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Kirra’s new-look sips spot is a shore thing

Say hello to a fresh-faced old friend, Kirra Beach Hotel.

Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)
Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)

Gold Coasters have long known the magical properties of perching up to sink a sneaky beachside brewski or two, mesmerised both by the surf and ice-cold beers.

For parched-as southerners, the particularly painstaking wait between drinks at Kirra Beach Hotel is finally over, with the ‘ole faithful frothy spot officially open and sporting a very dapper new look.

Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)
Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)

Kirra Beach Hotel has remained a steadfast fixture along the locale’s seafront stretch since 1956, beckoning sandy-footed beachgoers from the swell beyond.

The surf-blessed suburb said a bittersweet ‘so long’ to its former iteration of the beachside icon back in 2021 – the familiar (albeit well-worn) site demolished to make way for the hotly anticipated Kirra Point Precinct project.

Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)
Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)

A spruced-up Kirra Beach Hotel is just the beginning of the ambitious beachfront transformation – with KTQ Group graciously delivering our first frolic op with the multi-stage Kirra Point project just in time for summer.

Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)
Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)

Publican Greg ‘Hodgy’ Hodge promises that in spite of the swanky new digs, the waterfront site remains loyal to its laidback watering hole roots – adding at its heart it is still a friendly, no-fuss favourite where anyone is welcome.

The halls of the expansive, sea breeze and sunshine-filled space are decked with nostalgic memorabilia nods that encompass Kirra’s surf heritage.

“We want people to be able to pop in after a surf with sandy feet and grab a bite to eat, perch up with a beer in hand, watch the waves roll in, and soak up the sun and magic of Kirra.”

Oh alright, if we must, Hodgy.

Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)
Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)

For the final KO to our flagging willpower levels – the crowning jewel of the new venue is the expansive beer garden, strategically positioned for sun-drenched sips leveraging those knockout surf views.

Hodgy lays out one last (literal) thirst trap for the lot of us, saying the new alfresco addition is “unlike anything else that exists on the Coast.”

Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)
Food at Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)

Just quietly, the breezy parking situation also ranks pretty highly – with the new location boasting a plentiful 130 space underground carpark – along with all the classic pub creature comforts: kids area, big-screen bedecked sports bar and a boutique bottle shop stocked with all the local faves.

Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)
Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)

Long-standing fans of the watering hole will welcome the return of old favourites such as schnitzels and fish and chips on the food menu, alongside new additions that like fresh bug rolls with tempura battered bug tails in a toasted brioche roll with crisp lettuce, lemon aioli and fresh chives, and a KBH seafood platter with 1kg of fresh prawns, half a kilo of fresh bugs, flash fried calamari, crumbed barramundi and hot chips.

Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)
Food at Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)

Hot on the heels of the new look pub – will be another addition to the mammoth Kirra Point project set to be unveiled soon, Kirra Beach House. A brand new concept for the suburb, and one we surmise will be akin to a glam big sis upstairs.

It’s safe to say folks, Kirra has officially entered its chic era.

Where: 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
When: Daily, 10am till late

Words by Kellie Leader.

Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)
Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)

It’s love at first light at Kirra Sol Café

PERMANENTLY CLOSED

Rays and shine fellow ‘boss beaches’ and brekky buffs, coz we’ve found our new morning meal sol-mate. Kirra Sol Café, an offshoot of the beloved Bread and Butter, has flung open its doors (or rather, its window), to serve up sumptuous oceanside brekky delights that have us screaming ‘shell yeah’! This open-air oasis is a fresh addition to Kirra’s already pumping breakfast scene, brimming with epic eats and per-sun-ality.

Hatched from the minds of owner Jorge Mauleon and the Bread and Butter folk, (oops) they’ve done it again. Jorge, a seasoned pro in the hospo world, brings his expertise in restaurants, catering, food, and drinks to this vibrant venture. Inspired by the Spanish word ‘Sol,’ meaning ‘Sun,’ the cafe is adorned in bright oranges and yellows, echoing the cheerful embrace of a sun-soaked morning.

