knows what’s up when it comes to good food, good margs and good entertainment – the holy trinity of good vibes. The colourful fit-out feels like you’ve stepped straight off the streets of Mexico into an authentic taqueria, with Latin American influence coming from every angle. Changing specials every Thursday night!
Where: 581 Gold Coast Springbrook Rd, Mudgeeraba
Perched high in the hinterland, On Eagle Wings Mountain Retreat & Spa is the kind of place you head to when you want to properly unplug. Surrounded by rainforest and sweeping views, this serene retreat offers luxe spa treatments and a calm, secluded setting that feels a world away from the coast. Whether you’re booking in for a massage, a soak or a full overnight escape, it’s an easy excuse to turn a Mudgeeraba visit into a full day (or weekend) experience.
Where: 59 Lowry Ct, Mudgeeraba
Another destination for a little self-care (because there can never be too many) is the gorgeous Kenz Beauty Spa & Moroccan Hammam. Stepping inside, you feel instantly transported to another country. This beautifully designed space specialises in traditional Moroccan hammam rituals alongside indulgent body treatments and facials, making it a standout for those chasing next-level relaxation. It’s immersive, luxurious and one of those hidden gems that keeps people heading inland for their self-care resets.
Where: Shop 1/71 Railway St, Mudgeeraba
Hearth Café & Providore is the definition of a local go-to, serving quality coffee, wholesome café fare and a providore stocked with gourmet goodies to take home. It’s a reliable stop for breakfast, brunch or a mid-day pick-me-up, with the added bonus of leaving with artisan treats for later. We won’t lie- we’ve never left without a pastry…or three in hand.
Where: 53 Hardys Rd, Mudgeeraba
Originally a working dairy farm, Boomerang Hills has evolved into a true hinterland playground, now home to a sweeping golf course, wedding and event facilities, and mountain-biking facilities. Whether you’re tackling the greens or simply soaking up the scenery, there’s plenty to keep you lingering. Another major drawcard is the on-site Cook Club, serving breakfast and lunch with a mix of small and large plates. Oh, and cocktails on hand to round out the day. Our pick? The coconut margarita. Duh.
Where: 55 Johns Rd, Mudgeeraba
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
It's coffee time... all the time.
Is it ever too late for a cup of the good stuff? The haters will say yes, but the loyal bean lovers will argue otherwise and frankly – we agree!
For those who love themselves a coffee (isn’t that all of us?), getting yourself a cup of steamy — or icy — inspiration after 3pm is tough. We’re aware most cafes close around 1pm, or at a push 2pm. And that’s all perfectly well and fine. However, if your cravings for caffeine don’t have any sense of time, this situation undoubtedly causes you some unnecessary upset.
You want to organise an afternoon meeting but everywhere is closed? We hear you. Put down the Google search because we’ve done the heavy lifting and found the Gold Coast’s best spots serving up the good stuff after 3pm. These cafes recognise that coffee never sleeps and continue to serve it well into the afternoon, and in some cases, the evenings. So when those mid-afternoon caffeine withdrawals start to kick in, fear not, we got you.
You know, weekdays aren’t the only time you need a late arvo coffee moment – and Tarte Beach House understood the assignment. Your nights get later come Friday to Sunday so it just makes sense that they’re on the tools until 4pm – the perfect time for your last brew before you start taking your coffee in espresso martini form.
Where: Shop 1 2/4 Thrower Drive, Currumbin
The ultimate little coffee nook for your afternoon pick me up, Nook have been brewing the goods for as long as we can remember and lucky for us – they do it until 4.30pm every week day. Bonus points that it’s in primo location for the parents among us desperate for some coffee goodness post school pick up.
Where: Stocklands Burleigh, 149 W Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Heads
Southern Gold Coasters have we found a treat for you, one of the newest cafes on our foodie scene, Black Dingo is already loved by locals for pouring up cups of liquid gold until 4pm. Serving up fantastic coffee AND the most epic ocean views, we don’t need to convince you why to check this one out.
Where: 1 Tweed Terrace, Coolangatta
Our knight in shining coffee (and treaties), this Broadbeach institution is known for satisfying your coffee craving all. day. long. Fear not because their coffee machine is on until 6pm and bonus points for the fact that you can finish with a cookie croissant – if there’s any left, that is!
