fbpx
Filter by Suburb
Select all
Broadbeach
Burleigh
Coolangatta
Currumbin
Main Beach
Mermaid Beach
Miami
Nobby's Beach
North Burleigh
Palm Beach
Robina
Southport
Surfers Paradise
Tugun
Water Fun

The Sunday sesh is back, baby!

Above Sundays is making Sundays great again.

The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Spring is in the air, summer’s around the corner and Sunday sessions are back, baby! And just like that we’re getting major nostalgia for the Sunday sessions of yesteryear see: our early 20’s – when the only way through a hangover was to keep the good times going. Ahh, feels just like it was yesterday.

The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

We’ll have you know we’ve found JUST the place for said Sunday sesh and it’s with our mates at The Island Rooftop who have done all the heavy lifting to bring us Above Sundays, guaranteed to make the last day of the week a cut above the rest if you ask us.

The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Sunday scaries? Never heard of ‘em. Well okay, yes we have but never around these vibey rooftop sessions – not possible.

It’s only fitting that the first-ever Above Sundays sesh kicks off on a long weekend, the 6th October, so you can get realllly well acquainted with the cocktail list, which is brimming with goodies btw.

Above Sundays at The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

You might say that the newest Sunday sesh is a cut above the rest, physically and metaphorically. Perched on The Island Rooftop Above Sundays are taking your weekends to new heights with immaculate vibes, thanks to their lineup of DJ’s that just know what the people want.

It’s more than just a vibe, it’s your new weekly ritual. Just don’t tell your usual meal prep Sundays we said that because you’ll be treating yourself to pizza and other indulgent share-style eats. Fries for the table? It’d be rude not to.

The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

But let’s get to the real reason we’re all here… cocktails. Think sips that taste like a summer vacay, no passport required though – did someone say pina colada? Or spicy margarita? Above Sundays is boasting a specially curated cocktail list by the absolute legends at Absolut and Red Bull. Now you’re talking our language.

Since good things come to those who plan ahead, if you’re clever enough to book your spot early you’ll get an Absolut Vodka & Red Bull on arrival because The Island knows how to treat you right and we figured some wings are always welcome to help the vibes take flight.

Cocktails at The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Cocktails at The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

You can treat yourself to a cheeky sleep in (go on, you know you’ve earned it), then get your Sunday best on and get ready to soak up some rays on the rooftop, because it’s your day and that just sound like a pretty *chef’s kiss* end to the weekend.

That’s right lounge lizards, it’s your time to let loose because what’s more iconically GC than a weekend spent on the rooftop basking in the sunshine. Answer: NOTHING.

Above Sundays at The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Doors open from 11 am, so you can start your Sunday session early and make the most of every golden hour. Cheers to Sundays that don’t suck!

For more information and to book, go here.

Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
When: Sundays from 11am

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski

STORY SPONSORED BY THE ISLAND AND PERNOD RICARD

The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Food at The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

13 bottomless brunches on the Gold Coast

The Tropic, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
The Tropic, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

Ahh, the blessed ritual of brunch. Leisurely feasts of eggs every which way you can imagine, sticky, syrup drenched French toast stacks, and smoked salmon for days – what’s not to love? Plus, it gives us the excuse to sleep in, and our tastebuds are rewarded pretty handsomely for the trouble.

Couple it with a little concept known as bottomless cocktails and life doesn’t get much better. So universally beloved is the sip-happy cousin of this mid-morning rendezvous, we’ve rustled up an entire list of the best places on the GC to get your boozy brunch-fest fix (say that five times fast after two hours of free-flowing mimosa’s).

From north to south, gather your mates, don your stretchy pants and jump on the brunch bandwagon!

Mozza Mozza, Southport (image supplied)
Mozza Mozza, Southport (image supplied)

Mozza Mozza
For a surefire way to stave off the Sunday scaries, the groovy and oh-so boozy, discotheque-themed Italian feast (don’t ask questions, just go with it) going down weekly at Mozza Mozza would have to be one of the best. For $75 per person, the Sunday Bottomless Disco dishes up share-style plates such as Pizzas, Arancini Balls and House-Made Focaccia to load up on – studded by a fruity Spritz and Mimosa menu to strategically work your way through. As far as bottomless spreads go, we particularly love the options on offer here – feeling like flanking your Italian feast with a boozy slushie upgrade? Say no more, fam! Craving Mozza Puff Bread or Tiramisu? Sure thing, just add ‘em on for a fiver. You’ll be shakin’ your groove thang in no time.
Where: Southport Sharks, Corner Olsen Avenue & Musgrave Avenue, Southport

Duck Salad, The Winey Cow, Main Beach (image supplied)
Duck Salad, The Winey Cow, Main Beach (image supplied)

Winey Cow
If you consider yourself a bit of a brunch connoisseur, Main Beach’s resident egg-slinging specialist, Winey Cow is a must try for several reasons. Reason numero uno, is that they live and breathe this brekkie business – after all, the much-lauded namesake Melbourne location has the boasting rights to accolades like Café of the Year and Best Breakfast Restaurant. And when you’re in the mood to take the Chilli Scramble Croissant up a notch, they also throw a particularly spectacular bottomless brunch any ‘ole day of the week. For $55 per person, you can grab a main with endless mimosas for an hour, with Cranberry & Lime and Pineapple, Passionfruit & Lime options if you wanna switch it up from the Classic OJ. And ‘wine’ not, we say?
Where: 5/11 Woodroffe Ave, Main Beach

Director of Champagne, Bazaar Marketplace, QT Gold Coast (image supplied)
Director of Champagne, Bazaar Marketplace, QT Gold Coast (image supplied)

QT Gold Coast
There’s Sunday brunch… then there’s Soul Sundays at Bazaar. A bubbly twist on the beloved Bazaar buffet experience we know and love, Soul Sundays takes this fanciful spread to the next level! From 11am–3pm every Sunday, you can nosh your way through brekkie faves like waffles and crepes while being serenaded by the sounds of live music and the chorus of clinking glasses as the champas flows freely. To chaperone your delectable experience, there’s even a Director of Champagne at the ready to customise your sip with a selection of juices and nectars. Yep, this one does indeed speak to our soul.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise

Surfers Pavilion Brunch Club (image supplied)
Surfers Pavilion Brunch Club (image supplied)

Surfers Pavilion
The Surfers Pav always delivers the goods and this is especially so when we’re talking about their Brunch Club experience. The perfect waterfront setting, DJs will be on the decks from 1pm every Sunday to set the mood. Choose from the $59 per head package including a selection of Oysters, or the $99 per head package with a choice of Cauliflower popcorn, Calamari or Chicken riblets, followed by either Nachos, Lamb ragu, Fish and chips, or Mushroom lasagne. Both packages entitle you to Prosecco, Bellinis, Mimosas, Pineapple mimosas, Mango mimosas, Pav lager, along with requisite softies. Walk-ins or bookings welcome anytime from 12.30pm.
Where: 30 – 34 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Hyde Paradiso interior (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)
Hyde Paradiso interior (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)

Hyde Paradiso
It’s the ultimate beachside brunch overlooking the ocean and yeah, we had you at beachside. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, tuck into the Standard Brunch or Vegan Brunch for an all out, four-course feast of Mediterranean-inspired mixed tapas, including delightful bites like Eggs Benny Hash made with truffle honey hollandaise. But ‘bottomless’ we promised, and bottomless ye shall receive – here you can pick your poison with two-hour sip packages such as Aperol Spritz, Bellini Spritz & Limoncello Spritz, Chandon Brut & Chandon Rosé, or perhaps the Veuve Clicquot upgrade will be more your speed. Available between 12pm and 2pm, minimum of 2 people required.
Where: Peppers Soul, Level 2/8 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

