There’s something undeniable about the power of a good cup of coffee, curated space and buzzing atmosphere to put a spring into those typing fingers for a productive session of work or study. Here on the Southern end of the Gold Coast, we’re spoilt for choice with trendy cafes, delectable menus and friendly baristas. But some can’t help but stand well apart from the crowd. These are the five cafes I keep going back to. Come read along with me and you’ll see why.
#1. Stable coffee & kitchen
An open sun-drenched space oozing style and even better food, Stable is located in the boutique Cornerstones precinct in Currumbin and is my number one recommendation. The baristas are bloody friendly, the daily seasonal salads are to die for and the tunes are top notch (think Dope Lemon and Fleetwood Mac). There are heaps of different tables to choose from inside, outside or out on the grass. Start with a coffee and smile at the fun message at the bottom of your cup. Soak up the atmosphere to power you through your work or study. And when your tummy starts to rumble, take a break from your screen by ordering a deliciously nourishing lunch. The menu is divine, but I can never seem to go past the mix of daily salads. The beautiful surrounding boutique stores and studios are well worth a browse. Even the bathrooms are boujee! You could also try out a pilates or yoga class at The Body Method before or after.
#2. Dust Temple
The cool kid on the block, trendy meets grungy in this creative cafe space. It is filled with hipster art, stylish freelancers and a range of fun furniture to suit your working style. Everyone who works here are legends and the food is rustic and wholesome. If you feel like getting your film developed while you’re here, Pura Film Lab is conveniently attached (as well as a florist). There are a heap of events hosted here so you’ll also likely be inspired to attend anything from a live drawing workshop or music gig to a suitcase rummage. A coffee is a great start. I recommend trying a sourdough crumpet with red pesto and a poached egg if you’re hungry.
#3. Pasture & Co
Nestled in the Eco Village community in the Currumbin Valley, this is such a beautiful, tranquil space to escape to. You can sit at one of the outside tables and listen to the peaceful sounds of the birds and the trees. Or in the cooler months, you can cosy up on the couch inside by the crackling fire. Their vegan rosti is really something; as are there scones if you feel like something sweet. Once you’ve finished up with your work, you might like to treat yourself to a soak session at the recently opened bathhouse nextdoor, Ground. Or hop into your car and follow the end of the road to the Currumbin Rockpools to refresh and rejuvenate in nature’s own day spa.
#4. Nextdoor Espresso
This trendy Mediterranean cafe has two locations: Burleigh & Tweed. Both have aesthetic white-washed stone walls, beautiful bougainvillea and great organic Byron coffee. However, Tweed is my favourite to dine in and work from my computer as the interior is really something special. There’s even sweet goods from local makers and creators. You can’t go wrong with ordering an OG açai bowl or classic avo toast from the menu!
#5. Barefoot Barista
Barefoot Barista is a buzzing locals cafe with good coffee, good food and good people. The Palm Beach location is my favourite for atmosphere. It’s also surrounded by funky op shops and is a stones throw from the beach at the end of the street for a relaxing dip or stroll after your day of work or study. I recommend treating yourself to a spiced black rice & coconut porridge with macadamia crumb, poached seasonal fruits and lemon balm. That’s living Barry!
Did your favourite cafe make the list? If you have a cafe you’d love to recommend for its atmosphere, food & location then I’d love to know about it! Let me know in the comments below 🙂