A new back alley coffee spot for Bundall.
A new back alley coffee spot for Bundall.
They (we) say hidden gems are the best kind of gems. Because once you find them, the reward is that much sweeter and in the case of this tale, the reward is coffee, good vibes and a pretty little setup that’ll have you rethinking your entire home decorating situation.
It comes in the form of Roller Door Espresso, a new coffee spot in the heart of Bundall’s interior decorating precinct that opened in the last couple of days so you can stay caffeinated while you peruse all the delightful homewares on offer up and down Ashmore Road.
The newbie can be found on a little side alley and is the work of creative genius Jasmine Potter, director of (epic) boutique interior design company Three Balls Red, specialising in super sweet lighting and tiles. So you know Roller Door Espresso is pretty special.
Here’s the lowdown. The space is somewhat of a hole-in-the-wall area behind Three Balls Red with a black roller door marking the spot. The interior itself boasts tropical-inspired pink and green wallpaper on the back wall, glossy green tiles and repurposed cupboards and (our favourite) the prettiest of pink tiles in stunning hues splashed across the front.
Pops of pink and potted greenery complete the scene and it is one place you’re going to want to spend a bit of time staring lovingly at.
At the moment, coffee (Toby’s Estate) and cold drinks are on offer but soon enough there will also be tasty treats like banana bread (love you), toasties and the like.
Jas’s idea behind opening the space was to provide quality cuppas to the people who come in for consults slash to scope out all the interior things in the store with their girlfriends and no doubt those people appreciate that.
Now while all of that is really great news for Bundall and the Gold Coast in general, there is something more that we are SO very excited about.
In the next week or so, Jas will also be opening a homewares store right next door and it is set to be the kind of store dreams are made of.
She has sourced unique, one off pieces by makers and creatives from (mostly) across the Coast to make up a space that is going to be unlike anything we’ve seen before.
Local artists and photographers will deck the walls with their creations, there’ll be handcrafted goodies that’ll blow your mind (we saw some, AMAZING) and everything has been curated with not only the Gold Coast, but the stories behind each piece in mind.
We’ll bring you more news on this ASAP but get excited, it’s going to be so good and we’ve got dibs on most of the things.
Anyway, while you’re there shopping up a storm you can also drink excellent coffee and chat to the lovely gals whipping up brews.
It’s pretty much the perfect time.
Time to roll on into Roller Door Espresso. Bye.
LOCATION: 2/85 Ashmore Rd, Bundall
HOURS: Monday to Friday 7am until 1.30pm
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
Go for the caffeine, stay for the Insta snaps.
There are very few things in the world better than coffee but the experience of consuming the magical liquid can of course be enhanced.
How can it be better I hear you ask? Well, by the location at which you’re consuming it for one thing and drinking more than one cup at a time for another. And let’s be honest, coffee with a view of the beach or the bush should be mandatory when you’re living on the Gold Coast!
Black Dingo Cafe
Tucked beneath the iconic lighthouse, find Coolangatta’s latest lurking mere meters from where sand meets sea, overlooking Point Danger’s sweeping outlook. Creating a venue that ‘celebrates the beauty of the ocean and the joy of sharing it with loved ones’, there’s certainly more to Black Dingo than meets the tastebuds – though the allure of an especially tantalising all-day eats selection sure won’t hurt the cause in the slightest!
Where: 1 Tweed Terrace, Coolangatta (Point Danger lighthouse)
Café Catalina
Found on the Broadwater up Southport way, Café Catalina overlooks well, the Broadwater and all the fancy yachts you can never afford. They also have tasty eats and you can take your doggo for a puppychino if that’s his/her thing.
Where: 10/11 Broadwater Parklands, Gold Coast Highway, Southport
Sandbar
Overlooking Surfers Paradise beach and with abundant people watching opportunities, Sandbar is the perfect spot for a coffee or two. In the last year, they’ve had quite the revamp so you can go from breaky to lunch and from coffee to cocktails.
Where: 52 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Custard Canteen
Custard Canteen delivers on epic coffee right by one of the Coast’s most beautiful beaches – Tallebudgera Creek. They’re pet friendly so you can take your pooch for a long walk on the beach post-caffeine fix and if you’re craving a sweet treat, you can’t go past their iconic Portuguese Tarts.
Where: 1525 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Dune Café
Watch the paddleboarders cruise by on Currumbin Creek at hidden paradise Dune Café. It’s nestled inside the park (which is epic by the way) and close to the dog beach and with delicious breakfasts and all the laidback vibes, it’s the perfect spot for a coffee or three.
Where: 945 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Neptune Kiosk
Tallebudgera Creek’s resident coffee slinger, Neptune Kiosk – recently unveiled its cheery new spruce up to go with the impeccable vibes Talle’s idyllic inlet dishes up daily. Once again churning out Marvell Street coffee, croissants AND hot cinny donuts from its sunshine-y new facadem it’s a triumphant return of the oh-so-convenient caffeine and treat fix creek-goers have grown rather fond of.
Where: 1525 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Rafiki
It’s earned its status as an institution for good reason – locals can’t get enough of Rafiki. Pooch friendly, ripper coffee (and a cookie on the side, yes please) but it’s also home to their flavour bomb seasoning so you can take home a little taste of the good life.
Where: 172 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach
MADE
Fronting the corner of Musgrave & Miles St, the cosy 25-pax venue offers a mix of indoor and kerbside seating for Kirra’s peckish perambulators. Frequents whom the cafe gods are looking favourably down upon can either nab a table, or perch up at the bar and watch the world go by in front of the breezy bifold windows which span one wall.
Where: Corner of Musgrave & Miles St, Kirra
The Salt Mill
Home of the most ridiculous acai bowl selection, Salt Mill serves up some of the best coffees around while also being just a hop, skip and a jump from Currumbin Beach. It’s a little space with a whole lot of soul and it’s extremely loved by those who live close by and visitors from further suburbs.
Where: 784 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Tarte Beach House
One of the newer kids on the block, Tarte Beach House has brought the goods from Tarte Burleigh in the Creekside spot on Currumbin Alley. The same brew you know and love but with one of the best views on the Coast, why not pop off for a paddle board after before coming back for a cheeky refuel after – we can never say no to a strawberry muffin top.
Where: 2 Thrower Dr, Currumbin
Kinship
Currumbin can’t stop delivering the goods with this beachfront beauty. You’ll find Kinship right by Currumbin SLSC pumping out coffees until 2pm, with the whole of Currumbin Beach at your feet it’s the perfect spot to take the fam and let the kids run loose.
Where: 766 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
The Galley Café, Boatworks
We’ll forgive you for missing this hidden gem, The Galley Café is the perfect spot for a brew for you Northern Gold Coasters. The marine inspired fit out is a hit for boaties and the kids love it too, bring the fam and keep watch as the yachts cruise through the river all day long.
Where: 1 Boatworks Drive, Coomera
26 & Sunny
Sip away on your coffee right on the beachfront at 26 & Sunny, nestled below The Langham it’s the perfect coffee pitstop for your early morning beach walk. They’ve also got epic eats if you’re craving a bite, bonus point for it being the ultimate spot to dog on the boardwalk watch if you’re sans furry friend.
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Bumbles
If you haven’t been to Bumbles, then where have you been? Budds Beach has long been a locals secret but there’s good reason why Gold Coasters have been flocking to this hot spot for 10+ years. Get your coffee fix, some snacks and set up on the edge of Budds Beach for the ultimate start to the day. Yes please.
Where: 19 River Drive, Surfers Paradise
Flying Bean Café
If you’re looking for a different kind of view, Flying Bean Café is the place with sweeping views of the hinterland all the way through to the Gold Coast. Get at one with nature, good coffee and great views at this little gem of the Scenic Rim. Because how could you forget, the Gold Coast isn’t just about those beautiful beaches when we’ve got this lush hinterland at our doorstep.
Where: 1696 Beechmont Rd, Beechmont
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.
From ocean-inspired to Moroccan magic, we’ve got you covered.
Homewares are our love language, and yes, our friends may call it an “obsession”, but we prefer “healthy, well-styled commitment”. Cushions, ceramics, rattan chairs… they’re our version of self-care (and we’re not here for anyone’s intervention).
Luckily, the Gold Coast is stacked with boutiques that’ll have you mentally rearranging your living room before you’ve even left the shop. Whether you’re chasing coastal calm, Moroccan magic, or a little mid-century mojo, here’s your ultimate hit list, from north to south.
Think “liveable luxury” with a coastal-chic twist. Founded by Kristin Gilford in 2014, this award-winning interior styling and design studio is all about tactile layers, bespoke pieces, imported luxe fabrics, artisan wallpapers, and signature rugs—each with a story to tell. The Runaway Bay showroom is a wanderlust-infused playground perfect for inspiration or a luxe shopping sesh.
Where: Runaway Bay Shopping Village, 10-12 Lae Drive, Runaway Bay
From Mongolia to Morocco, Denmark to India and Asia to Africa, St Barts has travelled the globe sourcing unique pieces that bring a sense of wanderlust into your home. Their Brickworks Ferry Road store is a feast for the senses, and the flagship in Burleigh Heads is paired with Next Door Espresso for a caffeine hit while you browse. Expect handcrafted furniture, lush textiles, striking art and lifestyle goods that are always ahead of the trend curve. Every visit feels like stepping into an expertly curated holiday destination you never want to leave.
Where: Brickworks Ferry Road, 107 Ferry Road, Southport and 24 Junction Road, Burleigh Heads
If “coastal cool” was a store, this would be it. The Beach Furniture is all about sun-drenched, barefoot vibes with natural textures, raw timbers, and soft, airy tones. Think statement dining tables, plush sofas you’ll never want to get out of, and ceramics that make your shelves look like they belong in a magazine. Warning: you’ll want everything — and we mean everything.
Where: 48 Bundall Rd, Bundall
An OG in the Gold Coast homewares scene and still absolutely smashing it. Village Stores is like walking into a Pinterest board IRL: rattan pendants, textured rugs, organic ceramics, and soulful little décor gems that scream “main character energy” for your home. It’s the kind of place you walk into with zero intention to buy… and walk out with a car full of “necessities”.
Where: Shop 1/54 Bundall Road, Bundall
Started as a lighting and tile boutique, but like any good glow-up story, now it’s one of the Coast’s most stylish interiors spots. Three Balls Red is serving buttery-soft linens, sculptural chairs, original art, and rugs you’ll want to roll around on. Their design-savvy crew can help you nail the look.
Where: 2/85 Ashmore Road, Bundall
If your Pinterest boards scream “Hamptons, but make it Gold Coast”, Alfresco Emporium is your mecca. We’re talking crisp coastal furniture, Euro-chic tableware, lush greenery, and soft furnishings that look straight from a designer shoot. Each display is so perfectly styled you’ll be mentally moving in before you’ve hit the checkout.
Where: Ashmore Rd & Bundall Rd, Bundall
Minimalists and mid-century modern lovers, welcome home. Kira & Kira in Miami is a retail-meets-workshop space where form and function get along really well. Every piece, from clean-lined furniture to perfectly proportioned lighting, is made with intention and meant to last. The whole vibe will make you want to KonMari your entire house and start fresh (in style).
Where: Store: 2017 Gold Coast Highway, Miami. Showroom: 4 Fortitude Crescent, Burleigh Heads
One foot in Miami, the other in Marrakech. Trader Trove is bursting with vibrant textiles, intricate rugs, handwoven baskets, and ceramics that feel like souvenirs from your most exotic holiday. Bonus: they stock vintage treasures, so every trip feels like a treasure hunt. Basically, if your home needs more you, start here.
Where: 22 Christine Avenue, Miami
This serene, sunlit space is all about those thoughtful finishing touches, from art and ceramics to linen aprons, children’s toys, and vintage finds that tug on the heartstrings. With its focus on local makers and sustainability, Heartfill feels less like shopping and more like slow-living inspiration.
Where: 1/29 Lemana Lane, Burleigh Heads
Your bohemian dreamscape lives here. Maison & Maison’s range is straight out of global markets, carved buffalo skulls, embroidered cushions, leather pouffes, and luxe throws you’ll “accidentally” nap under all weekend. This Burleigh Heads beauty is physically impossible to leave empty-handed.
