CAFE OPENS AT POINT DANGER

A new cafe has risen from the demolition site of Cafe DBar, opening on the southern Gold Coast’s most high-profile point position.

The Gambaro Group owner John Gambaro, along with his brothers Frankie and Donny, said he felt a mixture of excitement and relief to finally reveal the transformation to locals, unveiling Awaken Cafe on Tuesday.

The cafe was the final stage of the Gambaro takeover of the new 12-storey Awaken Residences, following the launch of Mediterranean-inspired restaurant Pipi’s on February 28.

Mr Gambaro said Awaken Cafe, housed on the bottom floor of the $42m tower, would serve blueberry pancakes, green bowls, eggs on toast, breakfast rolls, baked pastries and baristamade coffee.

“We look forward to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air, mingling with the sounds of chatter and laughter,” he said.

In 2021 it was announced the longstanding Cafe DBar would be demolished to make way for the new building.

Mr Gambaro said, while there was some scepticism around them taking over the space, he “couldn’t wait” to invite the locals back.

“From the moment they step through the door, we want them to feel like they’re entering a welcoming space where they can relax, unwind and enjoy great coffee and food,” he said.

“We’re excited for locals to see the care and passion we’ve poured into every aspect of their experience.”

Mr Gambaro said they had aimed to create a “cosy, inviting and coastal ambience that resonates with Coolangatta’s laid-back lifestyle”.

Upstairs restaurant Pipi’s has been trading for two weeks and he said customers had been loving the handmade lobster linguine, prawn roll, chargrilled squid and steaks.

“Opening our restaurant has been an incredible journey and seeing it come to life over these past few weeks has exceeded our expectations,” Mr Gambaro said.

“Each day brings new surprises, challenges and opportunities to connect with our guests and we’re grateful for the support and feedback we’ve received so far.”