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10 Gold Coast places to get a schnitty

Winner winner, chicken dinner.

The Schnitzel Celebration Platter, The Bavarian (image supplied)
The Schnitzel Celebration Platter, The Bavarian (image supplied)

There are a few things that are quintessentially Australian, and you must admire the fact they exist. You know the stuff we’re talking about here, like Vegemite and musk flavoured lollies and the holiest of meals — the Schnitty. AKA the Schnitzel.

Now to be truthful, the Schnitzel has roots that can be easily traced back to Germany. But let’s not be caught up in details here; the simple fact of the matter is this humble dish of crispy golden wonder is a pillar of modern Aussie society. Your go-to when you come out of the surf, the mid-week treat when you’re out with friends, and the fuel needed to keep your Sunday session going. Where would our food menus be without the Schnitzel? (Shudder) It doesn’t bear thinking about!

So when you crave this crunchy delight, we’d like to extend a hand in helping you find where you might partake in some mighty schnitzels. Here’s our rundown of some fine places where you can get your Schnitty on the Gold Coast.

The Bavarian (Broadbeach + Coomera + Robina)
When it comes to supersizing the whole German experience, The Bavarian venues in Broadbeach, Coomera, and Robina are second to none. Grab yourself huge traditional-style glasses of beer, and be sure to bring your best hunger game because the food here is plentiful! Apart from obscenely good food specials, our pick would have to be their Schnitzel Celebration Platter which includes the original, the Garlic and Parmesan (GP) and the Jagerschnitzel — perfect for cutting up and sharing, if you want to that is!
Where: Oracle Broadbeach, Westfield Coomera or The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre, Robina

Schnitz Classic Schnitzel (image supplied)
Schnitz Classic Schnitzel (image supplied)

Schnitz (Pacific Fair & Robina)
If there’s one thing these guys know how to do well, it is serving up colossal-sized plates of crisp Schnitzel to their loyal customers. The diverse menu offering four proteins (chicken, pork, beef or vegan) and four crumbs (traditional, corn crunch, spicy or cheese & herb) gives you a multitude of ways to enjoy your Schnitzel. You can even ‘health-things-up’ a bit with the options of wraps and salads. With delivery to your door around the Gold Coast, Schnitz is a dead set winner when it comes to bread crumb coated goodness.
Where: The Patio, Pacific Fair, Broadbeach and Robina Town Centre, Robina

Fisherman’s Wharf
With eye-catching vistas right around the Broadwater, you might find it hard to focus on the delicious-looking menu you have before you. With regular live music and a friendly atmosphere added into the mix, you don’t have a better place to enjoy yourself a tasty Chicken Schnitzel with chips and salad (for under $25) as the sun sets on another glorious day on the Gold Coast.
Where: 60-70 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

Harbour Vue Tavern (Coomera Waters)
Another stellar venue to enjoy waterfront views whilst tucking into their famous 250gm Chicken Schnitzel with gravy. These guys are the complete package with a plethora of weekly specials, live music, karaoke evenings, and a wholly dedicated weekly Parmi night. Come and enjoy yourself as much as you want, as they’ll then take you home with their courtesy bus when the evening is over. — Epic!
Where: L1/941 Harbour Village Parade, Coomera

The Avenue's Sea-nitzel (image supplied)
The Avenue's Sea-nitzel (image supplied)

The Avenue
Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or celebrate the end of the week with a few drinks and some food, The Avenue has got you well and truly covered. Drop in early to experience some first-rate food and to start your night off right before you no doubt decide to stick around for their nightly live music, comedy, or drag queen-themed evenings of fun. Special shout out to their Sea-nitzel which is topped with king prawns, avocado, garlic cream sauce with beer battered fries & garden salad. Schnitty game leveled up.
Where: 3-15 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Bavarian Haus (Surfers Paradise)
When it comes to true nostalgia from Europe, the Bavarian Haus in Surfers Paradise is well up on the list of places you need to visit. The traditional German-style décor and long-style tables are the perfect spot to bring your gang and get into some hearty food. Speaking of Schnitzels, you spolit for choice with pork or chicken, both made in-haus served with fries and cabbage slaw. But for the hungry folk, The Wood Chippers Classic Schintzel is topped with mashed potato, knackwurst sausage and gravy, also served with fries and cabbage slaw. And let’s not forget their sizeable collection of flavoursome imported German beers too wash it all down.
Where: 41 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Burleigh Heads Bowls Club
We’re huge fans of spending a leisurely afternoon partaking in some carefree barefoot bowls, and where else is a better place to do so than in vibrant Burleigh Heads. Combine your visit with their weekly trivia night or weekend live music. We can’t think of a better way to end the day of laying on the beach by escaping the sand to snag yourself one of the Coast’s best Schnitzels with chips and salad for under $20! Be rude not to, right?
Where: Connor Street, Burleigh Heads

Southport Yacht Club (image supplied)
Southport Yacht Club (image supplied)

Southport Yacht Club
An award-winning dining venue in its own right, the Southport Yacht Club welcomes visitors with open arms and makes sure they leave with big smiles. Yes, you can expect fantastic waterfront views and first-rate service, but the menu is where the venue shines! Try a relaxed atmosphere to fix your schnitzel cravings as you choose between steamed baby potatoes or beer-battered fries, not forgetting the options of peppercorn, mushroom, or red wine jus to accompany the golden goodness.
Where: 1 MacArthur Parade, Main Beach

The German Club Gold Coast
If cosy home-style cooking in a uber-friendly atmosphere is right up your alley, then look no further than the Gold Coast German Club. You’ll experience a proper submersion into German culture as everyone is made welcome — member or not. Your Schnitzel choices include chicken, pork loin or the Jaeger served with creamy mushroom sauce, beer battered chips and salad. And as a side note, try and make some space for dessert because the Germans certainly have it covered when it comes to sweet things.
Where: 3 Jondique Avenue, Merrimac

Bine Bar & Dining
We are just going to say this is one of the best places to grab yourself a hard-earned beer and bask in the dipping afternoon sun. When the evening rolls around, keep sipping beers long into the night because why not? And to ensure you have the energy to keep going, be sure to order The Naked Schnitty (chicken or mushroom) with your choice of sauce for $20. Drop in on a Thursday for their Parmi and Beer evening because we all know that adding Napoli sauce and melted cheese to a Schnitty takes it to the next level.
Where: 1/28 Chairlift Avenue, Mermaid Beach

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

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

13 epic Gold Coast burger spots

TGI Fridays, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
TGI Fridays, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

We’ve never met a burger we didn’t like. Okay, maybe that’s a bit dramatic, but we’ve never met a burger from this list that we didn’t love. The humble burger has reached new heights thanks to these Gold Coast hospo legends putting new twists of the classic favourite. And what’s not to love? They’re reliable, damn tasty and the ultimate all-rounder.

Think you’re not a burger lover? Well, we challenge you not to be after eating your way through this epicness. Already converted? Thank us later because your tastebuds will never be the same after these bad boys. To us, every day is burger day – so we’ve pulled together a list of the 13 best burger joints for you to eat your way through. So cheers to the GOAT dish and one of our favourite menu items and prepare to loosen those belts people!

Paloma Wine Bar
It’s one of Burleigh’s favourite local haunts for their huge wine range, next-level cocktails and steak frites, but have you tried the Paloma Cheeseburger? The burger itself is pretty large and in charge for a humble cheeseburger, plus it’s paired with their signature fries – name a more iconic duo. They’re available exclusively on Wednesdays to help you wine-down on hump day and for $14, you’d be losing money not treating yourself #girlmath.
Where: 1/12 James St, Burleigh Heads

Cheeseburger, Paloma Wine Bar, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Cheeseburger, Paloma Wine Bar, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

Two Yolks
Burgers and Burleigh apparently go hand in hand! Two Yolks are home to potentially one of the broadest burger ranges, you can literally treat yourself to a toasty bun for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Triple B is a solid (literally) starter to your day with Bangalow free range bacon, pork sausage plus a heap more with… wait for it… tater tots as a sneaky side. Feeling like something a little more classic? Well the options are (almost) endless with spicy fried chicken all the way through to a Mexican moment.
Where: 13 Connor St, Burleigh Heads

Betty’s Burgers
We don’t make this claim lightly, but there is quite literally a burger for everyone here. Vegan? No problem. Don’t make friends with gluten? Say less. These guys clearly take their burgers seriously because Betty’s have a huge 15 different burgers to choose from, your biggest problem will be narrowing it down to just one. The best problem to have if we do say so ourselves. Need some inspo? We can’t go past the Betty’s Deluxe or Shroom Burger. Perfect for refuelling post retail therapy.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Robina Town Centre and Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre

Betty's Burgers (image supplied)
Betty's Burgers (image supplied)

Burgster
With a name like Burgster, it’s only natural they deliver the goods in the burger department. It’s absolutely one of the best burger joints on the Gold Coast so it’s well worth returning to eat your way through each and every options. Now, while you might’ve come for the burgers you seriously need to stay for the tempura oyster, brie bites and margs. A match made in burger heaven.
Where: Shop 2 & 3, 4-10 Philippine Parade, Palm Beach

Burgster, Palm Beach (image supplied)
Burgster, Palm Beach (image supplied)

Wahlburgers
Our favourite movie star Mark Wahlburg and his brothers certainly know what’s up when it comes down to a burger of great proportions. Wahlburgers first Queensland store located at the beach end of the newly renovated Paradise Centre always deliver on big burgers with big flavour. Rock up with the crew after some time on the beach and tuck into a BBQ Bacon Burger (which is brother Donnie’s choice) with a beef patty, tasty cheese, bacon, fresh jalapenos, BBQ sauce and avo spread – the perfect combo with all of your favourites on one delicious burger.  Pro tip: level it up with the famous Fried Pickles to start with and thank us later.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Easy Street Diner (image supplied)
Easy Street Diner (image supplied)

