There’s never been a better time.
There’s never been a better time.
It seems likely you’ve heard the Commonwealth Games are in town and if you’re a regular around here (thank you, friend) you’ll know there’s plenty of other excitement going on too.
Festival 2018 is providing all the arts and culture goodness you could possibly need (and then some), we’ve got world-class shopping precincts to spend time in and the waves are pumping everywhere (just to top things off).
You might say that at this very moment, there’s no better city in the world to be roaming around in. The good vibes are high, the sun is shining and the beer is cold and in abundant supply and that’ll about do us.
What you may not have heard is that Gold Coast roads are quieter than they may have ever been and it’s almost unbelievably simple to get around and sample the above fun times.
The point is this: right now there is more happening on the Gold Coast than there may be for a very long time and it would be crazy to miss such an opportunity.
Particularly because, who doesn’t love an adventure and secondly because #supportlocal.
Here are a few reasons to get down to the Gold Coast, kick back, relax and soak up the atmosphere.
1. Festival 2018
It’s not often you get to immerse yourself in world-class arts and culture performances from across the globe but now is certainly a time when you can do just that.
In the heart of Broadbeach, and along the beachfront at Surfers Paradise, you’ll find music by some of Australia’s most well known and emerging talents, circus-style performances, a giant inflatable maze, historical theatre-style acts, hands on workshops, a bloke performing every day life tasks underwater. You name it, it’s here, it’s free and it’s good.
Public transport is easy enough to jump on but if you’d prefer to chauffeur yourself, that won’t be a problem either.
2. World-class food
We love food and we know you do too. Excitingly, the Gold Coast is home to some of the best restaurants and cafes in Australia. Over the last year, more than 70 new foodie destinations opened across the Coast from five-star to family friendly.
Down Coolangatta way you can choose from newbie Sweet Lou’s Saloon, a southern style joint (opposite the ocean no less) boasting all your favourite American-style eats. Francie’s Pizzeria is a friendly local pizza bar, Eddie’s Grub House has got all your next-level burger needs covered and That Blue House is the best spot for a tasty breaky.
If you’re venturing through Broadbeach, there are more great venues than you can poke a hockey stick at. From fish and chips at the Beachside Pavillion to delightful dumplings at Harajuku Gyoza, the best breakfast you’ve ever eaten at Elk Espresso and Italian carby goodness at Rivea Italian, you won’t go hungry in this neck of the woods.
Surfers Paradise of course, has many an excellent option close to all the action. Sandbar is right on The Esplanade and offers everything from burgers to poke bowls, Hard Rock Cafe is both a good time and a great feed, Brooklyn Depot Kitchen & Brew has burgers as big as your head on offer and One Cavill, overlooking the beach, has cold beers and all your classic Aussie favourites to feast on.
So whether fine-dining or buffet-style grub is your thang, you will be absolutely stoked to eat your way around the Gold Coast. Trust us, we would never lie about food. Also, restaurant owners literally put their heart and souls into creating food for us, so we should return the favour and eat ourselves silly whenever possible.
3. Shopping
The Gold Coast has recently become home to a world-class shopping precinct in the form of Pacific Fair in Broadbeach. Just a short walk from all the Games action, Pac Fair (as it’s affectionately known to locals) is home to not only every single retail store you could possibly want or need in your life, they also boast an exceptional food court, chill zone for sport-watching and general relaxation time and a playground for the kiddos.
Across the road from the ocean in Broadbeach you’ll find both The Oracle and The Oasis shopping centres, two precincts boasting a variety of eating options and more shops should you have energy to spare
Surfers Paradise boasts the famous Cavill Avenue for all your purchasing needs including everything from Gold Coast snow globes to high end fashion.
4. Pumping Waves
We are certainly not the experts on this and the experts may not be stoked with us sharing this information but here we all are, celebrating the Gold Coast so soz experts. The swell has arrived at the perfect time and today we noticed someone’s Instagram story saying “the A frames are back” which means a wave that barrels both left and right and surely that means there’s plenty for everyone. Unsure but get out there and give it a whirl anyway – the water is warm and oh so sparkly.
So there you have it gang, there has never been a better time to visit the Gold Coast and we would all absolutely love to see you get out there and enjoy the festivities.
Promise you’ll have a good time.
Words by Kirra Smith.
Coolangatta is our southernmost suburb and it’s almost like stepping back in time for a taste of the good old Gold Coast, a little slower and sleepier (the way we like it) but with a sprinkle of some seriously epic eats for good measure – dreamy.
If you’re a fan of chill coastal vibes and pumping surf, where you can soak up the sunshine all-day long and hop from beach to bar as your heart desires then Cooly’s got your name written all over it. The laidback lifestyle is just one of the reasons why locals love this little beachside suburb, but we’ve found another 16 for when you want to go exploring.
Franc Jr’s
I’ts called the famous pizzeria for a reason, Franc Jr’s have gotten a rep for dishing up the best pizzas on the Gold Coast – maybe even Queensland. Big call, I know but IYKYK. Home of their signature Sicilian square pizza, pop down for takeaway or dine in with a bottle of pinot to wash down your pizza. Our pick is the red strip with a pickled grape salad on the side (sounds weird but trust the process) and a frozen marg if you fancy a tipple.
Where: 2/102 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Pipi’s Restaurant
Cooly brought in the big guns with Brisbane hospitality mavens, the Gambaro Group bringing Pipi’s to life and it’s something Southern Gold Coasters have been waiting for. Pipi’s is the newest seaside sensation to call Cooly home and you best believe our tastebuds can’t get enough of it. Nothing to be crabby about with a Mediterranean-inspired menu – Chargrilled Mooloolaba King Prawns and Freemantle Octopus Carpaccio just a couple of the stars of the show. If you’re feeling boujee then treat yourself to a Kaviari Caviar Bump – served with a shot of Belvedere or glass of Tattinger.
Special mention to the cafe-style sequel to this suave new seafood nosher, Awaken Cafe. Situated underneath Pipi’s Awaken thos caffeine-slinging counterpart is giving girl-next-door (but, y’know, downstairs) in the very best way.
Where: Level 1/275 Boundary Street, Coolangatta
Kefi
Kefi popped up on the café scene in late 2023 and their suitably summer vibe has been gracing our social channels here, there and everywhere. With coffee and food as delicious as the interiors are gorg it’s the kind of spot we could just spend all morning long at. With a Mediterranean twist on your classic brekky favourites, fuel up with a feed or pop in for the viral strawberry matcha and take a stroll on the beach because, wholesome.
Where: Corner of Griffith & McDonald Street, 2/110 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Cooly Breeze
There’s something about being beach side and on a rooftop that just hits different, throw some fine dining into the mix and that’s our kind of trifecta. Executive chef Marcondes Almeida Neto has combined gastronomy with the flavours of the Medierranean Coast for bold flavours you’ve never tasted before. A feast for your eyes and your tum, the dishes are almost too pretty to eat… almost.
Where: Level 13 of Beachcomber International Resort, 122 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Coolangatta Pie Shop
This iconic Gold Coast pie shop has been around for more than 50 years, so it’s no wonder they’re serving up some of the tastiest pies around. We’re partial to a baked good and fortunately, the Coolangatta Pie Shop have them aplenty – perfect for that post surf carb load.
Where: 50 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Maverick Hair & Art Studio
If you’ve been looking for a place to tame that mane then say less, because Maverick Hair & Art Studio’s got your back. Or hair, I guess. The award-winning salon and of course, their stylists, know their way around the locks and can we just say – they do one of the best blondes we’ve seen on the GC, and that’s no easy feat. The refined industrial feel is a pretty little paradise to sit back and relax while you’re pampered, which is exactly what you want when you’re investing hours in those tresses – t’s the crown you never take off, after all. No bad hair days here
Where: First Floor, 1/17 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Bar Evelyn
This place has been a hotspot for locals and visitors ever since it popped up on Marine Parade a couple of years ago. Cooly’s home of antipasto and pasta, you best believe we want a pizza that. Our picks? If you’re a seafood lover like us then the bug bucatini and pickled mussels with bottarga mayo, cucumber and dill are a must try. Sweeten the deal with their house-made tiramisu – do as the Italians do, we say – and one of their season sours.
Where: Shop 20/58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Clay Cantina
One thing about us is that we are always down for a Mexican moment. Now let’s taco-bout the margs, specifically the Laneway Marg – just trust us when we say their signature agave inspired bev is everything you’ve been looking for in a marg and more. Taste the flavours of all your fave Mexican fare, or if you’d rather a hands on approach to your dining experience, get the crew together for their signature cooking classes where you’ll get up close and personal with their most-loved recipes. Gracias!
Where: 2/16 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Greenmount Beach Surf Club
With unsurpassed views in a northerly direction, you can take in everything overlooking the spectacular Greenmount Beach right up to the skyline of Surfers Paradise and, on some days, beyond. If the surf’s up, watched the surfers below shred waves or wipe out with an ice cold schooner in hand.
Where: Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Cinebar
Forget that there was a ripper cinema in Cooly? How could you! It’s time you get acquainted with Cinebar, a restaurant-style movie experience where you can get the full dinner, drinks and show vibe without having to lift a finger – or leg for that matter. Because we’re all about efficiency, kick back and catch up on the freshest flicks while you’re wined and dined for the ultimate date night with your special someone or your gal pals.
Where: The Strand at Coolangatta
4 Pines
On the brew-tiful beach front you’ll find one of the vibiest beachside breweries we know, the ultimate for whether you’re escaping the surf or just looking for a spot to kick back with live tunes and a beer in hand. You’ll find all your 4 Pines favourites, like the classic Pacific Ale for a fresh and fruity finish or the Pale Ale for a more crisp and citrusy taste, on tap and calling your name. Well, what are you waiting for – hop to it!
Where: The Strand, 28/72 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Ottimo
If you want the inside scoop then here it is – if you want to be served up gelato the Italian way, Ottimo know that sticking to tradition is anything but boring. Having studied at the Gelato University of Carpigiani (yes, that’s a thing), owner Davide let’s his Italian heritage swirl through each delicious morsel whether it’s Ferrero Rocher or passionfruit flavoured. We give it an High Distinction!
Where: 18/52 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Timezone
Nothing like a bit of healthy competition to get the heart rate up, blitz your bestie with more than 200 classic arcae games to choose from. With full-sized bowling lanes, dodgem cars and laser skirmish there’s something for all ages – including the big kids at heart.
Where: Level 1, 72-80 Marine Parade, The Strand, Coolangatta
The Pink Hotel
Not a Cooly local? No problem, because one of our most aesthetic hotels just happens to call Coolangatta home! It’s impossible to miss the iconic pink glow of the Palm Springs inspired Pink Hotel, if it weren’t for the fact that you can spot the GC’s glorious skyline from it, we’d forgive you for thinking you were in the California desert. Originally a motel, the legends behind The Pink Hotel lovingly restored it to its current glory so now we gorg destination for the ultimate staycation – love that for us.
Where: 171 Griffith St, Coolangatta
Eddie’s Grub House
Rock ‘n roll meets fried chicken, burgers and whiskey: does it get any better than that? Get a mouthful of naughty but nice American classics in this soul food dive bar. They regularly have live music and karaoke nights if you’re feeling brave, it’s long been a Cooly institution for good grub and good vibes – for good reason!
Where: 171 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Cooly Rocks On
It’s got to be one of the most colourful creations that Cooly has brought us, each and every year we love seeing Cooly transform into the home of motors and music with a dedicated festival to celebrate the lifestyle of yesteryear. Think Hot Rods, Elvis Tribute Artists, Swing Dancing, Pin Up Pageants and so much more,
Where: Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.
