Elk Espresso’s seaside sibling Sunnyboy opens in Mermaid Beach.
Elk Espresso’s seaside sibling Sunnyboy opens in Mermaid Beach.
Mermaid Beach has gotten a lot more colourful with the vibey addition of Sunnyboy to its culinary ranks. The newbie is the work of one of the Gold Coast’s most beloved creators in the foodie space, Andrew Whiting and it is exactly as delightful as you’d expect. And then some.
Found on the corner of Hedges Ave and Montana Ave where Café on Hedges once lived, Sunnyboy is marked by yellow striped umbrellas, splashes of colour and plenty of smiling faces enjoying glimpses of the ocean and tucking into some of the very best eats you’ll find on the Coast.
Sunnyboy is the sibling of Broady’s Elk Espresso a Gold Coast institution since 2011, much-loved by absolutely everyone. Before Elk Andrew owned fine dining venue Sparrow and Nobby Beach and his first venture Vintage Espresso was the favourite of Mermaid Beach locals from its very first day. In what he calls a full circle moment, Sunnyboy opening in Mermaid Beach has brought the Vintage coffee loving community back together to delight in a new, neighbourhood-centric space.
The idea behind Sunnyboy was to remind people of an era gone by in Mermaid Beach, long summers spent by the ocean without a care in the world. It’s a little bit retro with white Besser blocks and of course, the colour palette is a nod to the Sunnyboy ice blocks that we once couldn’t get enough of on a hot day.
In keeping with Elk, Sparrow and Vintage, the menu is filled with seasonal dishes that are both a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds. There’s Summer Fruit French Toast made with a crispy cornflake brioche and topped with plum compote, fresh peaches, cherries, honeyed macadamias, rock salt caramel gelato and coconut mousse. Yep.
Faves like Avo Toast and Stracciatella Toast grace the menu and then there are special dishes like a Sticky Pork Hoagie with plum sauce, roasted pork belly, miso butter, sesame fried eggs, rocket and fried shallots.
For lunch there are colour-filled salads, an array of exceptional burgers and an Open Steak Sandwich with rare eye fillet, horseradish, aioli, rocket, fried shallots, cured egg yolk, Chimichurri and herbs on toasted sourdough and you’ve never tasted anything like it in your life.
To drink there are all the kinds of coffee (made with Sunnyboy beans of course), tea, smoothies, pressed juices, milkshakes and booze of course. You may also sip on a Mimosa, Spritz or a Paloma (an elite selection) and for $49pp you can enjoy your choice of meal plus bottomless Mimosas for an hour, which is so great.
So obviously Sunnyboy is the new love of all our lives and perfectly timed to make the upcoming Gold Coast summer even more enjoyable. Cheers to that.
Where: 168 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach
When: 7am until 2pm daily
The thing about Broadbeach is that they just GET breakfast. Well I mean, they also get bars, fine dining and even shopping but if you ask us, the humble brekky is where they really shine. Whether you’re a savoury sarnie lover, a sucker for a smoothie, or someone who loves an epic brunch spread, they’ve just got a bit of everything to be honest. Here’s our pick of the top spots where you can fuel up for a big day of whatever that little heart of yours desires.
No Name Lane
This place might not have a name, but it sure has a reputation. And a darn good rep at that. Known for its specialty coffee, No Name Lane is where the caffeine connoisseurs flock. Pair your cup of joe with their avocado toast or signature scrambled eggs, and you’ll be ready to take on the world (or at least Broadbeach). It’s cool, it’s stylish, and it’s the perfect way to kick off your morning – and it’s the spot that celebs (hello Blake Lively) can’t stop flocking to when they’re on the the glittering GC.
Where: 16 Charles Ave, Broadbeach
Elk Espresso
Elk Espresso is the breakfast spot not just for the ‘gram, but obviously your taste buds too. Their menu changes seasonally, so there’s always something new and exciting to discover – no matter how many times you’ve been before – but you can always expect some epic flavours and almost-too-pretty-to-eat dishes like their French toast. or chilli scrambled eggs. Not to mention, they’re home to the boozy brunch so if you prefer your espresso in martini form then they’ve got you sorted.
Where: Shop G044 Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Ave, Broadbeach
Banksy
No, this isn’t the spot where you’ll find a rogue, anonymous graffiti artist, but you will find one of the best breakfast menus in town. Banksy is all about blending creativity and comfort food, with dishes like the Banksy Big Breakfast along with grab and go goodies like the Fish & Crisp Toastie – they’re not just bringing big flavours but also big feels, with a huge focus on sustainability so you can eat in good conscience.
Where: The Spot, Shop 1/2763 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
Nineteen at The Star
Okay this one is a little boujee, but if you’re looking to elevate your breakfast game – quite literally – Nineteen at The Star offers breathtaking views and a seriously luxe morning spread. With dishes like decadent Spanner Crab Omelette and Southern Buttermilk Biscuits for the sweet tooth, it’s pretty much the perfect spot for a special occasion or when you just want to feel fancy before noon. Top it off with a mimosa or a glass of bubbles, because why not? It’d be rude not to.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach
Alkemist
For those of you looking for a breaky that’s equal parts health-conscious and indulgent, Alkemist is the answer to your prayers. These guys have been making their mark on Broady for a longggg time now and it might have something to do with how their menu is big on vibrant, nourishing dishes that don’t compromise on flavour. Think: acai bowls, vegan delights, and avo toast done *right*. It’s the perfect balance of green goodness and comfort food to set the tone for a bright, sunny day and even better – they’re not just dog friendly, they’re dog lovers.
Where: 1/1 Sunshine Blvd, Broadbeach Waters
Luna’s
You might know Luna’s for its pizza and wine, but don’t sleep on their breakfast menu! Swing by for morning bites that’ll have you coming back for more, the Ricotta & Smoked Salmon Toast with Quail Eggs, Cucumber and Salmon Caviar is honestly the GOAT brekky if you ask us – and we reckon we can say that on pretty good authority. So come on, it’s time to see Luna in a new light – well, morning light that is.
Where: Shop G0.71b The Oasis, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
Goya
We just love Goya so matcha we couldn’t keep this one to ourselves anymore, because how could you not obsess over Broadbeach’s very own Japanese-inspired café. If you’ve never tried a Japanese sando then you need to get around their signature Tamago Sando with egg, tobikko and mayo or the Fruits Sando – think delish cream with fresh fruit stuffed in the fluffiest bread you’ve ever had. miso soup for breakfast, now’s your chance. Their menu is the perfect blend of east meets west, and a real adventure for your taste buds. If you like your breakfast super colourful order the rainbow cheese toast.
Where: 9/2669 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Harvest Buffet
Want a little bit of everything? Then the Harvest Buffet breakfast at The Star is your morning jackpot. With stations packed full of everything from pastries to pancakes and eggs to international delights, this buffet is the definition of “go big or go home”, and let me tell you – we’ll be going big AND THEN going home. It’s perfect for the indecisive eater or those of us who just want it all, really – guilty!
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach
If you are a true Gold Coast local you would have already visited Elk Espresso, but if you haven’t had the pleasure yet, you should definitely make it a top priority. Known for its innovative dishes and seasonal menus, Elk has forged its way through the GC hospitality scene for some time and even across two locations! We got to know the man behind the cafe, Andrew Whiting, and found out what the process is when dreaming up the new menus for Elk and what his personal favourites are on the Coast.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I’m a pure-bred local born on the Coast.
Tell us a bit about you.
I married my high school sweetheart Jodie at the age of 22 and now have three beautiful kids Lola (8), Max (6) & Leo (3). We have had other establishments apart from Elk including Vintage Espresso (at the age of 25 yr) & Sparrow Eating House. I got into hospo whilst in school and feel very blessed to be able to love my work ever since. A few things I love: sweating it out at F45 (Broadbeach), inhaling Caramilk chocolate & sipping on a good coconut margarita. I also love Survivor & would give my right arm to be on it.
What do you love the most about running a cafe on the Gold Coast?
I love that we get to be a part of the GC where locals and others enjoy visiting. We have such an amazing local community on the Gold Coast and you just don’t find that everywhere. Having people work at or dine at Elk is like welcoming them into your own home so it’s extremely rewarding to see people come regularly and enjoy themselves. I also love the fact that Elk’s team is like family to me – truly a special feeling.
