Ever find yourself in the presence of one of those enigmatic humans, radiating joy and the energy levels of a Labrador? And thought to yourself, what are they on? The answer is (almost always) coffee. An abundance of coffee. Beans on repeat.

And the sentiment rings true for a couple‘a self admitted coffee fanatics that up and opened a brand new coffee spot for the central GC to delight in. If you’re wondering just how many coffee shops does one city really need, we firmly subscribe to the Melbournian philosophy which is, the more the merrier. Literally, bc we can’t espresso just how much merrier we feel after a little cup of liquid sunshine for the soul.

Much like the Weetbix commercials of our youth, when we heard that one half of the dynamic duo behind newcomers Eight Fifty Espresso ‘does’ 6 cups a day, we quickly came to realise that fanatic, may in actual fact not be strong enough of a word.

For new owners Elise & Broden Johnson, they didn’t choose the cafe life, it chose them – after all, self-confessed coffee snob Broden hails from none other than a little town by the name of Melbourne. With a history in and around cafes, the two set to work perfecting their own range of beans a couple of years back while also juggling one of Australia’s fastest growing digital marketing agencies Yakk, and suddenly the whole 6 cups thing is starting to make a whole lot of sense because we’re exhausted just thinking about all that #stiflesyawn.

As you’d imagine their quest to create the ‘best cup of coffee they’d ever tasted’, involved a very rigorous testing and sampling process (where do we apply). Elise & Broden have also begun planting the seed for a brand new charity, TreeLabs (y’know with all that spare time we’re sure) so keep an eyes peeled for your daily cup to become feel good in more ways than one.

And we’re not gonna lie, for a hot second we did think maybe the cafe was a convenient excuse for unlimited sippin’ on the merchandise #qualitycontrol, but upon further investigation we #canconfirm anyone with an impressive range of no less than seven bean blends, who also stands behind the bold claim that their coffee is the GOAT is clearly v passionate about bringing brew-ti-ful coffee to the masses.

Just a lazy block or two (who could say for sure, pls don’t count on us for directions #perpetuallylostaf) back from our fave Broadwater Parklands, Eight Fifty Espresso has been officially waking up Southport one cup at a time since earlier this month. It’s excellent brews for both central GC inhabitants and also, we’re pretty certain the collective productivity of the Coast’s entire CBD just skyrocketed.

Those Melbournian roots have entered the chat, because the slick new laneway-esque vibes of our newest takeaway coffee hookup is a sight for sore eyes. Glowing like a sapphire green gem among an urban sea of concrete, if the decor isn’t already giving us the green light to sidle on up then the big ol’ illuminated word coffee is a literal sign from above for our weary eyes. Nestled right into the Yakk HQ streetfront #convenient, we’re pretty sure this hole-in-the-wall takeaway pit-stop will now be unofficially fuelling all business meetings and leisurely strolls in 4215.

While you’re there, pick yourself up a bag of their signature bean blends for those days where you just cannot summon the motivation to peel yourself out of your PJ’s. Despite having seven signature coffee blends on offer, there’s not a meeeh batch among them. Each blend has been named after breeds of goats #truestory, so surely this must also make it Emma Wiggle’s fave brew too (okay so we may be speculating here). Both a nod their claim as the GOAT of coffee #weseewhatyoudidthere and to the origins of the world’s most beloved beans being discovered by a goat farmer and his wiley flock #TIL.

Now, if anyone needs us, we’ll be sipping a most excellent brew and googling pictures of goats, because *new obsession unlocked* and really, who couldn’t have a bit more cuteness in their lives. And one things is for sure, if it’s bl-eaty good coffee to-go you’re after, Eight Fifty Espresso has goat you covered.

Where: 12 Short Street, Southport
When: Monday – Friday 6.45am – 2.45pm

Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Brittany Kreskas.

It may be home to the Gold Coast’s bustling business district but Southport can also boast a huge array of incredible eateries, culture and general good times.

We’ve rounded up 15 things locals love about the place and we reckon you might enjoy them too.

In no particular order, enjoy.

Southport Sharks
There is many a good time to be had at Southport Sharks including dining at one of the delicious dish-packed restaurants, drinking at Aviary Rooftop Bar overlooking the city, joining in on one of their classes at the Health + Fitness Centre or getting involved in one of their many good time events. The possibilities are endless. It’s the perfect spot for a family event or take the crew for a Sunday afternoon session. Happy days no matter what.
Where: Olsen Avenue and Musgrave Avenue, Southport

Southport Yacht Club
Waterfront dining is the name of the game at Southport Yacht Club with two venues to choose from and stunning scenes from whichever you choose. You’re also welcome to just sit back and kick up your heels with a cold beverage or two while gazing lovingly at one of the many beautiful yachts in the marina. It’s one of the Coast’s best locations and you’re guaranteed to have a good time.
Where: 1 MacArthur Parade, Main Beach