The Groundwater Country Music Festival is up us and our beloved Broadbeach is set to be one hectic hive of activity.
As you’d well know, dancing up a storm makes you hungry and thus, here we have a list of 8 beaut restaurants in the main Broadbeach precinct.
Harajuku Gyoza
A Japanese beer stadium and gyoza bar with plenty of good vibes. Choose from lots of gyoza varieties or a bigger meal if you’re extra hungry. Or both. Harajuku Gyoza is perfect for a quick tasty meal on the go with plenty of people watching opps.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre Mall, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
Elk Espresso
Home of some of the most epic, Insta-worthy breakfasts on the Gold Coast, Elk Espresso is a must visit. The Breakfast Gnocchi is where it’s at.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre Mall, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
Mamasan Kitchen and Bar
It’s modern Asian dining offering Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Japanese, and Thai dishes with a modern twist and it’s all absolutely delicious. As are the cocktails.
Where: The Oracle, Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
Bavarian Bier Café
Mmm bier. This German gem is always a good time and with traditional food and quite the array of biers, you best pop it on your list.
Where: The Oracle, Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
Nahm Kitchen & Bar
The newest eatery on the scene is Nahm Kitchen & Bar at the Oasis Shopping Centre. Serving up some of the tastiest Thai food we’ve ever experienced, the crew is all about authentic eats with an Aussie twist. They’re contemporary, flavourful and paired perfectly with the venues carefully curated wine list. We absolutely loved the Three Flavours Crispy Fish with Barramundi fillets, lychee, pineapple, three flavours chilli sauce and coriander. YUM.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Broadbeach
The Loose Moose
This speak easy style establishment is a whiskey bar slash eatery offering some of the tastiest southern eats around. The Loose Moose does tasty hot dogs, buffalo wings, loaded fries, it’s all good.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre Mall, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
Rivea Italian
Having recently relocated to Surf Pde, Rivea Italian is already a firm favourite. They’ve got all your authentic Italian needs covered. It’s absolutely incredible food from some of the best in the biz.
Where: 89 Surf Pde, Broadbeach
Social Eating House + Bar
Absolutely next-level eats, Social Eating House is one of the best there is. It’s casual fine dining with share plates the name of the game. They’re all taste sensations.
Where: The Oracle, Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
Kurrawa Surf Club
With 180-degree ocean views and a huge menu filled with all the old faithfuls, the brand new Kurrawa Surf Club is a must-visit. There’s very cold beer there too.
Where: Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
Words by Kirra Smith
Paradise calling… And by that, we mean Surfers Paradise of course. You might have thought it’s all just bikini and booze but there is so much more just waiting for you to rediscover. Whether you’ve been looking for something laid-back to take the whole fam to or something a little bit fancy for that date night you’ve been putting off, and of course, somewhere to have a cheeky beverage – Surfers has it all. Did we mention it’s beachside?
So we’ve done the leg work and found the 10 must-try spots for you to get the best feed in the heart of the Coast.
Citrique
It’s one of the Gold Coast’s most loved buffets, Citrique takes its reputation seriously. For real, its award-winning seafood buffet is the GOAT for a reason – think fresh prawns, oysters and lobster tails (did someone say boujee) alongside flavours of the world. If breakfast is more your vibe then you’re in luck because they’re dishing up all-you-can eat breakfast and weekend long lunches alongside their signature seafood feast. Calling the beautiful JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa home, you would expect nothing less from this five-star favourite!
Our pick: Anything seafood!
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
The Langham
If feeling a bit fancy is on the menu then The Langham Gold Coast is the destination. Just as luxe as you’d expect the international hotel to be, The Langham can’t stop, won’t stop on delivering the finest food from the East and the West. Meticulously plated, T’ang Court is where precision meets passion with each dish a show of art for the ultimate Cantonese fine-dining affair. Dine beachfront while you treat yourself at Akoya or pop down to Palm Court for a spot of Afternoon Tea.
