So match-a love for Matcha Milk Bar.
So match-a love for Matcha Milk Bar.
It’s no secret Gold Coasters like to take our health and fitness rather srsly (well, except for the odd bottomless brunch but #moderation #amirite), there’s a gym on every block, our workout gear is cuter than ever and we know our way around a green smoothie or two. Luckily most of us long outgrew the extreme sport that was the broccoli dodging of our youth #sorrymum, and have since matured enough to embrace, and dare we say enjoy the greens, especially in drink form because what better way to get your 2 and 5 #efficient.
So now that we’re all grown up and understand that good things can actually come in green packages, it’s time to acquaint ourselves with the other bevvy in town, the one that boasts a better buzz than coffee #saywhat #youhaveourattention #literally.
And if you’re perilously approaching stalker status with your local barista, you’re gonna want to listen up because coffee has officially met it’s match(a) #check #andmatecha. New kids on the block, Matcha Milk Bar know the powerhouse properties of this mug-nificient elixir all too well, and thus set their sights on creating the best matcha blend on the market.
While the health benefits of this little green drink have been known seemingly forevs (thousands of years, same same), if you’re yet to cross over to the green side, here’s the tea on matcha: we’re talking Japanese green tea powder that’s stacks more concentrated than the standard tea leaves #nourishmenttakethewheel. And with a sustained energy boost that lasts 4-6 hours, without the nasty crash, we’re really starting to question our entire relationship aka dependence on all those cups of glorified bean juice tbh.
Matcha Milk Bar’s founder Brittany Kreskas knows oh too well the bitter cycle of chasen (the name for the little bamboo whisk used to make matcha, btw #adorable) coffee rush, the resulting jitters, and the inevitable post coffee crash #feels. And thus began the quest to not only find but create a better alternative – after spending months (and hundreds of samples) perfecting their high qualit-ea blend, we all finally get to reap the benefits #lovethatforus.
For Brittany, the ultimate goal was to craft a brain-boosting blend that’s carefully crafted to give you the perfect balance of focus, productivity, and energy. Not just a regular matcha, it’s a cool matcha – there’s also a little bonus action from some adaptogens thrown in the mix as well. And you just know when the organic ingredients start to sound like they could be sourced straight from a witches lair that you’re about to get a big ol’ dose of immunity boosting goodness (and luckily for us lions mane is touted for it’s ability to improve memory and focus and not, in actual fact put a hex on someone).
Matcha Milk Bar’s ceremonial grade (matcha speak for ‘the good stuff’) organic blend is also packaged right here on the GC (well, technically Byron, but that’s honorary GC, right?) after being sourced from a family owned farm in Kyoto, Japan. And if there’s one thing we know, it’s that Gold Coasters have so matcha love for getting behind a local boss babe with a sipsnorter of a product, on a mission to nourish the masses.
So go on, treat yo’self to a bag of green goodness for those days when you’ve got so little time, so matcha to do. We’ll just leave you with the three greatest words to come to online shopping: Free. Australian. Shipping #yesteas
Get the part-ea started with Matcha Milk Bar’s exclu blend here.
With a passion for environmentally-friendly beauty and a commitment to promoting sustainable practices, Katie Eales created the skincare brand Sabbia Co., combining the power of natural ingredients with eco-conscious packaging and manufacturing. we chatted to Katie about her inspiration for creating Sabbia Co., and how she has seamlessly integrated sustainability into every aspect of her skincare line. Get ready to be inspired!
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
10 years on and off, I moved to the Gold Coast when I was 18 for uni and then returned back to Palm Beach where I now live with my husband and son after traveling on and off for a few years.
What do you love the most about the Gold Coast?
The lifestyle, I love how beautiful our beaches, creeks and hinterland is. I love that you can choose to have a slow-paced weekend but there’s enough happening to have a fun-filled weekend when you need.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I grew up in Port Douglas, in a half Italian / half Australian household. Growing up diving the Great Barrier Reef, camping under the stars and eating 90% homegrown was where I found my deep love and appreciation for the planet. I moved to the Gold Coast to study marketing straight after year 12, I then went on to travel throughout many Asian countries, Europe and the States.
In 2017 I met my now husband Dave, in 2018 we found ourselves on a remote beach in Sri Lanka and devastated over the amount of single-use personal items we were surrounded by. When we arrived home we decided to minimise all single-use items in our home. As we started to research and test reusable products we fell in love with many amazing sustainable swaps. Our mission was no longer to overhaul our home but everyone else’s.
And this is when Sabbia Co was born. An ethical brand with minimal impact on the environment, that creates unique facial kits out of sustainable, biodegradable, reusable and chemical free tools. Along with sustainably sourced and packaged skincare that is formulated by myself.
We launched in September 2019, with 3 products. Our hero ‘face it face kit’, cleanse kit and tone kit. 3 kits that remove makeup/zinc, cleanse and exfoliate with just water. This was essential for us as we love to travel and pack light.
As our community grew the need for sustainable skincare was a daily request, so for our first birthday, we launched sustainably sourced and packaged skincare. Something I had always dreamt of. Over the years I have studied Cosmetic Chemistry, Traditional Chinese Medicine (Gua Sha, Facial Massage, etc), and many other ‘alternative’ (as my Mum might say) practices.
In 2022 we brought our son Louie into the world, which has made our passion to protect our beautiful planet even stronger. We also launched our Refill / Recycle Program where customers can send back old products for recycling or keep their bottles and purchase refill sachets that can also be returned for recycling. I can visually see the difference we are making and the education we are sharing. We are now selling almost 90% refills to returning customers. Our return customer rate is currently sitting at 69% which means we have reduced our carbon emissions by over 75% per product.
