A six-course degustation paired with Japanese whisky.
A six-course degustation paired with Japanese whisky.
It’s difficult to name many things that are better than a Japanese food feast. In fact, the only one that springs to mind is a Japanese food feast paired with the finest of Japanese whisky.
Which is lucky because that combination is a thing you can get amongst at Yamagen Japanese Restaurant in Surfers Paradise in March.
That’s right lovers of all things delicious and alcoholic, you’re invited to partake in what may just be the dinner event of the year and yes, we’re calling it early and yes, we’re usually right about things that are delicious and alcoholic.
The six-course degustation is made up of Yamagen’s finest culinary fare and perfectly paired with six Suntory whiskies from the famed Japanese distillery’s portfolio.
Dan Woolley, Beam Suntory’s Australian Whisky Ambassador (best job ever) hosts the evening, introducing guests to the world of next-level whisky including the history and how to properly sniff* the flavours (*not the technical term). It’s all very interesting as it turns out.
While absolutely everything that passes your lips at Yamagen is worth raving about, we definitely had a couple of favourites.
The Sakura Smoked Ocean Trout with negi, fennel, crispy leek, ikura and lime zest is all the very best things in the world and paired with a Hakushu Distillers Reserve, it’s a party in your mouth.
The second dish we loved was the Wagyu Beef Sirloin, which is a Darling Downs Kobe cut with buckwheat, edamame, shiitake and yakiniku. That guy is paired with the Yamazaki 12 year and it might be just be our favourite combo since cheese and wine.
Of course, every single pairing is a pure delight but we better leave some to the imagination.
If you haven’t had the pleasure of dining at QT Hotel’s cutting edge restaurant, do yourself a favour and let this be your introduction. If you have, well, you’ll understand just how good the Yamagen Whisky Dinner is going to be.
Fun fact: Suntory created the first Japanese whisky back in the 1920’s and the demand for it is so high that there may just be a drought in the not too distant future.
Which is even more reason to get your tickets for Yamagen’s Whisky Dinner RIGHT NOW.
Tickets are just $99 per person and you can get yours here!
DATE: Tuesday April 19th from 6.30pm
Words by Kirra Smith
A Gold Coast institution for over 30 years, Yamagen is set to re-open on July 28th to the delight of the Japanese Izakaya’s countless devotees.
After quietly closing its doors, the venue at QT in Surfers Paradise, has undergone a dramatic makeover fusing a traditional Japanese style of eatery with an eclectic, upbeat, Tokyo-style vibe. Yamagen pays homage to the old maintaining the soul of the restaurant it once was, while introducing modern dining concepts never before seen on the Gold Coast.
Diners enter through a dimly lit bar stocked with an impressive range of Japanese whiskey, sake and of course, a cutting edge cocktail menu.
Jordan Melling, co-creator of said cocktail menu, lists his personal favourite as the Kyoto Old Fashioned made with Japanese whiskey, yuzu bitters (a Japanese citrus fruit) and gelatin foam made with Gyokoro green tea, honey and Nikka from the barrel – phew. You’ve been told.
While you’re sipping watch the Chef whip up Sashimi Tacos and Master Kobe Wagyu from the kushiyaki grill set in the centre of the room. The space mimics a traditional Japanese home where the kitchen or tea is the centerpiece.
When it’s time to eat, there are a couple of options. First, sit yourself around the sushi bar and watch Sushi Master Mitsuo Yoshino work his magic. Think Spicy Jalapeno Hiramasa Kingfish and Yellowfin Tuna Tatare. It’s an all-encompassing experience and the perfect opportunity to get some one on one time with the Master.
Of course, the candle-lit dining room also beckons if you’re after a little sophistication. In an interesting progressive dinner-style spin, you’re welcome to start your night at the sushi bar and then move on in to the dining room when you’re ready to re-ignite your tastebuds.
The menu is sensational, including Tempura Crispy Bugs (Moreton Bay ones!), Steamed Prawn Noodle Dumplings and, in perhaps the best news of all time, Halloumi Skewers with smoked honey and bonito flakes (smoked, dried tuna).
For dessert you must taste the Miso Caramel Chocolate Fondant with goma ice cream and, because what’s overeating, also try the Yonuts – fried sweet donuts with yuzu curd and sesame sugar. Yes, those are real.
The entire experience smacks of traditional Japan while cleverly infusing a dining experience that is the epitome of QT-cool. It’s your new Surfers Paradise go-to. So go.
HOURS: From 5pm seven nights a week
LOCATION: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Words and photos by Kirra Smith.
Although technically referred to as a buffet Bazaar, at QT Gold Coast, is a far cry from the soggy salads and tough-as-nails roast meat you experienced at the local for your Nan’s 80th.
No, Bazaar offers the type of buffet you have to see to believe with a menu that changes daily and an array of dishes that will show you the true meaning of the words ‘food coma’.
Unlike anything else on the Gold Coast Bazaar is a contemporary space in a self-described “deluxe street food setting”. It’s your one stop shop for taste-testing dishes from across the world, all of which will knock your socks off.
They say you first eat with your eyes and as soon as you enter the food-filled space you’ll understand why. Beautiful wooden benches laden with colourful, perfectly presented foods are spread out in front of you with Chefs at the ready to answer any queries or perhaps whip up a steak, cooked exactly as you like it, on the spot.
A cabinet filled with dried, hanging meats sets the scene and leads the way to the first section filled with woks, crock pots and baskets of everything from Seafood Paella to cauliflower Gratin, whole fish and warm, wintery vegetable soup.
Moving on, there’s a charcuterie section stacked high with crumbling cheeses, plump olives and many a variety of meat. Save that section for after dessert if you still have space. Next, a bench filled with an array of colourful salads and choices of additional goodies like capers and tiny Cornichons. Moving around the bench you’ll find an abundance of fresh seafood from king prawns to fresh oysters and crab. On your next round load your plate up with a fresh stir-fry, curry or meat-filled, deep fried eggplants and of course a prawn cracker or two.
Now you’re suitably stuffed, its dessert time! An entire wall is dedicated to your favourite sweet treats and the choices are mind-blowing. A soft serve laden with smarties and soft lollies maybe? Or why not try a piece of one of the many whole cakes and tarts (hello Banoffee Pie and gooey chocolate brownies). Shelves filled with citrus slices and tiny jars oozing chocolate cake and melting marshmallows are difficult to ignore while bowls filled with miniature macaroons will have you returning again and again.
Everything you can imagine is real at Bazaar. It truly is a treat for your senses so stretch those stomach muscles and prepare to be blown away.
HOURS: Breakfast: 6:30am to 10:30am
Dinner: 5:30pm to 9:00pm
Sunday Lunch: 12:00pm to 3:00pm
LOCATION: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise.
Words by Kirra Smith.
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
