Locals love Mudgeeraba and clearly, we do too. It’s easy to get swept up in the allure of our iconic coastline, but when was the last time you popped into this hinterland haven? No seriously, it’s a little over 15 minutes from Burleigh (we don’t want to hear you say it’s too far) so you can escape the hustle of the beachside burbs and take our word for it when we say it’s got some of the best eats the Gold Coast has to offer. Big claim, we know, but we stand by it.

We’ve taken the task of finding the best feeds in Mudgeeraba very seriously so you can just pop in and live like a local for the day. So, book a table and pretend you’ve gone bush for a little while, it’s the next best thing to an actual holiday.

Anekawa Japanese
This has got to be one of the Gold Coast’s best-kept secrets, nestled in the heart of Mudgeeraba’s Village, Anekawa shines a whole new light on traditional Japanese food. Created by chef Koki Anekawa (ex Rick Shores), the menu is a glorious celebration of ethically sourced Australian produce and traditional Japanese fair that we don’t so often see, set to the backdrop of one of the most intimate restaurant spaces we’ve dined in. The menu is ever changing based on the seasonality of produce and availability of specialty seafood, so you know that what they’re dishing up is fresh AF.
Where: Corner of Swan Lane & Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

The Wine Barrel
An institution among locals, there’s good reason why The Wine Barrel has stood the test of time, serving up some of the best tapas and wine (obviously) going around. The menu is loaded with an epic variety of food from Asian-inspired dishes to classic tacos. Our must-try’s? We can’t go past the pork belly, chilli caramel, coriander and mint to start, followed with the organic black mussels with Napoli, cream and nudja for a serious flavour bomb.
Where: 59 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

Pangaat Indian Restaurant & Bar
We know it might not be fair, but we low key judge a suburb’s foodie scene by their best Indian restaurant, so it’s fair to say Mudgeeraba is serving up the goods. Pangaat Indian Restaurant & Bar is not only one of our favourite Indian spots in the hinterland, but the whole of the Gold Coast. Think of the aromatic spices and bold flavours that come with authentic Indian food, they’ve got everything covered from hearty curries and succulent tandoori specialities that will keep you coming back.
Where: 3/59 Railway St, Mudgeeraba

Bon Appetea
Tucked away in the most beautiful old Queenslander, Bon Appetea brings that English whimsy charm to Mudgeeraba – made even better with the beautiful hinterland back drop. You can pop in for your favourite high tea whether it’s for breakfast, brunch or lunch with luxe options too if you’re feeling a little bit fancy. In case you needed more mo-tea-vation to book in high tea with your favourites, the iconic basque cheesecake is one of our favourite sweet treats on the menu. Heading there in winter? You’ll want to snag a spot fireside while you get cosy, sit and sip on your hot beverage of choice.
Where: 7 Johns Road, Mudgeeraba

Lenny Pizzeria
By now you’ve surely heard all the buzz about Lenny Pizzeria, the woodfired pizza hotspot has been buzzing since their iconic entrance to the Mudgeeraba dining scene. Think next level flavour combinations – we’re looking at you, Chill Kale and Fancy 4 Cheese – you’ll definitely want a pizza this. Perch up under the stars with your nearest and dearest and treat yourself to your favourite drop while you carb load.
Where: Shop 5/58 Railway St, Mudgeeraba 

Mudjira Village Eatery
Now it would be plain old rude of us to miss out on Mudgeeraba’s best breakfast spot. Embrace the laidback vibes of the hinterland at Mudjira Village Eatery, it’s got the country charm you expect from one of the town’s best eats and a full menu of epic eats. We’re all about the maple pecan French toast – try it and thank us later.
Where: 3 Swan Lane, Mudgeeraba

Junior’s Deli
For a taste of New York in the heart of Mudgeeraba you don’t need to look any further than Junior’s Deli. With classic deli sandwiches, toasties and burgers, plus barista coffee supplied by Therefore Coffee these guys have nailed the casual dining vibe. If you’re more about the grab and go life Junior’s have you sorted, you can even take home some of their signature house-made pickles to up your sandwich game and get a taste of the deli at home.
Where: 2/51 Railway St, Mudgeeraba