Our pick: The Langham’s iconic chef’s menu at T’ang Court
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Palette
Palette stormed onto the dining scene just a few short years ago and it’s been a fan favourite ever since. Located within the HOTA Gallery, this dining spot brings art to life with Executive Chef Dayan Hartill-Law using the Gallery’s exhibitions to inspire the decadent degustation menu. The award-winning restaurant has also modestly received Two Chef Hats from AGFG, which is reason enough for us to book a table already. Art you can eat? Yes please.
Our pick: Go all in on the Tasting Menu you absolutely won’t regret it
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Shiraz Persian Restaurant & Bar
Shiraz have been calling their Surfers Paradise corner home for a couple of years now, so I suppose you could say they’ve settled in well. The perfect spot whether you’re looking for a cute date night or somewhere to take the entire family, Shiraz’s incredibly chic interior is big enough (like, 200 seats big) for you to get your authentic Persian fix. Best enjoyed with their namesake’s Shiraz. Ps. If you don’t feel like cooking on a Monday (honestly, who does) then pop in for their BYO day – it would be rude not to.
Our pick: We can’t pick favourites, so go hard on the banquet, we say
Where: Mantra Wings, 2893 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
The Island Gold Coast
This Island has long been a landmark of the Gold Coast and we think the reason locals and visitors on the Goldie love this place is in part thanks to an aptly named spot called, Goldies. With a huge lineup of foodie favourites from steak and seafood through to pizzas and parmy’s there’s something to satisfy everyone’s cravings. If you’re after a tipple then the Rooftop is the place to perch up with a Pina Colada in hand while you soak in the iconic Gold Coast skyline, we just love a dining destination that’s as vibrant as the city itself.
Our pick: Mare e Monti Pizza
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Yamagen Japanese Izakaya
Tucked away in the QT, this is new generation Japanese for the discerning diner. It’s modern fine dining in a way that ignites all of your senses while celebrating the best of authentic Japanese cuisine. Market fresh sashimi dishes are the hero of the menu, bringing the freshest fare and flavours together to be expertly paired with vast whisky list.
Our pick: Sashimi Moriawase for a taste of it all
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
The Avenue
Everyone has a story from The Avenue, right? And for good reason. Where else can you go and literally spend all night long there. Pop in for a bite at the restaurant and stay for the vibes at the nightclub or one of the iconic drag shows. Live music venues are becoming harder and harder to find, but luckily for us The Avenue aka the home of live music is doing the heavy lifting so you can sip back and listen to sweet tunes every week.
Our pick: Crispy Pork Belly
Where: 3-15 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Coast Beach Bar & Kitchen
There’s something about sipping back on a cocktail while you look at the ocean that just makes it taste that much sweeter. Fortunately for you, that view and those cocktails are accompanied by one of the best new additions to the restaurant scene. Coast Beach Bar & Kitchen brings the perfect balance of fancy food with a relaxed vibe, so you can soak up your surrounds while indulging on your choice of steak or seafood, or head out to the Terrace Bar for more relaxed bites.
Our pick: Kingfish Ceviche
Where: Ocean by Meriton – Level 1, 86 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Central Lounge
Something you might not know about us is that we love a lounge bar, so you bet we were fans of Central Lounge the moment those glorious doors opened. Massive cocktail list? Check. Epic easts? Check. R&B Sunday sessions? Check. We’ll go ahead and call that a trifecta. If you’ve been hunting for a stylish spot to sip cocktails and people watch, then this the place for you.
Our pick: Crab Linguine
Where: 8/27 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Driftwood Social
Driftwood Social, tucked just off Ferny Ave brings blissed-out, Miami pool club vibes to the banks of the Nerang River – and if it’s been a while between drinks, this secluded social spot is every bit as lush as you remember. A stacked menu is another real drawcard, and don’t be tempted to assume we’re talking basic bar bites here.
Our pick: Linguine Alla Vodka And Prawns
Where: 42 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.
Sport watching is a hungry time, particularly when there are 10 events happening in one day and you managed to score tickets to all of them.
So you can make the most of your spectating time (and not starve in the process) we’ve found some of the best restaurants near the major northern Commonwealth games venues.
Coomera Indoor Sports Centre
(gymnastics and netball)
The Boathouse Tavern
A family-friendly bar and grill with all your favourites including burgers, salads, pizza and of course, seafood platters five minutes walk from the sports centre.
Where: 101 Dreamworld Pkwy, Coomera
The Galley
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and with a beautiful deck overlooking the marina, The Galley is the perfect spot to relax, soak up the sunshine and escape the crowds.
Where: 200 Beattie Road, Coomera
Manhattan on Hope
Something a little bit fancy about 10 minutes drive away, Manhattan on Hope is a fine dining venue for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Treat yourself to something special while enjoying views of the Hope Island marina.
Where: Shop 18, 10 Santa Barbara Rd, Hope Island
NightQuarter
A short ten-minute drive down the motorway is the Coast’s beloved night market and entertainment venue, NightQuarter. Throughout the Games a ten day festival will showcase street food style restaurants and live music.
Where: 1 Town Centre Drive, Helensvale
Optus Aquatic Centre and Southport Broadwater Parklands
(swimming, diving)
Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar
A relative newbie on the Southport scene, Mr PP’s offers all the delicious eats, sweet cocktails (and cocktail jugs) and view over the city of SoPo. There’s also a deli downstairs for takeaway goodies and a café next door for exceptional coffee.
Where: 43 Nerang Street, Southport
Randy Wallhole
Bagels, coffee and good vibes are what you’ll find in the heart of Southport at Randy Wallhole. Grab yourself something to eat on the go or head in for breakfast pre-hectic day of cheering on the Aussies.
Where: 4/21 Nind Street, Southport
SoPo Dining Room
Open for lunch and dinner SoPo Dining Room, in Australia Fair, is the perfect central place to stop in for a healthy meal or tasty share plate. They’ve also got frosty cold beer and wine and a fun cocktail menu, if it’s come to that point in the day.
Where: Young St, Australia Fair, Southport
42fifteen
A breakfast and lunch goodie to ensure you’ve got strength to power through the day. From bagels to pork belly, anything you could possibly want can be found at 42fifteen along with exceptional coffee. Back to the bagels, there are nine varieties and we highly recommend every single one.
Where: 9 Davenport St, Southport
Meraki Wholefood Kitchen
Healthy, nourishing foods are always a good idea but particularly when you’ve got a million things to do and need all the energy you can get. Meraki offer exactly that for breakfast and lunch with gluten and dairy free options and vegan goodies. There’s even tasty takeaway raw treats. Get on this one.
Where: 55 Brooke Ave, Southport
Carrara Stadium and Cararra Sports and Leisure Centre
(opening ceremony, closing ceremony, athletics)
RACV Royal Pines Resort
Just around the corner is Royal Pines with a range of restaurants to choose from. For five star eats and stunning views head to Videre, for family friendly Italian fare go with Trattoria Amici, Kalinda is an incredible international buffet and Arakawa is traditional Japanese style eats. No need to go anywhere else really.
Where: Ross Street, Benowa
Emerald Lakes Golf Club
Just across the (extremely busy) road are all the dining choices you could possibly need after a big day of sport watching. They’ve got all the best golf club style eats including salads, steaks and pastas.
Where: Alabaster Drive, Carrara
Althenia Restaurant Bar
Greek dining at it’s finest just a five minute drive from Carrara Stadium. This place is highly recommended for groups (because you can order more) and OMG how good is Greek food (HALLOUMI).
Where: 80/3030 The Boulevard, Emerald Lakes
LakeFront Bistro
All the European goodies are on offer here for both lunch and dinner with plenty of seafood options. The desserts are out of this world and if we could eat Rhubarb Crumble every single day forever, we would.
Where: Shop 78, 3030 The Boulevard, Emerald Lakes
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
