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.

If there is one thing out there we can all likely agree on; it’s that superb food and libations deserve to be enjoyed in fabulous surroundings. And whilst the Gold Coast is a playground of natural beauty and sublime weather, some eateries simply gel with their environments that little bit better, you know?

One segment of the bustling eating scene we think fits this bill to a tee is Mexican food and a good sea view. The kind of place where a steady afternoon sea breeze helps you get over all those spicy flavours and a sandy outlook provides the perfect backdrop to sip a margarita — or five.

Aligning the ever-beautiful Kirra beachfront with zesty and vibrant flavours of Mexico is the newly opened Agave Rosa on Musgrave Street. A strong contender for your new preferential summer hangout!

The owner behind this newly opened venue is no stranger to hospitality. Franz Zdesar had a hand in the much-lauded Project Tokyo in Mermaid Waters, and long before that, spent years living and working as a chef in some of Europe’s most well-respected restaurants. Let’s just say he knows his way around a chopping board! Now with a fantastic position just off the sand, he hopes to bring an energetic and easy-going taste of Mexico to the southern Gold Coast.

The fit-out to this oceanside venue is bright, fun and ultimately welcoming. Outside there’s high bar seating with views out to the beach and built-in concrete booths, which cleverly look rustic yet refined at the same time. Inside is where immense accents of hot pink and warm reds come to life, with cactus flower beds and a seriously eye-catching mural. All punctuated by a charismatic white breeze block bar aptly positioned to pour cocktails all afternoon long.

Franz has a deep understanding and love for all things Japanese, but at the same time appreciates and adores the simplicity and enjoyability of Mexican food: the kind of stuff you could eat every day, right?! This said, the menu is a modern take on Central America — minus the cliches — and with added hints of Japanese flavours. Meaning if you order the Hibachi Wagyu Rump, your corn side will come dripping in miso butter — trust us, it works! These nuances throughout the menu are subtle. In the separated taco section, you’ll be able to choose from traditional flavours like crispy skin pork belly, pickled cabbage, and salsa verde or tempura fried line-caught fish, chipotle mayo and grilled pineapple salsa.

And if this little section had the salivation glands in your mouth activating, just wait until you read the rest of the menu.

The menu can be shared amongst a few or enjoyed more traditionally. You’ll also come across a selection of smaller plates ‑ such as fish ceviche — sides, extras and a couple of desserts worthy of your attention: avocado brûlée and chilli chocolate truffles with dulce de leche.

Like any Mexican establishment worth their salt, a smart and tasty collection of signature cocktails is supported by a slew of differing margaritas like the Coco (coconut) and Chile (chilli). The beer selection is simplistic, and in time they will be pouring Japanese-made beer from the tap. For those who feel like a lighter refreshment, we suggest you familiarise yourself with one of Mexico’s most famous soft drinks: Jarritos. There are five flavours for you to choose from, and once poured over ice, these are a sure-fire way to cool yourself down in the summer heat.

With a recent opening, the venue has already experienced a flurry of attention. At this point, they are kindly asking all diners to book ahead where possible. All that’s left once you have your booking is to wander in off the beach and saunter over to Kirra’s newest down-to-earth taste of Mexico.

Hours: Open Wednesday – Sunday 5pm – late & Lunches: Friday-Sunday 12pm noon – 2.30pm
Where: 2/74 Musgrave Street, Kirra

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

It’s one of life’s greatest pleasures; eating Mexican and drinking margis – sounds a bit corny but we stand by it. So it’s pretty darn lucky the Gold Coast is spoilt for choice when it comes to Mexican meals, mmm there’s a little Mariachi band playing in our head just thinking about it.

And if you don’t like Mexican then this is guac-ward, because we’ve done the heavy lifting – aka eating – so you can pick your taco joint of choice and put your taco where your mouth is. Come on, don’t be salty – unless you’re a margarita of course.

So here’s our round up of the Coast’s best spots to get your Mexican fix, but before you go don’t forget the rules – first we fiesta, then we siesta. We’ll be there faster than you can say “extra guac, please”.

Chicos Taqueria
Hola chica, this Southern Belle is one of the newest additions to the Mexican scene. And what do they bring to the table? Glad you asked because tacos and un-burrito-ble burritos are clear heroes but if we’re honest, we’re yet to taste a dish we didn’t like. Don’t fret if tacos are nacho vibe, get around the delicious little morsels of flavour that are their empanadas.
Where: 27-31 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Waters

Nude Amigos
Grab your (fully clothed) amigos and head on town to Cancun – uhh, we mean Broadbeach – because Nude Amigos might be nude in name but it’s flavours are anything but. The space is as light and breezy as it is chic and vibey, it’s basically just begging of you to sip back on one of the exotic (see: very fancy) tequilas that take pride of place behind the bar. In fantastic news for our across-the-border neighbours, they’ve opened a second venue in Kingscliff.
IWhere: Lot 1, 70 Surf Parade, Broadbeach and 60 Marine Parade, Kingscliff

El Camino Cantina
With shops across the country, we’re lucky to have ourselves one of these spicy little dens of Mexican magic here on the Goldy. Slip in and slip on a sombrero and let the endless fantastic food and de-lish cocktails flow. Overlooking one of the Gold Coast’s best known beaches – Surfers Paradise – it’s big on size, vibes and margs… No really, the margs are giant and nothing gets us going like a cocktail as big as our sombrero.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Panchos
Who said the beachside burbs should be having all the fun? Not us, so if you’ve been having a siesta on our humble Hinterland’s worst kept secret and Gold Coast institution, Panchos, then this is the sign you need to get on out to Mudgeeraba so they can guac your world. With splashes of colour from wall to wall plus enchiladas, margs and tinnies at the ready you’re set for a spec-taco-lar feed.
Where: 581 Springbrook Road, Mudgeeraba

Isla Cantina
Isla just go ahead and say it, this cal-mex might be the GOAT cultural combo and Isla Cantina understood the assignment when they curated not just their menu, but the holy trinity of Wing Wednesday, Taco Thursday and Sunday Specials so you’ve got not one, not two, but three reasons to treat yourself to those glorious water views and the Surfers skyline while you chow down on some mex-cellent fare.
Where: Shop4, G7 Capri on Via Roma, Surfers Paradise

Agave Rosa
Fresh, delish dishes with dashes of distinct oriental flavour (say that after a few tequilas), served Mexican style is what you’ll get in spades at Agave Rosa. It’s funky, bright and welcoming feels are perfectly complimented by their phenom menu mixing our two fave cuisines with finesse. And like any Mexican establishment worth its salt, their cocktails and margaritas slay!
Where: Shop 2/74 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta

Clay Cantina
It might just be the Cooly-est Mexican haunts to hit the south – Gold Coast we mean. The casual laneway dining outside and inviting, home-style dining inside makes the perfect home for this feisty Latina to dish up the best Mexican outside of the Motherland. And we’re not actually joking. Plus, you can transform into a Mexican Masterchef yourself with super fun classes using authentic ingredients and tools.
Where: 2/16 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

Hail Mary
If you haven’t been to Hail Mary have you even been to Burleigh? Tucked away in a James Street laneway we’ll forgive you for missing this pink hued haven just this once. It’s not just it’s ridiculously good looks that maker her a winner, they deliver with the freshest, most flavoursome Mexican nosh you’ve ever tasted. With a daily lunch special like two tacos and a beer/wine or soft drink for $19, what are you even waiting for?
Where: 6/26 James Street, Burleigh Heads

Mexicali
Always busy, the Cali meets Mexico feels of Mexicali have us coming back again and again. You can’t go wrong with a banquet if you’re in a group, so you can think less about what to order and more about the margaritas on the horizon. Sunset cocktails on the balcony never get old, and a snap under the ever-changing lightbox message above the stairs is mandatory!
Where: Level 1, 2223 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach

Bonita Bonita
Eats institution Bonita Bonita (and little sister Bon Bon pouring mezcals and tequilas for pre or post-dinner party starters) is a long-standing fave. Its dimly lit, moody and ornate interior design never ceases to impress and create an intimate vibe and while it’s traditionally been a dinner-only spot, the Mexican gods answered our prayers and we’re officially on for lunch Tuesday to Saturday. Enjoy the mouth-watering eats (the grilled corn…OMG) and don’t even get us started on the cocktails.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

California Tacos
SoCal vibes are so strong with this one it’ll have you singing CALIFORNIAAAAAA, here we come… No? Just us then. Well if you can depend on anywhere to give you a taste of authentic Mexican street-style tacos it’s a place called California Tacos, step into the beachy vibe at Burleigh or Broady and get better acquainted with the well-stocked bar – the only way a bar should be, we say. Salud!
Where: 1718 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads & 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Costa Taco
Overcoming the momentary temptation to leave this one out (in hopes of greedily keeping more of those highly coveted tables all for ourselves) – but no list about epic Mexican spots would be complete with such a glaring omission. Especially now they’ve opened another outpost in Broadbeach. Dishing up authentic Mexican eats, the menu is short but sweet, sticking only to their specialities with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients.
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach and 1136 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

The Aztec
Kicking around since 1995, The Aztec Broadbeach…along with The Aztec Coolangatta…is a hit with the whole fam, boasting a fun-loving mixture of cosy booths, ultra-modern furnishings, neon lights and an epic fluoro bar. A colourful and upbeat venue, you’re spoilt for choice with all the Mexican goodies you’d hope to find and half price lunches Friday through Sunday in case you needed any more convincing.
Where: The Aria Building, Shop 11/17 Albert Avenue, Broadbeach & 152 Griffith Street (Twin Towns end), Coolangatta

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski