Eating out

Cadence Cafe, Nerang

Cadence Cafe

Cadence Cafe

Cadence Cafe

If you’re looking for a family-friendly café where the kids can actually play while you enjoy your coffee, Cadence Cafe in Nerang is well worth knowing about.

Cadence is particularly popular with the local cycling crowd, with a large bike shop next door and the velodrome just across the road. But you don’t have to be a cyclist to enjoy it. The café has a fantastic family-friendly set-up, including a gated play area that makes it a great option for a relaxed breakfast, lunch or play date.

The café is spread across three levels, connected by a central path and steps. The café itself sits at the top, with indoor seating and a large glass window looking through to the bike shop. Outside is a spacious astroturfed area with café tables, umbrellas and plenty of shade from the surrounding trees.

A few steps lead down to the lower level, where you’ll find more tables and stools overlooking the playground. The different levels can also be accessed with a pram, making it easy to get around with little ones.

The playground is fully gated and designed with younger children in mind, with a small playground and plenty of toys to keep them entertained. It’s covered by a large shade sail and benefits from additional shade from the trees, so it’s a comfortable spot for kids to play while you keep an eye on them from the nearby tables.

Despite being located on Nerang Connection Road, the café feels surprisingly peaceful. It’s set well back from the road, with its own off-street parking and plenty of greenery around it. The easy parking and contained play area are a particularly big win when you’re wrangling little kids.

Dogs are also welcome in the outdoor areas, so it’s a handy option if you’re bringing the whole family — four-legged members included!

The food is another reason to visit. Cadence serves breakfast and lunch, with a proper kitchen rather than just the usual café basics, as well as options for kids. The kids’ milkshakes were a particular hit when we visited.

If you’re after somewhere you can grab a good coffee and meal while the kids have plenty of space to play, Cadence Cafe is a great Gold Coast family café to add to your list.

Need to know:

  • Address: 75 Nerang Connection Rd, Nerang QLD 4211
  • Hours: 6am – 2pm Mon-Fri; 6am – 1pm Sat & Sun
  • Phone: 5636 9295
  • Website: http://www.cadencecafe.com.au/