Salti Reads is the Sunshine Coast’s first romance bookstore and espresso bar, and it has rapidly become one of the most talked-about destinations on the Caloundra dining and lifestyle scene. Situated at Shop 6, 38 Esplanade Bulcock Beach, the store is the brainchild of owner Caity Jones, who combined a successful career in graphic design and hospitality with a deep love of books to create a space that genuinely fills a gap.
The coffee is serious. Salti Reads serves specialty beans from Paradox Coffee Roasters, with a focus on quality over volume. Loyalty cards, reusable cup discounts and free coffees for emergency service workers are part of a community-first approach that has earned fierce local loyalty. The café also stocks Paradox whole beans, stylish tumblers and gear to take home.
The book collection is extensive and deliberately curated, with over 90 per cent of titles in the romance and romantasy genre, from sweet closed-door love stories through to dark edge and LGBTQ+ fiction. Bookish merchandise designed in-house, crochet book sleeves from local makers, fresh florals and a range of gifts complete the offer. Bookish events are a regular fixture.
The store draws visitors from interstate and has built a genuinely devoted community, from the 6am Men’s Club regulars to the weekly Australia Zoo Keepers book club. Open seven days, from 6am Monday to Friday.