Kirra Sol Café, Coolangatta (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Kirra Sol Café, Coolangatta (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

This outdoor, takeaway-only spot is custom-made for those who want to savour the flavours of their AM fuel fix and bask in Mother Nature’s beauty. While orders are placed at the counter, patrons are free to choose their alfresco perch and by patrons, we don’t just mean the human variety – four-legged friends are welcome #BYOpooch.

Kirra Sol Café, Coolangatta (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Dog treats at Kirra Sol Café, Coolangatta (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

The story of Kirra Sol Cafe began one gorgeous GC morning when the management team of Bread and Butter arrived on-site for a meeting. They noticed passers-by, breaky in hand, taking a detour to their tables, simply to pull up a pew and enjoy the view (#RhymingIntentional). That’s when it hit them like a ray of light: if this is what the people want, why not give it to them?! And thus, the Kirra Sol window café was born, a quick-service extension offering fast, quality, and budget-friendly brekky delights, all from the same stunning location.

Kirra Sol Café, Coolangatta (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Toastie at Kirra Sol Café, Coolangatta (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

As for the menu, we’re calling it – the Brekky Burrito is the MVP. These bad boys singlehandedly confirm that as we’d hoped, Kirra Sol Cafe is as good as its PM timeslot alter-ego. The handmade panini toasties and mouthwatering pastries are also a testament to the gastronomic goodness they bring to the table (well, you pick it up from the window but, details…).

And let’s not forget the coffee which is brewed to perfection, guaranteeing that every sip is an awakening experience. Quite literally.

Kirra Sol Café, Coolangatta (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Coffee at Kirra Sol Café, Coolangatta (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Bread and Butter, Kirra’s culinary cornerstone for over 15 years, has showcased Jorge’s desire to infuse European flavours into the Kirra beach-eats landscape. Hailing from a European background himself, the addition of Kirra Sol Café ensures the legacy continues into the morning hours.

Kirra Sol Café, Coolangatta (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Brekky Burrito at Kirra Sol Café, Coolangatta (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

More than just a breakfast destination, it’s a celebration of our enviable lifestyle, sea breezes, and sun-sational eats. With a nod to affordability and a backdrop that defines the Gold Coast, this Kirra gem has us officially in our ‘Sol’ era.

Where: 76 Musgrave St, Coolangatta
When: Monday – Sunday for breakfast from 5.30am

Words by Bianca Trathen.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.

Kirra Sol Café, Coolangatta (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Kirra Sol Café, Coolangatta (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

14 reasons locals love Kirra

Champagne Pina Colada, Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)
Champagne Pina Colada, Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)

Nestled between Bilinga and Coolangatta, Kirra may be small but she is also mighty.

Best known for a pumping, world-renowned surf break and ever-present chill vibes, there’s so much more to Kirra than just waves and a pristine stretch of sand (although that’s motivation enough for us).

Here are 14 reasons Kirra locals ain’t budging for love nor money, and why the wider GC community can’t get enough of this thriving yet mellow footwear-optional ‘burb.

Billy Chow, Kirra (image by Pandanus Lane)
Billy Chow, Kirra (image by Pandanus Lane)

Billy Chow
When news spread that Kirra was scoring the new sister to Nobby Beach cult fave Ally Chow, involuntary salivation immediately ensued. One of the more recent additions to the eats scene of this beach-blessed suburb, Billy Chow is already beloved and absolutely no one is surprised by this development. Serving up share style all-day feasts, it’s one of those spots that’s got everything going for it – incredible pan-Asian eats, stellar sips, a swoon-worthy fit out and a ripper beachfront vantage. All of which make it an especially swell long (looong) lunch spot, if you ask us.
Where: 76 Musgrave Street, Kirra

Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)
Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)

