Fela Fels | Mermaid Waters, Gold Coast QLD
Flourishing on the Gold Coast: Fala Fels Café
If you’re into falafels, fresh coffee and feel-good café vibes, you’ll want to drop into Fala Fels at Mermaid Waters. Proudly pouring Merlo Coffee and serving up fast, fresh Mediterranean eats, this local gem is quickly becoming a favourite on the Gold Coast.
We caught up with owner Shaun to chat about life behind the counter, the best-sellers, and what makes this place hum.
2nd from left: Shaun, Fela Fels Owner | 3rd from left: Glenn, Merlo Account Manager.
Where it all began
Shaun took over Fala Fels in late 2023, after spotting the business for sale. “I wasn’t really looking for a café specifically,” he says. “But when I came across this one, I liked a lot about it—the food was fresh, fast, and different. It just felt right.”
He comes from a retail background, mostly in supermarkets, so running a café was something new. “But I love visiting cafés, especially on weekends. I enjoy interacting with people, so I thought it would suit me. And it has.”
Fala Fels has quickly found its place in the neighbourhood. “We’re lucky to be in a great area. There are lots of locals, and we rely on our regulars. People come in because they know the coffee’s good—we advertise Merlo on the street and that definitely brings people in. But they stay because the food delivers too.”
As for the daily vibe? “I’d love to say the soundtrack is 'Happy' by Pharrell. That’s the atmosphere we aim for, but my regulars would tell you it’s actually 'Talk Too Much', because that’s more me,” he laughs.
What Locals are Loving
So what’s the crowd favourite? No hesitation from Shaun. “The falafel pocket. Hands down. People actually travel for it. And yes, we get asked this all the time, there really are chickpeas in the falafel. It’s become a bit of an in-joke; we even have it printed on the back of our staff t-shirts: It’s chickpeas, not pee from a chick! But seriously, they’re made fresh and people love them.”
Shaun’s own go-to? “The Moroccan chicken plate. That’s my favourite. But we’ve also got some great smoothies, and they’ve become a bit of a signature too.”
He’s noticed a definite shift toward chilled drinks, especially among younger customers. “We’ve leaned into that to. We do a strawberry iced matcha with house-made puree, and it’s been really popular.”
The Merlo x Fela Fels Partnership
The team at Merlo has played a big part in supporting the café. “Glenn from Merlo visits regularly, checks in, and is always there if we need anything, whether it’s help with equipment or I forget to order enough coffee. Their barista training has also been a big help. We’ve had trainers out a few times and I make sure every new team member gets that time so we keep the coffee consistent.” says Shaun.
Staffing, like in many hospitality venues, has had its challenges. “When I first bought the café, the team was great, but people moved on. What’s worked well for me is hiring overseas travellers. They can multitask, they’re good with people, and our customers love chatting with someone from somewhere else.”
With big developments planned in the local area, Shaun’s optimistic about the future. “We’re going to get busier, no doubt. We might need a bigger machine soon, maybe something with three group handles. But right now, we’re focused on doing what we do well: great coffee, great food, good service. Simple as that.”
Fala Fels is located on Southport Burleigh Road, Mermaid Waters—right between the 7/11 and Hoppy’s Car Wash. Whether you're after your daily Merlo fix, a falafel pocket worth travelling for, or a smoothie with your name on it, Shaun and the team would love to see you.