Dark Fluid Espresso is the latest venture from seasoned Gold Coast hospitality duo Sonia and Jovan (John) Ivanovski – and they’re certainly not strangers to the Robina area. Back before Robina Town Centre underwent its transformation, Sonia and John owned and operated the popular European deli and cafe that originally sat at the entrance to the centre (opposite the fruit shop, near the old Woolworths and Coles). After embarking on a number of projects across the coast since selling the deli in 2011, the duo have found themselves back in Robina creating a new neighbourhood haven, dishing up homestyle food, sweets and quality coffee for locals.
The extensive all-day breakfast and brunch menu leads into a succinct lunch offering – while your favourite cafe classics are there (avo toast, panna cotta granola and vanilla pancakes) you’ll also find dishes with a touch of European influence dotted throughout. Keep it simple with a Seven Miles coffee and a serve of German rye and marmalade, or fill the gap with black-truffle eggs with semi-dried tomatoes, grilled asparagus, freshly shaved prosciutto, parmesan and truffle oil. There’s also an indulgent croque madame, which is lovingly layered with ham off the bone, housemade bechamel and gruyere cheese before being topped with a fried egg, as well as a spicy chorizo omelette with roasted-pepper ajvar. The lunch menu is kept simple with milk-bun burgers, salads and crispy skin salmon with pesto verde and capers, while rotating daily specials like Sonia’s handmade gnocchi and lasagnes will appear. Those keen for a grab-and-go bite will find sourdough sandwiches, wraps, salads and quiches in the cabinet – as well as can’t-stop-at-one homemade treats like almond cookies and French madeleines.
Dark Fluid Espresso is now open! Opening hours, location and contact details are over in the Stumble Guide.
