Don’t be chai, say hello to Ms Margot's.
Don’t be chai, say hello to Ms Margot's.
With Mum’s day behind us for another year, you might be forgiven for thinking high tea season has come and scone.
Before you pack away the fancy frocks and lower the pinky finger, we have to let you in on a little secret.
Just chalk it up to another one of those happy discoveries we all make as we grow older and wiser, much like the game-changing revelation that breakfast can in actual fact, be enjoyed any time of the day (and inversely, if you want to have cake for breakfast you can do that too).
So lettuce spill the tea on this little pearl of wisdom: you can treat yourself to high tea any. old. time. you. like. #legasp
And when it’s time to treat ourselves to the finer things in life, it’s no secret the Hilton Surfers Paradise knows what’s up (quite literally, on account the 57 levels of luxury and all).
Already our go-to destination for staycays and soirees, but we need not only reserve our visits only for special occasions.
Because if you haven’t already met the Hiltons darling ground floor destination Ms Margot’s Bar & Eats, let us introduce you (and yes, she’s every bit as sophisticated as she sounds #howdoyoudoMs).
Nestled right off the bustling Orchid Ave Surfer’s strip Ms Margots promises tantalising drinks, delicious share plates & glittering coastal interiors #nowyou’rejustshowingoff
As if all that and a whole lotta it-girl energy isn’t enough, Ms Margot also puts on an infamous high tea spread so in-demand you can get your hands on it seven days a week.
Traditionally reserved for bridal showers, baby showers, birthdays and any special event in between, we maintain that ‘the sun is shining’ and ‘overdue goss sesh’ are perfectly valid reasons too.
Because quite frankly, who couldn’t use a bit more jam and cream in their lives #justbecause.
Since varie-tea is the spice of life, The Par-Tea High Tea menu is jam-packed with a tantalising assortment of savoury and sweet classics, perfectly paired with all the essential bevvys (#spoileralert ofc that includes a glass of bubbles which is entirely essential in our humble opinion).
It just wouldn’t be high tea without macarons and of course a berry nice fluffy scone or two with cream and berries – but since you twisted our arm we’ll manage to nibble our way through the Petit Cakes and Salted Caramel Truffles too #ifwemust.
Of course there’s no sad sangas to be found here – only the finest Smoked Salmon & Cucumber Open Sandwich #thankyouverymuch.
Keep it classy (this is Ms Margot’s, after all) and resist the urge to fight over the Pumpkin Arancini or the Haloumi with Honeycomb, Fig & Aioli, and you just know the S&P Soft Shell Crab Bao Bun will bring the #baofactor to the top off the whole delicious affair.
If you’re feeling thirs-tea, choose from Vittoria Barista-made Coffee or Dilmah Vivid Tea Selection and a who could forget the glass of Heidsieck & Co Monopole Champagne per person.
Now if what you and the best-tea’s are in the mood for is a little less ‘graze the day away’ and little more ‘full-blown full coma’, Ms Margot’s has just launched a delish new lunch menu every bit as #ladieswholunch worthy as their digs.
If you also have a huge soft spot for a good taco, the Soft Corn Taco with your choice of filling – Beef Cheek with truffled pepper mayo, Chilli Chicken with avocado & lime or Korean Peppered Tofu will give you something to taco ‘bout.
There’s also the fried and true crowd fave, Karaage Chicken Bites with rice, Kewpie mayo, Tamari & shallots but the Gyro’s Battered Barramundi with tzatziki, potato fries, tomato, lemon & parsley o-fish-ally has our mouths watering.
So whether it’s sophisticated sips, a leisurely lunch or a tea-riffic high tea experience, we think you’ll agree that anytime’s a good time to say hello to the ever-elegant Ms Margots and her enviable array of all-day delights.
When: Ms Margot’s Bar & Eats. Open Daily, 7am – Late, with Par-Tea High Tea available from 11:30AM – 3:00PM.
Where: Hilton Surfers Paradise, 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Brittany Kreskas.