Kirra Beach House
Making waves for all the right reasons – the hotly-anticipated arrival of Marine Parade’s sprawling new dining addition, Kirra Beach House, redefined the southern eats and sips game. The handiwork of local hospo gun, Dave Galvin, which speaks to the caliber in and of itself – but just wait till we get to the three seperate bars, insta-worthy interiors, cabana-studded wraparound terrace, and panoramic ocean views from all angles! We’d be remiss not to also mention the Mediterranean-style grazing and crafted cocktails. Perfect 10’s all round.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

MADE Barber & Barista, Kirra (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
MADE Barber & Barista, Kirra (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

MADE
No longer coasting by on the merits of its stellar beaches alone, Kirra’s really been stepping things up on the foodie front of late. Just one of the hip new haunts we can thank KTQ Group’s multi-million dollar beachfront transformation for, Made is the second endeavour for Tugun’s MADE Barber & Barista founders Josh Blair & Britt Westcott. A slick, industrial style space bringing gourmet toasties, cafe treats and tight trims to Kirra’s esplanade, beach trips just got a little more productive and whole lot tastier.
Where: Corner of Musgrave & Miles St, Kirra

Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)
Kirra Beach Hotel (image supplied)

Kirra Beach Hotel
Back and looking better than ever after a hefty zhuzh up, a fresh look for Marine Parade’s stalwart watering hole is yet another slam dunk we owe to the mammoth Kirra Point Project development. Still the same no-fuss favourite at heart, now nestled one level beneath the slightly posher Kirra Beach House. If you’re in the mood for casual chews and brews, this place will happily hook you up with a cheeky pint and parmi – and some pretty spectacular views, of course.
Where: 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Homewares, Cotton Living (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Homewares, Cotton Living (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Cotton Living
Who doesn’t love a luxurious homewares store that’s also a patisserie café, and the answer is a unanimous NOBODY. In its beautiful new location, Cotton Living showcases stunning handmade furniture and timeless accessories to make every room in your abode sing. Everything is Insta-worthy with a focus on natural colours and textures, plus you can grab a croissant with your cushion and #WhatsNotToLove. This luxurious space right by the beach is family-owned and the obvs choice for your next coffee date with the gals.
Where: 1 Lord Street, Coolangatta

Native State, Kirra (image supplied)
Native State, Kirra (image supplied)

Native State
A boutique gym and European-style bathhouse, Kirra’s self care prospects have never looked better since Native State swanned into town back in 2023. An all-in-one wellness destination, whether you’re craving an invigorating ice bath, or a sweat-sesh in the state-of-the-art studio or infrared sauna; you can choose your own adventure with casual sessions, classes and memberships available. No matter what your dream workout looks like, reward your efforts with a bliss out with soak in the bathhouse to finish… be warned though, you might never want to leave.
Where: 3/2 Creek Street, Coolangatta

Siblings Kirra (image supplied)
Siblings Kirra (image supplied)

Siblings
Another of Kirra’s panoramically blessed haunts (anybody sensing a theme here?) Siblings revived the heritage listed beachside Kirra Pavilion which was once but a humble Pizza Hut. And lbh, it’s hard to feel sad about farewelling our childhood icon when the replacement comes bearing gifts this good. Founded by local restaurateur royalty Jarrod Kyle and TJ Cianci, Siblings is a modern Australian brunch and dinner showstopper, dripping with 1950’s Miami beach vibes goodness. The menu is infused with fresh seafood and share-plates a-plenty and don’t even get us started on the cocktails, because this place takes their sips seriously! You haven’t lived till you’ve been.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra

Kirra Shelter Shed, Kirra Beach (image supplied)
Kirra Shelter Shed, Kirra Beach (image supplied)

Kirra Beach Pavilion
While driving around the headland, you may have noticed the cute little shelter overlooking the ocean. It’s a great place to hide from the scorching sun, and has certainly seen a lot over its lifetime – more than a century to be precise. Early photos of Kirra Beach show the shelter in place by around 1916 and we love ourselves some GC history. The Kirra Shelter Shed makes for a great viewing platform and is the perfect spot to watch whales frolic out in the big blue.