Zero Latency
Zero Latency is a free-roam, virtual reality experience like no other. With up to eight players per game, you’ll have the BEST time fighting zombies, exploring mystical places and challenging your friends on space stations. All you need to do is put on the VR headset, strap into the backpack and pickup the controller. Get 10% off here. It really is so good.
Where: 34 Smith Street, Southport

Panezski Distillery
The Coast’s first vodka distillery opened in Southport a few short months ago and what a treat. The family-owned business are whipping up three types of vodka, two types of gin and even a couple of beers on the premises and you can pop in to grab a bottle to go, or you can sit down and enjoy a cocktail and a charcuterie board and spend a bit of time. Very cool. 
Where: Unit 7/55 Bailey Crescent, Southport

Vinnies Dive
Who doesn’t love a good dive bar. Particularly one that doubles as a live music venue and has a huge range of your favourite beers on offer (and some you may not have heard of). Head in there to discover some new music from both local and interstate bands and if you’re in the mood for a party, which we know you are, you can hire the space out for your next one.
Where: 44A Nerang Street, Southport 

Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar 
On the ground floor of the building you’ll find the deli section of the establishment, with an array of delicious meats and cheeses that will be brought together in platter form for your feasting pleasure. Upstairs, the rooftop bar boasts tasty cocktails, even more delicious eats and views across the city. It’s a real good time.
Where: 43 Nerang Street, Southport

Randy Wallhole
To put it bluntly, you haven’t lived until you’ve tasted a Randy Wallhole bagel. There are eight flavours to choose from which means you have multiple per day if you so choose. Go for the Pulled Bas first up, it’s got Smokey BBQ pulled beef, peri mayo and apple slaw. Wash it down with some of the best coffee on the Coast and be on your merry way.
Where: 4/21 Nind Street, Southport 

Boudoir Lounge
A newbie amongst the Southport bunch, Boudoir Lounge is the very best spot for a tasty brunch with the girls or simply a few cocktails after work. Found on Como Crescent, it quickly became the go to spot for those looking for some delicious eats, in a sweet setting and with unique sips of course. Inside there’s also a hair and beauty bar so you can get fabulous before you head out on the town. Perfect.
Where: 410/1 Como Crescent, Southport

Broadwater Parklands
Whether you’re four or 40, there’s tons of fun to be had at Broadwater Parklands. For starters, you can sit and stare out at the yachts you’ll never set foot on. Then, there’s the bouncy pillow (maybe don’t go on there without a child), a kiddies train, a water playground and weekly events from theatre shows to foodie markets. See, fun.
Where: Marine Parade, Southport

D Point Ten
Oh donuts, how we love you. D Point Ten can be found on Stevens Street and, in keeping with the general donut vibe, is a little hole in the wall space pumping out the freshest of donuts we may have ever excitedly shoved into our greedy mouths. In all the best flavours no less. Go the Ferrero Rocher for sure.
Where: 6/1 Stevens Street, Southport

Cardamon Pod
The delightful folk at Cardamon Pod are serving up delightful dishes with a focus on clean eating but of the prettiest variety. They offer vegan and gluten free options for breakfast and lunch with a side of organic coffee and vegan desserts. All very delicious and it’s very hard to stop at just one thing or not to post on your Instagram.
Where: Brickworks Centre, 3/3 Brolga Avenue, Southport

Gold Coast Aquatic Centre
Southport’s centre of swimming is something for all of us to be proud of. It’s as pretty as a collection of swimming pools can be and, as it was home to all the Commonwealth Games water activities, it’s world class. The architecture is sleek and there’s a training room featuring pits filled with foam for the divers to practice in.
Where: Marine Parade, Southport 

Escape Hunt
Imagine being wrongly accused of murder, chained to a wall and having to rely on your friends’ detective skills to free you. Who you gonna call? Welcome to Escape Hunt, Southport’s brain bending game guaranteed to test your problem solving skills like they’ve never been tested before. There’s a few scenarios you might be faced with, all of which involve solving a mystery with a set of intricate clues. It’s the most fun you can have inside a locked room. Make sure to take your smart friends. Grab 10% off here.
Where: 2/162 Scarborough Street, Southport

Brickworks Centre
Where to start. There are SO many excellent places to peruse at the Brickworks starting with Ferry Rd Market where you can nab yourself everything from beautiful flowers to the freshest breads, seafood and fruit and veggies galore. God it’s good. Within the Centre, there’s also stunning homewares, fashion and design stores and health and beauty services. Oh, there’s also always some really cool events.
Where: Ferry Road, Southport 

Words by Kirra Smith

Who can go past a good lunch deal. It’s the closest we can get to a mini-vaycay during the work week. Because nothing says treat yo’ self like ghosting the soggy 3-day old leftovers in the fridge in favour of a feast for one (or more – shout out to work besties everywhere for being the glue that holds our weeks together).