Elk Espresso is renowned for having a very innovative menu, so how do you and the team come up with these dishes?
Our brains never stop churning over new ideas for the next menu! It’s quite daunting sometimes when we are two months out from a new season, as we feel the pressure to keep food evolving plus we take the responsibility of bringing something new-to-the-diner very seriously. It’s part of what makes Elk what it is today and locals near and far keep an eye on what new dishes are dropping with a new season. It’s definitely a team effort with menus between myself, Jeremy (Head Chef) & Emily (Sous Chef). All three of us are completely different and when we come together for brainstorming it’s a great feeling, we bounce concepts and food ideas off each other. When we finally release a new menu, it literally feels like we have given birth (haha… I have no idea clearly) but it’s because we put so much time and energy into each and every new element and dish.
What’s the most popular dish on your current menu?
Brown Butter Scrambled Eggs (with Goats Cheese, Caramelised Pumpkin, Shiso, Hazelnuts and Thyme Onion Sourdough.) It’s been hugely popular to the point where I got asked at school pick up to keep it on the menu from a group of Mums!
What is your personal favourite dish and why?
That’s a hard one. I love the Peach Cobbler French Toast at the moment but obviously, I can’t have that every day! The other go-to for me is the Winter Breakfast Bowl…. Think XO Brussel Sprouts, Kale, Carrot Hummus, Fetta, Poached Eggs, Heirloom Tomatoes, Brown Rice and Charred Zucchini.
How has COVID changed the way Elk operates?
I’ve tried to keep it as “normal” as possible. I feel it’s our responsibility to be a hub for the community on the Gold Coast especially during this season – that’s why we never close in lockdowns. I want people to try and forget the pandemic we are in when they are having their Elk experience. The masks have been a big issue for us though… it’s so hard to work in and communicate properly with them. Plus we do still have some people give us backlash when we make sure everyone has one on when they come in – please remember to be kind.
What are your Gold Coast favourites…
Café: Highline
Coffee spot: To be honest I love making batch brew at home – it’s my daily morning ritual before anyone else in the house wakes.
Restaurant: Eddy & Wolff
Bar or pub for a drink: Rosellas
How do you choose to spend your weekends?
With three kids, weekends can be a lot sometimes – netball, kids parties, socialising. We do try and bring the kids to Elk on Saturday mornings weekly so they can be involved with what we do, eat some waffles and go play in the park across the road.
Ahh, the blessed ritual of brunch. Leisurely feasts of eggs every which way you can imagine, sticky, syrup-drenched French toast stacks, and smoked salmon for days – what’s not to love? Plus, it gives us the excuse to sleep in, and our taste buds are rewarded pretty handsomely for the trouble.
Couple it with a little concept known as bottomless cocktails, and life doesn’t get much better. So universally beloved is the sip-happy cousin of this mid-morning rendezvous, we’ve rustled up an entire list of the best places on the GC to get your boozy brunch-fest fix (say that five times fast after two hours of free-flowing mimosas).
From north to south, gather your mates, don your stretchy pants and jump on the brunch bandwagon!
Suppose you consider yourself a brunch connoisseur. In that case, Main Beach’s resident egg-slinging specialist, Winey Cow, is a must-try for several reasons. Reason numero uno, is that they live and breathe this brekkie business. After all, the much-lauded namesake Melbourne location has the boasting rights to accolades like Café of the Year and Best Breakfast Restaurant. And when you’re in the mood to take the Chilli Scramble Croissant up a notch, they also throw a particularly spectacular bottomless brunch any ‘ole day of the week. For $55 per person, you can grab a main with endless mimosas for an hour, with Cranberry & Lime and Pineapple, Passionfruit & Lime options if you wanna switch it up from the Classic OJ. And ‘wine’ not, we say?