STORY SPONSORED BY HILTON SURFERS PARADISE HOTEL & RESIDENCES
Is your definition of self-care the same as ours? That is, spoiling oneself with a world-class treatment at the ‘hands’ (quite literally) of leaders in relaxation and rejuvenation, and this is a ridiculous question because duh #rhetorical. Or, perhaps you would like to pamper your someone special somewhere special, where they’ll experience the ultimate full-service day spa.
Well we have just the place, which excels in technical prowess and creates an atmosphere of harmony, balance, and genuine consideration for your wellbeing.
We’re of course talking about the indulgent eforea spa, a stunning oasis located inside the equally luxurious Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences #WhereElse.
Transporting locals and visitors alike to unprecedented levels of bliss, eforea spa is unlike any other on the Gold Coast. Redefining the region’s spa scene, this five-star facility provides a myriad of indulgent treatments, all designed to help you reconnect with yourself and emerge brighter. Combined with passionate therapists and an uber welcoming space, it’s not hard to see why this heaven-on-earth has ‘glowing’ reviews for days.
eforea spa offers two distinctive journeys, each encompassing different treatments with organic, natural products, locally inspired therapies, and scientific results-driven practices. Using Australian-made naturally derived iKOU skincare, the Essentials Journey menu includes treatments for the face and body, plus and a range of relaxing massages. Imagine a Sensitive Skin Facial, Diamond-Peel Microdermabrasion, Bamboo Massage, Couples Massage, and even a HICAPS Remedial Massage just to name a few, the message here Keep Calm and Treat Yourself.
An Essentials Journey highlight is the signature Renewing Vicky Shower Experience, increasing circulation, awakening vitality and reducing stress and toxins.
Choose from either a 90 or 120-minute treatment and ninety-shminety – it’s 120 for the win #NoContest.
Starting with a full body exfoliation combined with a refreshing Vichy shower and finishing with a gentle full body massage, it’s the epitome of zen.
Then there’s the Escape Journey suite of treatments, and we’re officially on Struggle Street trying to navigate the ultimate conundrum; which journey to embark on first? Using premium French marine skincare brand Thalgo, Escape Journey options cater to the body and feet, and really all we want in life is world peace and a pedicure.
There are also combination packages for the best of both worlds, as well as special options for mothers-to-be (baby shower gift sorted). We’re talking the likes of an Rest & Restore Body Mud Wrap, Total Body Healing Experience, eforea Indulgence Package and because we like our spa treatments like our pizzas (i.e., with the lot), we’re choosing the 180-minute Head-To-Toe Revitalisation Package.
This all-in sensory sensation begins with an invigorating mineral salt scrub to soothe muscles and release energy flow, followed by a warm mineral rich body mud cocoon and a deeply relaxing scalp massage. Then, enjoy a hot stone full body massage, customised facial treatment, and a cheeky complimentary glass of bubbles in the relaxation room.
Now this is all obviously next level luxe, but eforea spa elevates things another notch with its signature Journey Enhancements. These powerful mini treatments can be added to your existing services, for a more holistic and personalised spa experience. Specially designed for eforea spa, you’ll be introduced to unique techniques from the most fabled spa cultures around the world, and we’ll add them all please and thank you.
There are also couples’ treatment rooms (#CouplesThatSpa2getherStayTogether), and guests have access to the Vichy Shower treatment room, relaxation room, the hotel’s four pools and spa, and the Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences Pool Deck.
Looking for a #gift idea, but not sure which treatment would suit that special someone? Visit the Gift Voucher tab on Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences website to find out more. Plus, there’s free secure parking so you don’t have to traipse down Orchid Ave in your post-pamper sans-makeup state, plus discounts are available for members and group bookings (bachelorette party inspo!).
So next time you ‘knead’ a massage or want to let off a little ‘steam’ living your best spa life, tell Siri to head for eforea spa at the Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences. For more information, go here.
Where: Level 2, Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences, 6 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise
When: 10am – 4pm Wednesday to Sunday. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY HILTON SURFERS PARADISE HOTEL & RESIDENCES
Without a doubt one of life’s greatest pleasures is sitting down in front of a multi-tiered tray, delicately filled with morish bite-size eats and paired with a cuppa. Or bubbles. Okay both.
