One date with Commitment Issues, and you’ll be ready to settle down... for brunch.
One date with Commitment Issues, and you’ll be ready to settle down... for brunch.
Beyoncé may have told us, “If you like it, then you should’ve put a ring on it,” but Asa Donehue, the mastermind behind Nobby Beach’s newest brunch spot, Commitment Issues, has a different take – why settle for just it when you can have it all?
Commitment Issues is an irresistible blend of brunch, beach vibes and bite-sized brilliance. The café’s quirky name isn’t just a nod to indecision, it’s also about its ever-changing menu.
“Commitment Issues is all about variety,” said Asa. “You can never commit to just one meal or location – everything’s too good to choose!”
Asa, who’s been cooking up a storm for more than 20 years, is no stranger to turning culinary dreams into reality. Back in 2015, Asa and his family were on Channel 7’s Restaurant Revolution, which they won. That inspired him to open his own venue, and in 2017, after some trial and error, he finally did. Now, with a few successful spots under his belt, including a Commitment Issues in Adelaide, it was time to bring his ideas to the Gold Coast.
Since moving to Mermaid Waters with his partner Claire and their two dogs, Lexi and Bella, Asa has embraced the coastal lifestyle wholeheartedly. “Nobby Beach has the best local vibe.”
The venue itself is a feast for the eyes, drawing inspiration from the relaxed coastal surroundings with a natural unfinished-yet-finished look. The café, formerly Forreal Kitchen, seats 55 diners across indoor and outdoor spaces, complete with cosy booths and a dog-friendly area out front. If your pup doesn’t fancy the brunch scene, don’t fret – the self-ordering kiosks make brunch with your furry sidekick a walk in the park.
Self-ordering kiosks, you ask? That’s where Commitment Issues takes brunch to the next level. By embracing technology, diners can order effortlessly via kiosks or iPads, keeping the menu fresh, flexible and seasonally inspired.
When it comes to the menu, the only thing set in stone is that the dishes change regularly! But Asa assures us there are some fan favourites that will remain constant, for now at least. Indulge in the famous Fried Chicken ‘N’ Waffles with crispy fried chicken, maple, bacon and a sweet spicy sauce. Or chomp into a signature CI-style burger with smash patties, cheese, pickles, onions and a special sauce.
To wash it all down, the coffee slushies are a must-try – a frosty, flavourful take on your morning cup. There’s also smoothies and shakes as well as wines and beers for something a little stronger.
Asa has big plans for the café, where later this year, they’ll transition into a tapas cocktail bar for those balmy nights.
Whether you’re grabbing brunch on the run, catching up with friends or simply savouring the vibe, Commitment Issues is the kind of place you’ll keep coming back to – no strings attached.
When: 6am – 6pm Wednesday – Sunday
Where: Shop 5/28 Chairlift Avenue, Mermaid Beach
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Mathilde Bouby