Sunshine Coast influencer, Rhiannon Smith, opens new Lil Canteen cafe at Cotton Tree

A Sunshine Coast influencer and powerhouse business owner has opened a second waterfront cafe following the success of her first hole in the wall venue.

A Sunshine Coast influencer and powerhouse business owner has opened a waterfront cafe with a fresh aesthetic following the success of her first hole in the wall venue.

Rhiannon Smith, 31, of Maroochydore, bought Lil Canteen, a small cafe at Buddina, in 2018, just six months after it had opened.

The Italian candle seller turned cafe business owner, boasting an elegant coastal Instagram feed with more than 22k followers, turned the small venue into one of the Sunshine Coast’s most popular brunch spots.

Food available on the Lil Canteen menu. Picture – contributed.

Now, Lil Canteen, known for its organic, predominantly gluten-free menu and famed Acai Bowls, has announced the opening of its next venue in Cotton Tree.

The Cotton Tree venue is in a waterfront location, offering stunning views and a spacious setting with indoor and outdoor seating.

Guests can enjoy the same delicious, quick, and healthy menu they’ve come to love, all of the classic Acai bowl options and their famous house-made paleo cookies, which have been a best-selling item for years.

Lil Canteen is known for its toasties. Picture – contributed.

Lil Canteen has built a loyal following over the years with its commitment to quality, fresh ingredients, and innovative culinary creations.

Ms Smith said the new location aims to uphold these standards while providing an inviting and relaxing space for guests to gather and enjoy.

“It’s always been my dream to expand our little Buddina cafe,” she said.

“It’s been an amazing six years of business there.

Rhiannon Smith, owner of Lil Canteen cafe. Picture – contributed.

“We were lucky to find the new space. It’s much bigger, about six times bigger, and has a completely different aesthetic.”

Ms Smith said she was excited for her next business venture.

“This one is open seven days a week from 6am to 3pm,” she said.

“I’m hoping to hold a lot of community events there too since the space is bigger.”