Spotlight on Stirling | Little Wave
Little Wave is Scarborough’s newest café and wine bar, embracing the surf culture and strong sense of community in Scarborough.
Founded by Ali and Fede, two seasoned hospitality veterans with roots in Provence and Tuscany respectively, Little Wave is more than just a café and wine bar—it's a reflection of their shared passions for coffee, surf, and wine.
Opening its doors in September 2024, Little Wave has quickly become the go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. The venue captures the essence of simple pleasures, whether it's grabbing a coffee after an early morning surf, hosting a morning business meeting, or enjoying an afternoon wine while watching the sunset. Ali and Fede envisioned a place that was authentic to Scarborough, open from morning to night, and reliably enjoyable at any time of day.
One of Little Wave’s charms is its predominantly local team, many of whom are balancing studies or other passions. Ali understands the challenges of staff retention in the hospitality industry and has created a supportive work environment that accommodates the diverse lifestyles of his team. This focus has fostered a committed and passionate team, contributing to the venue's warm and welcoming atmosphere.
While Little Wave has embraced Australia's beloved beach café culture, it also stands out by taking bold risks with its menu. Ali and Fede’s European roots are evident in their thoughtfully curated wine list, featuring a balanced selection of French, Italian, and Australian wines. This blend of familiar and unique offerings has been met with positive feedback, which has been instrumental to their early success.
Beyond their business success, Ali and Fede are dedicated to giving back to the community. They sponsor a local soccer team and volunteer their time coaching under 16s, further embedding themselves in the heart of Scarborough.
Little Wave's journey is a testament to the power of passion, community, and innovation in building a successful and beloved local business. Ali and Fede's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of aligning personal values with business goals and fostering strong community connections.