Tell us about Sabbia Co.
Sabbia Co offers refillable sustainably sourced and packaged skincare which is made in Australia. Along with sustainable skin tools that include biodegradable sponges and reusable bamboo makeup-removing pads that replace up to 1,000 single-use makeup wipes annually. We are a multi award-winning brand that bridges the gap between scientific chemistry and natural plant medicine to create sustainable skincare that is results driven – with over 1000, 5 star reviews to prove it.
How did Sabbia Co. come about?
In 2018 we found ourselves on a remote beach in Sri Lanka and devastated over the amount of single-use personal items we were surrounded by. When we arrived home we decided to minimise all single-use items in our home. As we started to research and test reusable products we fell in love with many amazing sustainable swaps. Our mission was no longer to overhaul our home but everyone else’s.
Why is sustainability so important to you?
Growing up immersed in nature, whether it was the rainforest, outback, or ocean has definitely made me understand its beauty and purpose. I grew up on Kukuk Yalangi land and our school always had elders sharing bush and plant medicine which fascinated me. My parents and grandparents also always shared home remedies and the importance of eating from the land and seasonally. My childhood was so focused on what we put in we get out. As I started to move and travel I noticed that not everyone had that same understanding and respect for the planet. Both my husband and I want to do whatever we can to protect and preserve our planet for our children to have healthy and fulfilling lives.
What does a typical day in your life look like?
I start my day between 5 and 6am, Louie and I have breakfast, I tried to journal and meditate, and walked down to the beach for a play. He then has a short nap and I go through my emails and prioritise what I need to get done for the day. I love Pilates and am so thankful to have found a space that has crèche and then we head into the warehouse together or sometimes I can get to go solo and Louie hangs out with his grandparents. A lot of my day is based around our community. Helping with skin concerns, making content to educate on our products and working on new formulations. I also host a podcast – Authentic Verdict, which I record fortnightly. We head back down to the beach for an afternoon dip before starting Louie’s bedtime routine. Dave and I have dinner around 6.30pm, wind down with stretching and are usually in bed by 8.30pm.
What is your most popular product?
We have 3, the Matcha Clay Mask (which is currently on preorder for the 100th time! It’s impossible to keep up with the demand), Collagen C Serum and Mineral BB Cream.
What does the future have in store for Sabbia Co. products?
I am currently in the final stages of a cream cleanser and our community has requested a Vitamin A. We are also in the final stages of testing our mum and bub range.
What are your Gold Coast favourites…
Café/coffee spot: Espresso Moto is our local and the team are so beautiful.
Restaurant: Etsu, Glenelg Public House and Jimmy Wah’s
Bar or place for a drink: We love Balter, the vibe is always good or out the front of home, where we’ve met some beautiful families that we spend most weekends at the beach with.
Beach: Palm Beach, we’re lucky to live out the front of the reef break which makes for a very happy husband!
How do you choose to spend your days off?
I love walking to Talle Creek and catching up with friends, treating my body to a Suana at Freedom Float or something crafty, a big goal for this year is to get back into pottery.
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
For ardent lovers of Japanese food, we have ourselves plenty of choices here on the Gold Coast. Sushi is perfect for when you’ve just stepped off the beach, Teppanyaki is an occasion best shared with friends, and ramen is like a warm hug for the soul after a testing day — or week. One newly opened venue hopes to chime in on the well-received Japanese cuisine scene here on the Coast and even bolster it with what they deem missing: Japanese comfort food!
If you’ve marvelled at the Izakayas of Osaka and/or been blown away by the first-rate food scene of Tokyo, you’ll know that Japanese food is, in fact, like an iceberg, and here in Australia, we have merely seen the surface!
Goya Café takes over the once-popular space occupied by Sens Café on the Gold Coast Highway in Broadbeach opposite The Star Gold Coast’s The Darling and offers a diverse menu of Japanese treats which you’d be hard pressed to find anywhere else.
The menu hinges on the creatively delicious sandwich goodness of Sandos and the steamy eggy delectableness of Omurice. These two subsections have a plethora of different flavours and cater for vegetarians and vegans.
Sandos, in a nutshell, are an elevated toasted sandwich of the highest order. You’ll also experience rice flour baked bread which brings a unique softness and an ever so slight sweetness, almost like a brioche, only without the gluten! With multiple fillings such as Angus Beef Tenderloin and Eggplant Tempura & Dashi, you’ll have enough replay value to keep coming back.
The Omurice dishes (translating to egg on rice) provide you with some luscious and gooey egg action, and if you’re quick about it once you get your plate, if you create the right incision, your eggs should fold in on themselves and reveal a soft centre which can almost appear to be moving — delish.
Should you feel the need to wash these tasty treats down — you ought to — there’s a wide range of drinks on offer, including nitro brew coffee, matcha, a black sesame seed protein smoothie and more. For those who feel like something a little stronger, you’ll come across a selection of boutique Japanese whiskies, gins, beers and a small choice of signature cocktails like the Gin-Gum, a white tea and eucalyptus-infused gin all-day sipper!
The venue itself is a breath of fresh air as you step in off the highway; the space oozes Japanese sophistication and simplicity with exposed wood and clean neutral tones throughout. Sit street side or get yourself a booth or table inside and let the space add some zen to your day.
At the moment, Goya is open for breakfast and lunch, but with firm plans on the horizon for dinner services, it shouldn’t be long before Osaka’s swagger, and Tokyo’s charisma will be coming to a dinner booking near you.
Where: 9/2669 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
When: 7am – 2pm Weekdays and 7.30am – 2.30pm Weekends
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
