Lovi Cafe & Restaurant brings Neapolitan-style pizza, handmade pasta and morning morsels to Robina
A new neighbourhood favourite is quietly taking shape in Robina, with the recent arrival of Lovi Cafe & Restaurant, a cosy, all-day venue built on good food, thoughtful design and a whole lot of heart. Take a peek …
Lovi Cafe & Restaurant is the latest project from husband-and-wife team Mohammed Sayyad and Negin Shahuni, who bring serious hospitality experience to the table, having previously owned and operated a 400-seat venue overseas. “We made this with pure love,” Negin explains, referencing both the name and the philosophy behind the gorgeous light-filled new cafe. “We wanted people to feel comfortable here, like they’re at home.”
After spending close to a year searching for the right location, the couple were immediately drawn to the Robina site, particularly its generous alfresco area and long-term potential. With nearby developments set to bring increased foot traffic to the precinct, the timing felt right.
Behind the scenes, the journey to opening was far from straightforward. Building beneath a residential complex presented a series of logistical challenges, from approvals to restrictions. At several points, the couple were advised to walk away. Instead, they persisted. “Everyone told us not to do it,” Negin recalls. “But we loved the space too much.”
Thankfully for us, they proceeded and created something beautiful. Designed by Negin and Mohammed themselves, the interior blends minimal coastal elements with soft, warm finishes, creating what Negin describes as simple luxury.
Despite opening just weeks ago, Lovi is already building a loyal local following day-by-day. The venue currently seats about 40, with plans to expand to around 100 in the future through additional shaded outdoor seating and extended dining areas. For now, the intimate footprint suits relaxed catch-ups, easy breakfasts and low-key dinners.
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Rather than launching with an extensive offering, Lovi has rolled out a refined, short-form menu while the team settles in. Breakfast leans into familiar favourites, balancing healthy and indulgent options. Expect fluffy pancakes, French toast, classic egg dishes and ciabatta sandwiches, alongside lighter plates for early risers. Already, several dishes are emerging as crowd favourites, including the chicken Caesar salad and steak ciabatta, which regularly sell out.
As the day moves on, lunch brings a selection of light bites and salads, with the Caesar continuing to win over fans. Dinner is where Lovi begins to carve out its own identity, with a focus on homemade pasta and Neapolitan-style pizza, supported by a small selection of well-loved entrees and salads. The venue is also fully licensed, making the alfresco deck an ideal spot for an early evening aperitif paired with a wood-fired pizza as the sun dips.
For Negin, hospitality is as much about connection as it is about cooking. Having moved to the Gold Coast just a year ago, Mohammed and Negin are building both a business and a community from the ground up. “It’s hard,” she admits. “We do everything ourselves at the moment. But we love this career. We love being in touch with people.”
Already, regulars are returning for repeat visits. As Lovi Cafe & Restaurant continues to find its rhythm, the focus remains firmly on getting the foundations right – honest food, good coffee, warm service and a space that feels genuinely welcoming. With plans to expand seating and introduce a full menu in the coming months, this quietly confident newcomer is shaping up to be a welcome addition to Robina’s dining scene.
Head to The Directory for opening times.