One-on-one with VanillaFood owner, Nilla Tomkins.

Nilla Tomkins

Running two successful cafes in the heart of Noosa, this local powerhouse is the face behind VanillaFood, where creating a philosophy that encourages wholesome, real, and seasonal consumption is top priority.

PODCAST

JOHN CARUSO

NEXT HOLIDAY

EUROPE

FASHION STYLE

MATTEAU

DRINK ORDER DINING

NATURAL WINE AT SOMEDAYS PIZZA HERBERT

While her birth certificate lists Denmark, when it comes to old fashioned heart and soul, Nilla Tomkin may as well be Noosa born and raised. Arriving in Australia over twenty years ago, she worked her way through the food scene, trekking through kitchens on the east coast, cooking up a storm in the likes of Eumundi, before taking things out on her own.

Originally a catering and wholesale business, Nilla started VanillaFood in 2012. Now known for their delicious, organic, and locally-sourced menu, it’s no surprise that the business expanded to VanillaFood Organic Cafe in 2014, opening at the Belmondos market. Now operating in two Noosa locations, including a flagship store in Noosa Junction, Nilla’s passion for organic and sustainable eating reigns strong – and the locals love it.

“I grew up helping my mother in the kitchen. I was the only girl out of my siblings, so I learnt a lot from my mum around the house. She taught me that fresh and local is best,” Nilla says.

Bringing together the philosophy of good food, organic produce, and wellbeing in one place, it’s surprising Nilla isn’t vegan herself.

“I actually eat anything and everything in moderation, trying to be as healthy as I can. I’m a strong believer in eating local, organic, and sustainable,” Nilla says.

You’ll often find the dishes at her cafes are changing, driven by local produce, stock availability, and Nilla’s anticipation to always try out something new.

While we all struggle to balance both work and life, on her days off, you may find Nilla walking at Noosa National Park, indulging in breakfast at one of her VanillaFood locations, or perusing the local farmer’s market.

“We are so lucky here on the Sunshine Coast. Where else in the world can you be at work in 10 minutes, driving along a stunning coastline, whilst watching the sunrise?” she says.

Looking ahead, it doesn’t look like this foodie is slowing down anytime soon. After just releasing her very first cookbook – VanillaFood The Cookbook, we can’t wait to see what’s next.