The Wallaby Hotel
One of the Gold Coast’s oldest pubs, The Wallaby has been serving up cold brews and great food since 1883. If you’re looking for the ultimate pint and parmy combo then you’ve come to the right place. They’ve got all the pub classics you know and love to kick those hunger pains, if you want to get a little adventurous then get around the Native Australian Wallaby Shanks – guaranteed to become your new go-to.
Where 43 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

Whisky Lounge
Whisky aficionados will feel right at home at the Whisky Lounge, but don’t stress if you’re a newbie – the legends behind the bar will find you the perfect drop to start your whisky lover journey. It doesn’t matter if your palate prefers a smoky scotch or a smooth bourbon, they’ve got pretty much everything so you can pour, savour and enjoy the flavour. Not into dark spirits? Stress less and don’t whisk yourself away, there’s a delish cocktail menu to keep you busy all night long.
Where: Shop 2A/58 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

The Sensory Boutique
In need of some retail therapy? The Sensory Boutique have the most aesthetically pleasing collection of goodies that have been perfectly curated so you can pick up home décor, scents, jewellery and more. If you’re looking for a fresh fit the team have hand selected pieces just for you. If buying brand-new is so last season for you, in the name of circular fashion, there’s a selection of pre-loved clothing and accessories (chic of course) that you can give a new life.
Where: Shop 24, Franklin Square, 60 Railway St, Mudgeeraba

Panchos
Spice up your dining experience at Panchos, this Mexican spot knows what’s up when it comes to good food, good margs and good entertainment – the holy trinity of good vibes. The colourful fit out feels like you’ve stepped straight off the streets of Mexico into an authentic taqueria with the Latin American influence coming from all ends. Did we mention on Thursday’s you can snag a burrito and beer for $25 too? You’re losing money not getting amongst it #girlmath.
Where: 581 Gold Coast Springbrook Rd, Mudgeeraba

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.

If a day of luxurious pampering at a heavenly Gold Coast day spa is on your radar (and we know it is) here is yet another reason to book yourself in at Spa by JW at the JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa. The team have recently joined forces with award-winning organic skincare brand Vanessa Megan Naturaceuticals and Metamorphosis to offer guests an exclusive selection of transformative treatments.

Vanessa Megan Naturaceuticals is much-loved worldwide for creating natural skincare products that not only perform beautifully but also aim to inspire positive change for women. The brand champions educational initiatives and community support and is passionate about supporting women’s health and wellness holistically.

Which is why it’s extremely exciting for us Gold Coasters that we can now enjoy the benefits of some of the most impressive skincare on offer, and at the same time be laying down (with no interruptions!) receiving a relaxing, likely life-changing treatment from the team at Spa by JW.

While there are of course, many incredible treatments to choose from, allow us to introduce you to a few we know you’ll absolutely adore.

The Fire and Frost Facial combines hot and cold temperatures to stimulate circulation and rejuvenate the complexion. It’s similar to the experience of hot and cold plunge pools, which is also delightful if you’ve not had the pleasure, and works to give you results you can see immediately but are also long lasting.

The Time Capsule Treatment sounds like exactly what we need offering potent anti-aging benefits to bring that youthful vitality we definitely once enjoyed. A Sculpt and Lift Treatment features an innovative intra-buccal technique that (you guessed it) sculpts and firms the face by working inside and outside the mouth.

Not only can you experience the benefits of Vanessa Megan Naturaceuticals at Spa by JW, you can also purchase products to take home so you can be youthful and hydrated for the rest of your days. PLUS when you spend $300 or more on the Vanessa Megan Naturaceuticals or Metamorphosis by Vanessa Megan ranges, you’ll receive a complimentary 30-minute Discovery Facial with the signature products.

In more good news, if you book a Fire and Frost Facial you’ll receive a free Vanessa Megan Collagen Boosting Gel and if you book a Lift and Sculpt Facial you’ll receive a free Metamorphosis Re:Gen Cell Repair Oil with Bakuchoil.

