Oh cheese – you are always there when we need you. When we’ve had a hard day at work and can’t be arsed cooking – cheese. When we’re having the girls over for some vinos to unpack the week that was – cheese. When we’re trying to woo that special someone and show off our more refined side – fancy cheese. You get the gist, there’s nothing in this world that can’t be celebrated, commemorated or commiserated with this dairy decadence. With this in mind, we’ve penned a list of GC spots from north to south, where you can stock up on your fave cheesy goodies. Cheese Louise!

Tamborine Cheese Shop
Housed within the Fortitude Brewing Company precinct, Tamborine Cheese Shop will be the answer to all your cheesy dreams! Forewarning, your cheese platters have never looked or tasted this good with the addition of their cheeses. Don’t forget to snap up some dips while you’re at it because these are also drool-worthy.
Where: 165-185 Long Road, North Tamborine

The Standard Market Company
There isn’t well, anything The Standard Market Company folk do that isn’t gouda (get it?), but their cheese selection is definitely a stand-out. With an impressive selection of mouth-watering cheeses, it’s stressful choosing just one or two, so our advice is don’t – get them all, coz “this platter has too much cheese” said no-one ever.
Where: Ferry Road Markets, Southport

Market Organics
The beautiful Southport Market Organics store boasts a plentiful, certified organic produce department, bulk food section, and a variety of refrigerated and dry goods. It is literally a one-stop-shop for all your wholefood needs, especially the holy grail of goodness, c.h.e.e.s.e. Shout out to their strong selection of VEGAN cheeses. Yep, you read that right. An added bonus is it’s a family-owned and run business supporting local growers and manufacturers, what’s not to love here?
Where: 9/201 Ferry Road, Southport

Manolas Brothers Delicatessen
We love ourselves a Manolas Brothers fix, particularly when we’re on the hunt for a fancy flavoursome cheese or ten. This Isle of Capri gem is ever popular, with both peeps enjoying their food in-house, or stocking up on their Greek and Italian deli treats, groceries, fresh pasta, and cheese for entertaining and enjoying at home. Don’t miss this one.
Where: Shop 3G 14, 15-21 Capri Via Roma, Isle of Capri

Harris Farm Markets
Isle of Capri has become quite the hub for the cheese appreciation society (AKA everyone). Whether you purchase in the flesh or online, may we recommend the Granaggio cheese and the Pepato Pecorino cheese and…well…all the cheeses! With a loyal following, they prove that anything you can do, they can do FETA.
Where: Capri on Via Roma, 15-21 Via Roma, Isle of Capri

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, show stopping condiments and of course, the crem de la crem of cheeses.
Where: Ashmore City Shopping Centre, 206 Currumburra Road, Ashmore

Euro Food Deli
Representing and sourcing from the leading European manufacturers who are passionate about producing the highest quality products, Euro Food Deli stocks a huge selection of Russian and Polish food, as well as sweet and savoury treats from across Europe. This of course includes cheese, which is always the first item on our shopping list when we visit this suburban gem. Which is A. LOT.
Where: Shop 18b, 57 Station Street, Nerang

Barbosa Fine Food Deli
For us, a trip to Robina Town Centre goes a little something like this: swing by The Kitchens to grab a quick feed mid-shop, then leave The Kitchens with a trolley full of cheese from Barbosa, along with freshly prepared meals and delish homemade cakes. We usually then swiftly exit, coz all we can really think about at this point is getting home and tucking into said cheesy goodness. With wine of course.
Where: The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre, Robina

Ambarella Fine Food
It’s simply not possible to drive down Southport Burleigh Road and not take a sneaky detour into Ambarella. Stocking a variety of the highest quality cheese sourced from Australia and around the world, their cheesemonger includes some of the most sought-after and finest cheese varieties available. Do yourself a favour and try their goat cheese. You’re welcome.
Where: 1 Santa Maria Court, Burleigh Waters

Golosi Food Emporium
The word “Golosi” means glutton or greedy in Italian and #guilty. This food emporium right in the heart of Burleigh houses some of the finest local and international products. The selection changes on a regular and seasonal basis and we’re talking meats, antipasti, dips, freshly baked bread, olives, and of course, cheese. Pick up some beautiful blooms while you’re there.
Where: 3/45 James Street, Burleigh Heads

Fresco Cheese
Fresco has a purpose-built factory in Burleigh Heads where they produce all their natural cheese. All their milk, for use in their products are sourced from local dairy farmers and turned into cheese in under 24 hours! While you can get your hands on their products in most Woolworths and IGA’s, you are able to visit their Cheesery (yes, that’s its name and we are here for it) to purchase their products that are made mere metres away. Now, that’s awesome! 
Where: Most Woolworths & IGA’s or 33 Leda Drive, Burleigh Heads

Quince Fromagerie
With a name like Quince Fromagerie, you know you’re going to find a whole lotta cheese and sir, we are here for it. A boutique providore (situated in Cornerstone Stores) boasts European and select-local wines, spirits and cheeses, this Currumbin favourite imports limited edition and hard-to-find products. Gaze adoringly into the cheese room, and can we please have one of these in our abode?
Where: 570 Gold Coast Highway, Currumbin

Rob Roy Deli
Run by a chef and a sommelier and no this is not the start to a joke, but if there are two people who know good cheese, it’s, well, a chef and a sommelier! Their sensational range of cheese and charcuterie can be freshly cut to order, and mark our words, you’ll legit want to buy Fifty Shades of Gruyere at this new kid on the block.
Where: 20 Bay Street, Tweed Heads

Words by Bianca Trathen.

Some might call it the heart of the Gold Coast. Mermaid locals will call it the only suburb worth visiting. While we aren’t ones to pick favourite children – I mean, suburbs – Mermaid Beach is definitely up there with the best of the best.

And when you’ve got these spots right on your doorstep, we can kind of understand why. So come with us and explore what locals love so much about our beachside beauty, Mermaid Beach.

Little Truffle
It’s back baby and we might just say, better than ever. Little Truffle had the glowiest of glow ups last year and we’re just oh so glad those glamorous doors are officially open again. The food is just as fancy as you remember it was but elevated to a whole new level with the mastermind chefs behind the icon among us. If you haven’t been back since Little Truffle got her face lift, it’s time to rekindle your love…
Where: 2444 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Cheese Me Baby
They say sweet dreams are made of cheese, or something like that anyway. So what’s sweeter than a place dedicated to the humble cheese toastie. Okay so Cheese Me Baby actually brings a whole lot more to the table than just cheese toasies, but it’s practically illegal to not get around their signature three-cheese blend sando at least once. If you’re not about the carb load (sorry, we’re judging you) then their breakfast boards and acai bowls have your name all over them.
Where: The Pod, Mermaid Beach Village, 2375 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Six Tricks
Fool us once, shame on you. Fool us twice, shame on us. But take that up to Six-Tricks? Now you’re talking. The Six-Tricks Distilling Co. is the ultimate new addition to the GC and Mermaid distillery scene, a carnival of cocktails it’s our favourite local haunt to settle in and sip on some spirits with their menu of seriously spirited flavour combos. Sip back, relax and soak up the great booze and good vibes all day long.
Where: 3 Brightlands Court, Mermaid Waters

The North Room
The North Room is one of our favourite spots not just in Mermaid, but the whole Coast for that signature, relaxed, fine-dining feel. An intimate restaurant serving up some absolutely stunning contemporary dishes that you’ll want to wrap your mouth around ASAP. Bookings are essential and they open for lunch Friday and Saturday and dinner Thursday to Saturday so you’ll want to get in quick to snag a spot. Huge fans of this place.
Where: 1/2527 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

La Macelleria
Filling the gelato-shaped hole in our hearts (and stomachs), La Macelleria has been a very welcome addition to Mermaid Beach. Don’t just listen to us waffle on about it, we’ve given you the scoop now taste it for yourself. Made onsite at La Macelleria, you can watch your gelato churn, baby, churn before they dish up your flavour of choice – which is obviously pistachio, right? It’s legen-dairy.
Where: 90 Markeri Street, Mermaid Waters

