The Gumboot Cafė — Restaurant in Area D (Roberts Creek)

I've always had a soft spot for this local cafe restaurant, as their food and service had always been great, but my fondness has now soured into disappointment. We were a group of 6 attending our annual choir retreat and annual visit to this restaurant. It was a busy night, but we were happy waiting for food as our drinks and table appy came. An hour and half after our 6pm seating, we were hungry and worried that our entrees hadn't arrive yet, when the server came out and announced that our order was coming out next. To our surprise and major disappointment, the food that came went to the table next to us, our choirmates who came half an hour after us. All the food that came out after that was people who ordered after us. The server then vaguely told us that "someone lost an order" and something like "aw come on guys, don't look at me like that, we'll get you your food". She fled back inside, not giving a straight explanation or apology, and avoided us until our food came. Our food was delivered by what we assume to be the manager or person in charge, and it would have been the perfect opportunity for him to apologize and maybe give us a discount or free appy/drink, but instead all he did was grandly warn us that the plates were very hot. THAT'S IT. We were bewildered by this handling of the situation. We later flagged down a hostess and asked if they could make sure to reflect their mistake in the bill, and she said she would ask management. Again, no one came out to address the situation. When our bill came, they gave us a 10% discount, and by then the server was very awkward, kind of defensive and giving us minimal attention. We later found out when we finally caught up with our choir that everyone else had received 10% off since we were staying at the local backpacker's hostel.

I would confidently say we are a reasonable, friendly and understanding bunch of people. If they had apologized and owned up to the lost order in a straightforward manner we totally would have forgiven them, but the way they handled this mistake from top down was very unprofessional, awkward and disappointing. I now regret giving them 11% tip and I'm sure next year we'll be firing up the BBQ at the local hostel instead.

Giving 2 stars only because the...

I have traditionally been a BIG Gumboot Cafe fan! It is always a must go-to spot to relax and enjoy whenever we’re on the SS Coast.

So with great expectancy I went there as soon as we arrived in Robert’s Creek this week. I had last been here back in March, and so truly enjoyed my food, latte and just being in the café for some relaxation. I had multiple visits to the cafe on that trip.

I popped in this week to grab a hot drink and a little treat. Immediately, I realized something had shifted.

My drink was only available to be prepared in a large size…now $6!! While it was good…I can’t afford to do this regularly during my stay. Then the greatest disappointment, and the prompt for this post, is that the cookies, which once used to be big, good sized, hearty treats are no longer of said standard.

I opened my bag and pulled out a very thin, moderately sized cookie. It may still taste good, but for the $2.25 price point, I expected what used to be. Truly a shame.

Of course, we know food prices have escalated, but has the price of ice and coffee and flour and sugar gone up that much in the past few months? I sincerely ask and wonder.

It’s a great spot and locally owned. The service we experienced with the student at the cash was good. I celebrate all of this. I love this little place and want to return. However, my experience is that the value for my costs was just not there. So disappointed.

Understanding the times we’re in, makes this all a tough thing to put in print. But I needed to share honestly right now in...

The Gumboot Café in Roberts Creek is one of those places that feels like a home away from home the moment you walk in. Joe, the owner, has created a space that’s not just about great coffee (which, by the way, is fantastic!) but also about fostering a genuine sense of community. The atmosphere is warm, friendly, and cozy with that perfect blend of laid-back and lively. It’s an ideal spot whether you’re catching up with friends, diving into a good book, or just unwinding with a hot drink.

The café offers a wide variety of delicious food options, and they really shine when it comes to catering to vegans. Even if a dish isn’t explicitly labeled vegan, just ask, and they’re happy to “veganize” it for you with quality ingredients that don’t compromise on taste. The menu is packed with fresh, flavorful choices—whether you’re grabbing breakfast, lunch, or a sweet treat. It’s clear they put care and thought into each dish.

The space itself is charming, with an open layout that feels inviting and relaxed. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you’ll feel welcome here. The community vibe, combined with the fantastic food and coffee, makes the Gumboot Café a must-visit spot on the Sunshine Coast. Joe and his team really have something special going on here. If you appreciate great vegan food, excellent coffee, and a cozy atmosphere with a friendly touch, the Gumboot Café is the place to be. The Gumboot is a partner in the Pollution Free Salish Sea Challenge serving Zero...