The Island Rooftop (image supplied)
The Island Rooftop (image supplied)

The Island Gold Coast
The Island says Saturday afternoons are for gathering, grazing and good times, and who are we to disagree? And yes, technically speaking, this one is classified as a ‘lavishly long lunch’ – but when it comes with two hours of tantalising eats, arrival mimosa and cocktail and spritz carafes – does anyone really mind? Spend your Saturday nibbling your way through Charcuterie and share-style bites of Karaage Chicken, Lamb kofta and Wood-fired pizzas, alternated with jugs of Passionfruit and Vanilla Mojito, Watermelon Margarita Spritz and Mimosa. $79 per person, two sittings (from 11:30am or 1:30pm) available.
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Autumn 2024 menu at Elk Espresso, Broadbeach (image by Brooke Darling)
Autumn 2024 menu at Elk Espresso, Broadbeach (image by Brooke Darling)

Elk Espresso
Broady gem Elk is another superb spot popping the cork on bottomless brunch daily. And bonus, it’s walk-ins only – so just grab the gang and rock up between 10am–1.30pm to partake in their delectable assortment of colourful, petal-topped dishes along with one hour to go ham on the bottomless Mimosa menu. Yep, that’s sixty whole minutes of mimosa action and nope, we sure as heck ain’t driving. Pick your fave between the the Classic, Strawberry lime and Tropical varieties, then ‘sip’ back and marvel as your flute magically refills itself. You certainly don’t have to tell us twice! $49 per head.
Where: Oasis Shopping Centre (opposite the beach), Broadbeach

Miss Moneypenny's interior (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)
Miss Moneypenny's interior (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)

Miss Moneypenny’s
Weekends are for sleep-ins, so if you didn’t quite make it out of bed in time for brunch, turn those lemons into two hours of citrus-studded spritzers, cocktails or French champagne (which absolutely beats lemonade, any day of the week) at the famous Miss Moneypenny’s bottomless lunch. Opt between the degustation-style Chef’s Signature or Three-course a la carte menu, and nosh your way through delectable dishes like saffron-infused Coral Coast Barramundi and Waygu Carpaccio. Talk about lush …we’re not saying it was this stellar spread in particular that was responsible for bagging them an AGFG chef hat for the past three years running… but we’re not not saying it, either. Available Saturday and Sunday, 12–2pm from $110 per person.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

 

Food and Cocktails at Tropic Vice, Nobby Beach (image supplied)
Food and Cocktails at Tropic Vice, Nobby Beach (image supplied)

Tropic Vice
Yes, this one’s technically a ‘lunch’, but we’re happy to look the other way for any excuse to a) incorporate more margs into our weekend and b) hit snooze few dozen times. From 12–4pm every Sunday, the Tropic Vice rooftop transforms into a free-flowing fiesta with live music, DJ’s bites and bottomless margs for $99 per person. We’re talking a set menu of Truffle fries, Halloumi Bites and Tacos, with the option to upgrade to a Dozen Oysters & Bottle of Luc Belair for an extra $85 if you’re really in the mood to celebrate. Monday can wait indeed!
Where: 2215 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Margaritas at Ally Chow (image supplied)
Margaritas at Ally Chow (image supplied)

Ally Chow
Ally Chow dishes up Asian fusion done right, and their two brunch options do not disappoint. For $99 per person, the Chow Out features the Chef’s choice banquet with two-hours of bottomless thai basil caprisokas, Asahi beer and prosecco. Or, have a go of the Margarita Lunch Banquet and yes, this has us written all over it. For $130, enjoy the same offerings mentioned above, only substitute bottomless caprioskas for bottomless margis! Once again recognised with the Australian Good Food Guides Chef Hat Award, this one is a no-brainer.
Where: Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach

The Tropic (image supplied)
The Tropic (image supplied)

The Tropic
One of the GC’s very favourite ocean-view venues, The Tropic offers a solid ten bottomless brunch and absolutely nobody is surprised to hear this. Taking place exclusively on the terrace on the last Saturday of every month, not only will you be privy to multi-million-dollar views and DJ beats, but deliciously fresh seafood and innovative fare. Think Oysters, Spiced bread, Stracciatella & Persimmon, Pavlova, and more, but no need cuz we’re already #sold. Veuve, Rose and Bellini Cocktail packages available from $75 per person. Don’t mind if we do!
Where: 43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

Waffles at Palm Beach Ave, Palm Beach (image supplied)
Waffles at Palm Beach Ave, Palm Beach (image supplied)

Palm Beach Ave
Palmy’s resident art deco stunner isn’t just a pretty face—it’s also home to some pretty spectacular dining deals (shout out, $60 3-course set menu) – including one of the most irresistible bottomless brunch options going! Every weekend, from 10am to 2pm, get beachside for your boozy brunch fix for only $45 per person. The mid-morning soiree kicks off with a salmon blini canapé to start, while you settle in to 1.5 hours of free-flowing mimosas and ponder between options like the Chilli Scrambled Eggs and Prawn and Bug Roll from the mouthwatering menu… #decisionsdecisions.
Where: 6 Palm Beach Avenue, Palm Beach

Bottomless Brunch at Refinery Coffee, Currumbin Waters (image supplied)
Bottomless Brunch at Refinery Coffee, Currumbin Waters (image supplied)

Refinery Coffee
Why wait for the weekend? Refinery Coffee reckons any day is a good day to bust out the boozy OJ for this beloved mid-morning ritual, and we wholeheartedly agree. Available from 10am daily, gather your celebratory crew and report to Currumbin’s light-filled converted warehouse for the Bottomless Brunch option. Here, you can tuck in to your pick from the all-day eats menu, such as Chilli Scram and Eggs Benny, while throwing back Classic & Watermelon mimosas for 1.5 blissful hours. The only caveat is that your whole crew must be partaking (is that even a question) with a non-alc option also available. Bottoms up!
Where: 37 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Waters

The Tropic, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
The Tropic, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

Miami’s meow-vellous new brewery

Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

In a very exciting Gold Coast first, a beer bar dedicated to Japanese brews has opened in Miami and it’s already a firm favourite amongst the locals. Roji Cat is vibrant, fresh and exciting and it’s perfectly at home, next to stalwart fave Granddad Jacks, on Lemana Lane.

Food at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Food at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Reminiscent of the neon-laden Dotonbori district of Osaka and downtown Tokyo’s Shinjuku district, the entirely indoor space has been decked out to resemble an authentic, local alleyway complete with signage, lanterns and a cabinet displaying a huge collection of Bearbricks (a beloved cartoon-style bear) all brought over from Japan.

Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

High tables run along the length of the space, brew tanks take up a huge corner in the back and there’s an open kitchen so you can watch your dishes being prepared. The vibe is high instantly upon entering the space and it’s all exactly what you’d expect to see when visiting a Japanese beer bar.

Karaoke room at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Karaoke room at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Perhaps the most exciting part though, is a specialty (sound proof) karaoke room just off the main bar area where you and your crew can belt out a tune to your heart’s content without a single note being heard outside. There’s also an electric darts room with plenty of spots to play and couches to lounge about on while you beat your mates.

Darts room at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Darts room at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Now let’s chat beer. Head Brewer Toshi, whose work you would know from Black Hops, is the most passionate and knowledgeable man on the planet when it comes to beer. There are 12 brews on tap AND a diverse sake bar featuring 24 types of sake, all handpicked by Toshi who has over 20 years brewing experience.

Cocktails include the likes of a signature Tokyo Sour and the signature beer is Toshi’s Japanese Rice Lager which we tried and tested and can confirm, is the goods.