Little Mermaid
There’s a lot to be said about infusing a space with tropical, feel-good vibes and Little Mermaid, on the highway, has done exactly that. Decked out with plenty of greenery, a laidback beachy feel, and tons of space for all your friends this is the place to be. The bar and restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the vibe is always pumping so it’s our go-to when you’re looking for a guaranteed good time. We can’t go past the classic beachy fit-out and epic cocktails, you know it’s good when the venue lasts the test of time like these guys have.
Where: 2557 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

Mermaid Beach Surf Club
Have we every mentioned how Gold Coast surf clubs have the best views in town? Mermaid’s is no exception, with uninterrupted ocean views, delicious meals that will fill you right up, and of course, a sweet selection of drinks to sip on. It’s an amazing spot to watch the sun go down with the crew and always provides a quality atmosphere with a buzz of people – bonus if you manage to go home with a cheeky meat tray in tow.
Where: 172 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach

The Borrowed Nursery
Never before has a plant nursery gained such a cult-like following so quickly (or perhaps ever), it’s the Gold Coast’s go-to for a hint of (green) retail therapy. The Borrowed Nursery draws plant lovers and photographers in droves due to its ‘gramworthy aesthetics and bespoke greenery. Fusing in a mix of uber chic homewares, pots for said plants and more to make the ultimate gift for you or a loved one, there’s something for all – no green thumb required. The stunning space also hosts workshops and yoga classes amongst the leafy greens but if that’s not your jam at least pop in for some healthy retail therapy and an Insta-snap.
Where: 42-44 Cronulla Ave, Mermaid Beach

Easy Street Diner
Blink and you might miss this beauty along the Gold Coast Hwy, so keep your eye peeled! What these guys knock out of their kitchen will have you coming back time after time. Menu items such as Jalapeño Bites, Pickle Poppers and their infamous Pork Belly Nuggets are absolute crowd-pleasers. But who are we to take the shine off their fantastic lineup of burgers, Give us the Royale with Cheese all the way!
Where: 12/2563 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Soak Bathhouse
Did someone say R&R? The team at Soak Bathhouse have it down to an art, bringing the ultimate oasis for recovery and tranquillity, right in the heart of bustling Mermaid Beach. With magnesium pools, massage rooms, tradition and infared saunas, steam room spa and a cold plunge pool if you’re brave, pop in for an hour or stay for the day and really treat yourself – you’ve earned it.
Where: 2532 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

The Glenelg Public House
Serving up premium steak and boutique wine (among other delicious things), The Glenelg Public House is an absolute must-visit in Mermaid Beach and just generally on the Gold Coast. If for some reason you’re not into steak (it’s okay, we won’t tell anyone), everything on the menu is top-notch and they have a selection of some of the best seafood and sides we’ve ever sampled. If you’re partial to a solid serving of cheese then you must try to raclette with pear, fig relish and hazelnuts. Keen to try something a little different? The roast bone marrow with onion jam, mustard and toast is next level. Just. Trust. Us.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

Bonita Bonita
Mexican eats at their absolute finest can be found at Bonita Bonita. One of the longest standing taco joints on the Coast, their Taco Thursdays are a favourite amongst the locals and there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options should that be your thing. Right next door is Bon Bon Bar so head in there for a cheeky margi before sampling all of the epic eats on offer. Our marg of choice? Well the Mezcal Margarita of course.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.

Particularly as winter rolls around, it’s a good idea to eat as much fresh fruit and veggies as possible. It’s even better to support local growers at the same time.

Luckily, we have quite the array of options when it comes to farmers markets on the Gold Coast so you never have to travel too far to stock up.

In honour of all that, here’s a list of 10 farmers markets right here on the Gold Coast. From north to south, happy shopping.

Helensvale Farmers Markets
Supporting local farmers with organic and conventional produce, you’ll find a range of gourmet food stalls alongside carefully selected unique handcrafted creations from local micro-businesses. You’ll find seasonal fruits and vegetables, eggs, meats and seafoods, condiments, organic bread, gluten-free breads and baking, honey, flowers, herbs, kombucha, sweet treats and much more. There’s local music and puppies are welcome too. Open Saturdays from 6am until 10.30am.
Where: Helensvale State High School, 243 Discovery Drive, Helensvale