So many free goodies, there is absolutely no reason not to treat yourself to an absolutely magical time at Spa by JW, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa before the silly season is upon us. Buy yourself a little treat while you’re there too, you deserve it.

Where: Spa by JW at JW Marriott Resort & Spa Gold Coast, 158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
When: Monday to Saturday 9am to 6pm and Sunday 10am to 5pm

STORY SPONSORED BY JW MARRIOTT GOLD COAST RESORT & SPA

Looking for a slice of heaven right here on the GC? Aren’t we all and sidenote; suddenly all we can hear is Dave Dobbyn in his Footrot Flats era #BornInThe80s. Well, we’re pleased to do our bit for community self-care by pointing you in the divine direction of eforea spa at Hilton Surfers Paradise.

Now the bliss buffs among us have already been drinking the eforea kool-aid for many years (13 in fact) and can confirm that this wellness wonderland delivers everything you could ever want from a day spa. It balances the mind, body, and soul with a unique menu of exclusive treatments to ignite your inner peace, harness your harmony, and nurture your namaste.

Satisfying all the senses, eforea spoils us with a host of innovative design elements. It’s undeniably luxurious with all the trimmings you’d expect from Hilton, yet it’s not just for the highfliers and nepobabes.

It serves up a welcoming, serene space where we can all experience the pinnacle of pampering and emerge brighter – both physically (come at us glowy skin!), and with a restored sense of overall wellbeing.

As an eforea guest, you’ll be privy to a range of beautiful, organic products whilst zenning out on one (or both!) of their two distinctive journeys; the Essentials Journey and the Escape Journey. Both have been developed from results-driven practices, and merge nature’s best with locally inspired therapies and techniques from the most fabled spa cultures around the world. Plus, eforea guests can enjoy complimentary use the hotel’s four pools and spa, and take advantage of free, secure parking.

Let’s get straight into their signature offering; the iconic Vichy Showers treatments. With three treatment options to choose from, our vote goes to the Renewing Vichy Shower Experience, increasing circulation throughout the body and reducing stress and toxins.

Starting with a relaxing full body exfoliation (see ya manky fake tan remnants) combined with the refreshing Vichy shower, it washes away body tension and awakens your vitality. Finishing with a gentle full body massage, we’ll partake every day and twice on Sundays please and thanks.

There’s a suite of face treatments to explore, like the Rebalancing Facial and Diamond-Peel Microdermabrasion which uses actual diamond-tipped wands, and if this doesn’t scream luxe, nothing does. If your bod is need of some TLC and whose isn’t after an action-packed Easter long weekend, then look no further than eforea’s famous massages, like the Aromatherapy Massage. Or, if a Remedial Massage is calling your name, bonus incoming – HICAPS is available, accepting all major health funds.

Your feet can feel the love too with various pedicure options, plus treatments to balance the bod like the Rest & Restore Body Mud Wrap. For the indecisive spa-goer, there are combination packages like the ultimate one-stop-(spa)-shop offering, the Head-To-Toe Revitalisation Package. Plus, there are treatments for mothers-to-be, and group discounts for private events to celebrate that upcoming special occasion.

If you want to share the indulgence with your +1, we recommend a Couples Massage and while you’re at it, why not level up with eforea’s signature Journey Enhancements. These exclusive and powerful mini treatments can be added to any existing service, for a more holistic and personalised spa experience.

A visit to eforea is the wellbeing gift that keeps on giving and speaking of, if you’re searching for the perf pressie for your besty, lady (or lad) love, or anyone worthy of a five-star pamper, look no further than an eforea spa voucher. Platinum gift-giver status guaranteed!

Bookings are essential so for the love of day spas, go here now!

Where: Level 2, Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences, 6 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise
When: Monday – Sunday
Website: hiltonsurfersparadise.com.au/eforea-spa-hilton/
Instagram: @eforeaspa.hilton

Words by Bianca Trathen

STORY SPONSORED BY HILTON SURFERS PARADISE HOTEL & RESIDENCES