The Oxley 1823 has gained some serious lip service this week, with another hot spot joining the lineup and making a stache-ing impression. Putting a whole new Euro twist on the café, restaurant, and bar game, it’s hotter than a handlebar mo in the 80s and is aptly called, Moustache. Here to turn your average breaky/brunch/dinner into something follicle-ly fabulous, it’s compact but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in charm. Think intimate, cozy, and effortlessly cool – just the way we like our noshing and watering holes.

The epic menu is inspired by the continent where food is practically a religion (#amen) offering small bites that pack a big punch. Then there’s the bevs and let’s start with the espresso which is strong enough to curl your ‘stache and in our humble opinion, is the perfect brew.

Moving on to the boozier stuff, Moustache has an expertly curated selection of cocktails that come with a healthy splash of European flair. And the vinos? Let’s just say they’ve been handpicked with the kind of finesse that only sommelier with a penchant for Euro panache could muster.

Now let’s talk about the space itself. This intimate little pocket rocket packs a stylish punch, combining comfy vibes with cool factor in equal measure. It’s the kind of place where you can sip, savour, and soak in the ambiance, all while feeling like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem because, well, you have (you’re welcome).

Now let’s talk about the space itself. This intimate little pocket rocket packs a stylish punch, combining comfy vibes with cool factor in equal measure. It’s the kind of place where you can sip, savour, and soak in the ambiance, all while feeling like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem because, well, you have (you’re welcome).

Moustache is all about keeping things down-to-earth, with a strong focus on community and making everyone feel welcome. No need to make a reservation – just stroll on in and the team will whisk you away to a cozy corner, whether that’s at a street-side table perf for people watching, perched on a bar stool, or tucked away in the vibey laneway.

Moustache is all about keeping things down-to-earth, with a strong focus on community and making everyone feel welcome. No need to make a reservation – just stroll on in and the team will whisk you away to a cozy corner, whether that’s at a street-side table perf for people watching, perched on a bar stool, or tucked away in the vibey laneway.

The genius behind Moustache is none other than Brodie Green, the mastermind who brought us the neighbouring crowd fave, Buoy, and started Seadog (voted the best café on the GC, thank you very much). Brodie’s got a knack for creating spaces that feel like home (only way cooler) and with the official opening date right around the corner, you can betcha bottom dollar that it’s un-beard-lievably good.

In the kitchen, Head Chef Rodrigo Paraboa will wield his culinary wand, with a resume that reads like a foodie’s dream: Little Truffle, Paper Daisy, and The Paddock Restaurant at Beechmont Estate. And if you’re wondering what dish has him most excited, that would be Charcoal Grilled Prawns, paired with spreadable salami. It’s a combo which sounds kinda wild, but tastes oh-so-right. Chef’s orders – and we’re not about to argue because when Rodrigo speaks, we listen.

So, get ready to meet the new ‘it’ boy in town, all about keeping things simple and doing them exceptionally well. Moustache is here, and he’s ready to charm his way into our bellies, one perfectly brewed espresso, expertly crafted dish, and carefully curated vino at a time.

Where: 2217 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: 6am to 12pm Monday to Friday & 4pm till late Wednesday to Sunday

Words by Bianca Trathen
Images by Kirra Smith

There’s a new kid on the block in Nobby’s and it’s quite literally all we’ve been hearing about. The doors to one of the most talked about new precincts – The Oxley 1823 – are open.

Nobby’s has long been a hive of activity for the Coast, whether you’re looking for somewhere to get your morning caffeine fix (aren’t we all) or a margarita (actually, make that 10) it’s one of the best beachside spots around.

Now Nobby’s is bringing back that charm you know and love but with all the good stuff you’ve been missing, like you know a grocer and butcher.

The Calile-esque look is a welcome addition to Nobby’s, it’s giving a resort vibe and we’re absolutely all about feeling like we’re on vacay while doing our weekly grocery shop.

Not only have the team at The Oxley brought us a gorg new hangout spot, they’re also bringing us the legends behind Rick Shores who have announced a whole new concept coming to the precinct mid 2024.

A side-step from the Asian-style menu at the iconic Rick Shores, the new restaurant concept is set to bring a Latin American flavour by their Executive Chef James Brady, who’s been wining and dining at some of the world’s top Mexican and Latin American restaurants all in the name of market research – sounds like a job for us!