But no matter if you like your lunches to be a little taste of mid-week indulgence, or prefer them little longer, a little lazier, and dare we say – a little boozier when the weekend rolls around – we’ve got some of GC’s most irresistible lunch deals for every. day. of. the. week. Suddenly, one lunch a day no longer seems sufficient – thanks a lunch!

Mozza Mozza
Experts agree the Sunday Bottomless Disco at Mozza Mozza is one surefire way to ward off the Sunday scaries (it’s us, we’re the experts). $59 gets you a tasting-style menu with the best Italian bites like Focaccia, Meatballs, Arancini Balls, Margarita Pizza, perfectly paired with bottomless Mimosas and Spritz selections. And let the good times really Aperol with a $10pp upgrade to bottomless Aperol Spritz #bottomyesplease.
Where: Cnr Olsen Ave &, Musgrave Ave, Southport

Jimmy Wah’s
What do we want? Jimmy Wah’s new Feed Me Lunch Menu. When do we want it? Every day that ends in ‘y’! (But okay, we will settle for Monday-Friday)

For only $49pp, you will be taken on a culinary journey with 5 delicious dishes selected by the chefs to share with your friends! Mysterious and delicious modern Vietnamese nosh with no decisions required for the Vinh. Menu is subject to change but with items like caramelised pork belly, sweet potato and turmeric puree, lychee & chilli salsa, watermelon radish this one has us booking in alll the lunch dates. 
Where: 1724 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

El Ranchero
El Ranchero has the perfect offering to ring in the weekend. And yes, lunchtime Friday is the start of the weekend as far as we’re concerned, because all emails received on a Friday afternoon, are absolutely next week’s problem. The aptly named Frothy Friday’s include a schooner and & LA street taco by the Fix on 66 Food Truck for a tenner. And if it turns into a loooong lunch, there’s live music from 5pm. As if we weren’t already counting down to Friyay enough as it is.
Where: 6/36 Central Drive, Burleigh Heads

The Island
Okay so the weekend has arrived but the indulgent (read: boozy) long lunches are just getting started. Touted as a long, leisurely lunch for weekends, when it’s time to get your graze and goss on the only way is up – go the Island’s rooftop of course. We have two words for you: cocktail. carafes. For $79 pp, you also get a mimosa on arrival, and a lazy-grazy style lunch inc. charcuterie board, olives, dip and wood-fired pizzas. It will be hard to rooftop that.
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

Bine
Week-end, or week just getting started? Because the Sat & Sun lunch special at Bine has us feeling like it should be the latter. A $20 burger and beer? They must be out of their bines. For that price, you’d be downright philly to go past their Mexican Philly Cheese Steak burg #cheapaschipsbro
Where: 1/28 Chairlift Avenue, Nobby Beach

Hail Mary
A list of the GC’s finest midday offerings would not be complete without a taco ‘bout the holy grail lunch deal that awaits at Hail Mary. $19 gets you two tacos + your choice of beer, wine, spirit or soft drink – all for less than a lobster. The $5 upgrade to a classic marg also feels like a no-brainer – albeit sadly there’s no currency slang equivalent for a $24 lunch bargain. Let’s just say lunch and a cocktail for halfa pineapple is a pretty sweet deal.
Where: 26 James St, Burleigh Heads

Backbone Bar
Somehow Backbone has cottoned on to the kryptonite of retail workers everywhere: the magical, morale boosting properties of a steaming bowl of katsu curry for lunch. Choose between the Karaage bowl or Katsu bowl with a schooner of your choice for only $20 then kick back for your lunch break and reset as you soak up the laid-back vibes for as long as you can. Katsu this deal Tuesday – Friday between 11 am – 2 pm.
Where: Shop 9, 489 Gold Coast Highway, Tugun

Xenia
Much like the ‘bottomless’ in ‘bottomless brunch’ – the limit of how many favourite weekend boozy brunch spots we can rack up does not exist. For $99 you can get your Greek fill and then some – Xenia is dishing up 2 hrs of free-flowing drinks and a meze banquet of small and large share plates. Sunday funday indeed (or Saturday, but y’know, not quite as catchy is it?)
Where: Main Beach, Casuarina & Coolangatta

The Coolangatta Hotel
The 00’s called, it wants it’s $15 weekday lunch special back. Apparently our friends over at The Coolangatta Hotel haven’t heard about a little thing called inflation, and shhh, nobody tell. You’ll ruin the chance at a classic, cheap-as-chips pub lunch for the lot of us. And when we say classics, we’re not schnittin’ you: Grain fed rump, chips and sazza, Beef short ribs, slaw and chips and of course the pub food holy grail: chicken schnitty.
Where: Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Words by Kellie Leader.