In all honest-tea, here are 13 of the best high tea haunts here on the Coast. Bake a leg and get bready to tick them off your must-visit list, one by one. And go!
Cove Cafe
Following a multi-million dollar refurb, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort is looking better than ever – as is the the ever-elegant High Tea menu, hosted in Cove Cafe from 1–4pm every Saturday and Sunday. Elevate your weekend with decadent morsels such as Spanner Crab with saffron mayonnaise, and Salted Caramel Choux with orchid vanilla tea cream and caramel sauce.
Plus, since they also have the bragging rights as the first hotel to feature globally renowned Tea Forté teas, so you can rest assured you’ll be treated like royal-tea – starting with a welcome of Tea Forté infused towel and palate-cleansing iced tea piccolo from your host. You can also upgrade to bottomless rosé or the signature ‘Pear-tea-ni’ cocktail – either of which sounds pear-fect to us (and bonus, we can finally swing by and suss out that lush, spruced up lagoon pool in the process). Prices start at $57 per person.
Where: Cove Cafe, Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove
Pearls Bar
This eclectic fave with warm mood lighting for days is known for its rotating seasonal high teas. Starting March 1 they invite us all to celebrate the heart of autumn with their Falling for Flavours: Autumn High Tea. Infused with luxurious flavours inspired by the new season, we’re drooling in anticipation. From Roasted Hazelnut Nutella Slice to Spiced Pumpkin Cake, you certainly won’t leave underwhelmed…or hungry. Complemented by the sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and tropical palms, it looks as decadent as it tastes. $76 per adult, which includes a glass of Sparking Wine as well as unlimited tea and coffee.
Where: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Le Jardin
The Imperial Hotel, Seaworld Drive’s HQ of luxury might be sporting a fresh new name – but thankfully they’re serving up that same fabulous Couture High Tea experience we know and love. Bringing a fashionable culinary experience to the perennial classic – you’ll be feeling very high socie-tea indeed sipping bubbles surrounded by the sparkling crystal chandelier and grand vaulted ceilings. There are two high tea options to choose from (fancy and fancier) – depending on how bougee you’re feeling – starting from $89.90 per person. Or for a slightly less extravagant experience (that doesn’t skimp on the delish factor), there are also four curated mini-spreads to pick from (think Devonshire tea) for around $30 per person.
Where: Imperial Hotel, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Chapter and Verse
Located in the luxurious JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, high tea at Chapter & Verse is an unmissable resort tradition created by their esteemed culinary team. Using local ingredients, this team take their high tea business seriously – sharing that each homemade morsel is inspired by the echo of birds in the resort’s peaceful and tranquil surrounds. So excuse us as we channel our inner seagull and duke it out over the likes of of Honey Lavender Scones and Salted Caramel Chocolate Tartlet… we kid, of course – only our best etiquette for a classy establishment like the Marriott. There’s also a cute mini-me version for the little ones, Teeny Tiny Tea for $39 per child. Prices start from $79 per adult.
Where: 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Bumbles
Tucked peacefully a stone’s throw from the Budds Beach waterfront, Surfers stalwart Bumbles has long been a beloved spot to meet for coffee and some grazing action (and now cocktails – thanks to neighbouring big sis sip spot, Blue House #squee).
Inside the most charming little cafe in 4217 (and perhaps, the entire coast) there’s a mix of themed private rooms that branch off the main space – so it figures that it also makes a particularly spesh spot for a fanciful high tea soiree. Acquaint yourself with the divinely appointed Library (or luxurious Hamptons room, perhaps) and tuck into a spread of smoked salmon blinis, pint-sized quiches, fruit tarts and tea sandwiches. Bookings for the “regular” high tea (a misnomer if ever we’ve heard one) come in at $50 per person, with dietary and bubbles options also available. La-de-dah indeed.
Where: 19 River Drive, Surfers Paradise
QT Gold Coast
This is no ordinary high tea! … well okay, technically speaking they do offer an ‘Ordinary’ High Tea option, but since you know QT Gold Coast is all about infusing the unexpected into everything they do – trust us when we say it’s anything but. The variety of pinky-popping menus also include a champas-studded Extraordinary High Tea experience, a Man Tea for a more savoury take and a mini spread for your little Q’Ties for $39 per child.
Here, the typical savoury tea fare has been treated to a tapas-style twist, such as Spiced Tempura Cauliflower and Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Poppers to excite the tastebuds – so, move over cucumber sandwich, you culinary snooze-fest you (there, we said it). And don’t get us started on the Choux Pastries and Brownie-macarons. Prices start at $64 per adult with a variety of boozy upgrade options, such as jugs of Aperol Spritz really enhance to your experience.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Ms Margot’s
A pretty little gem nestled just inside the lobby of Hilton Surfers Paradise, Ms Margot’s certainly knows a thing or two about being boujee. Along with serving up superb sips and all-day bites, the signature High Tea spread is available from 11:30–3:00 daily for whenever the urge for a lavish light lunch hits. Gather your gal and/or guy pals for a glam #SATC style rendezvous, and spill the tea over soft-shell crab bao, pumpkin arancini, and halloumi with pickled fig. The Signature and champagne upgrade Par-Tea option come in at a very Carrie approved $42 and $67 respectively – bc, y’know – more to splash on shoes. OTT outfits optional.
Where: Hilton Surfers Paradise, 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Palette
Every Sunday, locals and visitors alike flock to HOTA not just for their arty fix or a spot of market browsing, but to tuck into a delightful High Tea. Served in the critically acclaimed and ever-popular Palette restaurant, superstar Executive Chef Dayan Hartill-Law has curated the ultimate high tea experience. A couple of highlights are the Prawn Toast with yuzu mayo and sesame and for the sweet tooths, Davidson Plum and Marshmallow Pinwheel. Yum! Prices start at $70 per adult.
Where: HOTA Gallery, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Greendays
With its pavilion backdrop, lush gardens, and tranquil setting, this centrally located secluded oasis is the home of high tea. To set the scene on the type of sumptuous snack spread they put on – we’re talking mouth-watering morsels like Pork and Chestnut Gyoza, Pandan Swiss Roll and Dragonfruit Pannacotta. Throw in a glass of French bubbles for an extra $12… just because, or go the whole hog and upgrade to bottomless bubbles for an extra $45 pp. There’s also a separate vegan high tea and junior high tea so no one misses out. High Tea from $65 per adult.
Where: 8/6 Ashmore Road, Bundall
The Langham
Okay so technically this one is officially called an Afternoon Tea, but when it comes to sumptuously snacking our way through bite-sized helpings of Miniature coconut + mango pavlovas, Hot smoked salmon rillettes and Lemon curd scones, we’re not about to get caught up in the semantics now are we (a ‘Rosé’ by any other name and all that).
In a British nod to its namesake at The Langham, London where traditional English afternoon tea was served over 150 years ago, the stunning Palm Court restaurant inside the hotel pays tribute to its heritage. Serving a bespoke offering of the traditional Afternoon Tea crafted by culinary experts, it’s time to start practicing your tea drinking etiquette (no pinky!). Prices start from $109 per person Monday to Friday and $119 per person Saturday & Sunday.
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Videre
Local fave Videre does a high tea with panache… with the added perk of some some pretty stellar views, to boot. From Moreton Bay Bug Fritters and Barramundi Summer rolls with bush tomato relish, to a selection of sweets whipped up by the in-house Chef de Patisserie’s – the quali-tea here is unparalleled. And quite frankly, the assortment of freshly baked scone flavours served with all the trimmings (hellooo Sun-dried mango scone and just-churned butter!) alone is enough to get us swooning. Don’t forget the unlimited French press coffee and ‘Tea Drop’ tea and breathtaking panoramic views from the 21st floor whilst the golf folk slug it out below. We know what we’d rather be doing. Prices start at $68 per person including a glass of Mumm Tasmania Brut Prestige or a speciality mocktail, delish!
