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Meet Lucy Liu’s sister from the same mister

Rubi Red is slated to open soon by Melbourne's acclaimed chef Michael Lambie!

Rubi Red exterior render (image supplied)
Rubi Red exterior render (image supplied)

When we heard award-winning Executive Chef and hospitality honcho Michael Lambie had relocated from Melbourne to our sunny Gold Coast shores, we high-fived (a lot), licked our lips and waited patiently for him to bring his world-renowned culinary magic to the local eats scene. And thankfully, we won’t need to wait much longer with the unveiling of his brand-new venue inches closer, as Rubi Red Kitchen & Bar will be opening next month at Nobby Beach in the old Hellenika & Miss Mee location. Squeal!!

The inspiration behind what’s set to become the new ‘it’ place in town, is a beautiful Asian Lady named Rubi Red who has travelled extensively throughout Asia, with an enormous passion for delicious cuisine. Rubi naturally fell head over heels for the GC (she’s only human…well, fictitiously human….but same-same), and decided it was THE spot to pay homage to her eclectic Asian dining experiences and open her namesake restaurant.

Kingfish Sashimi (image courtesy of Lucy Liu)
Kingfish Sashimi (image courtesy of Lucy Liu)

With capacity to seat over 300 guests, this lush Asian sensation will set our foody hearts a-flutter. Currently undergoing an extensive and lavish renovation by the team at Zero 9 Constructions, Rubi Red will feature a stunning restaurant on the ground floor, with dining extending out onto the pavement. Yes, you read that right – we are becoming as cool as our interstate and international neighbours! Because it’s the GC and we heart our rooftop bars, Rubi will also integrate this into her multi-level magic, plus a super-swish private dining room for those special events and celebrations.

In case you’ve been living under a rock, Michael is one of the masterminds behind the likes of Taxi Kitchen (Melbourne CBD), Lamaro’s Hotel gastropub (South Melbourne), The Smith (Prahan) and most recently, Ruby’s southern culinary ass-kicking sista, Lucy Liu (Melbourne CBD). He’s also enjoyed stints as Head Chef at The Stokehouse (St Kilda), Circa at The Prince (St Kilda), and Marco Pierre White’s self-titled restaurant in Knightsbridge. With numerous chefs’ hats and awards under his belt, this man is a culinary wizard and someone we will simply forbid from ever leaving us because, well, all of what we have previous stated.

Patrons can expect nothing less than the best from Michael’s new planned Pan-Asian menu for Rubi Red. His previous hit dishes at Lucy Liu include Soft Shell Crab Jianbing with spicy hoisin, Kingfish Sashimi with green nam jim and coconut and Thai basil and the larger famed Pork Hock with apple kimchi pancakes and hoisin. If these dishes don’t get your mouth-watering of what is instore for us, we don’t know what will.

Michael Lambie outside Rubi Red Kitchen & Bar (image supplied)
Michael Lambie outside Rubi Red Kitchen & Bar (image supplied)

Accrediting his previous restaurants’ success to a savvy business model offering superior quality at the right place and in the right environment, Michael is one clever cookie in addition to being a world-class food guru. Excited to mentor the up-and-coming chefs of the future (watch this space – anyone who works under him will go places), he has handpicked the crème of the crop to help give Rubi the edge she deserves.

With plusher than it-girl vibes and what promises to be a showstopping menu, we’re calling it – Rubi, you’re destined to be a sight for sore eyes – and our flavour of the year.

Where: 2235 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach
When: March (watch this space for more details)

Words by Bianca Trathen.

Rubi Red Kitchen & Bar pan-asian food (image supplied)
Rubi Red Kitchen & Bar pan-asian food (image supplied)

New Asian eatery Miss Mee dazzles Nobby Beach

It’s all fun and games in Nobby’s right now as the much-loved beachside suburb welcomes long-awaited, new South-East Asian bar and eatery Miss Mee.