Marina Mirage Farmers Market
Fresh produce, gourmet foods, specialty items and luscious beauty products, the Marina Mirage Farmers Market is a premier market with everything you need. There’s everything from gourmet roasted coffee, freshly made take home meals and baked goodes, deli treats like stuffed olives, cold meats, pates and dips. You can also pick up some gifts while you’re there, there’s organic body scrubs, white Belgian chocolate and handmade soy candles. All the best things. They’re on the first, third and fifth Saturday of the month from 7am until 12pm.
Where: Marina Mirage, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

Bundall Farmers Markets
Visiting Bundall Farmers’ Markets is an experience plenty of locals and visitors love every single week. Not only can you stock up on locally grown goodies, you can also interact with growers and producers and learn about where their food comes from. You’ll find everyting you need from fruit and veggies to fresh flowers, bread, ready-to-eat treats, tasty coffee and plenty more. They are plastic bag free to remember to take your own along with you. Pop in every Sunday from 6am to 11.30am.
Where: Home of the Arts (HOTA), 135 Bundall Road, Bundall

Markets in the Meadow
All the most delightful of goods are on offer at Markets in the Meadow including fresh fruit and vegetables, cryovac meats, specialist bakeries, international take-away eats, local seafood, healthy juices and of course, coffee to kick start the day. You can also find fresh flowers, pet treats, plants and herbs, meals for a week, jams and honey. So all of the best things. Head down for some fun in the sun on Sundays from 6am until 11.30am.
Where: Gold Coast Turf Club, Racecourse Drive, Surfers Paradise

Lavelle Street Markets
Fresh food by local farmers is what you’ll find at Lavelle Street Markets in Nerang. From meat and seafood to rice and flour, all the fruit and vegetables you could possibly imagine plus goodies like hemp seed oil, fresh juice and even treats for your pet, you won’t leave empty handed. Of course there’s fresh coffee to be sipped and plenty of spots to sit and soak up the atmosphere. Open every Sunday form 6.30am to 12pm.
Where: Corner Lavelle & Nerang Street, Nerang

Mudgeeraba Country Markets
With a mission of supporting local growers, the Mugdeeraba Country Market has been a local favourite for many moons. Bring your pooch along to peruse stalls filled with fresh produce, bread, flowers, coffee, everything you love. It’s a beautiful morning out under the trees, filling your basket with tasty eats and breathing in that fresh country air. Get to Mudgeeraba on the second and fourth Sunday of every month from 8am until 1pm.
Where: Mudgeeraba Showground, 115 Mudgeeraba Road, Mudgeeraba

Organic Gold Coast Farmers Market
All organic, everything is the name of the game at Miami’s farmers market. You’ll find an extensive and complete range of the freshest, absolutely straight from the farm, guaranteed certified organically grown seasonal (and interstate) vegetables and fruit. Grab your goodies every Sunday from 6.30am until 11am.
Where: Miami State High School, Gold Coast Highway, Miami

Burleigh Heads Farmers Market
Burleigh’s beloved market offers farm fresh produce, organic fruit and vegetables, gourmet foods, global foods, plants, fresh flowers, meat, fish, deli, antiques and collectibles, arts and crafts, plants, specialty stalls plus hot food, hot coffee and live entertainment. You’re guaranteed to have a good morning at the market then top it off with a stroll across the road to the beach. On every Saturday morning from 7am until 12pm.
Where: Burleigh Heads State School, Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Palm Beach Farmers Market
By the same good folks who bring us Bundall Farmers Market, Palm Beach offers the same five star goodness. Find all your fresh food needs plus breads, specialty stalls, hot food, flowers, gifts and so much more and once you’ve filled your basket, take a seat in the sunshine with a fresh brew and soak it all in. They’re on every Saturday from 6am until 11.30am.
Where: Palm Beach Currumbin High School, Thrower Drive, Palm Beach

Currumbin Community Market
The one and only weekday farmers market on the Coast can be found in Currumbin bearing all kinds of amazing goodies including yes, locally grown fruit and veggies plus selections of nuts and seeds, olives, cheeses, bread, fresh flowers and all set within a relaxing atmosphere. There’s also coffee and ready made breakfast delights if you want to stay awhile. It’s on Thursday mornings from 7am until 11am. Lovely.
Where: Currumbin RSL, 164 Duringan Street, Currumbin

Words by Kirra Smith