Managing Director at Gambaro Group.
Managing Director at Gambaro Group.
One of Brisbane’s most well-known restauranteurs, John Gambaro, has hospitality in his blood. From growing up surrounded by culinary legends to leading his own ventures as Managing Director of the Gambaro Group, John is serving up a slice of that famous Gambaro magic right here on the Coast. With the recent opening of Pipi’s and Awaken, he’s bringing Mediterranean-inspired dining and fresh, coastal vibes to Coolangatta.
We chatted with John about what inspired him to follow in his family’s footsteps, what makes the Gambaro brand so successful, and his thoughts on the Gold Coast food scene.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
It’s always tough to capture everything in a few words, but I am a perfectionist when it comes to delivering the best service, food, and presentation. I pay close attention to the details and take pride in the quality of my work. I also know that the food industry is always changing, and I’m open to learning and adapting to stay in tune with those shifts. On a personal level, I deeply value my family and friends. I consider myself a caring, compassionate and emphatic person, and I always try to be there for the people who matter most to me.
You come from a long line of hospitality legends—what inspired you to follow in your family’s footsteps?
I have always been deeply inspired by my father. Over the years, I’ve watched him not only serve exceptional food and provide outstanding service but also build meaningful connections with the wonderful people he’s met along the way. His passion for the hospitality industry goes beyond the kitchen—he was truly devoted to ensuring every customer leaves happy and satisfied. Seeing his dedication to making each guest feel valued and appreciated has had a lasting impact on me, and it’s shaped how I approach my own work. His ability to connect with people, combined with his commitment to quality, has been a constant source of motivation for me.
What do you think is the secret sauce behind the Gambaro family’s success in the industry?
I believe the key to our success lies in our complete commitment to engaging with and truly listening to our customers. We strive to understand what they want, while always maintaining consistency in both the quality of our food and the level of service we provide. Our strong work ethic, along with the dedication and support of the incredible staff we’ve had over the years, has been fundamental to what we’ve achieved.
Congratulations on opening of Pipi’s and Awaken on the Gold Coast! What made you choose this location?
The breathtaking location and panoramic views have been a constant source of inspiration for me. I’ve also been influenced by the work of developer Paul Gedoun, whose dedication to building world-class developments in this area reflects his deep love and passion for the community. His commitment to enhancing the area and improving the lives of those who live here has been truly inspiring.
Tell us a bit about what we can expect when dining at Pipi’s.
The space is beautifully designed to be both relaxing and welcoming, offering guests a perfect setting to enjoy. Our Mediterranean-inspired menu features the freshest ingredients, all sourced locally from across Queensland. While dining, you’ll have the stunning ocean as your backdrop, where you can watch dolphins, whales, boats, and surfers go by. It’s an unforgettable experience that truly captures the essence of coastal dining at its best.
How has the Gold Coast food scene evolved in your eyes, and where do you see it heading?
The Gold Coast has grown fast and is becoming a great spot for food lovers. The dining scene is thriving, offering a range of exciting options that are drawing attention from both locals and visitors.
What’s next for you and the Gambaro Group?
We’ve just opened Black Hide Steak and Seafood at Queen’s Wharf in Brisbane, and now we’re searching for the perfect location to bring our renowned Gambaro Seafood Restaurant to its new home.
What are your Gold Coast Favourites:
Café: Awaken, Coolangatta
Restaurant: Pipi’s, Coolangatta
Bar: Nineteen at the Star, Broadbeach
Beach: Snapper Rocks
How do you choose to spend your days off?
I enjoy spending my time with family, whether it’s swimming, playing tennis, going for bike rides, or cooking a delicious dinner together.