First and foremost: our sin-sear-est apologies in advance to our plant-based brethren, with this roundup including exactly zero cauli steaks, might we instead suggest our 10 Vegan Gold Coast Restaurants list.

For the meat eaters among us, if it’s sear-riously good steak you seek, you are definitely in the right place. There are not many dishes that compare to the satisfaction of a succulent steak cooked to perfection, though there is often a lot more to the art of this dish than meats the eye.

When the urge for a next level steak won’t quit, sometimes you just have to leave it in the hands of the pros. Sit back and grillax, we’ve got those carnivorous cravings covered. Here are 10 of the GC’s most lit steak restaurants worth getting fired up over.

Glenelg Public House
We’re starting strong with Mermaid’s moody gastro-pub, which has garnered itself a solid rep indeed for punching out sear-riously good steaks over the years. These guys take their meat even more seriously than that one mate bordering on a situationship with their smoker, with a full breakdown of cut / weight / breed / producer / paddock / region / feed to agonise over. There are no less than nine top-quality cuts on offer from all over Aus (and that’s not including the stacked selection of share-style dishes) – making this a must-try destination for even the most discerning steak critics (*cough* looking at you, aforementioned mate with smoker).
Where: 9/2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

kōst Bar & Grill
Oh yes, Broadbeach’s very notable newcomer is so much more than a (breathtakingly) pretty face, already pulling a #Bradbury to just as elegantly glide on in and secure their rightful place on this list. This euro-chic vibing contemporary bar & grill boasts one of the city’s only charcoal wood-fire grills, meaning anything not already nailed down is treated to that signature flame kissed treatment. There’s an assortment of steak cuts to acquaint yourself with, including a 1kg Dry Age Steak – O’Connor Beef T-Bone if you’re feeling a little lot extra.
Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

Cavill’s Steakhouse
For born and bred locals, the former Labrador icon (affectionately known simply as Cav’s in our youths) summons a whole lot of nostalgia, and thankfully it still stands up to the hype and fond mems all these years on.

In fact, this is one GC institution that has aged like fine wine (they’ve got those too), with a rooftop vibing re-location and grown up new look to match that signature Cav’s experience we’ve known for ~40 years now. They’ve got this steak business down to a fine art, with a sister butchery, an extensive selection of cuts and that traditional steak experience with all the classic trimmings – bc sometimes you just need a decadent, garlic prawn laden steak in your life.
Where: 6 Bayview Street, Runaway Bay

Moo Moo
Another GC mainstay, Moo Moo’s has been serving up all the mouth-watering meat action (and resulting meat sweats) to Broadbeach and beyond going on 20 years now, and they’ve got the receipts – aka slew of awards to prove it.

Specialty steaks are kind of their thing (as are fine wines), with ten mouth-watering options to choose from – though if you and a willing participant have brought your appetite, take on the infamous Spice Rubbed 1kg Wagyu Rump Cap Roast. Carved at the table served with Wagyu Fat Fried New Season Potatoes (and some green stuff for good measure).
Where: 2685 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

Outback Steakhouse
If it’s more of a laid back, steakhouse vibe you’re going for, it would be a crying flame to overlook Outback Steakhouse, a family friendly all-rounder also serving up some formidable options when it comes to flame kissed fare. The menu offers up something for everyone, with those in the mood for something meaty treated to eight steak cuts served with your choice of sides. Gather the crew and take on the 1.25kg Angus Tomahawk, or a slightly more surmountable Ribeye, with a little more space to spare for pud.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach

Nineteen at The Star
A spot well known for dishing up the finer things, with a little help from some epic views of the GC skyline, The Darling’s crowning jewel Nineteen at The Star is the kinda place that has it it all. Naturally, there’s an equally impressive selection of swanky steaks, which are almost exclusively sourced locally on the Darling Downs (with exception to the Cape Grim Grass Fed Rib Eye, which, we can definitely manage to let slide, quite frankly).

If it’s truly time to treat yourself, these guys boast one of the largest selections of sumptuous 9+ MBS (aka ‘excellent’ grade) steaks on the Coast – the only thing higher is that stunner of an outlook, tbh.
Where: 1, Level 19, The Darling at The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach

Red Steakhouse
Tucking in to a Dry Aged, New York Strip on the bone surrounded by a cool couple of milli worth of yachts and marina views for days? #thatslivin. A fine dining style steakhouse, though the more upscale take will come as a surprise to absolutely no one given it’s situated within the swanky Sanctuary Cove dining precinct #ohshefancyhuh.

This nominee for the GC’s most spectacular slab of beef has got your steak needs covered from A-Z, (or technically W) with a hefty offering including everything from Angus through to Waygu. Got a ravenous crowd of beef buffs on your hands? Tackle one of the mammoth 1-2kg Oakey Reserve Black Angus Tomahawks for your feasting pleasure.
Where: Sanctuary Cove, 46E/4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island

Mr Hizola’s
A very worthy contender for the GC’s best steak hall of flame is Mr Hizola’s and the srsly lit (literally) signature dish – Sizzling Wagyu Steak. Serving up contemporary Cantonese eats, this Burleigh hotspot is adored among the hungry Southern hordes, also dishing up a show-stopper of a steak that no doubt has played a solid part in cementing that status. The dazzling dish is set alight at the table for an unbel-beef-able experience that tastes every bit as good as it looks.
Where: 1730 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Hurricane’s Grill & Bar
If it’s stellar steak you’re after, this cosy Surfers Paradise spot is certainly serving it up (along with some mighty fine beach views). Hurricane’s definitely lives up to the ‘Grill and Bar’ title, with a grilliant array of meaty morsels to choose from. On offer is everything from petite Sirloin cuts through to some very boujee beef options indeed – with the pièce de résistance, a MS7+ Tajima Wagyu Beef Sirloin sure to impress even the staunchest of steak snobs.
Where: 1/4-14 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

Woodchopper’s Inn
Woodchopper’s has been treating the southern GC to their specialty low & slow method ever since they took their passion for flame-licked fare to full blown obsession, following the installation of the site’s first BBQ back in 2015. Though the legacy of this Mudgeeraba mainstay goes much further back, the addition has gone on to become the GC’s longest standing real woodfired BBQ. Throw in an artisan distillery, and suddenly this little spot is sporting some rather obvious tactical advantages indeed.

The signature steak dish, BBQ Tri Tip Sirloin stars the fave cut of the Woodchopper crew, and who are we to disagree with the experts.
Where: 64 Railway St, Mudgeeraba

Words by Kellie Leader.

Burleigh’s Andrew Loveday has become a household name thanks to his award-winning snags. In over 20 unique and mouth-watering flavours (think spaghetti bolognaise, smokey bacon and maple and Thai curry coconut) they are an Australia Day must-have.

In 2015 he was crowned National Sausage King for his Texan BBQ sausages and more recently, Queensland Sausage King for the same flavour.

We sat down for a chat with the man behind the snags to learn some tips on how to cook the perfect BBQ.

Five favourite sausage flavours for Australia Day?

Vegemite and cheese, we have those year round, Texan BBQ, plain beef, charcoal chicken and there’s gotta be a lamb one in there – we have about five or six flavours of those, it’s hard to pick a favourite.

Any tips on how to cook a sausage perfectly on the BBQ?

The first thing is don’t have the pan too hot when you start, don’t prick holes in it, because that will make them burst and go everywhere. Just keep turning them as much as you can to let the little bit of fat that will come out (which is a good thing) and keep it moist.

How you came to be a butcher?

Dad said I had to get a trade before I left school so I’ve been a butcher for 25 years.

How does it feel to be the National Sausage King?

When we won it was pretty awesome, it’s been a long time coming, we’ve been in the industry a long time.

Tell me about the awards you’ve won?

We start at the Gold Coast regional awards and once you win that you go to the state competition, which is held at the EKKA. From there you go to nationals, this year we’re off to Tasmania.

Which is the most popular flavour?

The Texan BBQ, which is the one we won the awards for and then the steak sausages, which are smokey bacon and maple flavoured is probably the next most popular one.

Why are your sausages the best?

It’s the quality that goes into each sausage.

We also cater for allergy sufferers, a lot of our sausages are gluten free and we also do one called an AIP – Australian Auto-Immune Protocol Sausage (no soy products, a lot of coconut aminos and a lot of root vegetables) – plus we can also do any blend people want to put together.

My daughter has an autoimmune condition and she asked me to make something for her, so I invented them.

BBQ or tomato sauce?

Don’t need it.

Any hints or tips for cleaning the BBQ after cooking?

Shut the lid. No, just a good scrape with the scraper and maybe some paper towel to clean it off.

What do you love most about the Gold Coast lifestyle?

Just the relaxed atmosphere. I’m a country boy so it’s pretty much like a big country town, everyone’s friendly.

You’re not a Gold Coast local if you haven’t… tried one of our snags.

Being a local business we have to ask for your favourites…

Beaches: Burleigh, hard to go past it

Restaurant: I like to go to Girven Road for a burger

Pub: The Burleigh Hotel or Shark Bar

Café: There’s a little place in Burleigh, Social Brew, we like that place

Hours: 6am to 6pm daily.

Address: Treetops Shopping Centre, corner Bermuda St and Reedy Creek Rd, Burleigh Waters.

Words and photos by Kirra Smith.

When it’s time for a picnic or a lazy Sunday afternoon in the sun, wine in hand, delicatessen-style foods are the perfect accompaniment. But not just any old deli meats- we’re talking specialty goods like mouth-watering dry-cured meats, artisanally produced cheeses, and all those delightful dips and spreads — ultimate charcuterie board goals.

But getting your hands on such fare is no easy task. You must know where to look, folks. Head to the supermarket deli counter if you must, but if you yearn for divine savours — and believe you deserve the very finest — read on as we run you through the Gold Coast’s best gourmet delis.

Manolas Bros Delicatessen
Manolas Bros Deli & Cafe has cemented itself as one of the Coast’s ultimate spots to treat your tastebuds. Not content with being a continental-style deli, you are also spoiled with wood-fired pizzas, an extensive bar offering, and heaps of takeaway options in the form of robust filled-to-the-brim food hampers. All we can say is specialty dishes, baked goods, and festive sweets are some of the many reasons people keep coming back to this Surfers Paradise foodie hub.
Where: Shop 3G, 14 Capri on Isle of Capri, 15/21 Via Roma, Surfers Paradise

Barbosa Fine Food Deli
Cheese is life. That is a fair statement in anyone’s book (sorry, vegans). But with cheese, one must have suitable chutneys, relishes, pickles, and crackers. Luckily for us, Barbosa Fine Food Deli, located in The Kitchens in Robina Town Centre, has all the above, plus more. Grab yourself an organic Fairtrade coffee and discuss your next blissful charcuterie board with any of their friendly staff: they’ll help direct you through their incredible ashttps://www.insidegoldcoast.com.au/cheese-gold-coastsortment of imported and Australian goods. And for those with a craving for fresh truffles, look no further; truffle season is upon us, and these guys have got you covered.
Where: The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

The Oxley Village Market
Taking up residence in the all-new The Oxley 1823 in Nobby Beach is, you guessed it, The Oxley Village Market. Each aisle is a new adventure for gastronomy geeks and an inspiration for new culinary escapades. There are artisanal cheeses, fresh pasta, ethically sourced free-range eggs, fresh-made salads, baked goods, gorgeous bouquets and, of course, an array of delicious cured and butcher meats. Okay, we have a secret for you entertainers: pre-made artisanal charcuterie boxes are available for order and customisation (using only the freshest ingredients, of course). We won’t tell if you don’t.
Where: 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach

Ambarella Fine Foods
This enclave of gourmand food and drinks ensures an authentic paddock to plate experience with every visit. Whether you’re looking to stock up on farm-fresh vegetables, lusting for one of our city’s largest selections of cheese, or adamant you must have yourself only the best superbly baked European style bread, then, you’ll find all of these under the one roof here in Burleigh Waters. However, searching out the best goods is tiring — and hungry — work. We suggest you take a rest and fuel up at their café and juice bar, where fresh over-filled sandwiches/wraps and squeezed-on-the-spot juices await you.
Where: Shop 12/1 Santa Maria Court, Burleigh Waters

The Standard Market Company – Southport Brickworks
This is your one-stop place to fill your larder with the finest goods the Gold Coast’s CBD has to offer. Specialising in freshly baked breads, cheese, olives and imported gourmet goods, your next picnic will be elevated to lofty new heights. But this isn’t all; their very own butcher counter will tease you with expert cuts of free-range and organic meats alongside a vast selection of handmade sausages crafted with flavourings from all around the world. Around the world in 80 snags, anyone?
Where: 107 Ferry Road, Southport

Jones & Co Grocer
Ready to pack an impressive picnic basket? Of course you are! IGA Jones & Co Grocer is a name you might be familiar with – even if you’re not lucky enough to count their Southport Queen Street Village location as your local. From their very own walk-in Cheese Room, stocking over 300 varieties of cheese, to specialty meat cuts from their in-house butchery and all the freshly baked goods in between, your picnic will be fit for royalty.
Where: Queen Street Village, 129 Queen Street, Southport

Euro Food Deli
This store is a feast for international delights, representing and sourcing from the leading European manufacturers. Euro Food Deli stocks a huge selection of Russian and Polish food and sweet and savoury treats from across Europe. From Smalec Rusiecki (a traditional Polish spread) to Leberkäse (traditional German meatloaf), you will lose yourself for hours discovering new and home favourites at this Nerang neighbourhood market. Their sweet selection deserves special mention. We repeat, do not skip this aisle!
Where: Shop 18b, 57 Station Street, Nerang

Harris Farm Markets, Isle of Capri
Trusty as always, Harris Farm Markets has, of course, made the list with their wholesome goodies and fresh produce. They shelf almost anything your deli-heart desires, as well as fresh seafood, baked goods, niche and popular pantry items,  and of course, plenty of fresh fruit and veg. However, because we are here in the name of gourmet deli, let us tell you that Isle of Capri has become quite the hub for the cheese appreciation society (AKA everyone). Not only that, their selection of cured meats is substantial and will have you kinging and queening the wine and cheese night.
Where: Capri on Via Roma, 15-21 Via Roma, Isle of Capri

FLOR
FLOR are specialists in natural, organic and sustainable wine but also are a petite pantry of curated groceries. You certainly feel wise shopping their unique and hard-to-find shelf items, deli meats and cheeses- which are all ethically sourced from local Gold Coast & Northern NSW suppliers with only the odd handmade goods from elsewhere in Australia. Our charcuterie board has never been so conscious! Our tip: remember, good things take time! Get chatty with the FLOR staff to help select your perfect pairing or next wine adventure- it’s worth it!
Where: Shop 5/3 Park Avenue, Burleigh Heads

Golosi Food Emporium
This nook of delectable goods is Burleigh Heads’ ode to fine foods — and we suggest, if you haven’t already, to make this a regular place to stop by. Even if you’re having trouble conjuring up a list of things you might want, don’t fear. Once you step inside, the vast assortment of fare will quickly have you imagining cheese boards and snack plates from your wildest dreams. And if you plan on having yourself an easy dinner one evening, their selection of fresh pasta and divine ready-prepared meals are by no means a shortcut.
Where:  3/45 James Street, Burleigh Heads

Russian Delights
Those with family ties to Eastern Europe or Russia often know only too well how hard it can be to find foods from the old country here in Australia. One place that disrupts and challenges this status quo are the good guys at Russian Delights. This long-established business has been procuring and distributing various foods from different cultures for over twenty years and shows no sign of slowing. Specialising in smoked sausages and cured meats, they pride themselves on only stocking the very best produce made by the strictest traditional recipes and welcome customers from all varying backgrounds to come and enjoy their selection of international goods. Trust us when we say locals who know their meats get it from here.
Where: 1/35a Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads

Quince Fromagerie Cellar
Hidden in Cornerstone Stores, Quince Fromagerie Cellar has been a haven of boutique goods impressing locals since 2018. Literally, the cutest looking wine and cheese shop you’ve ever seen — but don’t be fooled, this is a serious case of good things coming in small packages. Friendly shop manager Rafa (Rafael) is on hand to lead you through the diverse selection of gourmet goods and cheeses, and if you ask nicely, he may even give you a taste of some. We’re also pleased to say wine plays a role here, and should you want to pair one of their many bottles with anything edible you purchase, go right ahead, you cultured thing, you.
Where: Shop 5/570 Gold Coast Highway, Tugun

Grobnik European Delicatessen
This multigenerational family legacy of artisan butchery mastery is also online! And they bring traditional European handmade recipes into your kitchen – and we’re here for it. There are cured meats in every flavour imaginable (beef jerky and salami for days!), show-stopping condiments and, of course, the creme de la creme of cheeses.
Where: Ashmore City Shopping Centre, 206 Currumburra Road, Ashmore

Tugun Market Co
It felt like only yesterday that this splendid Tugun farmers-style market first opened and inspired the Gold Coast. Here to serve the community from pantry to plate, they specialise in fresh produce, high-quality butcher meats, gourmet foods, health foods, organic products, vegan products, stunning blooms and gorgeous gifty style homewares. But most importantly, there’s a fromagerie. Which is cheese. Which is life. From their fresh produce to their butchery, you’ll get nothing but the highest quality goods here- that’s a guarantee.
Where: 499 Gold Coast Highway, Tugun

Rob Roy Deli & Drinks
This southern Gold Coast beauty is run by a chef and a sommelier. That sounds like the perfect pairing to us! They’ve married the finest continental deli eats with a boutique bottle shop that offers a constantly rotating selection of small-batch produced beer, wine and spirits. Say less! Their sensational range of cheese and charcuterie can all be freshly cut to order, taking your platter from zero to hero.
Where: 1/20 Bay St, Tweed Heads

Words by Chelsea Ipsen