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There’s so matcha to love about this new snack spot

We want snacks and Shiro Gelato & Snack delivers.

Onigiri, Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Onigiri, Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Shiro Gelato & Snack is Southport’s new HQ of sweet and savoury Japanese small bites (and licks) you Japaneed to be acquainted with, like now, arigatou gozaimasu.

Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Perched just a hop skip and a yum from the G’s Southport tram stop, the conveniently positioned new venue is a #snaccident waiting to happen for lucky passersby. For owner Kei Okamoto, a well-placed location was the main priority when selecting the new spot for Shiro Gelato & Snack. His former experience dishing up street food style Japanese eats at markets, combined with head chef Shodai Kawakami’s ten-year culinary expertise is the ultimate matcha made in heaven.

Gelato at Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Gelato at Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

The two-legged fuzzy ball mascot featured throughout the shop’s signage is your subliminal sign to leg it on in to discover the array of treats that await. The interior fit out was handled by the Shiro crew (what can’t they do), with a simply-appointed and welcoming space framed by classic crisp-white subway tiles – while the seductive glow of those house-made gelatos glisten from the cabinet beyond. The intimate, corridor style space offers limited casual seating to lick, sip and savour until the #hanger safely subsides.

For those not familiar with Japanese fare, you might be wondering just want you can expect from the Shiro Gelato & Snack menu. Think authentic light Japanese bites worthy of quashing the most serious of snack attacks (though,  with a couple of Onirigi’s under the belt, you may still feel a lot like rolling on out of there).

Onigiri, Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Onigiri, Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

The aforementioned savoury specialty Onigiri, is a popular Japanese rice ball lunch and snack dish, as tasty as it is convenient to nom on-the-go. The Shiro offering includes six signature flavours such as a classic salmon and takana, made with Japanese leafy green mustard pickles and spices promising a slightly spicy and tangy flavour. Though we also like the sound of the Negi Miso – Shallots, miso, citrus chilli paste a shallot.

Gelato at Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Gelato at Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

For sweet tooths, curb your cravings by sinking your teeth into the beloved jelly-like, traditional Japanese sweet treat that is Warabi Mochi.

Though we’ll never miss an opportunity to gush about gelato (umm hello, we live for this), and the Shiro Gelato & Snack selection of Japanese flavours does not disappoint. Japanese eats enthusiasts will be soy into the Kinako – a roasted soybean flour flavour most commonly compared to peanut butter. Joined by yet more mouth watering contenders such as Black sesame, Matcha white chocolate, miso caramel, and the vegan friendly Yuzu and lemon flavour.

Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Can’t decide which sweet treat you’re in the mood for? Same. Might we suggest a thinly Mochi-wrapped (and/or topped!) gelato scoop for the ultimate best of both worlds action.

There’s no doubt lucky northern locals will bento-ver backwards to get their Shiro Gelato & Snack fix, while for everyone else this little Southport side quest is a tasty snackrifice well worth taking.

Where: 50 Nerang St, Southport
When: 11:30am–10pm daily

Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.

Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Stay humble, Southport

Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Food at Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Number 328 on the never-ending list of perks that comes with living on the GC is that there’s a list equally as long of cafes for us to frequent any damn well time we please. Okay so technically within daylight hours at least, but by then usually we’re on the hunt for our caffeine to come a little more chilled and shaken over ice with vodka #espressomartiniappreciationclub.

Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Our insatiable appetite for that v. specific brand of casual-meets-gourmet cafe fare shows no sign of slowing down – y’know, the one that scratches the foodie itch but also you can spontaneously swing by rockin’ your gym gear with your four legged friend in tow?

While we might have previously overlooked Southport’s potential, these days we are officially eating humble pie. Because tucked away in this up-and-coming foodie destination is another noteworthy newcomer, Humble cafe. A hidden gem that everyone in and around the Northern GC needs to get acquainted with stat.

Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Sennie Tee and Stanley Lam, Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

For new owners and newlyweds Sennie Tee and Stanley Lam, combining their respective passions and extensive hospo backgrounds to launch a venture of their very own was a no brainer. Sennie with her previous experience as both head barista and cafe manager, and Stanley most recently as Head Chef in Oi Izakaya as Sous Chef at Elk Espresso. Talk about a dream team.

The name is a nod to their ethos, with the pair believing “no matter how good you are in any industry or any situation, staying humble and kind will take us far,” adding “also I believe staying humble will bring you luck to meet good people”. Spoiler alert: We’ve peeped the menu and it feels like the luck is allll ours, Sennie.

Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Yun Yeung (Hong Kong classic drink), Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

The couple had previously eyed off the potential of this small but mighty location, agreeing it was a shame to see such a cute space sit empty. Perched in a quiet little spot, while Humble might have a small footprint, the cosy space leverages a bright and airy interior to create a warm and welcoming feel. The limited seating will no doubt be some pretty hot real estate, but those who nab a table will be rewarded with a sleepy, sun-soaked brunch spot and some seriously delish fare to feast upon.

Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Pacifico Soft Shell Crab Benedict, Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Clear your schedule, because Humble cafe is definitely punching above their weight with the menu and we’re about to unpack it even more thoroughly than your bestie’s post date correspondence.

There’s a brunch of dishes that sound so tantalising we’re struggling to even form a shortlist – sweet tooths won’t be able to resist one of the Croffle options, but will have to decide between flavours like Cinnamon apple, PB and Choco brownie.

Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Veggie Bowl, Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

The Avoloumi – romesco sauce, smashed avocado, grilled halloumi, cucumber tomato salsa, dukkah, radish, multigrain toast is a fresh twist on the brunch staple that is sure to gain a hallou-lot of fans.

If it’s an all-out boujee breakfast you’re in the mood for, both the Chilli crab scrambled egg – blue swimmer crab meat, shallot, scrambled eggs, bird eye chilli, crispy shallot, sriracha kewpie mayo, sourdough toast, and the signature Panko soft shell crab benedict made with deep fried panko soft shell crab, smashed avocado, two slow poached eggs, paprika, chilli hollandaise, slaw, brioche toast are up to the task.

Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Pulled Pork Croquette, Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

The drinks offering is just as exciting, with some enticing signature options such as the Water lilies drink, made with a combination of purple sweet potato & taro crushed ice, vanilla, full cream milk to tickle your inner foodie – while the extensive  selection of old faithfuls available are every bit as strong.

Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Tangy Americano, Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Like all the coolest of cafes, puppuccino and babyccinos are all on offer so assemble your besties (big and small) and stumble across Humble cafe for your next brunch date.

When: Monday, Wednesday-Friday 7-2, Saturday-Sunday 8-3
Where: 1/9 Nesbit Street, Southport

Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.

Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Humble Cafe, Southport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Sweet dreams are made of cheese(cake)

Cheesecake at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Cheesecake at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Every once in a blue moon, we get whispers of a newcomer so epic, we can’t say for sure if we’re actually dreaming. Something truly delicious has been baking in Chirn Park, with the impending arrival of a new artisan bakehouse concept, Basque, set to combine two signature specialties: cheesecake and champagne #isthisevenreallife?! Yep, we might have just died and gone to heaven.

Cheesecake and champagne at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Cheesecake and champagne at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

There are few sweet treats so universally beloved as the humble cheesecake, with its irresistible allure and ability to send even those curiously dessert-averse individuals weak at the cheese. And when you hear that a newbie is coming to town specialising in not only that, but bubbles too, you know it’s gonna be When Harry Met Sally levels of OMG-good.

Zac and Laura, owners of Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Zac and Laura, owners of Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

A duo that certainly needs no reminding of the sorcery that unmistakable sweet, rich and tangy combo holds are owners Laura and Zachary Guertin. They are thankfully here to reassure us that the dream-like existence of Basque Cheesecake & Champagne is in actual fact, very real #praisebe. The pair are certainly not alone in their view that “there isn’t much on this planet you can’t solve with cheesecake. And anything you can’t solve with cheesecake, you can usually solve with Champagne.”

Cheesecake at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Cheesecake at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

This hospo super duo are both bringing their respective industry experience to Basque. The kitchen will be headed by Laura, formerly a head pastry chef for 4 years at two hatted restaurant Aubergine in Canberra, in addition to head pastry chef at Rebel Rebel. Zac brought his drinks wizardry to the table to curate the fun and varied selection of bubbles. Having sampled some of his creations at TØKOH we can happily attest to his genius. He spent 10 years behind the bar honing his talent in Canberra hospitality and led the team at award winning whisky bar Molly for 6 years.

Champagne at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Champagne at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

“Basque exists to ensure that any truly special occasion is matched by a truly memorable cake”, with its arrival also offering the perfect solution to the age old question: ‘what should I bring?’. The couple adds, “We can help you say congratulations, thank you, sorry, goodbye, happy birthday or welcome”. Though in our humble opinions, ‘just because’ is just as valid, too #lifeisshort #eatthecake.

Cheesecake and champagne at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Cheesecake and champagne at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

The locale for the new space was a no brainer for the pair, saying “We fell in love with the community at Chirn Park”, though we have little doubt that feeling will be very mutual indeed. In the ultimate win for both Laura and Zac and lucky locals, “The space was also a bakery beforehand so it came with a massive commercial 4 deck oven ready to go. This was a big drawcard for us being able to move in and start baking.”

Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

The new venue will include intimate seating options both indoors and outdoors on the front deck, welcoming customers to partake in an obligatory slice of that signature cheesecake, or a convenient pit stop to pick up a celebratory cake on their way past. The fit out is every bit as chic as you’d expect, with a boutique feel to match the artisan-style baked goods. Timber herringbone floors frame the light-filled space, complimented by an array of elegant ambient lighting features.

With the venue’s signature sweet originating from Basque Country on the border between Spain and France, the menu offers a taste of the best of both worlds countries, with a Spanish Cheesecake and French Champagne selection.

Cheesecake at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Cheesecake at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

To complement will be a rotating selection of sweet treats, batch brew and cold brew coffee, as well as a variety of gift pack options to suit every occasion.

Officially redefining (or forever ruining) the standard coffee catch-up with the gal pals, the most notable highlights will of course be that signature Basque cheesecake in addition to Champagne & sparkling wines available by the bottle.

Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

The couple has worked hard to curate a “fun selection of bubbles across a few styles that we hope will cater to all taste palettes and budgets. Everything from Australian Pet Nat & Prosecco, Spanish Cava and of course a variety of French Champagnes including some of the big houses and some independent grower Champagnes.”

We’re not sure which part we’re most excited for, but it doesn’t matter bc we can have our champas and cake (and eat it too, obvs). But for now, our cravings remain well and truly off the Richter scale.

Where: 33b Musgrave Avenue, Chirn Park
When: Wednesday – Thursday 10-4, Friday & Saturday 10-6 (Sundays at HOTA Markets)
Website:
Basque-cheesecake.square.site
Instagram: @basque.goldcoast

Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.

Signage at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Signage at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
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