Kirra Surf
Speaking of institutions, Kirra Surf is a must-visit when cruising into this salt-kissed suburb. Whether you’re in the market for some new threads, a new board or you’re a total surfing rookie just looking to get started, these guys will hook you up. Their range of surfing apparel, products and know-how is unrivalled, the staff are super friendly, and there’s always at least (twenty)two things you’ll want to take home with you. 10/10 beach rats agree, this place is one of the best.
Where: 6/8 Creek Street, Kirra 

Hibachi Chicken Achiote & De Lechon (Pork) taco's, Agave Rosa (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Hibachi Chicken Achiote & De Lechon (Pork) taco's, Agave Rosa (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Agave Rosa
A taqueria that does mexi eats, but not as you might expect, Agave Rosa is Kirra’s casa of modern Mexican fusion. The only thing more vibrant than the telltale hot pink interior is fresh and zesty eats this place is churning out on the reg. From the brilliant mind that brought us Project Tokyo, imagine a menu where your favourite Mexi flavours are melded with bold Japanese influences. The result is inventive and tantalising creations like Chipotle Hibachi Chicken Tacos and pico de gallo drizzled Tuna Tataki – just add in a round of Classic margaritas (because sometimes you can’t improve perfection) and you’ve got yourself a tastebud party.
Where: 74 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta

People watching the waves at Kirra Beach (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)
People watching the waves at Kirra Beach (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)

Kirra Beach Bakery
One of the best barometers of a town is its local bakery – and no visit is complete without a trip to Kirra Beach Bakery. Serving quintessential Aussie bakery fare at its finest – if it’s been a while between cheeky nostalgic treats (think Jam and cream donuts and Custard slice) this place will have you reevaluating your priorities.  Whether you’re in need (need being the operative word, here) of a post-surf pie, sausage roll, quiche or pastie, a healthy salad sando or sweet treat (don’t judge) for the road, Kirra Beach Bakery is the place. Get down there early in the morning for fresh-out-of-the-oven bread and enjoy a slice or two with the local ‘gulls while watching the sunrise. Good stuff.
Where: 11/48 Musgrave St, Kirra 

Tofu Poké Bowl, HiPoke (image supplied)
Tofu Poké Bowl, HiPoke (image supplied)

HiPoke
A dish originating in Hawaii, the poke bowl phenomenon is here to stay. Made of colourful salad and protein combinations artfully arranged in bowls almost too pretty to eat (almost). For our pick of the signature bowls, the Salmon Sashimi always slaps – as does the Karaage Chicken made with edamame, carrot, corn, sweet chilli mayo and lotus root chips. Satisfying and healthy, the entire menu is preservative free and all seafood is sustainably sourced. It’d be rude not to try them all.
Where: 18/48 Musgrave Street, Kirra

Bike riders at Kirra (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)
Bike riders at Kirra (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)

Kirra Surf Life Saving Club
We can always count on surf clubs to bring great vibes and an even better location, and this is one of the best (shh, don’t tell the others). Just footsteps from the sand, this old boy has been around longer than you (est. 1916) and is a firm fave amongst all Gold Coasters. It’s the perfect family-friendly spot for dinner with your brood, or a sundowner or two overlooking the ocean. Perch up on the deck and let that balmy sea breeze take you to your happiest place.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra 

Kirra Hill Lookout
If by this stage you’re suitably fed and watered (read: bursting at the seams) the only thing left to do is drink in the world-famous Kirra beach in all its glory! Trek to the top of the headland and prepare to be wowed by views from Main Beach to Snapper Rocks and everywhere in between. If you wanna make a day of it, pack a picnic or fire up the barbie (you’ve earned it after that walk) – and thank your lucky stars you get to live in the best place on Earth. No bias, just #facts.
Where: It’s on the big hill, you won’t miss it!

