On your marg, get set, GO!
On your marg, get set, GO!
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
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
Feeling hungry? Science proves that you might in fact be thirsty and what better remedy exists than the holy grail of liquid love, the margarita. This rings especially true on International Margarita Day on 22nd February which side note; may just be the greatest day ever created.
Here’s our roundup of THE places to sip THE drink famous for making us go weak at the knees (quite literally….).
Franc Jrs
This joint can do no wrong. Delivering more than just a carb coma with their iconic mouthwatering pizzas, this cult fave also whips up a mean – and strong – frozen margi. And believe you me, nothing says happiness like a ten-outta-ten pizza washed down with an icy take on ‘Me-hi-co’s’ national treasure. No frills here but that’s part of the charm and bonus, you can sink one on the footpath while you’re waiting for your takeaway.
Our pick: Frozen margarita
Where: Shop 2/32 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach
Cooly Breeze
The fare here is *chef’s kiss* but let’s talk the business; their epic cocktail selection, particularly their signature sip which just happens to be a margarita #obvi. If you’re not already acquainted with Cooly Breeze Rooftop and Bar, it’s time to be. Sitting (very) pretty on the 13th floor, it’s the Coast’s only fine dining rooftop restaurant with spectacular views to the southern coastline and the Tweed River surrounds. Bliss!
Our pick: Cooly Breeze Margi – tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime juice and homemade pineapple jalapeno syrup
Where: Level 13 of Beachcomber International Resort, 122 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Veladora
This senorita needs a margarita (and we have the shirt to prove it, shout out to Sabbi Clothing) and where better than Veladora at The Star, Gold Coast. This Mezcal-inspired speakeasy bar with an extensive range of signature cocktails, Mexican beers, and unique snacks, serves up THE OG margi to beat all margis. Bonus incoming; there’s live music on Fridays and Latin-inspired beats on Saturdays. Salud (on repeat).
Our pick: The Margarita! Herradura Plata, orange liqueur & fresh lime juice
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Siblings
With some of the most exotic and creative margi’s we’ve ever seen (and, umm, sunk), rita-lovers unite at Siblings. Their expansive cocktail menu is the real McCoy, but in our humble opinion, the ‘Margarita Obsession’ section is pure Pegasus-material. Combined with the heritage-listed beachfront location, 1950’s Miami beach vibe fit-out, and a menu to dine for, marg our words – just go.
Our pick: Sex in an Hour – blueberry infused Olmeca Altos Plata, 100% agave tequila, Joseph Cartron Watermelon liqueur, fresh watermelon juice, a touch of Philippe De Bourgogne Crème de Cassis & Fiorente Elderflower liqueur, fresh lime juice, Herradura agave nectar, pink Himalayan salt, & sugar rim
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra
Kirra Beach House
Margi’s land different here so don’t walk, run. With legend Kaden Pool (ex TOKOH) behind the divine drinks menu and hospo veteran Dave Galvin masterminding the whole operation, it’s Kirra Beach House for the win. Add immersive panoramic views of Kirra Beach, a Mediterranean-style grazing menu, and an exceptional selection of world-class cocktails, and perfection mode activated..
Our pick: Kirra Beach House Tommy’s Margarita – tequila, agave, fresh lime, & coastal salt
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Palm Springs Burleigh
Palm Springs Burleigh is a Southern Californian-inspired café, eats and drinks heaven on earth. With All.The.Things you’d expect from somewhere with Palm Springs in the name, you’ll find arches, cacti, Slim Aarons, plenty of green, mint and white hues and of course, M.A.R.G.I.S! A tried and tested Burleigh fave, extra points awarded for the get-in-my-belly-good nosh.
Our pick: Chilli Margarita – chilli infused 1800 silver tequila, Cointreau & fresh lime juice
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Bonita Bonita
As you’d expect from one of the most loved Mexi-venues around, Bonita Bonita’s margarita list is off the chain good. As is the chow and the vibe, hence why it continues to pull a sizeable crowd year after year. If you’re going to line your belly coz #tequila, go with the banquet and get the best of everything this GC fave has to offer.
Our pick: Tom-Yum Margarita – 1800 coconut tequila, fresh lime, habanero, lemon grass & ginger syrup, grapefruit juice, & a salt rim
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Mexicali
It’s always margarita mania at Nobby’s Mexicali! Served on the rocks and made using fresh fruit and house infused tequilas, all margis are crafted using 100% Blue Agave tequila or mezcal, freshly squeezed lime juice, and agave syrup. Choose from classic, watermelon, strawberry, passionfruit, chilli, cucumber & jalapeno, mezcal, and coconut. And we’ll take the lot #thx.
Our pick: Passionfruit Margarita
Where: Level 1/2223 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach
Pablitos
Nested in Sanctuary Cove, you’ll find this intimate quintessential modern Mexican cantina with a slight Caribbean influence and srsly, what more could one ask for?! Think terracotta, venetian walls, exposed concrete, Virgin Mary statues, and a cactus at every turn. The house tequila is made with wild agave and they only use organic, freshly squeezed lime in all their cocktails…including their iconic ritas. Gimme gimme!
Our pick: Watermelon Margarita
Where: Sanctuary Cove, 39 Masthead Way, Hope Island
Nude Amigos
Let’s lead with the fact that this place has a margarita bar. Umm, need we even go on? Claiming they serve up the best margis on the Coast, we’re pleased to confirm that this is anything but just a baseless flex. Their selection is lit and they even do happy hour every day from 12pm – 5pm, slinging Classic Margaritas or Frozen Tommy’s for just $15!
Our pick: Cool as a Cucumber – Patron tequila, Triple Sec, agave, house-made cucumber syrup, fresh squeezed lime & a sea salt rim
Where: Lot 1, 70 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
El Camino Cantina
Die-hard fans of El Camino Cantina’s legendary Margaritas are never left high and dry at this Tex- Mex institution. Served frozen or on the rocks, choose from 15oz or 24oz and duh, is there any contest here coz when it comes to a rita, #MoreIsAlwaysMore. El Camino Cantina isn’t just about celebrating National Margarita Day – they’re turning up the heat for an entire week of fiesta from February 19th to 25th! Indulge in a tantalizing array of turbocharged margarita flavors as El Camino Cantina serves up something new every single day. With their ever-rotating lineup of crave-worthy concoctions, there’s no shortage of reasons to raise a glass and toast to the spirit of margarita madness!
Our pick: Blueberry Margi
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Hail Mary
With no less than 12 ritas to choose from, we’d be here all day listing them all and srsly, just get down there and drink people! Colourful and bold like the staff, everything they do is inspired by the vivid heritage of Mexico, with a nod to our coastal home. With a juicy taco in one hand and a salty margi in the other, life made and happy International Marg Day!
Our pick: The Illegal – Illegal Joven mezcal, triple sec, blanco tequila & lime juice
Where: 6/26 James Street, Burleigh Heads
The Collective
There’s no better place to celebrate margarita month than at The Collective in Palmy! In fact, this lot have taken it one step further offering cocktail masterclasses, one of which heroes our fave tequilla, Patrón. For $80 per person, learn how to whip up five Patrón-based beauties Collective-style, plus enjoy bubbles on arrival, two of your delicious creations, and a selection of the venue’s most popular grazing dishes and canapes. Please and thank you.
Our pick: Mango & Chilli Margarita – Patrón Blanco, mango, chilli & lime
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Exhibitionist Bar
We can tell you first-hand (far too many times over) that the resident Margi at Exhibitionist Bar (unpacked below) is one of the best. Sitting high atop the striking HOTA Gallery, this artsy watering hole delivers great flavours and explosions of tastes you won’t forget in a hurry…both in edible and drinkable varieties. Whether you want a light lunch with friends, a cocktail at sundown or a nightcap, this is where it’s at.
Our pick: House Hot Marg – Herradura Blanco tequila, marionette orange, lime & house made hot sauce
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, Top Level, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise
Words by Bianca Trathen.
