From the region that delivers world-renowned sugar from our superior sugar cane, it's little surprise that we also make a mean coffee to go with that sweetness. Here's our 6 top picks for your next espresso hit.
This eclectic establishment has been at Bargara for what seems like yonks. Situated in an old windmill, you can't miss it, nor will you want to miss its innovative food. All coffee here is made on local rain water so you can be guaranteed of the finest drop. Sit among this relaxed al fresco atmosphere and feast on dishes made from regional produce such as smoked bacon, organic eggs and local tomatoes. For a real treat, order a scoop of some of the locally-made Nonna's Gelateria!
As one of Australia's largest producing regions for macadamia nuts, come taste a unique tree-to-table experience among a lush macadamia orchard at Macadamias Australia's cafe, The Orchard Table. Nestled among their abundant plantation, before taking a seat and digging your fork into mouth-watering locally sourced eats and treats, uncover the legacy and history behind this family operated and owned farm with a self-guided tour of the Visitor Centre. Prideing themselves on producing sustainable quality macadamia nuts, taste the difference for yourself at the sample station and on your plate. The cafe also offers creamy gelato flavours with a must-try salted caramel macadamia option that will have you coming back for more. Ask the team what macadamia picks they recommend for an added local experience.
Wrap your mind around this cool café's name and your mouth around its food. Walk down a slim alleyway and you'll find Allowishus Delicious which touts itself as "Bundy café food made with love." There's nothing overly fancy about the food here, except that it's fresh using produce such as local Hummock honey, house-made vanilla bean gelato, and juice made from local fruit. For something a little different, try the organic hot chocolate or organic chai latte. For something truly delicious, try the Italian-style gelato made from scratch in this Bundaberg café and choose from more than 60 flavours.
This unexpected gem hidden among the streets of suburban Bundaberg, offers a sophisticated yet relaxed setting for those wanting to enjoy a 2 or 4 course dinning experience. With a menu showcasing seasonal local produce across breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, you'll also find a combination of tantalising cocktails, craft brews and wines to pair nicely with your dishes. One serving you must try is the szechuan honey prawns which features across both their lunch and dinner menu. If you're planning to enjoy a hearty morning feed, try the sweet potato croquettes. Made using local sweet potatoes from Sweet Potatoes Australia, this local favourite is a people pleaser with combinations like giner and crispy bacon to acompany.
Paragon Theatre & Espresso Bar
For those who adore a shot of art deco history with their morning espresso, head to Childers and the Paragon Theatre. This delightful structure dates back to 1927 and still contains many of its original features, right down to the sloping timber floor boards and canvas style seats. Order a coffee and while you're waiting, ask whether you can take a sneak peek behind the thick curtains of this adorable establishment which still shows classic films. Sit in the foyer or on the pavement outside, and enjoy your morning cuppa. For something more contemporary in Childers, head to the Melbourne-style Laneway Espresso, which, as the name suggests, serves its drinks in a laneway or inside its quaint café.
Indulge Café & Bistro
You could be forgiven for thinking you are in Paris in this art deco, hole-in-the-wall style café along Bundaberg's Bourbong Street. Grab a table at this innovative establishment and feast on the motto "We know where it came from and how it was made." The coffee menu is a journey in itself as you wade through descriptions such as Bundaginga turmeric golden super latte; Lonnie's Innes Park special blend chai; or CC's (Woolooga) rosella cordial spritzer. For something more substantial, feast on meals made from Bundaberg macadamia nuts, Childers peaches, and Burnett Heads spanner crabs.
The Journey
From cop to coffee maker, owner Matt Grills has been on quite the journey himself, opening a tiny café of the same name in Bargara at the end of 2016. Focusing on the mantras of health, adventure and compassion, Matt and his team serve a specialty grade/fair trade coffee from Sunshine Coast company Kai which ensures a percentage of proceeds from sales go back to the producers from where it was sourced. For those who are selective about the type of milk they like in their morning cuppa, there's a wide variety from which to choose including Mooloo Full Cream and Trim, Zymil, and Soy, Almond, and Coconut. In this 24 square-metre space, tucked into a quiet alleyway, Matt has erected a communal table as he's all about the vibe. Great coffee is just a bonus.
This blog was written by Christine Retschlag from The Global Goddess. Christine visited our beautiful region thanks to our incredible members and Bundaberg Tourism.
Image Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland