The Star has seriously stepped up its’ game of late with even more restaurants on their way and a soon to be unveiled rooftop infinity pool.

Already an institution on the Coast’s foodie scene, The Star boasts eight dining precincts, all of which are completely unique and really make it quite unnecessary to eat anywhere else.

If you’re short on time but keen to experience the tastes of The Star, you’re in luck, on Thursday August 10th, The Star Grazing Food Tour makes its’ debut. It’s a one night only taste testing adventure through four contrasting restaurants within The Star, all of which are paired with wine, naturally.

The tour starts with Japanese, one chef hat owning restaurant Kyomi, with a glass of Moët & Chandon in hand. Chef Chase Kojima’s modern yet authentic Japanese fare is a Gold Coast favourite.

Next up you’ll experience the hawker style foods Hong Kong with a selection of delicious dumplings from Mei Wei. Watch chefs prepare handcrafted dumplings through the viewing panel and then delve into the tasty Mandarin and Cantonese flavours.

Inspired by rooftop restaurants on the Amalfi Coast, Cucina Vivo draws on traditional Italian food culture for the main course of the evening. Taste the true flavours of Italy in the handmade pasta dough as you devour the Tortelloni Ripieni filled with Mooloolaba Crab Meat paired with an Italian wine hailing from Veneto.

Last but certainly not least head to Garden Kitchen & Bar for a garden inspired dessert and an Aussie wine from the Mornington Peninsula.

It’s the perfect way to travel through four cultures in one night all while indulging in some of the best food the Coast has to offer, receiving inside information from passionate chefs and making friends with fellow foodies.

Tours commence at 6.30pm and run for approximately two hours. Cost $88; includes drink pairing at each venue.

LOCATION: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Brazilians are a passionate bunch. They are lovers of coffee, extravagant celebration and of course their native cuisine. 

Luckily for us Gold Coasters, we too can celebrate the unique flavours of Brazil at Burleigh’s recently opened eatery Beleza Brazilian Food House.

The colourful, art-filled space buzzes with energy and the spicy, enticing scents wafting out the door are enough to draw you in before you’ve even spied the menu.

It’s the perfect stop in spot after a long, hard day on the beach (which is only a block away) or if you’re mid way between Mermaid and Burleigh and can’t wait a second longer for a snack.

Meat is a firm favourite in Brazilian culture and as such, almost every dish at Beleza offers exactly that. There are both small, share-style plates and larger meal options available and of course, an abundance of Brazilian beans to go around (another staple).

Since your main will no doubt be meaty, go for the Cheese Balls – made with mozzarella and parmesan – or the Tapioca Dice – cubes of tapioca and cheese – to start.

Picanha, a popular cut of beef in Brazil, is a must-try large plate made up of a grilled rump steak fillet served with rice, beans, chips and house salad. For something slightly different don’t go past the Brasileirinho – grilled chicken served with tropeiro (white) beans, rice, chips and vinaigrette.

If you’re in need of a quick snack on the go, stop in for a Coxinha – deep fried dough filled with shredded chicken.

What are you waiting for, get down to Burleigh and live it up Brazilian style for a while.

LOCATION: 1957 Gold Coast Hwy, Gold Coast

HOURS: 6am to 9pm seven days

Words and photos by Kirra Smith