Chris Owen
Jun 01, 2026"Pam’s Cafe 88 at Nudgee Beach isn’t just the only cafe here - it’s the beating heart of this little seaside community. It feels like stepping into a coastal 1990s time capsule: part cafe, part milk bar, part general store. A few plastic chairs beneath a shed roof, no frills, no fuss. There’s something charmingly nostalgic about its simplicity, a refreshing antidote to Brisbane’s ever-growing fleet of hyper-curated, over-polished cafes. I ordered a coffee and a steak sandwich - my go-to benchmark for any cafe. $20 all up. The coffee was good enough to get the job done, and the sandwich was respectable; toasted just right, with a decent piece of steak and fresh, classic fillings. The cafe menu covers plenty of ground, from hearty breakfasts like the Big Breakfast ($26.95 with drink included) to a Seafood Basket for One ($18.95) and even Asian cuisine like Lemongrass Beef Salad ($22.95). It’s unassuming but surprisingly varied. Pam’s has been here for over 20 years, and it’s clear why. Locals gather here to chat over coffee, share laughs, and feel at home. A woman I spoke to who lived nearby said she’s been a regular for years and has never left disappointed. One of the staff even stopped by my table just to check in - a small, thoughtful touch that feels almost rare these days. Yes, it’s the only cafe in Nudgee Beach, and yes, it’s modest in appearance. But Pam’s offers something more: connection, genuine warmth, and a rare, unpretentious charm. It’s not really trying to impress anyone, and somehow, that’s what makes it so special."