Particularly since we are now allowed to frolic in bars (at a safe distance of course), which means rooftops get their literal time in the sun again.

If you ventured past lately, you’ll no doubt have noticed the changes taking place inside the double storey building where our beloved Hellenika once lived.

Well, the newbie (by the crew at Justin Lane) is now open and we’ve got all the details.

The now iconic space is a centrepiece in Nobby’s, eye-catching and loved amongst locals.

Now Miss Mee has moved in, spiced up the decor and more good times are sure to roll.

Entering from the street you’ll be greeted by a glowing, pink neon sign featuring the lady herself.

Off to your left is the downstairs bar and dining area and to the right, a set of alluring neon pink stairs that you know can only lead to fun (and sure to be the backdrop for many an Insta-snap).

The downstairs area is lowlit, featuring neon lights snaking across the ceiling, a cosy pink and white corner with walls that will keep you entertained for days and a huge, stocked bar for all your sipping needs.

Up those pink stairs though is of course the rooftop bar, decked out in black and white gloss tiles, white high tables, a corner area that can be booked for private events with it’s own neon lit bar and a vintage tuk tuk overseeing it all.

The entire space is absolutely packed with colour, quirky neon lights that add plenty of character and absolutely somewhere you’re going to want to spend some time.

To eat, there are of course many a South-East Asian delight including classics like Nasi Goreng, Pad Thai, Massaman Beef, Green Curry and Whole Deep Fried Fish to name a few.

There are also small plates like Bao, Sticky Chicken wings, Satay Chicken Skewers and Salt and Pepper Squid if you’re keen to try a few.

Banquet options mean you only have to choose from five or eight courses for $49 or $69 per person and there’s a vegan choice too.

To drink, there’s an array of Asian-inspired cocktails to sip including a Smoking Singapore Sling, Miss Mee’s Bubble Tea which is a booze-infused version of the beloved drink and a Spicy Lychee Margarita (among many others).

The wine list is extensive and there are both tap and bottled beers if you’re in the market for a frothy (which you are, because it’s been awhile).

If you’re in need of a colour-infused experience that also includes tasty eats and a unique beverage or two, you’re in luck. Your new mate Miss Mee has you covered.

Pop in this weekend for a long-awaited rooftop jaunt with the crew.

LOCATION: 2235 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach
HOURS: Wednesday and Thursday 5pm until late, Friday to Sunday 12pm until late

Words and photos by Kirra Smith

16 reasons locals love Nobbys Beach

Tayta Nikkei Restaurant & Bar, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Tayta Nikkei Restaurant & Bar, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

We’ve lost count of all of the best beachside spots on the Coast where you can eat, drink and shop your little heart away, but one of the ol’ favourites has had a comeback and we’re all here for it.

Nobby’s is well and truly in its slay era and to be honest, we can’t get enough. Locals have loved the beachside suburb forever and to be fair, so have we, but there’s been a surge of seriously epic new venues that have made us fall in love all over again.

We’ve taken the task of trying out the 16 reasons why locals can’t get enough of Nobby’s – you’re welcome – so you can see for yourself what all the fuss is about.

The Oxley, Nobby Beach (image supplied By Ablo)
The Oxley, Nobby Beach (image supplied By Ablo)

The Oxley 1823
You’ve no doubt seen it pretty much everywhere (guilty), but have you actually visited The Oxley yet? It’s been one of Nobby’s most anticipated new arrivals for as long as we can remember, and we think it’s safe to say now it’s well and truly living up to expectations. They’ve got brekky and lunch covered with the crew at Sunkist, coffee on tap at Buoy and everything you need from groceries, fresh meats and seafood, flowers and made to order juices covered at The Oxley Village Grocer, Butcher and Sub Station. A little birdy also told us there are even more goodies opening a little later this year, so watch this space.
Where: 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach

The Holliday Coffee, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Juice and Iced Coffee, The Holliday Coffee, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Holliday Coffee
Good vibes, great coffee and a seriously strong jaffle game(!!) – what’s not to love about Holliday? No seriously, our caffeine addiction is being single handedly fuelled by these guys. It’s pretty much always buzzing – what is always a good sign if you ask us. Follow the smell of the freshly ground coffee beans, grab a seat outside (our personal favourite spot) and spoilt yourself with a little treaty. Go on, you’ve earned it.
Where: 2251 Gold Coast Highway (corner of Wave St), Nobby Beach

Franc Jrs, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Franc Jrs, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Franc Jrs
Okay big call but this may just be one of the best pizza joints on the Gold Coast and Franc-ly, it’s about time they spread the love to other parts of the city because why should Coolangatta have all the fun? The menu has all the signatures from the Cooly store and you can choose to eat in and soak up the vibes or grab and go – the perfect addition to a picnic on the beach if you ask us. Our favourite part of ordering to-go? Sipping on a cheeky frozen marg while you wait.
Where: Shop 2/32 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach

Alfreds Apartment, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Alfreds Apartment, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Alfred’s Apartment
Mermaid’s loss is Nobby’s gain because you best believe we’ve been living at Alfred’s since the OG started calling its new address home. Still the same vibe you love from the original Alfred’s, the space now has a schmick industrial fit out, ripper coffee and, of course, all the merch that we know you can’t get enough of. If you’re off the coffee train you’ll want to get around their viral strawberry matcha.
Where: 2225 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Fosters Bakery
No one does pies or baked goods quite like Foster’s Bakery, they’re famous for a reason and known for delivering that classic bakery feel of yesteryear. The ultimate spot for a pie (you know you love them) or a jam donut loaded with sugary goodness, we’re nostalgic just thinking about it.
Where: Shop 1/2227 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Tropic Vice, Nobby Beach (image supplied)
Tropic Vice, Nobby Beach (image supplied)

Tropic Vice
This place is a VIBE. The sun-lit rooftop is the perfect setting to sip on signature cocktails & graze on a unique “Florribean” inspired menu, combining flavours of the Caribbean and South America. The space was stylishly updated last year, still paying homage to the iconic Palm Springs and Miami influence, it’s one of those spots you just want to sip and stay all day.
Where: Upstairs 2215 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach

About a Girl
One of our favourite little gems in Nobby’s is of course, About a Girl boutique. They’ve got the perfect mix of wardrobe staples and current trending pieces, they’ve got gorgeous linen sets, minis, maxis and so much more for every occasion, as well as a curated selection of hand-picked homewares you didn’t know you absolutely need.
Where: 2/2211 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Tayta Nikkei Restaurant & Bar, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Tayta Nikkei Restaurant & Bar, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Tayta Nikkei
This Nobby newcomer brought a taste of Nikkei cuisine to the Gold Coast. With its intimate setting boasting 60 seats, Tayta Nikkei exudes a dark and moody ambiance, complemented by traditional Peruvian colors and patterns. The menu showcases a delightful array of seafood and ceviche-style specialties, inviting guests on a culinary journey like no other.
Where: 2/2243 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Mexicali (image supplied)
Mexicali (image supplied)

Mexicali
You had us at Mexican. We challenge you to find someone who doesn’t love a good Mexican feed… Go on, we’ll wait. Calling Nobby’s home for probably longer than most of us have, Mexicali never fails to bring the vibes (and the bevs) all year long. Once you make your way upstairs it’s seriously like entering the ultimate secret spot, if you close your eyes for a second it’s almost like you’re actually in Tulum. Once you’ve knocked back a few tacos and cocktails, don’t forget to snap the iconic stair shot as you exit – you know what we’re talking about, don’t lie.
Where: Level 1, 2223 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach

Bine Bar & Dining beer (image supplied)
Bine Bar & Dining beer (image supplied)

