Inside House Of Hälsa, Mermaid Beach’s New All-Day Cafe And Wellness Destination

The Gold Coast is enjoying something of a wellness renaissance. Seaside yoga studios, luxe bathhouses and wellness-led precincts are popping up all over the coast, with the wave showing no signs of slowing any time soon. 

The arrival of House of Hälsa only adds more power to the swell. Founded by partners Coco Loberg and Gareth Fletcher, the talented duo behind fine-line tattoo studio The Raspberry Room, this all-day cafe and wellness-forward destination is redefining the art of nourishment in a very cool way.

Taking its name from the Swedish word for ‘health,’ the stylish venue is a tribute to nourishment in every sense—and also carries personal meaning for Coco. “I’m half Swedish on my dad’s side, and I wanted to honour that heritage while building something meaningful,” she says.

Set just one block back from the golden stretch of Mermaid Beach, House of Hälsa is perfectly placed for post-swim refuels and easy, unhurried catch-ups—which is exactly what Coco and Gareth intended, sharing “It’s our favourite part of the coast. The sand at the doorstep and the barefooted-ness reflects exactly how we want people to feel in our space.”

As for the fit-out, the California-cool cafe is a love letter to the pair’s shared passions for travel, community and the kind of memorable connections forged over good food. If it reminds you of a chic hotel lobby or communal hangout, that’s entirely intentional—the interiors are inspired by sunken lounges and social spaces Coco and Gareth have visited around the world.

In short, it’s moody, warm and wildly inviting. Expect terracotta-hued walls, potted olive trees, glossy tiles and marble finishes with relaxed indoor and outdoor seating. It’s all anchored by a ‘70s style central conversation pit that makes you want to hang around well after you’ve set down your knife and fork. 

You can also browse the micro retail section, which is stocked with a curated edit of wellness brands (alongside House of Hälsa’s own offerings) spanning health snacks, supplements and protein powders. “The vision is to make nourishment playful,” the founders explain. “Food that feels good, tastes great, and tells a story.”

And the menu delivers exactly that, as several dishes are influenced by Coco and Gareth’s memories and travels. There’s a playful nod to Swedish home cooking with a combo of parmesan, jam, rye and eggs, and a punchy watermelon ceviche inspired by techniques learned from a Peruvian grandmother in a tiny coastal town. Each plate brings flavours from around the world straight to Mermaid Beach.

As for us? We couldn’t go past the blackberry toast with goat’s cheese and rosemary—a perfectly indulgent sweet-meets-savoury moment. Other standouts include house-made yoghurt bowls, vibrant seasonal salads and fully customisable smoothies packed with superfoods. 

Plus, if you’ve got your little ones or furry friends in tow, you’re in luck. House of Hälsa has everyone covered with dedicated menus for kids and frozen treats for pups.  

With the Gold Coast buzzing with active, health-conscious locals, House of Hälsa steps in to fill a much-needed dining gap. It’s the perfect spot to refuel, slow down, and connect—all with health and wellbeing front of mind. 

As the Coco and Gareth say, “We wanted to create a menu to fuel and a space to linger. Designed for enjoyment, grounded in nourishment.” 

Mission very much accomplished.

THE DETAILS

What: House of Hälsa
Where: 1/2453 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach, QLD 4218
When: Open Monday-Sunday, 5am-3pm
For more details, click here.

Image Credit: House of Halsa | Supplied