Where: RACV Royal Pines, Ross Street, Benowa
Mecca Bah
Have you tried a Middle Eastern high tea yet and if you’re shaking your noggin, we’re about to open up a whole new world of d-lish. Boasting exotic sweet and savoury bites a-plenty, it will become your new normal to meet your mates here. Tuck in to three tiers brimming with treats such as Orange Blossom Cheesecake and Halloumi and Eggplant Skewers, with unlimited barista made coffee and tea, and a sparking wine or mocktail on arrival. $69 pp, minimum of four people.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach & 18/10 Santa Barbara Road, Hope Island
Bon Appetea Teahouse
Nestled in leafy Mudgeeraba, the stunningly decorated and truly breathtaking Bon Appetea Teahouse exudes French charm and traditional elegance. Popular for bridal showers, baby showers, birthdays and basically any event you can think of, their Luxe High Tea is the definition of decadence. Think scones with homemade jam and cream and a selection of petite patisseries, organic sandwiches and savoury bites. Oh and if you’re on the hunt for a truly beautiful, quaint, spot to tie the knot, this one’s a keeper. $55 per adult.
Where: 7 Johns Road, Mudgeeraba
Words by Kellie Leader.
Once upon a time we left holidaymakers to their own devices in arguably the GC’s most famous beachside suburb, but off the beaten path – well to be fair, some are still very much on it – locals have been keeping these gems all to themselves for a little too long if you ask us. That’s right, Surfers Paradise is more than a postcard-perfect destination, it’s a lifestyle locals love to embrace, because why should we leave all the fun to the tourists! So now we’re here to spill the beans on all the reasons locals can’t get enough of Surfers Paradise.
For all-in-one spots
Surfers Paradise does convenience like a pro with destinations where you can shop, eat, and play all in one spot. Paradise Centre is a beachside fave with a mix of fashion, food, and fun, right at your fingertips in the heart of Cavill Mall. Just a short stroll away you’ll find Soul Boardwalk where laidback vibes met beachside dining and retail therapy aplenty – because what better way to get the food digesting than with a shopping moment.
If an urban escape is more up your alley then pop on over to Chevron Renaissance for all your boutique shopping needs, whether it’s a bite to eat, to grab groceries for the week, a new fit for that special event or a pedicure pamper moment your wish is their command. The two hour free parking is also a big drawcard!
All-you-can eats
If you’re in the market for a buffet that’ll bowl you over then you’ve come to the right place because at this point buffet should be Surfers Paradise’s middle name.
Locals know that they’ve got the buffet game locked down so if you’re up for eating so much seafood you’ll need to unbutton your pants to fit in another plate then Citrique at the JW Marriott has your name all over it.
Just down the highway you’ll find a bustling international market that dreams (and hungry bellies) are made of with QT Gold Coast’s iconic Bazaar Marketplace experience.
Edging on the cusp of neighbouring Broady, Horizon Sky Dining might have pretty much everything on the menu but what about revolving panoramic views of the Gold Coast? They’ve got those two and we’ll take a plate of both thank you very much.
For your morning sips
If you’re anything like us, the day doesn’t start until coffee has been sipped. Kickstart your day with the perfect brew at ESPL Coffee. This beachside gem is great for delicious bites with a friendly vibe.
If you’re seeking people who are serious about coffee, Paradox Coffee Roasters is the destination you seek. They are committed to producing the highest quality coffee there is — just ask the locals!
Like your morning sip with a side of epic treats? Janus Bakehouse is for you… don’t mind us drooling just thinking about it.
To escape the hustle & bustle head to Bumbles. Budds Beach has long been a local secret but there’s good reason why Gold Coasters have been flocking to this hot spot for 10+ years. Get your coffee fix, some snacks and set up on the edge of Budds Beach for the ultimate start to the day.
For you harder sips
Fancy a cocktail (or five)? Well you’ve come to the right place because Surfers is a cocktail connoisseur’s dream come true. After sunset – okay maybe before too – Surfers turns into a cocktail connoisseur’s playground.
