The Butter crew opens Alby’s, a charming neighbourhood cafe in Wavell Heights
In every neighbourhood, there’s a spot that feels like the heart of the community – a place where familiar faces gather, stories are swapped over shared plates and neighbours become friends. Less than a week after opening in Wavell Heights, Alby’s is already buzzing, on its way to becoming the kind of local hub that every neighbourhood longs for.
Daniel Bowles is no stranger to the Brisbane cafe scene. Over the past decade, he’s been behind some of the city’s much-loved brunch spots, from New Farm staples Little Loco and Miss Jones, to Hawthorne’s vibrant Sister. Close to a year ago, Daniel teamed up with friend and business partner Tiger Hsu to open Butter in Gaythorne – a sunny suburban haunt known for its hearty toasties and community spirit. Now, the duo has brought that same winning formula north to Wavell Heights with their newest venture, Alby’s.
“We love the idea of opening neighbourhood cafes that are community focused,” says Daniel. “I feel like the suburbs are crying out for specialty coffee and quality food – a place that is local and special to them, where they can catch up with their neighbours and friends. We wanted to bring that to Wavell Heights.” Judging by the groups of locals gathered around tables and chatting animatedly while waiting for coffees, Daniel and Tiger have delivered that in spades.
Perched on a quiet, leafy corner in the heart of Wavell Heights, Alby’s has transformed the former Kalisto Cafe into a light-filled neighbourhood hub. The once-dark interior has been refreshed with a lick of white paint contrasted by pops of Alby’s signature green, making the space light, bright and airy.
Guests are welcomed by a striking fluted-concrete coffee counter custom made by Wild Cypress, set opposite shelves lined with take-home provisions and Alby’s own branded merch to browse while you wait for your brew. Beyond the counter, a sunroom dapples the cafe with natural light, which dances through coloured-glass windows across timber accents and simple furnishings to create a breezy, welcoming atmosphere.
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With so many young families in the area, Daniel and Tiger have also carved out a dedicated kids’ nook that opens onto the side deck – a thoughtful touch that makes the space feel truly community-minded. Seating just 30, Alby’s strikes a balance between cosy and lively – the kind of cafe where you can swing by for a quick takeaway or settle in for a slow morning with friends.
When it comes to food, Daniel and Tiger have crafted a menu that is just as inviting as the space. Diners can expect a concise selection of all-day breakfast favourites, including Butter’s much-loved sausage muffin (think pork-and-fennel sausage patty, egg, American cheese and Tiger sauce) and banana bread spread with Single O espresso butter. If you fancy something a little sweeter, opt for the plate-sized crumpet drizzled with local honey and cinnamon, or the acai bowl loaded with coconut yoghurt, granola, passionfruit and strawberry.
Like Butter, Alby’s also serves a line-up of inventive toasties – from a rich, slow-cooked beef rendang with sweet mustard, kraut and American cheese, to a gooey three-cheese option with hot honey. Every dish is designed to be enjoyed slowly or on the go, encouraging the cafe’s “messy hands, happy hearts” ethos. Complementing the food are expertly brewed cups of Single O coffee, tea and matcha, as well as some special iced options – iced tiramisu, anyone?
Alby’s is open now in Wavell Heights. For opening hours and contact details, head to The Directory.