Where: 53 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Warm, inviting, and just the right amount of quirky, Emporium on James is a one-stop shop for gifts, coastal furniture, Mongolian sheepskin throws, and candles you’ll want to burn every day. It’s part inspiration hub, part retail therapy, and 100% the kind of store that turns “just browsing” into a full-blown style mission.
Where: 1/50-52 James St, Burleigh Heads
Beachside minimalism at its most swoon-worthy. Cotton Living’s palette is soft, neutral, and oh-so-inviting, with plush textiles, sleek décor, and classic furniture that feels both timeless and fresh. Whether you’re hunting a hero piece or the small details that tie it all together, this place has the goods.
Where: 1 Lord St, Coolangatta
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Support local and look damn fine doing it.
There are many things we Gold Coasters are fond of. A new beachside eggs benny brunch spot. Bottomless long lunches. Farmers Markets. Finding the last park at Burleigh Hill on a Sunday. Heading out on the town in a brand new ‘fit #thanksitsnew.
We’re pretty spoilt for choice when it comes to local boutiques frilled to the brim with incredible Aussie designers and labels #luckyus. Plus, we get the added warm and fuzzy feels of supporting local small biz #winwin. So, we’ve rounded up 9 of our fave GC boutiques for your spending pleasure. We’re not sure what’s harder, narrowing this list down to just 9, or walking out of any of the below empty handed.
GIRLS ONLY
Halo & Grace
Creating a boutique that both appeals to and attracts women of all ages is quite the undertaking, but Halo & Grace have done just that. Nailing that sweet spot of timeless, luxe slow fashion from fancy trackside frocks through to your fave new farmers market ‘fit – their brand new, and downright stunning Mermaid digs are chock full of goodies for you and your abode.
Where: 43 Alfred Street, Mermaid Beach
Homebodii
What could bring a better night’s sleep than your fave pjs? Perhaps knowing they were consciously created right here on the GC (oh, and the fact that they’re cute AF sure doesn’t hurt). Making their debut in 2012 with luxe bridal loungewear, and Homebodii has been keeping us chic, cute and cosy ever since, with their range quickly expanding to sleepwear, intimates and effortless basics. Weekend sleep ins never looked so good.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Shop 2708, Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach
About a Girl
About a Girl boutique is all about YOU! They always have the cutest threads for every occasion AND if there’s anything you can’t find or a product or label you’re dying to get your hands on, let them know and they will try their best to track it down for you. Extra good.
Where: 2/2211-2215 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach
The Freedom State
The Freedom State is a women’s clothing store that is inspired by bohemian creativity (because boho is life y’all) with a gypsy attitude of freedom. The team has carefully curated labels to offer a stunning selection of women’s fashion inspiring you to show off your very best self.
Where: Shop 12/50 James St, Burleigh Heads
Bird on a Wire
Bird on a Wire is set amongst the exceptional coffee shops on the Lower Gold Coast Highway in Burleigh. The chic boho boutique offers a diverse range of beautiful but affordable fashion and homewares and is the perfect stop after a swim and a coffee.
Where: 5/1840 Lower Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Emte
A must visit store in the Burleigh area, Emte Boutique was founded by a Gold Coast girl who felt that there was a gap to be filled for fashion jewellery and accessories that are cutting edge, stylish, on trend and affordable. We concur. And also spend a lot of dollars here.
Where: 3 James St, Burleigh Heads
White Bohemian
As the name suggests, White Bohemian is all about boho style. Clothing, accessories, bohemian inspired homewares and the very best gifts for the free spirited gypsy wanderer. Love all the things.
Where: 1160 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
BOYS ONLY
Alfred’s Apartment
While we’re still sad Alfred’s Diner is no more, the lads are still providing our local men with an ever growing range of curated fashion and accessories. Plus they do serve great coffee and Milkman’s cookies, so we mostly forgive them #beingbacktheburrito. Even the fussiest of men will love their limited-release tees.
Where: 2225 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
UNISEX
Sean Scott Boutique
A fave little boutique in James Street, the space showcases Sean Scott’s breathtaking photography as well as clothing and accessories for the fashion forward folks. You can also find one of the biggest displays of (local legends) Valley Eyewear sunnies here on the Coast.
Where: 21c James St, Burleigh Heads
