Costa Taco spices up Broadbeach.
Costa Taco spices up Broadbeach.
It’s the news we’ve all been waiting for, much-loved Palm Beach Mexican eatery Costa Taco has opened a third space in Broadbeach and we couldn’t be happier.
Brothers Nick and Matt Stanley started their foray into the local foodie scene at Currumbin Community Markets in 2020 before moving into Palmy and (probably) not enjoying a single second of sleep since. We Gold Coasters very quickly fell in love with the laidback venue serving up authentic, flavour-filled eats the likes of which you don’t often see outside of Mexico.
The pair set out with the idea of creating a menu filled with real Mexican dishes that aren’t adapted to suit Aussie palates and the result has been an outstanding success. So much so they have now expanded to Byron Bay and most recently of course, the little house on the corner of Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Highway in Broadbeach.
As was the case in Palm Beach, Costa Taco has introduced a space where the energy of Mexico fuses with the Aussie beach culture perfectly. The fitout is relaxed and filled with colour offering both indoor and outdoor seating that is both welcoming and the kind of spot that gives that roll-in-off-the-beach vibe.
The dishes boast locally sourced ingredients, of the very best quality that come together in traditional recipes, and it is without a doubt, some of the most exceptional Mexican food you’ll ever sample. The actual menu comes complete with a map on the back, marking the exact locations the dishes originate.
Let’s begin with the tacos. The Beer Battered Local Snapper Taco alights from Baja, the coastal peninsula almost entirely surrounded by the ocean. The Snapper is caught locally on the Coast, battered with Mexican beer and served with a cashew salsa made with European-style flavours. The Guerrero Chicken Taco is a product of the Guerrero region and that little beauty is marinated in citruses, sour grape juice and three types of chillies and comes with Costa’s secret sauce, Pico de Gallo and Cashew Salsa Verde.
The Specials menu is one of our favourite sections (also the Marg section) and there are so many must-try’s here. The Chilaquiles are Mexi-style wet nachos and are the kind you’ll find if you visit Mexico City. Salsa made with green tomatoes and a ricotta-style cheese is poured over the top to allow for a varied texture and the flavour is tangy and so very tasty.
The Quesabirrias is traditionally a Mexican hangover cure in the Guadalajara region, and we’d likely induce a hangover just to eat it every day. Made up of two cheesy Birria (stewed meat) tacos that are grilled until they’re crispy and served with Costa Tacos’ famous dipping sauce, these are one (of many) dishes you will order again and again.
Our third highlight is the Ceviche Tostadas. In case you’ve never had the pleasure, ceviche is fish cooked in lime juice and in this case, served on crispy tostadas with fresh tomato, cucumber, onion, chilli and avocado. They hail from the Sinaloa region of Mexico, found on the Coast.
To drink there are both local and Mexican beers, Mexican soft drinks and of course, Margaritas – chilli, coconut and a special guy you should absolutely order several of.
It’s no surprise to those of you who have sampled Costa Taco previously that the Broadbeach venue is perfection in the form of traditional Mexican-eats but if you haven’t yet, do yourself a favour and head down immediately. It’s an eating experience you won’t soon forget.
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
When: 12pm to 9pm daily
I don’t like banquets – said no one EVER!
Thankfully we are spoiled for choice here on the GC with the best of the best. Whether you’re into modern Australian, Asian fusion, Middle Eastern or European eats, there’s a feast for every belly. So grab your mates, bring your appetite, and get ready to eat your heart out (literally) because life’s better with a banquet.
Let’s dig in!
Mr Hizola’s
Burleigh’s favourite contemporary Chinese joint, Mr Hizola’s, always serves up a cracking good time. With a menu absolutely choccas with choice, the banquet is definitely your best bet here (compulsory for groups of ten or more, and a maximum of 16 people). It’s called The Emperor’s Feast and never has a name been more fitting! For $69pp, choose one lingshi, two small dishes, one dim sum, two mains, one noodles or rice, and one salad or veg. The authentic flavours are *chef’s kiss* and there is buckley’s chance you’re leaving hungry.
Where: 1730 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Hideaway Kitchen & Bar
One of the most loved venues on the Coast has the perfect option if you want to try a little bit of everything…and then some. Obvs we’re talking about Hideaway and their epic $69pp Street Feast (minimum of two people and required for groups of ten or more). The table will be loaded up with your choice of edamame or lotus roots, three smaller plates, two bigger plates, one rice or noodle dish, and a salad or greens. Trust us, this culinary journey through the backstreets of Asia is a must!
Where: 2567 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Mamasan Kitchen + Bar
Mama has us sorted with two banger banquet menus, Yin and Yang, plating up the perfect blend of traditional and modern cuisine from South East Asia (minimum of two people). For $75pp (plus optional wine pairing for an additional $66pp), the Yin invites us to devour the likes of Panko Fried Squid, Mamasan KFC, and Wagyu Beef Red Curry. Or, for $99pp with optional wine pairing for an extra $75pp, how about some Yellowfin Tuna Tartare, Spanner Crab Ravioli Dumplings, and Five Spice Salted Duck? Either way, it’s a solid ten.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
Bonita Bonita
Oh Bonita (x 2), you’ve had our heart since day dot – particularly with the Feed My Belly banquet for a purse-proud price of just $45pp! Mandatory for groups of eight or more and also available for smaller groups, get your banquet on with a tasty seven-course selection of the staff’s fave dishes. The menu includes dishes like Bonita’s iconic Grilled Corn with cilantro crema, fresh cheese, and smoky paprika, Spicy Chicken Wings, and a Classico Taco of your choice. Added bonus – you can pop next door to Bon Bon Bar for a pre or post tequila!
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Kiyomi
After its recent glow-up and revamped menu, The Star Gold Coast’s award-winning Japanese restaurant, Kiyomi, is more impressive than ever. Choose from either the $175pp 10-course Omakase menu, indulging on dishes including Red Snapper and Amaebi, Bay Lobster Tempura, and 2GR Full Blood Wagyu 9+ Flank. Or don your fanciest fancy pants and splurge on the Premium Omakase menu for $300pp, including a chef demonstration that must be seen to be believed!
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Justin Lane
This eternal crowd fave can do no wrong. The $59pp Feed Me menu is available for a minimum of two and required for nine diners or more. Think the likes of Byron Bay burrata to start, an insanely long list of pitch-perfect pizzas such as the pork belly, garlic, red onion, gorgonzola, buffalo mozzarella, rocket, and pear pizza, and pastas-a-plenty (our vote: gnocchi with lamb ragu, herb, and grana Padano). Extra points awarded for serving up a vegan take on the Feed Me menu which is just as lush.
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Billy Chow
At Kirra’s coastal beauty, Billy Chow – sibling of Nobby Beach’s infamous Ally Chow, each meticulously curated dish is an experience to be savoured and shared. With not one but three banquets to choose from including a vegetarian option, this simply means you need to go again and again…and again! Ranging from $59 to $75pp, think Spork Belly Curry with coconut rice and leafy greens, Har Gow Dumplings with Mooloolaba prawns and pork, and Pad See Ew with organic tofu, cheong fun, egg, Chinese broccoli, soy and ginger and more. Get in our bellies!
Where: 76 Musgrave Street, Kirra
Labart
If a relaxed neighbourhood restaurant with contemporary European bistro feels and five-star food is your vibe, you really can’t go past Labart. Sink your choppers into the Shared Menu for $85pp and we dare you to find a more fabulous feed. To give you a snapshot of what to expect, there’s Black Mussels Escabeche, Gnocchi with cuttlefish, garden peas and pancetta, and BBQ Quail with sugarloaf cabbage and charcuterie sauce. Plus, you can watch esteemed chef Alex and his squad in action with the open-plan kitchen and charcoal grill!
Where: 8 West Street, Burleigh Heads
La Bella Cellar
This is a haven for discerning foodies seeking a unique dining experience, complete with dreamy drinks. For $75pp (two of more people), you’ll score five fandangle courses which will have your tastebuds in a chokehold. Drawing inspo from both local and international flavours, La Bella’s amazing chefs create dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delish. The cellar boasts an exquisite selection of wines from around the world, carefully curated to complement the delectable dishes.
Where: 3 Deodar Drive, Burleigh Heads
Shiraz Persian Restaurant + Bar
A restaurant with Shiraz in the name can only mean great things and for banquet enthusiasts, this is where it’s at. If it’s just you and your +1, then the $79pp Banquet for Two has your names on it. If there are four or more in your group, choose from the Persian Feast Banquet ($79pp), Persian Greens Banquet ($59pp), or for the crem da le crem, the Ultimate Persian Banquet ($99pp). It’s an award-winner for a reason people!
Where: 2893 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
Mecca Bah
With a menu is inspired by local produce, being happy, and the desire to provide guests with a taste of the Middle East and Mediterranean, it’s a hard yes from us. Offering the banquet of your dreams for a minimum of four peeps, nom your way through either the $58pp two course banquet (three mezze to share and one main per person), or the $68 three course banquet (four mezze to share, one main per person, and a dessert platter). Perfection!
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach & 10 Santa Barbara Road, Hope Island
Social Eating House + Bar
If you’re a modern Australian cuisine fan, the multi-award flexing Social Eating House + Bar cannot be beat. For $95pp, groups of ten more can partake in banquet bliss, with the likes of King prawns, butter, garlic, cider and herbs, and Lamb shoulder 12hr cooked in yoghurt and cabbage slaw. Or, level up to the $105pp option boasting a divine dessert to finish on an extra sweet note. Complete the experience with their exquisite wine selection, expertly paired by their skilled bartenders.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
Words by Bianca Trathen
If there’s one thing we never grow tired of it’s a cracking cocktail and lucky for us, the GC is a melting pot of masterful cocktails guaranteed to leave you shooketh.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these spots are a must-visit for anyone who loves a tipple (or five), tried and tested by the team because you know, we had to complete our due diligence. From beachy vibes to moody speakeasies, here’s the scoop on where to sip the best cocktails in town.
Rosella’s
Rosella’s has been bringing all things Australiana to bustling Burleigh since January 2019, recently winning the coveted ‘Best Cocktail Bar in Queensland’ gong. And what’s more quintessentially 2024 Aussie behaviour than sipping on a host of sensational cocktails in a beautiful beachy ‘burb?! Serving up nostalgic and native fare, this little ripper hums until late seven nights a week. ‘Knoath!
Our pick: Fantales. Our fave (discontinued) lolly in liquid form. Rosella’s Blend Bundaberg Rum, Mac. Daintree Dark Choc, Mushroom Garum Caramel, Wattleseed Butter – with their very own custom Fantales.
Where: 1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh
Cantina
Mermaid Beach locals will tell you that if you’re frothing for a quality cocktail (us – always), it’s Cantina for the win. This pint-sized neighbourhood tapas bar proves that good things come in small packages and by good things, we mean cocktails. Forming the perfect pair with sibling Piatto Italian restaurant right next door, line your tum with Spanish style bar bites so that your sneaky cocktail can turn into two…or five….
Our pick: Quattro Bianchi- A citrussy Italian take on the Long Island Ice Tea
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
The Cambus Wallace
If you haven’t stepped aboard The Cambus Wallace, are you even a Gold Coaster? Serving up the finest classic cocktails, international rums and whiskeys, and heartwarming food, the only thing moodier than the dark hues of the boat-themed bar is you if you don’t sample at least one of their tipples. There’s a reason (AKA epic cocktails) that it always gets a nod on our lists!
Our pick: Maiden Voyage #2: Fresh muddled pineapple, Sailor Jerry spiced rum, Brinley coconut rum, Angostura white rum, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and tiki bitters.
Where: 4/2237 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach
Fig + Frankies
If artisanal cocktails and coastal-inspired tapas are your kryptonite, you need Fig + Frankies in your life. One of Broadbeach’s laneway treasures, the cocktail list is as impressive as the venue’s arch features, exposed brick, and charmingly textured interior. Phone a friend, your other half, or anyone who appreciates a killer cocktail and we’ll meet you there.
Our pick: Number 42 – Arette Blanco Tequila, Piel de Sapo Tea, Maidenii Classic Vermouth + Lychee Foam. Bitter + Sweet.
Where: 4/2707 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
Six Tricks Distilling Co.
Hold onto your highball glasses Gold Coast because Six Tricks is redefining the local distillery scene one cocktail, rum, or whisky at a time (okay, maybe more than one). This two-million-dollar masterpiece is state-of-the-art with a spacious indoor bar and sunset deck perf for sipping the night away – and even a private cask hall! You’ll be left shaken not stirred in the best possible way.
Our Pick: Melon & Lime Highball: Lime Leaf Six-Tricks Vodka, Melon Liqueur, Fino Sherry, Lacto Honeydew, Carbonated.
Where: 3 Brightlands Court, Mermaid Beach
The Exhibitionist Bar
Flirt with breathtaking views across the Gold Coast to the Hinterland – and a cracking array of cocktails – at The Exhibitionist Bar. Sitting high on the HOTA Gallery rooftop, its specialty cocktails are inspired and expertly curated using the major art exhibitions as the starting point to each creation. Changing with each new major exhibition, this means you’ll never run out of reasons to pop in for a sip.
Our Pick: NAKED AND FAMOUS- #69 Rhubi Mistelle, Becherovka, Altos Tequila, Amores Mezcal, lime
Where: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Granddad Jack’s
Distil our beating hearts! With a fresh curation of concoctions that could coax Sleeping Beauty herself from her 100-year slumber, this magical albeit not-so-faraway Miami-based fave has earned quite the rap for its bewitching, fable-inspired concoctions. If you’re after something extra spesh that you can’t find at every other cocktail bar, welcome. Extra points for everything from syrups to spirits made on site.
Our Pick: The Tainted Apple – Greenhouse Gin, Clear Apple Juice, Sour Coriander Cordial. Green Apple Slice, ‘Tainted’ Charcoal Drops.
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami
Sandfire
Looking for an absolute beachfront cocktail tapas bar? Look no further – this.is.it. Serving up an exciting fusion of coastal charm, inventive cocktails, and sumptuous tapas, it’s a winner winner cocktail dinner. Crafted by expert mixologists, the cocktail list boasts an array of innovative libations, from classic martinis to exotic tropical creations, so you’re assured a perfect pairing for every palate and mood.
Our pick: FUTURE PIÑA- Spiced rum, toasted coconut, jasmine, lemon balm, plum, pineapple C02
Where: 293 The Esplanade, Miami
Bar Evelyn
You’ve never met a cooler Evelyn (and if you’re born after 1980 – you’ve probably never met one). This antipasto and pizza bar has not only garnered a staunch following for its A+ seasonal antipasti, sough dough pizza, and freshly made pizza, but also for the evelyn-utionary cocktails. With warm and cosy feels for days (particularly perf this time of year), Evelyn is especially epic on a cool winter’s night.
Our pick: Limoncello Margarita- Altos bianco tequila, Limoncello, lemon, sugar. salt
Where: Shop 20, 52-58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Destino
With inspo derived from Mediterranean islands where world class service, design and atmosphere collide to create an unforgettable destination – need we say more? This little gem at Sanctuary Cove is the gift that keeps on giving. Earning a reputation within its first week as a cocktail connoisseur’s haven, the initial hype has not only endured – it continues to soar. If you’re up the north end (or even if you’re not) – just go.
Our Pick: Strawberry Fields- Peach liqueur, vodka, simple syrup, lime & house made strawberry puree
Where: 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
Suga
With a name that (literally) sums up our guilty pleasure, Suga lives up to its namesake – and then some. When it comes to our local speakeasy, the only thing more satisfying than the cocktails is the…no, it’s the cocktails. The low-lit lamps highlight the insanely good menu, which serves as the perfect belly-liner so that you can partake in another cocktail (yes, even on a school night).
Our pick: Not A ‘Colada- rum, coco, water, pineapple, lime, agave
Where: 1142 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Veladora
Asking us to “find the red palm tree”– challenge accepted! We all know any restaurant or watering hole at The Star Gold Coast never misses a beat and Veladora is no exception. This place is actual cocktail nirvana so take it from us; leave the car at home because you won’t be able to stop at one. Watching the mixologists in action is half the fun and don’t even get us started on the vibe, thanks to Mezcal-inspired speakeasy design.
Our pick: The Margarita! Herradura Plata, orange liqueur & fresh lime juice
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Words by Bianca Trathen
A lush garden oasis where delectable dining meets lively entertainment, you ask? Hold that request- your order has already been filled. It’s time to reacquaint yourself with Garden Kitchen & Bar!
If you haven’t found your way to The Star Gold Coast in a little while, we have the perfect excuse for you to change that right away. Garden Kitchen & Bar has proven time and time again to be the oracle for our dining and entertaining desires, which explains why it’s one of the Coast’s best loved hangout spots no matter the weather.
Built to bolster the Gold Coast’s enviable climate and luxuriously laid-back lifestyle, the open-concept venue blurs the lines between the indoors and out to reveal a quintessential Queensland design. The lavish bar and dining area is bathed in natural light and filled with lush green foliage. Find a spot on the emerald green velvet lounges and enjoy the garden oasis that surrounds you.
If you’re not long-lunching here, you really shouldn’t be long-lunching at all. Picture this, the sound of a champagne bottle pop and the clink of glasses. A charcuterie board arrives with locally sourced cured meats, pickled vegetables, house-made crisps & Australian cheddar. Kilpatrick oysters are being slurped back like you’re running someone else’s card, along with Airlie Beach tiger prawns because Garden Kitchen & Bar is killing the seafood game.
We all know Garden Kitchen & Bar is perfect for casual drinks and eats, as well as more intimate celebrations (hello dedicated semi-private dining room). The lunch and dinner menus are a feast of mouth-watering seasonal dishes, utilising only the freshest produce and a selection of garnishes and herbs hand-picked from an onsite herb garden.
For starters, we must recommend the baked bread and macadamia dip– it’s to dough for. For category crowd pleasers, indulge in a stockyard 200-day grain-fed tomahawk or their succulent rosemary-marinated Milly Hill lamb cutlets- both dished with a Chefs’ selection of fresh Australian produce and chips. The Garden Nourish Bowl with cauliflower and fried chickpeas is a stand-out vego option.
Now we don’t like to pick favourites, but we’re going to make a special exception for their deluxe Australian Seafood Experience; a selection of Australia’s best seafood from the tropical waters of Northern Queensland and the ice-cold southern oceans of Tasmania. How could we not?
Once lunchtime inevitably rolls into the afternoon, step outside onto The Lawn. There’s no time for putting around on this green. Well-versed in providing an unrivalled afternoon/evening place to assemble there’s stellar live entertainment on tap every weekend! Imagine you and your posse enjoying a toasty crackling fire, live entertainment, cheeseboards, mouth-watering bites from the Container Kitchen and delectable beverages. Yes please!
The only thing left to do is pencil Garden Kitchen & Bar into your social calendar stat!
Where: Casino Level, The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: Monday & Thursday: 17:30 – late, Friday 4:00 – late, Saturday – Sunday 12:00 – late. Live Entertainment Thurs – Sun
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be 18 years or over to enter the Casino. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT. Gambling Helpline 1800 858 858.