Words by Bianca Trathen & Kellie Leader

Broadbeach’s hottest new haunt is flamin’ grill-i-ant

Interior of kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Interior of kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Something grill-iant has been a ‘cookin in Broadbeach, with the eagerly anticipated arrival of kōst Bar & Grill set to swing open its swanky new digs this Saturday.

A brand new spot for sophisticated sips taking up residence in the Oracle Blvd precinct will lure us in with the hypnotising aroma of flame-grilled food and an equally enticing facade.

kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

A contemporary bar & grill concept, boasting one of the city’s only charcoal wood-fire grills, this mammoth new space is set to redefine the way we meet and eat in Broadbeach.

Along with seafood towers, roving champagne and caviar trolleys, and a purpose-built dry aged cool room that can be seen (drooled over) from Oracle Boulevard, our wining and dining game is about to cop a serious upgrade.

Interior of kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Private dining at kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

A meticulous project three years in the making for hospitality honcho Dave Galvin, kōst is the ultimate culmination of 25 years of hospitality experience all poured into one shiny, sleek and sexy venue.

After already bringing us faves such as Crafty’s, Mozza Mozza and Bird Royale, Dave has really been playing the long game to ensure kōst is a show stopper in every sense of the word.

kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
O’Connor Beef T-Bone, kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

The brief was to deliver a coastal inspired, design led space with a sensory immersion through food, wine, cocktails and live fuel cooking methods — with the first two-metre Mibrasa charcoal grill and oven in Australia the venue’s crowning jewel.

Dave adds “I have always been a huge fan of charcoal and live fuel cooking and dining in a beautifully designed venue. These are just two of my passions that were part of the inspiration for creating Kōst. After an extensive search, we finally managed to find the perfect location where we could bring this concept to life.”

Dave Galvin, owner kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Dave Galvin, owner kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Seizing the opportunity to snap up three previous tenancies, kōst has amalgamated the sites into one sprawling super-venue.

The luxurious space boasts an impressive 130-seat restaurant, in addition to private dining room, bar dining and outdoor pavilion spaces.

Though the space is just as pretty as it is functional, with cascading greenery, marble surfaces, chic lighting and arches a-plenty.

Charcoal grill at kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Charcoal grill at kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Returning to Australia this year to oversee the culinary direction for kōst, Executive Chef Sebbie Keynon developed the entire menu, bringing inspiration from restaurants across the globe in Paris, London, Moscow and Jakarta.

The trademark theme of relaxed luxury is also carried through the menu, with top shelf produce elevated with a little help from the signature wood-fire treatment.

Treat yourself to everything from boujee ‘bar snacks’ like coal roasted potato, labne, smoked roe, through to the roll of the moment, bay lobster roll, gem lettuce, kōst signature sauce, and the premium Australian wood-fired lobster where 24 hours notice is required #worththewait.

Exterior of kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Exterior of kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

There’s a full suite of premium seafood with options like the Raw Bar, and dishes such as kōst ceviche, citrus rressing and a prawn cocktail, kōst signature sauce revival, through to the seafood platter and seafood tower when it’s truly time to indulge.

kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Margra Lamb Rack. kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Though, how coal-d you skip the kōst specialty ‘Over Embers’ offering, with a full selection of ocean, land and earth delights to spark a whole lot of culinary joy?

Even the drinks get the grill treatment, with a Mahalorita, 1800 coconut Tequila, Cointreau, charred pineapple, toasted coconut, lime, smoked salt we’d be tempted to walk over hot coals to get our hands on.

kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Though it might come at great kōst to our social budgets and waistlines — we’re tipping that pretty soon, reflecting on Broadbeach’s eats scene will be defined as a whole new era: before-kōst and after-kōst, with this impressive new venue set to steal the show.

Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
When: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday 11:30 am–9 pm, Wednesday, Thursday 11:30 am–9:30 pm and Friday, Saturday 11:30 am–11 pm
Instagram: @kostbarandgrill_au
Website: kostbarandgrill.com.au

Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.

kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
kōst Ceviche. kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
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