The cosy little space on the corner of Redhead Beach’s SLSC may be quieter over our cooler months, but owners Murray and Maree are gearing up for what may just be their biggest summer yet.

If you’ve yet to visit the much-loved Cargo Espresso Bar joint at Redhead Beach, have you been hiding under a rock?

This coastal foodie joint has been a beloved spot for the local community since 2017 and today, is the quintessential Aussie beach kiosk.

Starting as a very small coffee cart before launching their somewhat iconic shipping container cafe, the Cargo Espresso Bar as we know and love it today has only been serving out of the kiosk following the venue’s renovations in 2018.

“The shipping container was really great, but it was nothing flash – it was just all about the coffee. It was a good way for us to cut our teeth and to meet all of the locals and build those relationships,” Maree said.

And build those relationships they did. Over the last six years, Cargo Espresso Bar hasn’t just become any old cafe that you can get a good coffee and feed from, it has become a key part of locals' lifestyles.

“I never would have known that when we started in the shipping container that this is what we would end up doing but it feels right, and we love it. We love this neighbourhood and the community. They’re all super supportive and it’s a really nice community vibe.”

Following a few unpredictable years with covid and then last year’s tidal wave, 2023 has been marked for a fresh start for the local business, and the team has gone out full steam ahead. Completing a little refit inside, plus rebranding the business, refreshing the food offering, and launching both DoorDash and Uber Eats – the team couldn’t be more prepared for the warmer months.

“We’ve had such beautiful weather this year and it finally feels like we’re back to normal. Our first year, I thought it couldn’t get any bigger, it was such a busy summer. But somehow, every year it has gotten bigger. That’s why we’ve taken the time this year to decide what we need to improve to make it flow better over summer.”

The menu is undoubtedly one of the most modern takes on a beach kiosk offering that I’ve seen before. With chef, Alejandra, making the most of the venue’s compact kitchen space, you can expect all your kiosk favourites plus a selection of more health-focused dishes.

“The idea with the menu has always been to keep it a little old school but slightly elevated with the ingredients we use. For example, you can still get a beef burger, but it will be with a housemade patty.”

Starting with a range of Cargo’s sought-after tasty toasties including their Vegan Toastie made with pulled jackfruit, vegan chipotle, mayo, spinach, and vegan cheese; the Veggie Toastie with cheese, tomato, spinach, and basil pesto; the Ham & Cheese Toastie with shaved ham and Swiss cheese; and the Ham & Cheese Croissant with ham, Swiss cheese, and tomato relish.

Moving into breakfast, the standouts are without a doubt the Haloumi Brekkie Roll with grilled haloumi, fried free-range egg, rocket, aioli, and tomato relish on a milk bun; the Avocado Toast with fresh avocado on toasted sourdough with feta, rocket, lemon, and balsamic; and the Açai Bowl made with Berry Bros açai, topped with seasonal fruit and granola.

For something a little more substantial and typical of the beach kiosk fare, try one of the burgers (beef, schnitty, fish, and veggie options), or a fish or calamari pack complete with hot chips.

Additionally, the menu will always offer a bunch of specials as well as a selection of sides and goodies for the little ones.

With summer fast approaching, Maree and Murray are already planning some fun events to encourage people to stay out and enjoy those warmer nights. Watch this space as more information comes to light!

With the best views of Redhead Beach and serving up the tastiest food and drink, why not visit Cargo Espresso Bar? Drop by before summer hits to see what all the fuss is about, then join in on the chaos that comes from a beach kiosk during our iconic Aussie heatwaves.