The space will spread across two levels with the Latin American restaurant on level one, an open-air rooftop ceviche bar and private dining rooms so there’s literally everything you need for the ultimate long lunch all in one spot.

In stage one of the precinct’s opening, you’ll see some familiar faces, with the brains behind Burleigh institution Seadog bringing a new café to the block. Buoy (pronounced boo-ee) is promising to deliver a pared back menu that is less on frills and big on flavour, think a super considered menu with the classics you know and love as well as fresh feeds with hero quality produce.

But what about the coffee we hear you ask? Think boutique harvested coffee from Colombia poured by expert baristas with unique flavours of milo and caramel – yes, you read that right – because life’s too short for boring coffee.

Also coming back to Nobby’s, is the legendary Gourmet Meats under the guise of the Oxley Village Butcher so you can say hello to premium meats to level up your BBQ game with fresh cuts from the best farms around.

The Oxley Village Grocer is bringing all the fresh produce and groceries you need as well as market flowers for whether you’re looking for ‘just because’ blooms or something that says ‘sorry I didn’t mean to forget your birthday’ – eek.

Last but not least, all that shopping and socialising is thirsty work so the Oxley 1823 Sub Station is your stop for hydration station with juices and milkshakes that will def bring the boys to the yard, or a cheeky scoop of gelato because we’re in for a long hot summer.

We’ve been eagerly awaiting this pretty little newcomer and I think it’s safe to say it’s been worth the wait, so you know where to catch us kicking back for a bite and a beverage this summer.

Where: The Oxley, 2217 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: Opening Saturday 2nd December

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.

Get ready foodie friends because the culinary scene on the Coast has a sizzling new addition. The eagerly awaited Lars Bar & Grill is ready to fire up its woodfired wizardry and pop open the bubbly on Thursday 8^th August.

Nestled in the heart of oh-so-trendy lifestyle hub, The Oxley 1823, Lars Bar & Grill brings a whole new level of deliciousness to the Nobby’s/Mermaid Beach ‘hood. Mark our words; if your taste buds had a bucket list, this place would be at the very top!

Helmed by Lars Kollrepp, son of Oskars on Burleigh founder and Gold Coast hospitality legend Marty Kollrepp, this joint is basically a Michelin Star in the making. With over two decades of experience and a resume that reads like a who’s who of top-notch dining (think Executive Chef of all Simon Gloftis’ Brisbane restaurants, including Hellenika, SK Steak & Oyster, Sunshine and Sushi Room), it’s safe to say Lars would bring home the gold if cheffing was an Olympic sport.

“I had the dream of opening my own restaurant for a very long time,” he says. “I jumped at the chance when it came. I have a deep appreciation for fine dining cuisine, gained through my many years in the industry; however, being a Gold Coast boy, I love the laid-back lifestyle it brings.”

“My aim for Lars Bar & Grill is a restaurant where simplicity meets modern flavours, and quality dining and impeccable dishes meet a relaxed and welcoming vibe and where people can truly unwind and enjoy themselves.”

And unwind you shall. The menu is a mouthwatering mix of woodfired steaks and the freshest local seafood, promising a taste of Queensland like never before. Sink your teeth into starter and entrée style dishes like Caviar Tarts, Baked Scallops with garlic chive butter, and the decadent Roasted Pumpkin Ravioli with sage brown butter and Pinenuts.

For mains, it’s a steak lover’s paradise with ten different cuts to choose from. Each bite celebrates the region’s coastal bounty and locally sourced stockyard beef, ensuring every steak is a cut above the rest.

Perhaps a melt-in-your-mouth Pork Tomahawk with burnt onion mustard and jus gras gets you going? Or for seafood swooners, the Grilled Coral Trout with smoked tomato and capsicum is sure to float your boat.

Lars Bar & Grill isn’t just about the food though. The vibe is as important as the vittles, with a dining room seating 80 and an outdoor area for 30 more, perfect for soaking up that sweet Gold Coast sunshine. For extra special occasions, there’s a private dining room offering an exclusive space for up to 10 guests, made to order for celebrations, business meetings, or just because you deserve a little exclusivity.

With its blend of fine dining and a laid-back coastal vibe, Lars Bar & Grill is set to become the new go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. The grill is always hot, the vibes are always cool, and the food is nothing short of extraordinary so book yourselves in stat to experience this delicious new chapter in the Gold Coast’s ever-evolving culinary story.

Where:  2217 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: 5.30pm till late, Wednesday to Sunday