Where: Oasis Shopping Centre, 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Should you find yourself in Sanctuary Cove after a mini shopping spree, a game of golf, parking up your superyacht (same) or decadent dinner at one of The Marine Village’s iconic restaurants, this gelateria is serving up delicious gelato right up until late (9pm in fact). The same is said for their perfectly made coffee, which you can have poured over gelato. Just saying…
Where: Shop 39a Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove
Fixx my name, coffee fix by nature, one of our favourite spots inside QT Gold Coast just gets that once the clock strikes twelve we’re still looking for the good stuff aka coffee. Pop in for the crowd favourite high tea or if you’re on the run, takeaways are on the table until 4pm.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
With owner Davide holding a Diploma of Gelato making from the Gelato University of Carpigiani in Italy (no joke), you’d be right to have a sneaking suspicion the gelato here is likely out of this world. And in truth: it is! Mix it with all-day (until 9.30pm-10pm every night) served coffee utilising beans roasted in Italy, and you have a slice of Europe in Coolangatta. Bellissimo!
Where: 18/52 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Being one of the Gold Coast’s best roasters and dispensaries of magnificent coffee is not enough for these guys, oh no. They also have an adjoining café space with out-of-this-world sweet treats and coffee flowing till 5pm during the week (4pm Sundays) – we’ll cheers to that.
Where: Shop 3G10, Capri Via Roma, Surfers Paradise
If coffee is a happy part of your life (and if it isn’t, are you okay?) then you’ll want to pay a visit to these guys in Southport for you CBD folks. With pretty much every known piece of coffee apparatus under one roof, you can’t go wrong. They also roast on-site and serve coffee right up till 6pm most days (5.30pm Sundays), so you know it’s good.
Where: Brickworks Ferry Road, 107 Ferry Rd, Southport
All that walking (or running if that’s what tickles your fancy) is thirsty work so before you hit the pavement, we’re guessing you’re going to need a cheeky caffeine hit. Enter: The Kiosk Burleigh, answering our coffee prayers all the way up until 7pm – never too late for a latte if you ask us.
Where: 43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
Sourdough dreams and coffee schemes, Burleigh Baker has both rising to perfection. This village gem keeps the espresso flowing until 4pm, making it the perfect pitstop for a post-surf latte or an afternoon loaf run. With their “food integrity” mantra and artisan bread at the heart of everything they do, you’ll leave feeling nourished, caffeinated, and maybe a little smug about your healthy gut.
Where: 13/50 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Never too late for a latte, and definitely never too late for a croissant. Luna’s Deli in Coolangatta keeps the coffee machine humming until 5pm (closed Mondays), so your arvo caffeine (and pastry) fix is well and truly covered. Think golden croissants, glossy pains au chocolat, and silky flat whites that’ll carry you right through to knock-off. Add in the ocean breeze and a cabinet of buttery treasures? Oui, chef.
Where: 7/120 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Night owls, rejoice, your coffee cravings don’t have to clock off at 3pm. Marketta Coffee Bar is fuelling the laneway with smooth brews from 5pm ‘til late (every Wednesday – Saturday), whether you’re after a straight-up espresso, a cheeky boozy iced coffee, or a Biscoff milkshake that deserves its own fan club. They’ve even got traditional affogato on the menu (because coffee + dessert = love story). Using top-notch beans from That’s Whyld Coffee Roasters, this spot proves caffeine after dark is always a good idea.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Pde, Miami
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski and Belinda Symons
And they are flipping delicious.
Push your shakeable pancake mix to the side — you deserve more. In fact, you deserve the best. Save yourself the hassle of heating up the frying pan: here is where you can have a heap of perfectly cooked pancakes on the Gold Coast placed right in front of you with an impressive medley of toppings and extras.
Now, it’s up to you to decide which pancake style stacks your excitement the most (all of them can be your answer).
Sens Fusion
Looking for the perfect souffle pancake? We’ve found it! Sens Fusion is flipping the script with light-as-air Japanese soufflé pancakes. Whether you’re team sweet or savoury, these viral pillows of deliciousness are worth the wait. Trust us, you’ll be on cloud nine with their fluffing amazing pancakes! We went for the OG, served with melted butter and maple syrup, but if you’re feeling decadent, we’d suggest the Matcha Souffle served with matcha cream, matcha crumble and matcha ice cream. Get ’em while they’re hot—and fluffy!
Where: 129 Queen Street, Southport
Milkman’s Daughter
What’s not to get in a crush over at the Milkman’s Daughter? Apart from pouring epic coffee and being one of Mermaid Beach’s best hangouts, they are serving up pancakes you have to see to believe. The Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are bathed in vanilla turmeric custard, passionfruit reduction and topped with pistachios and edible flowers. The healthiest AND tastiest pancakes ever to exist? Quite possibly!
Where: 2/43 Alfred Street, Mermaid Beach
Kefi Cafe
Drop everything and pick up your fork. You can now have your cake and eat it in pancake form, all while getting a coffee hit! You heard correctly. Kefi is trying to put us in a food coma with their tiramisu-inspired Kefi Hotcake. We’re talking about coffee-infused pancakes topped with caramel, chocolate soil, maple syrup, mascarpone, and whipped Kahlua. We consent!
Where: 110 Marine Pde, Coolangatta
Chut & Co
Don’t let the title ‘pancake tacos’ confuse you- we’re not about to mix taco spices with maple syrup. However, we are about to tell you that Chut & Co have reimagined the perfect way to present pancakes; in a taco stand. It’s three little buttermilk pancakes, all in a row, piped generously with vanilla mascarpone and topped with raspberries, strawberries and an Oreo crumble. Who knew pancakes could be taco-licious?
Where: Mermaid Plaza, 2400 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Hudson and Rosie’s Table
Spoiler alert- these are the best pancakes on the Gold Coast. Sorry, you can’t contest, for this is a fact. These banoffee pancakes are truly bananas! Let me set the scene; the pillow-like ricotta pancakes are lush, standing tall on your plate and soaked in and surrounded by fresh banana toffee, maple pecan crumble and fresh berries. A velvety scoop of espresso mascarpone cream sits atop, proud and donned with pretty flowers. You reach your last mouthful and wonder, can life get better than this?
Where: 106 Alexander Drive, Highland Park
Palm Springs
If it’s a sweet treat you want, then it’s a sweet treat you’ll get. They call it the ‘palm pancakes‘, which sounds innocent enough. But Palm Springs wasn’t flippin around when they decided to conjure up this plate of pleasure: a deep-dish buttermilk vanilla pancake, dulce de leche with vanilla ice cream and Biscoff crumble. Pick your jaw up off the floor—you have a table reservation to make.
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Hot Shott
You thought food combos peaked at cronuts and cruffins, didn’t you? Don’t worry, we did too. Until we discovered the valhalla of food combinations; a cinnamon scroll meets pancake. We’re not spinning fiction, although it does sound like a fairytale. Hot Shott has combined two of life’s greatest edible pleasures to deliver their cinnamon scroll buttermilk pancakes with vanilla ice cream, roasted macadamia, mixed berries and maple syrup. One word: cinna-mazing.
Where: 3/17 Tedder Avenue, Main Beach
Pancake Diner
Of course, we had to include a chocolate pancake edition on our list! Who are we, the Grinch? Then we thought, if we’re going for chocolate, why not make it a black forest? The Pancake Diners black forest-inspired stack starts with two chocolate pancakesserved with fresh strawberries, blueberries, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream with chocolate fudge, and chocolate chips. Because if you’re going to indulge, why not make it decadent?
Where: 16/221 Christine Avenue, Burleigh Heads
Pancakes on the Rocks
The humble apple crumble has been flipped. It’s your nan’s specialty, taken to a new level by Pancakes on the Rocks. Imagine buttermilk pancakes so fluffy they could make clouds jealous, crowned with marinated apples and a dollop of cream and ice cream. As if that wasn’t enough, a homemade crumble adds a crunchy, sweet finish. If you don’t feel like betraying sweet granny on this occasion or feel something a bit more savoury, their crepes are equally delicious!
Where: 4 The Esplanade, Shop T1.31, Surfers Paradise
No Name Lane
It’s a classic: the mixed-berry pancake stack. What a crowd-pleaser! While perfect as is, No Name Lane has made a good thing great, adding some seriously mouth-watering editions. Keeping a classic base, they top the perfect pancake rounds with mixed berry compote, mascarpone, vanilla anglaise, cinnamon crumble, white wine glaze, and vanilla ice cream. They’re berry-nice. Te-he!
Where: 16 Charles Ave, Broadbeach
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