Where: 5/11 Woodroffe Ave, Main Beach
Breathtaking views and bottomless vino? Of course. La Calabrese’s Dine & Sip Italiano brunch serves up a three-course Italian feast alongside two hours of drinks with two dreamy packages to choose from. The $79 Wine Lover Pack offers self-serve bubbles, wine, and Peroni, while the $99 Cocktail Lover Pack brings the fun with Margs, Mimosas and Aperol Spritz. Menu-wise, it’s all about calamari, burrata, bolognese, woodfired pizza and sweet scoops of gelati. We really don’t know what to say except, bellissimo!
Where: Level 1, Meriton Surfers Paradise, 86 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
COAST’s rooftop terrace is home to one of the most stylish weekend sessions in town. Their $99pp Long Lunch runs Friday to Sunday from 12–3pm and brings together chilled cocktails (think spritz, daiquiris, Coast lager and rosé) and share plates like Pork Tostadas and Chicken Satay. Classy, yet an absolute vibe- just how we like it.
Where: Level 1, Ocean by Meriton, 86 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
It’s the ultimate beachside brunch overlooking the ocean, and yeah, we had you at beachside. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 12-2pm, tuck into an all-out, four-course feast of Mediterranean-inspired mixed tapas, including delightful bites like Eggs Benny Hash made with truffle honey hollandaise. But ‘bottomless’ we promised, and bottomless ye shall receive – here you can pick your poison with two-hour sip packages such as Aperol Spritz, Bellini Spritz & Limoncello Spritz, Chandon Brut & Chandon Rosé, or perhaps the Veuve Clicquot upgrade will be more your speed. A minimum of 2 people is required.
Where: Peppers Soul, Level 2/8 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Up for a rooftop rendezvous? Lulu Rooftop in Surfers is doing Sunday justice with their Bottomless Brunch package. For $79pp, indulge in a spread of colourful share plates (Popcorn Chicken Tacos, anyone?) and 2 hours of drinks- we’re talking spritz, wine and ever-changing froze flavours. Yes, you heard right- there’s a whole section dedicated to Bottomless Froze. We’ll be there from 1pm, and not a minute later.
Where: Level 2, 4 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
The Island says Saturday afternoons are for gathering, grazing, and good times. Who are we to disagree? And yes, technically speaking, this one is classified as a ‘lavishly long lunch’ – but when it comes with two hours of tantalising eats, arrival mimosa and cocktail and spritz carafes – does anyone really mind? Spend your Saturday nibbling your way through Charcuterie and share-style bites of Karaage Chicken, Lamb kofta and Woodfired pizzas, alternated with jugs of Passionfruit and Vanilla Mojito, Watermelon Margarita Spritz and Mimosa. $79 per person, two sittings (from 11:30am or 1:30pm) available.
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Broady gem Elk is another superb spot popping the cork on bottomless brunch daily. And bonus, it’s walk-ins only – so grab the gang, rock up from 10am and purchase any dish to partake in sixty whole minutes of mimosa action! And nope, we sure as heck ain’t driving. Pick your fave between the Classic, Strawberry lime and Tropical mimosa varieties, then ‘sip’ back and marvel as your flute magically refills itself. You certainly don’t have to tell us twice! $49 per head.
Where: Oasis Shopping Centre (opposite the beach), Broadbeach
Kick off your weekend with a bang (and a bellini) at Luna’s in Broadbeach, where the bottomless brunch vibes are flowing just as freely as the drinks. Every Saturday and Sunday from 10am, this chic Italian spot at The Oasis dishes up a 2-hour bottomless package with free-flowing cocktails, beer and wine, plus delicious brunch bites to match. From spicy scrambled eggs to buttery almond croissants, Luna’s brings la dolce vita to your morning plans, all served with a side of Broadbeach buzz and espresso perfection.
Where: Shop G0.71b The Oasis, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
They call it ‘Spritz Saturdays’ at Nineteen, and it’s every bit as glam as you’d expect. From 4–7pm, sip fancy spritzes (Strawberry, Elderflower & Mint, Aperol) while slurping oysters and nibbling on cheese plates, charcuterie and garlic fries on the luxe rooftop terrace. At $89pp, this high-end soiree is a must for anyone who likes their brunch with a side of skyline views. Minimum two people, bookings essential.
Where: 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach
You haven’t really done a bougie brunch until you’ve bottomless’d at Cora. Their $89pp Saturday sessions are a three-course Mediterranean-style share lunch served with 2 hours of cocktails, mocktails, beer and wine– not to mention a live DJ spinning as you sip. The kicker? Every week brings a new signature cocktail lineup: Malfy Gin, Aperol and Chandon Garden Spritz, Absolut Vodka, Olmeca Altos Tequila… it’s a rotating roster of boozy fun. Enjoy the people’s favourite, Peach Burrata, Gold Band Snapper and Wild King Prawns! Bookings for two or more required.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Bottomless mimosas by the beach- say less! Sunnyboy’s breezy Mermaid Beach location means you can roll straight from the sand to your seat, where $49 scores you a meal of your choice plus one gloriously boozy hour of bottomless mimosas. No bookings are needed- just arrive between 10am and 1pm, round up the gang (because we know that more is merrier), and tuck into a seasonally rotating menu of brunchy faves. Chorizo Truffle Scramble? Yes, please. Fig & Mascarpone Hotcakes? Don’t mind if we do.
Where: 168 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach
Formerly Ally Chow and still every bit as iconic, Monsieur Chow dishes up Asian fusion done right, and their two brunch options do not disappoint. For $89 per person, the Bottomless Chow Out features the Chef’s choice banquet with two hours of bottomless Thai basil caprioskas, prosecco and Noosa lager on tap. Or, go for the Bottomless Margarita Lunch Banquet, and yes, this has us written all over it. For $109, enjoy the same offerings mentioned above; only substitute bottomless caprioskas for bottomless margis!
Where: 3/2215 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
One of the GC’s very favourite ocean-view venues, The Tropic offers a solid ten bottomless brunch and absolutely nobody is surprised to hear this. Taking place exclusively on the terrace on the last Saturday of every month, not only will you be privy to multi-million-dollar views and DJ beats but also a delicious Mediterranean-inspired menu. Think Fig and Persian Feta, Steamed Barramundi, Puffed Spiced Bread, Mixed Berry Panna Cotta and more, but no need cuz we’re already #sold. Veuve, Rosé and Bellini Cocktail packages are available from $59 per person (ya kidding). Don’t mind if we do!
Where: 3b/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
Latin flair meets bottomless bubbles at Las Palmas’ $79pp weekend brunch. Every Saturday and Sunday, dive into 2 hours of sangria, rosé, tap beer and more, or upgrade for $20 and make it Margarita Time with Tommy’s Margs. Food-wise, expect chips and guac, crispy squid, tacos and more, with the option to elevate with grilled corn and slow-cooked beef short rib. Pro tip: upgrade it all. Life’s short. Live large.
Where: Level 1, 1097 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Why wait for the weekend? Refinery Coffee reckons any day is a good day to bust out the boozy OJ for this beloved mid-morning ritual, and we wholeheartedly agree. Available from 10am daily, gather your celebratory crew and report to Currumbins light-filled converted warehouse for the Bottomless Brunch option. Here, you can tuck into your pick from the all-day eats menu, such as the Turkish Style Poached Eggs or Eggs Benny, while throwing back Classic & Watermelon mimosas for 1.5 blissful hours. The only caveat is that your whole crew must be partaking (is that even a question), with a non-alc option also available. For just $62 pp, we’ll say bottoms up!
Where: 37 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Waters
Pan Asian coastal dining, bottomless rosé and Sunday banquets? Say less. Billy Chow brings you Bottomless Blush Sundays- a curated chef’s banquet accompanied by free-flowing Maison AIX Rosé and sparkling rosé in the dreamy beachside setting of Kirra. This is the kind of Sunday sesh worth putting pants on for. $125 per person.
Where: 76 Musgrave St, Coolangatta
Boozy brunch, but make it a random Tuesday. Kefi Café is dishing up 90 minutes of bottomless mimosas – classic, pineapple or sunrise – for $60pp every day (like, Monday-Sunday) from 10am. Pair your fizz with a main like the lemon-curd loaded Hotcake or their beet-hummus-and-harissa-nut topped Avo Toast, and soak up all the feel-good Gold Coast vibes. Bottomless brunch before noon? We approve.
Where: Corner of Griffith & McDonald Street, Coolangatta
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
