Our sweet, sweet So-Po. There’s something we just love about Southport, maybe it’s the fact that they’ve got bulk bars and restaurants so hunger never has to enter our vocabulary again. Or maybe it’s how you can get a coffee hit and hit of golf done in half a day and then soak up those Broadwater views for the rest of it – shall we go on?

All we know is that there are so many goodies in this CBD gem we couldn’t list them all or you’d be here all day and we know you’re all about less reading and more eating (same). Here’s our round-up of local approved must-do’s!

The all-in-ones
The retailers in Southport get that you’re busy – it is the CBD after all – so time is of the essence and efficiency is the word over here. Brickworks Ferry Rd has everything from the Standard Market Co to get those dinner essentials or to make the perfect charcuterie board, ‘grammable acai bowls at Cardamom Pod and bites like Bird Royale because we’ve always got time for some cheeky chicken.

Upping the ante with a little bit of everything, Queen Street Village is just off the Smith St Motorway so you can pop in for the essentials from gourmet grocer Jones & Co IGA. No time to meal prep? Grab some Asian eats at Wu Kong with peckish plates to keep you going, or a classic pub feed from Queen’s Arms for your parmy fix. When all that eating has got you zonked, get your caffeine hit at Sens Coffee and pop into DENDY to catch the latest flicks and a moment of peace and quiet.

Now did we hear you say retail therapy? Enter: Australia Fair. With the big names in fashion all in one spot along with our biggest vice Kmart on the store list, say goodbye to your savings but hello to a fresh new look. Once you’ve shopped til you dropped it’s time to start your Tour-de-Food at Australia Fair Metro, think pho, dumplings and desserts by the dozen.

For bakery treats
With a name like Sacre Coeur Patisserie it’s no wonder these guys have mastered the art of French pastries so prepare to stock up on croissants in allll the flavours from pistachio to raspberry and everything in between.

No man is left behind at Made With Love who deliver on 100% vegan cakes, pies and pastries because you know what, a donut a day keeps the doctor away or something like that and why should our vegans not be part of the action.

Keeping with the Euro-bakery theme is FARINA & Co, pastries are made onsite daily with all the classics like lemon meringue tarts and buttery croissants but wait, it gets even better – they double as a pasta bar. Grazie!

Pumping out sensational Asian-inspired pastries, desserts and drinks, Delothor Patisserie is our kinda kryptonite!

For a coffee
Coffee addicts, Southport’s got you covered with experiences like SupermarCat Cat Café, which – you guessed it – comes with a side of kitty cuddles with your caffeine fix, it’s so good we won’t judge if you start purring along with your furry friends.

For the more traditional café vibe Humble Café might be humble by name but they’re big on variety from classic cold drips to matcha espresso.

Built on the tried-and-true premise that simple is best, everything about Herringbone Cafe is understated (in the best way) letting the true hero of the space – the food and coffee – take centre stage.

Eight Fifty Espresso boosts productivity and happiness, doling out weekday caffeine fixes from its sidewalk dwelling, sapphire green digs.

For a drink
You already know we’re partial to a cold beverage to round out the day but if you’re after a side of live music with that then Vinnies Dive is the only place to get your fix and an ice cold brew all in one. If you’re after pub vibes you can’t go past SOPO (previously known as RSL CLUB Southport).

Just across the tram line nothing says Southport more than a cocktail (or 5) on Mr PP’s rooftop, perched above Nerang Street so you can people watch til your hearts content. Keeping the rooftop vibes going strong, Aviary Rooftop at Southport Sharks have an epic cocktail menu that talks a big game and luckily for us, it doesn’t just live up to expectations – it’s even better.

Carafe Wine is an eco-conscious space offering top-notch wine from all the most renowned vino regions and zero-waste practices plus a unique menu of sharing boards.

For good eats
Hello foodies, thoughts we forgot about you? We could never! Getting the good times rolling is none other than Good Times Deli who have quickly become known as the home of sandwiches like no other – think Philly Cheesesteak and banger Bahn Mi.

Japanese eatery, KatsuCo, churns out iterations of its namesake dish – traditionally coated in crunchy panko crumb and slathered in curry sauce.

For those on-the-go looking for the ultimate grab-and-go, Shiro Gelato & Snack knows what’s up with a selection of Japanese market eats like housemade Onigiri to get your fueled up and ready to tackle the day and gelato to finish because there’s always room for a sweetie treatie.

If you’ve been having Euro summer FOMO you can find a taste of the Mediterranean at Como Kitchen & Bar or if there’s a little Italian in your stomach screaming for some arancini balls (or is it just us?) you can get a mozza at Mozza Mozza as well pasta served tableside from a cheese wheel.

Since we’re on a food journey around the world you’ll be happy to know that Southport is pretty much THE place to get your Korean BBQ fix – yep, we found and 6 smokin’ hot Korean BBQ spots on the GC and would you believe 5 of them call our humble CBD home. Yep, Southport officially has a license to grill.

Local attractions
So you’ve got your coffee and you’re looking to get at one with nature? Obviously, your next stop has to be Broadwater Parklands. It doesn’t matter if you’re just there for a hot girl walk or trying to find a way to keep your tribe occupied, the shared pathway makes it the ultimate for everyone whether you’re in your running era or just keen to take in the Broadwater views while you bike and play.

Fancy a bit more adventure we hear you say? We got you. Tee off for a full day of fun at Southport Golf Club so you can let your inner Tiger Woods run wild on the green. If land has got you feeling like a fish out of water then pop on over to the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre for a mermaid moment with things like group fitness classes – hello aqua aerobics – as well as Olympic length swimming pools for the pros and splash pads for the little tackers.

If a hands on approach to fun is more your vibe then entering a new dimension at Zero Latency is a must-do, the international juggernaut has given VR new life with games on games so you can immerse yourself in the madness. Sing your little lungs out without fear of judgment and enjoy yourself a lyric fuelled good time at Black8 Pool Hall. Test your relationships and put that brain to work with a prison break escape room at Escape Hunt or pick up a pistol at Southport’s very own – and the Coast’s safest – shooting range, The Shooting Centre.

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski

Let’s be real – the best deals are done over a delicious meal and a glass of vino…or, ahem, a bottle…or 2, or…. (you get the gist).

Here is a list of local places we think fit the bill as must-do Friday biz lunch destinations, for you to chew the fat with your clients and colleagues, and finish the week off on the right note!

Let’s unpack this, from north to south….

Mr P.P.’s Deli and Rooftop
Anyone who works in or around Southport will tell you this little rooftop gem is a bona fide crowd-pleaser and client woo-er (we just made up a word!). A gourmet pizza from here is legendary, and their delicious drinks menu will have you asking “but do we really need to go back to the office this afternoon?”. We’ll answer that one for you, no, no you don’t….
Where: 43 Nerang Street, Southport

Glass Dining and Lounge Bar
With a no-expense-spared fit-out and a priceless view overlooking the water at Marina Mirage, Glass is a no-brainer for your Friday business pow-wow…with just the right amount of fancy. It delivers a five-star feed every time with quality produce, meats, fresh seafood, and an equally showstopping wine and cocktail list. Scoring an A+ for service, it’s another home run for The Gennari Group.
Where: Marina Mirage, 74 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

Edgewater Dining
If you haven’t experienced an end-of-week business lunch at Edgewater Dining, drop everything and book a table! The stunning water views are good for the soul and the modern Australian cuisine menu infused with Italian goodness is off the richter. If a liquid lunch is more your jam (same) the drinks menu is lit, and we’re drinking Edgy Lychee Martinis all arvo long.
Where: Shop 3, Capri on Via Roma, Isle of Capri

Miss Moneypenny’s
I mean, who doesn’t love this joint! Miss Moneypenny’s has become quite the local fave, always filled with Gold Coasters seeking their hit of fresh seafood and creative cocktails (yes please…and yes please). Perfect for your Friday meeting-come-cocktails sesh, make it an extra loooong lunch and experience Oysters and Spritzers from 3pm, with $2.50 oysters and a refreshing seasonal spritzer!
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Mamasan Kitchen + Bar
If it’s modern Asian flavour you and the team are after, Masaman Kitchen + Bar is where it’s at. With a focus on the share food philosophy, encompassing small intimate bites and banquet-style dining, renowned Chef Ray Choi delivers! Mixed with a zesty, Asian inspired cocktail list, international beers, wines, spirits and sake (obvi), this multi-award winner is a Friday afternoon fave.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach

Social Eating House + Bar
It’s difficult to go past a multi-award winner like this. Sitting the benchmark (REALLY) high, Social Eating House + Bar is the logical choice for your next end-of-week wind-down treat. With an extensive international tapas and sharesies menu, all meticulously curated by Head Chef YK get stuck into the likes of Roast Quail and the mind-blowing Lamb Shoulder. Wash it down with cocktails-a-plenty and you’ve got yourself a biz lunch to remember.
Where: Shop 137-138 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach

Nineteen at The Star
Experience Nineteen at The Star’s stunning new menu for your next Friday business lunch (kudos from your colleagues for this one!), or sip cocktail after cocktail with a view of the glittering Gold Coast in the uber-chic lounge bar. Combining sublime sophistication with a cool coastal flair and the freshest seasonal produce, let Chef Uday Huja’s exquisite dishes from his signature a la carte and set menus wow one and all!
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach

Rick Shores
Want to impress a client? Two words; Rick Shores. A meal here will woo the pants off anyone (hopefully not literally…), as you take in the sea breeze with 180-degree ocean views in one of the GC’s most iconic locations. The Pan-Asian flavours and fresh, locally sourced produce, the share-friendly meals are always next level and sorry, we can’t even pick a fave dish to highlight because they’re all our faves. The cocktails are equally on point, as is the service. Pure magic.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

The Tropic
Friday lunches at Burleigh Pavilion’s The Tropic are something we could get used to. Surrounded by sun and sea-spray, this relaxed but premium dining experience manifests a fresh Mediterranean and Modern Australian menu and OMG, you just have to try the Goldband Snapper. Soak up the on-trend pastel interior, uninterrupted ocean views and impressive drinks menu, and enjoy the transition into weekend mode.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

Siblings Kirra
The newest luxe restaurant to open on the Goldy has turned heads since it opened in January and is guaranteed to please you and those you take there. (Not only with the scenery that surrounds you but with their drool-worthy share-style menu too!) Oh, and if your client (or client-to-be) are partial to a tipple or two, you are in good hands with the Sibling’s crew. You have endless choices as part of their ‘Liquid Journey’ menu. (Yep, what a name right?!) Cheers to wheeling and dealing!
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Words by Bianca Trathen.

Everybody knows the best part of the working day is counting down the minutes and then snappily leaving to have after-work drinks with your friends. Ok, so this might be an exaggeration. But it has to be said; this at least happens once a week — if not more — for most people!

In honour of washing the day away with a drink, and because we live in possibly the sunniest place on earth (making it perfect for after-work drinking and drinking in general), here’s a comprehensive list of spots to frequent post 5pm.

The Island Rooftop
Another after-work tipple, another rooftop. What more could you want. The Island Rooftop is all about enjoying the good things in life; eating, drinking and having good times with friends. The fit-out is reminiscent of a laidback beach house, and it’s nearly always packed with revellers. There are eats, balmy breezes and a little bit of late-night dancing thrown in for good measure.
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar
Rooftop drinking is the best kind of drinking, especially with views overlooking the cityscape. Combine this with cheese platters, parmesan fries and deli meats and it’s pretty much the definition of a perfect after-work time. If you haven’t visited, expect exceptional cocktails, a solid wine and beer list, and also traditional pizzas. How good?!
Where: 43 Nerang Street, Southport

The Loose Moose
The lively, North American style bar is always a good time, after-work or otherwise. It’s low-lit and constantly filled with people having a great time. Fill up on epic burgers, loaded fries and the like while knocking back a vast array of beers and innovative cocktails that’ll tickle your after-work drinking fancy. The fun never ends at this Broadbeach fave.
Where: Oasis Shopping Centre, Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Surfers Pavilion
It doesn’t matter if you intend to stroll in here straight off your jet ski or after a long day in the office; the light-filled and airy Surfers Pavilion will make you most welcome either way. Recently launching ‘The Office Knock Off Drinks’ from 3pm on Friday’s, a cleverly crafted cocktail menu includes The Big Boss, something strong for the ‘World’s Best Boss’! with Woodford Reserve, lemon juice, a dash of maple syrup finished with a shiraz float or The Boss’ Pet for that person that does everything possible to impress the power above with Tequila, Aperol, lime and pineapple juice shaken and poured over ice.
Where: 30/34 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Justin Lane Rooftop
Burleigh’s much-loved rooftop is Justin Lane, where pizza, pasta and frivolity are the name of the game. Of course, an afternoon sip or two is always a good idea, looking out over the ocean and with the shrill call of Rainbow Lorikeets in your ears. It’s beautifully Burleigh and an absolute must-visit for after-works sips.
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

SPEC
With a beer garden to end all beer gardens, this Miami hotbed of great local tap beers and finger-licking eats cries out for afternoons lost in conversation. Arrange your fellow colleagues/friends and muster yourselves over tacos and the freshest of ales and let the failing light out over the hinterland be a distraction as you contemplate tomorrow’s monthly performance meeting.
Where: 2176 Gold Coast Highway, Miami

Garden Kitchen Bar
Choose your adventure at The Star Gold Coast’s most after-work friendly bar. Hang out inside amongst the greenery or pull up some space outside in the actual garden under the stars. It’s the perfect place to kick back and relax after-work, nibble on some tasty eats and enjoy the vibrant casino atmosphere.
Where: Casino Drive, Broadbeach Island

Granddad Jacks
This beloved gin and whisky distillery is quite obviously the perfect after-work drinks spot, with its abundant good vibes, epic cocktails, and live music on weekends. The team are a cool bunch of cats too. Head in there if you’re into making friends with absolute legends, sharing a yarn or two and sipping on some of the very best tipples on the Gold Coast.
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami 

Burleigh Brewing Co.
One of the Coast’s favourite breweries, Burleigh Brewing Co., offers a sizeable outdoor seating area, entertainment and a line-up of beers to suit every taste. They host regular events, and you’re sure to find a few new like-minded pals to hang out with. Grab as many people as possible, pull up a big table and fill it with empty schooner glasses for a guaranteed good time.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Pavilion
Obviously, oceanside drinks watching the sun go down is one of the most delightful things you can do after-work (and in general), and Burleigh Pavilion is the place to do it. On the Beach Bar side, pull up a high table and sip casual cocktails while sampling spur-of-the-moment eats or head over to The Tropic for a sit-down feast paired with more cocktails and a Prosecco or two. Perfecto.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

Moxy’s Rooftop
We’re confident the sun shines that little bit brighter on the southern end, and there’s no better place to take advantage of that fact than at this Coolangatta gem. Let ocean breezes waft away any workday stresses and have yourself a knockoff or two.
Where: 2/152 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

HOTA — Fridays on the lawn
When we have world-class, year-round weather — and an arts precinct to match — it would be a shame not to put the two together over a well-earned drink. And that’s exactly what the premise of Fridays on the Lawn is all about. Head down any Friday between 4-7pm and bask in the fading afternoon sun beside their Lawn Bar whilst local live acts help you welcome in the weekend. If you find yourself enjoying the occasion and leaving doesn’t seem like a fitting thing to do, then head on up to the exciting Exhibitionist Bar at the very top level of the newly opened Gallery building. Amazing cocktails and sublime cityscape views aplenty: the epitome of sophisticated kick-ons if ever we saw them!
Where: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise

Words by Alex Mitcheson.