Bine Bar & Dining
Let’s talk Bine. Specialising in craft beer and perfectly matched food, and…need we say more? With 8 rotating taps, a bunch of different bottled beers, a selection of wines and mouth-watering cocktail options matched with a modest yet decadent menu, there are plenty of reasons to love it….and come back again and again.
Where: 1/28 Chairlift Ave, Nobby Beach

Poké Bowls, Okazu Sushi Bar (image supplied)
Poké Bowls, Okazu Sushi Bar (image supplied)

Okazu
Now there’s a decent dose of Japanese going around our hood, but we can never get enough. Have any of these sushi bars or poke bowl dreamboats failed us? The answer is a hard no. Okazu is no exception, this convenient grab and go spot featuring Donburi, Okonomiyaki and Sushi Rolls is as fresh as it is delicious and it has us coming back every day.
Where: 2223 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach

BSKT Cafe
Ahh BSKT, you are simply the gift that keeps on giving. The menu just keeps delivering year on year and honestly, if you haven’t been here yet are you even a true Gold Coaster? Consistently voted one of the best tables in town, there is not a single dish that doesn’t hit a home run.
Where: 4 Lavarack Rd, Nobby Beach

BSKT Cafe (image supplied)
BSKT Cafe (image supplied)

Nobbys Shack
If health food is your (sugar-free) jam, one would hope you’ve cottoned on to The Shack Superfood Café and if not, it’s about time you convert. With tasty eco-friendly meals like smoothiesacai bowls and wraps in a breezy, non-pretentious environment, the brand spanking new version of the previous fave The Shack Superfood Café, lives up to its predecessor’s high standards…and then some.
Where: 2241 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach

Cambus Wallace
A nautical-themed rum and whisky bar delivering old school service and quality, it’s a long-standing crowd-pleaser for good reason. The space is low-lit, close-knit and always pumping. Swing in for some delish share plates, a drink or two and soak up the intimate ambience. Live music with a side of gin and fresh squeezed apple juice? Name a more iconic duo, we’ll wait…
Where: 4/2237 Gold Coast HwyNobby Beach

SOMM Wine Store interior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
SOMM Wine Store interior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

SOMM Wine Store
Yeah we’ve talked a lot about foody joints (how unlike us – said no-one ever) but there is absolutely no denying that SOMM Wine store is a firm local favourite of the vino variety. SOMM (aka us) might even say it’s the only place you should be exploring to find your favourite drop.  Owned by husband and wife duo Joe and Natalie, their backstory is reflected in the carefully curated wines begging to occupy real estate at your next dinner party. Specialising in boutique wineries, their wine experts will help you find a winner every time.
Where: 2245 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach

The Undercurrent Nobby's Beach (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)
The Undercurrent Nobby's Beach (Image: © 2019 The Undercurrent)

That mural
Speaking of Mexicali and epic art (and no, we’re not talking about the food this time), a much-loved part of the Nobbys highway strip is the eye-catching mural adorning one side of the restaurant in all its bright-hued glory. Designed and painted by local legend Luke Day, the colourful creation and all its pinky bluey goodness is THE spot to snap the most aesthetic insta shot you could wish for. Say cheese…or churros!
Where: The north side of Mexicali (you won’t miss it)

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.

The Oxley, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
The Oxley, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Karley & Ryan McAlpin

Karley & Ryan of Zero 9 (image supplied)
Karley & Ryan of Zero 9 (image supplied)

Ever walk into a venue and really just ogle the space? Yep, us too. And is it just us or does it seem new venues across the Gold Coast have really stepped up their fit-out game recently? A few venues spring to mind when it comes to ones that deserve a feature on the ‘gram; of which include the new Surfers Pavilion, and the reinvigoration of The Star Gold Coast’s Atrium Bar. Both of which were projects of Brisbane & Gold Coast company, Zero 9 Constructions. We were fortunate enough to get to know the founders of Zero 9, Karley & Ryan McAlpin, to talk all things Commercial & Residential construction and boy do they have some big projects in the pipeline! Watch this space!

How long have you been Gold Coast locals?
Karley: All my life, I was born and bred on the GC. (Except for a few overseas adventures!)
Ryan: All my life. Born and bred in Tweed (I’ll claim that as the Gold Coast) haha

Tell us about how Zero 9 Constructions came about?
Ryan: The burning desire to do what I was doing, but better! Shopfitting had this almost ‘unspoken rule’ that you did big hours, nights, never saw your family, and quality was never valued as the space would get re-fit in 3-7 years… Why? Why can’t quality of finish, and quality of life exist in this sector? This is where we focus our values as a company, on quality, detail and professionalism. We’re not about getting a job done purely to get the job done, our values lie in providing our clients with an experience that is seamless, detailed and exceeds their expectations. That is our passion and where the business started and continues to grow.

Atruim Bar by Zero 9 Constructions (image supplied)
Atruim Bar by Zero 9 Constructions (image supplied)

Can you tell us the meaning behind “Zero 9”?
Ryan: People often assume it is the year we started the company, but there is a bit more of a love story behind it. 2009 was the year Karley and I met, in Canada, on a snow mountain. Even though we both lived on the Gold Coast, it took us both being in Canada, at the right time for us to find each other. When toying with the idea of starting the business, the name just felt so right, a year that was sentimental to us. And with that, this is where the name Zero 9 came about.

What do you love the most about being in the construction industry on the Gold Coast?
Ryan: Being part of such a dynamic, ever-evolving part of the Gold Coast. Having the ability to create new opportunities and be a part of the community growth is really special to us. Not to mention the people we work with and places we work, we’re currently working on the old Pizza Hut site at Kirra and you couldn’t find a more beautiful part of the world (not to mention how sentimental it is with all the birthday parties I had there). It truly is special to be involved in the future of the Gold Coast and shaping it for the generations to come.

Surfers Pavilion by Zero 9 Constructions (image supplied)
Surfers Pavilion by Zero 9 Constructions (image supplied)

What are your areas of expertise?
Ryan: Our brand started in the Commercial Construction industry with the development of restaurants, cafes, bars, clubs, gyms, office spaces; practically we bring any space to life. Finding recent demand for our level of quality and detail in the Residential industry, the Zero 9 team has expanded into architectural home builds, renovations and extensions. Our team work collectively through the design and construction of these spaces to add value to our clients lives.

Whilst it may be hard to pick, have you got a particular favourite project of Zero 9 Constructions?
Ryan: Tough one… If I had to narrow it down to two, I would say Surfers Pavilion and Burleigh Brewing HQ. Both absolute monster projects with unique challenges and great clients!

What can we expect from Zero 9 Constructions in the next 12 months?
Ryan: Massive things!! Epic rooftop spaces, iconic GC venues, and some of the most beautiful homes the GC and Northern NSW has ever seen.

Burleigh Brewing Co.(image supplied)
Burleigh Brewing (image supplied)

What are your Gold Coast favourites…
Café: Here Coffee at Zero 9’s Burleigh HQ (obviously), but also VERY hard to go past Tarte in Burleigh.
Coffee spot: Here Coffee at Zero 9’s Burleigh HQ (obviously)
Restaurant: Lucky Bao in Mermaid. Absolute pocket-rocket of a place that is our absolute go to!
Bar or pub for a drink: As we have four young kids, our drinking is usually done at home with a Burleigh Brewing Big Head, or a pack of Hard Fizz. If we are lucky enough to have a night off, it’s hard to beat Burleigh Pavilion for the location and atmosphere.

How do you choose to spend your weekends? 
Ryan: As mentioned above, four young ones keep us VERY occupied. (Thank goodness for the backyard pool, incredible Gold Coast weather, as well as family and friends close by!). During the glimmers of silence, you will normally find us in front of a laptop or Netflix. Basically just sitting in silence…

Where: 1/14 Rothcote Court, Burleigh Heads
Phone: 0481 279 984

STORY SPONSORED BY ZERO 9 CONSTRUCTIONS

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