Merlo Coffee

I got the worst cappuccino in my life at here. The staff didn’t know how to steam milk properly, as you can see the cappuccino had no foam at all, and it was overheated so the milk flavor was completely gone. I paid over 6 for this

Have been working at QUT GP for 3 years and Merlo's coffee used to be one of the best on campus. But for the last 1-2 years their coffee become pretty bad, taste watery and/or sour most of the time. Their customer service also become worse as they often make me feel unwelcomed, get my name wrong and slow (wait at least 10mins or more to get my order) despite they have so many staffs working there. I noticed they have a lot of new young staffs that seems to have not gone through proper training. Today I went there to order a sourdough toast for my breakfast, which is the only thing that I liked and I do that occasionally (order coffee somewhere else then come to Merlo for toast). And after waiting for 15mins, I got myself a burned toast (see attached photo). I didn't find out until I brought it back to my office, and I just didn't bother to go back there to wait 15 mins for an exchange. Such a shame that you guys can't even train your stuff to make a proper toast (and do not serve a burned toast)! Merlo QUT is on my blacklist now. Stay away for good.

I’m really disappointed with the quality of the matcha at Merlo. While I understand that Merlo’s main focus is coffee, I think it’s important to share this feedback so others don’t waste their time or money. The matcha I ordered cost $10, tasted gross and was clearly not prepared properly( eg a clump of matcha powder in your mouth). If you're new to matcha, this unfortunately gives a very poor impression of what it should taste like. I strongly recommend that Merlo reconsider offering matcha-based drinks until the basics are done right. Please learn how to make a proper matcha using a traditional whisk (not a small Kmart plastic whisk in a cup), and consider upgrading the quality of the matcha powder itself. Also, please do not offer strawberry, mango, or other flavored matcha drinks until the standard matcha is made well. These variations only highlight the lack of quality in the base product. Stick to the coffee for now , matcha lovers, look elsewhere.

I don’t like to come on here and speak negatively about a small store however this isn’t the first time this has happened. Firstly, I have noticed on multiple accounts staff not acknowledging language barriers with customers. QUT is a place which invites people from many different cultures and backgrounds, some where English isn’t their first language. I have observed staff being impatient, rude and discouraging to people who are just trying to order a morning coffee. Secondly, I understand the difficulty working in a small store in a busy area and expect there to be delays in orders. However, after waiting for upwards of 15-20 minutes for a single coffee while having staff on their phones, laughing and swearing loudly, it is understandably frustrating. Lastly, I have noticed the quality of coffee has dropped significantly over the past few months. The standard of coffee and matcha is not what you would expect from a well known wholesaler. Judging from the reviews below and the comments around the campus I am not alone in my opinions.

As a Local Guide Level 8, I’ve tried a lot of cafés around Brisbane, but Merlo Coffee at QUT Gardens Point has a special place in my routine. It’s tucked right under the library, so it’s perfect whether you’re grabbing a quick caffeine hit before class or settling in for a study session. The vibe here strikes a sweet balance — it’s relaxed enough to chill with friends, but still feels like a productive space if you’ve got your laptop out. There’s indoor seating for air-con comfort and a covered outdoor spot where you can enjoy the river breeze. The staff honestly make the experience. Even during the peak uni rush, they’re upbeat, fast, and never make you feel rushed. You can tell they know their regulars — it’s those small interactions that make a café feel like part of your day rather than just a pit stop. Now, the coffee. Consistently excellent. Merlo roasts their own beans, and you can taste that freshness in every cup. I’m a flat white fan, and it’s always smooth, strong, and never burnt. If you’re hungry, their breakfast panini is a winner — crispy, filling, and great value. They also do smoothies, chai, matcha, and lighter bites like wraps, salads, and banana bread for when you want something quick. Prices are fair for the quality and location, and they keep things moving so even the morning line isn’t much of a wait. Overall, Merlo Coffee QUT GP is one of those places that becomes part of your routine without you even realising it. Great coffee, great people, and a comfortable space — whether you’re studying, socialising, or just taking five minutes for yourself, it delivers every time.