Lulu Rooftop is the newest addition to the scene, serving up a funky art deco aesthetic alongside sophisticated sips.
Sports fan? Hit up The Sporting Globe to get all the sporting action live and loud or get ready to yeehaw and let loose at Cowboys, with a bucking bull taking pride of place the Americana vibes are vibing.
Okay party people, we hear you asking where to go get Gold Coast vibes going and it’s obviously got to be Cali Beach Club – it’s giving European inspired beach party so you’re guaranteed a good time. If it ain’t broke don’t fix it we say, so it’s no wonder locals keep going back for more at The Island Rooftop, an institution for good reason you can’t beat the open air and the huge beverage list never fails us.
For drinks with a view Surfers Pavilion has nailed casual waterfront meets ‘I don’t want to leave yet’ as it overlooks the canal so you can watch the boats drift by. Hinterland your preferred view? Well, The Exhibitionist Bar’s got them aplenty, actually they’ve got panoramic sight of the whole GC so take your pick. Back over on the beachside Coast Beach Bar are home to some of the best marg’s on the GC and even better views of the suburb’s namesake beach.
For casual eats
Sometimes you just want to keep it low-key and you know what, that doesn’t have to mean that the flavours are low-key too. You go-to for authentic Thai flavours has got to be Sura Thai, dine in to make the most of the cosy and authentic feel or grab your favourites to-go. Shiraz Persian Restaurant has become known as the Coast’s best Middle Eastern bites with aromatic Persian dishes like tender kebabs gracing the menu.
Don’t sleep on Velaa’s Asian fusion fare from classic poke bowls and new flavours like their signature Thai Milk Tea Parfait (uh, YUM) just waiting for you to discover.
We like big burgers and we cannot lie so Wahlburgers is a must-try for us, plus you might even sneak a peek at Mark Wahlburg when he’s in town next if you’re lucky!
Alright, this one is definitely loved by more than just locals, HOTA’s Markets are the ultimate hangout to ring in Sunday Funday, pick up all the local farm fresh produce and flowers your heard desires and then grab a bite (we’re looking at you, Mio Wraps) and a sweet treat for the road and thank us later.
For something a little bit fancy
Now’s the time to bust out your best fancy fit because Surfers has some pretty boujee spots up their sleeves.
Nestled beneath the HOTA Gallery, Palette proves that fine dining is back, baby! Treat yourself to the degustation for the full experience, with dishes and cocktails inspired by the each gallery exhibition you need to see it – or taste it – to believe it.
The buffet is always a winner at Citrique, but have you tried their a la carte? Take this as your sign to snag a seat and let the food come to you while you spoil yourself with the Chef’s Signature Bay Bug Dumplings (life-changing) or some chargrilled Australian Wagyu.
Elevated Thai is the word at Nahm Talay Thai, all your regular favourites but even better and cocktails that are just begging to be instagrammed – bonus point for the beach front views.
Let the good times roll
Surfers Paradise isn’t short on adrenaline or intrigue and it doesn’t matter if it’s your first or 50th time visiting, they still pack the same punch in our humble opinion.
Scale SkyPoint for unbeatable views atop the Q1, chill out (literally) at the IceBar and get a moment to reflect at the Mirror Bar – see what we did there.
If you’d rather enter another dimension for a little while then Infinity is begging for you to explore their mysterious maze or drop into Other World HQ and escape the ordinary with mind-bending interactive games and escape rooms. Test your team work (and maybe patience) at Eclipse Escape Rooms and Fox in a Box, go on – put that big ol’ brain to work.
We’re partial to a trip down nostalgia lane so we’re always down to battle it out at Timezone, and when there’s fun for all ages on the menu how could you not! Feeling flighty? Take a literal leap of faith at iFly and get a taste of indoor skydiving before you brave the great outdoors.
Gosh all that exploring calls with some pampering to finish the day, but not without its quirks! Barefoot Fish have tanks full of fish – yep, real live fish – just waiting for you to dip in for a soak so they can get rid of any dry or dead skin and leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski
