With a history spanning more than a century, Daisy’s Place has welcomed scores of Sunshine Coast travellers seeking rest, a good meal and some local hospitality. Its story holds a special place in the hearts of many, and with the doors now reopened, owner Sue Joseph has plans to preserve Daisy’s legacy for generations to come.
The historic venue began life as The Rustic Cabin, built by Samuel and Daisy Johnson in 1923 near Jowarra Scenic Park. It became a popular rest stop on the old route between Brisbane and North Queensland, known for Daisy’s homemade pies, tea and scones.
More than a century later, people still arrive carrying memories of childhood visits and family road trips.
“Some came here with their parents, and now their parents have passed,” owner Sue Joseph said. “There’s a lot of feeling and a lot of memory.”
Sue purchased the property in 2010, restored it and opened Daisy’s Place in 2011. After being leased and later sitting quiet for a time, the much-loved venue has reopened following another extensive renovation.
While age had taken its toll on much of the original cabin, the timber floor in the front tearoom remains. It has been carefully sanded over the years, although restorers have warned that the most recent sanding will likely be its last.
Every table was stripped and repolished, while the timber inside and outside was treated to help preserve it. The building was repainted, carpets replaced and the kitchen completely renewed with new equipment and flooring selected for safety and comfort underfoot.
An existing outdoor area was also revamped, opening it to the surrounding greenery and creating another inviting place to settle in.
The result retains the warmth and character people remember, with polished timber, tablecloths and attentive table service. Guests can choose a quiet chair to read, meet friends over lunch, hold a business meeting or sit at the outdoor bar tables with a cocktail.
Dale Higgins, who was part of Daisy’s original team, manages the venue, while chefs Jason, Tom and Joey bring experience and plenty of personality to the kitchen. Jason also worked at Daisy’s following its 2011 opening, while Tom and Joey previously worked at Sarah’s Unplugged in Maleny.
The team’s recommendations offer a good place to begin. Daisy’s Jungle Curry has returned to the menu and can cater to different tastes, with the chefs exploring chicken, prawn and plant-based options.
At breakfast, Tom suggests the Reuben Eggs Benedict, a playful meeting of the classic Reuben sandwich and a café favourite. Other dishes include seafood chowder, hearty pies and changing breakfast and brunch specials.
Beyond the food, a new retail collection gives visitors another reason to linger. Sue has carefully selected pottery, jewellery, handbags, artworks, books, children’s toys and gifts, with a strong focus on local, Australian and family-run makers.
Some pieces are handmade in Caloundra, Maleny, Brisbane and Byron Bay. Others come from family businesses Sue has known for decades, including hand-painted pots made by a Caboolture artisan. Purchases can be gift-wrapped, ready to take home as a keepsake or thoughtful present.
The happiest feature of the reopened Daisy’s Place may be its team. Staff greet customers warmly, support one another and are finding their rhythm together.
The restoration is still continuing. Sue plans to add a mural of Daisy and display reproductions of her handwritten documents, allowing visitors to follow more of the Johnson family’s story.
Preserving that history is important to Sue.
“Daisy Johnson, Sam and their daughter Dot are part of this community. I don’t want them to ever be forgotten.”
11 Frizzo Connection Rd, Glenview. Phone (07) 5494 5192 to make a booking.
Food imagery by Chef Joey
