Meet Sam & Theo

Every café has its regulars. At Merlo Bowen Hills, Sam and Theo are two you’ll often spot, and one of them is a golden retriever!

Sam has been coming to her local Merlo for the five years and she never arrives alone. Theo, her golden retriever, knows the routine just as well as she does.

“Theo knows we’re going to Merlo before we even park.”

The second they turn into the street, he’s alert. Tail up. Eyes on the prize. Puppuccino pending.

By the time they reach the counter, Theo is already making it very clear that he’s ready. Sam laughs that he’s probably the most demanding customer in the café, and judging by the attention he gets, Theo may actually be the most popular regular. His order is as non negotiable as hers.

Sam’s is an almond piccolo. Theo’s is a puppuccino.

It’s a pairing that’s become a daily ritual. Sam with her coffee, Theo with his treat, both settling into the rhythm of a place that feels familiar in the best way. For Sam, Merlo isn’t just where she gets coffee. It’s part of her day, woven into walks, mornings, and moments shared with a dog who treats every visit like the highlight of his week.

Along with the service, Sam says it’s the flavour that keeps her loyal. She really loves coffees with chocolatey or caramel notes, which is why Merlo has become one of her favourites. She also loves the overhead bean system, where you can see freshly roasted beans moving through the café above you as you order, making the whole experience feel fresh, transparent, and considered. She mentions the recent refurb as another reason the space feels so good to be in. Familiar, but elevated.

At home, Sam keeps things simple with a French press, though she’s the first to admit it’s not the same. Coffee tastes better when it’s part of a ritual, and even better when someone else makes it properly.

Seasonally, Sam doesn’t stray far from her order. Mornings are always an almond piccolo. No exceptions. But when summer hits, she says she’ll happily switch things up with something iced in the afternoon, usually with Theo still beside her, soaking up the attention from staff who know him by name.

A Favourite Part of The Routine

When Sam talks about her favourite Merlo memories, it’s never just about the coffee. It’s about coming here with Theo, watching him get excited the moment they arrive, and knowing the staff genuinely love seeing him too. It’s a simple routine, but one that’s turned into a memory she really enjoys.

“I’ve always loved coming here,” Sam says. “The staff are so friendly, and Theo gets so much attention and patience. We both love it.”

And that might be the clearest sign of true coffee fanaticism. Finding a local café that feels less like a stop and more like a ritual, especially when it comes with great coffee and a golden retriever who knows exactly what he’s there for.

Our Coffee Fanatics series spotlights the people who make Merlo what it is.
Keep an eye on our socials and blog as we continue celebrating the routines, rituals, and regulars behind every cup, one beautiful coffee at a time. ☕💙