Bright yellow and white umbrellas catch your eye as you careen down Hedges Avenue, a splash of sunshine that signals you’ve arrived at Sunnyboy—the newest venture from the crew behind iconic Elk Espresso.
Breezy, sun-lit, and dotted with clusters of terracotta-hued chairs, this cornerside cafe feels like a breath of fresh air in Mermaid Beach.
Image credit: Sunnyboy | Two Birds Social
Aptly named, Sunnyboy is the very epitome of its name—designed to embrace its prime beachside location, the open-air venue captures the essence of summer with warm tones, thoughtful details, and an atmosphere that feels effortlessly inviting.
Image credit: Sunnyboy | Two Birds Social
For owner Andrew Whiting, Sunnyboy is more than just a cafe—it’s a return to his roots. Having launched his very first venue in the same postcode in 2008, Sunnyboy is somewhat of a full circle moment; a chance to give back to the beloved Gold Coast community who have supported his team for over 15 years.
It’s clear Sunnyboy is a love letter to the local community—an ode to sun-drenched mornings and lingering long brunches.
Image credit: Sunnyboy | Two Birds Social
The space itself mirrors this ethos—playful, welcoming, and unpretentious. Striped umbrellas lining the pavement feel like a nod to nostalgic beach shacks while bold sun motifs in pops of blue, terracotta, and yellow splash personality across the whitewashed walls.
A custom yellow La Marzacco coffee machine sits proudly atop a curved, terracotta-tiled bar, pumping out caffeinated goodness courtesy of Parallel Roasters.
Image credit: Sunnyboy | Two Birds Social
Of course, it wouldn’t be a venue from the Elk Espresso crew without an exquisite menu and Sunnyboy exceeds our already-lofty expectations. On the breakfast front, creamy Byron Bay stracciatella and thick slices of heirloom tomatoes atop sourdough are a clear star.
Not to be outdone, the sticky pork hoagie packs a flavour punch with roasted pork belly and plum sauce, while the Sunny Scramble takes things up a notch with buttery soft scrambled eggs, silky hot smoked salmon, and pops of crème fraîche.
Image credit: Sunnyboy | Two Birds Social
Peruse the lunch menu and you’ll be hard pressed to choose between the open steak sandwich crowned with cured egg yolk and the Nashville chicken burger with sweet and spicy glazed fried chicken. With a cheeky $49 one-hour bottomless mimosa deal, what starts as brunch is sure to melt seamlessly into golden afternoons.
Image credit: Sunnyboy | Two Birds Social
Sunnyboy is more than just a cafe—It’s a nod to nostalgia and a celebration of what the Gold Coast does best: community, food, and sunshine.
THE DETAILS
What: Sunnyboy Espresso
Where: 168 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach 4218
When: Open from 7am to 2pm daily
For more information, click here.