Food at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Food at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

There’s food of course and the menu is filled with elevated, Japanese street food crafted by Japanese culinary expert and Head Chef Helen Rissen. Think Robata Skewers, sweet and spicy Roji Cat Karaage, Gyoza, Sashimi, Miso Corn (love you) and burgers including a Bug Burger with a tempura Moreton Bay Bug, spicy Japanese coleslaw and Kewpie mayo. We’ll take all of that thank you so much.

Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

The entire operation is a family-run affair celebrating close family friend Toshi’s heritage and a shared love of Japanese culture, vibrant food scene and bustling nightlife. All of which has been very obviously and meticulously incorporated into Roji Cat to bring us the Japanese Beer Bar we didn’t know we so desperately needed.

Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Do yourself a favour and head down to Miami to see what all the fuss is about and find yourself transported to Japan, right in the heart of the Gold Coast.

Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami
When: Thursday and Friday 4pm to 10pm. Saturday and Sunday 12pm to 10pm

Words by Kirra Smith
Images by Kirra Smith

Exterior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Exterior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Get ready to paaaaaartay with views for days

Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

If you’ve been searching for a new hotspot to sip cocktails, soak up some serious rooftop vibes and dance the night away, look no further. The GC’s freshest party playground, Lulu Rooftop & Bar, is open and trust us – it’ll be your new go-to for brunches, long lunches, weekend drinks, and dancefloor domination!

Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Perched pretty on Level 2, 4 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise, Lulu is where Miami’s chic Art Deco scene meets the laid-back tropical charm of the Gold Coast. It’s got a little bit of everything. Think lush greenery, plush booth seating, marble-topped bars, and the kind of decor that’ll make you feel like you’ve just stepped onto the set of Miami Vice, minus the bad moustaches #SorryTom… but also #WhattaMan. With wall-to-wall mirrors and custom-designed wallpaper from local legend Jamie Peters, this $1.59 million venue is a vibe in every sense of the word.

Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Lulu is set to change the game with its fabulous Frosé Wall – and yes, you read that right (dreams to come true). Mark our words, this masterpiece will be spring and summer’s biggest hit, offering six boozy frosé flavours like Passionfruit Long Island Iced Tea and Frozen Squashie. The cherry on top? Lulu lets you play bartender at the DIY candy station, where you can garnish your icy creation with an array of lollies. Your Insta feed won’t know what hit it.

Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Hungry? You should be, because Executive Chef Justin Wise has whipped up a menu that’ll have your taste buds busting out ‘Miami’ Will Smith style and don’t tell us you’re too cool coz #anthem. With a global twist on beachside classics, the Lulu Classic Club Sandwich featuring free-range chicken, bacon, kewpie mayo, and gouda cheese is a must-try. Fancy something a little more playful? The Grilled Corn Ribs with paprika butter, parmesan, and chipotle aioli are just the kind of snack you need to fuel those dance moves. And for the skewer lovers, they’ve got Wagyu beef with burnt onion jam and swordfish skewers ripe and ready to be devoured.

Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Swordfish skewers, Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Of course, no rooftop party is complete without a killer cocktail list, and Lulu does not disappoint. Classics like Pornstar Martinis and Margaritas are joined by signature creations like the Lulu Spritz, Peach Velvet, and Passionfruit Therapy – perfect for sipping as you take in those dreamy Surfers Paradise views.

Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

In a city that knows how to party, Lulu Rooftop & Bar is raising the bar. With killer views, a menu to dine for, DJs and musicians every week that’ll keep the good vibes rolling all day and night long. Plus, don’t miss their weekly bottomless brunches, where you and your crew can indulge in two hours of bottomless drinks and share plates. Lulu is set to be your new favourite spot for all things fun, fabulous, and frosé-filled.

Where: Level 2/4 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
When: 12pm – 10pm Sunday to Wednesday, 12pm – 12am Thursday, and 12pm – 3am Friday to Saturday

Words by Bianca Trathen

Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
© 2024 All Rights Reserved.