Easy Street Diner
Blink and you might miss this beauty along the Gold Coast Hwy, so keep your eye peeled! What these guys knock out of their kitchen will have you coming back time after time. Menu items such as Jalapeño BitesPickle Poppers and their infamous Pork Belly Nuggets are absolute crowd-pleasers. But who are we to take the shine off their fantastic lineup of burgers, Give us the Royale with Cheese all the way!
Where: 12/2563 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Zepickle (image supplied)
Zepickle (image supplied)

Ze Pickle
This Burleigh Heads corner spot is the very essence of lazy, street-side eating. Swing in when you clock off on Friday, grab one of their 12 craft beers on tap — and relax. Next, seize a menu and struggle to decide which of the next-level burgers you’re set on. The imagination that goes into their selection of burgers is top-notch, with examples like the Baja Fish Taco Burger and Southern Hick Chicken Burger; you’ll not just be wowed with flavour but the menu names also!
Where: 37 Connor Street, Burleigh Heads

Palm Springs
You’ve seen it all over your ‘gram, so if you haven’t been to Palm Springs then where have you been? It’s one of our fav spots to sit back and soak up the Gold Coast vibes, pat all of the pups and of course, tuck into a delish burger. They’ve got four mouth-watering options all served on a classic milk bun, from your classic Bacon & Egg or Fried Hot Chicken Burger choices or if you’re a bit fancy, the Truffle Burger is an all-round favourite.
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Palm Springs, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Palm Springs, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

TGI Fridays
Looking for a place where it’s always Friday and if this isn’t a rhetorical question…?! Add all American juicy handcrafted burgers, plenty of beer on tap and drinks that are always a’flowin and you’ve just described TGI FRIDAYS!
Where: Robina Town Centre, Robina and Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Apres Surf
It’s become an institution for a reason. They’ve got sweet deals on the menu pretty much every day, but there’s pretty much no better way to finish your Monday with a cheesy b – am I right? The crew at Apres Surf are serving up their iconic cheeseburgers each and every Monday for just $6.50, so you can afford to treat yourself to more than one or a cheeky beer if you’re in the mood. The definition of cheap AND cheerful.
Where: Shop 1/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Après Surf bar (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Après Surf bar (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Eddie’s Grub House
This rock and roll infused dive bar delivers teenage kicks and appealing burger action unapologetically to Coolangatta. As far south as you can go before stepping over the street and into New South Wales, the venue is a ‘pull up a stool and sink a few bevvies’ kind of hangout. Ideal if you find yourself needing a refreshment between happenings at Cooly Rocks On. In the realm of burgers, these guys bring out revolving weekly specials with all the best music genre names you can think of. Delicious and always a good time. We strongly suggest you swing by Eddie’s and let your hair down!
Where: 171 Griffith Street, Coolangatta 

Eddie's Grub House (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)
Eddie's Grub House (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)

Luckie’s Diner – The Collective
It’s always cheat day at Luckie’s Diner, one of The Collective’s fave eats offerings! Their American-style menu with an edge never disappoints and their Royale with Cheese Burger featuring beef, cheese, special sauce, lettuce, tomato and pickles served with fries and ketchup will have you coming back for more. We love that there’s an Aussie Aussie Aussie Burger with grilled pineapple, beetroot and egg, because we don’t see this on menus enough these days. Also an honourable mention to the Pork Belly Nuggets served with maple dipping sauce too, a real winner at this local’s haunt.
Where: The Collective, 1128 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Longboards Laidback Eatery and Bar
If you happen to bring your very best hunger game with you to Longboards, you won’t be disappointed. Seventeen handcrafted burgers on offer, including Beach Cheeseburger, the Vegetarian G-Banger, and the Mona Lisa, which arrives towering with wagyu beef patty, crispy bacon, melted brie cheese, garlic-butter mushrooms, caramelised onion, lettuce, tomato, and truffle aioli. Over the top? Maybe just a bit – but we aren’t judging! One of the best burger joints on the Gold Coast? Absolutely!
Where: Q1 Resort & Spa, Corner of Hamilton Avenue &, Northcliffe Terrace, Surfers Paradise

Longboards Laidback Eatery and Bar (image supplied)
Longboards Laidback Eatery and Bar (image supplied)

10 sear-riously good Gold Coast steak joints

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

First and foremost: our sin-sear-est apologies in advance to our plant-based brethren, with this roundup including exactly zero cauli steaks, might we instead suggest our 10 Vegan Gold Coast Restaurants list.

For the meat eaters among us, if it’s sear-riously good steak you seek, you are definitely in the right place. There are not many dishes that compare to the satisfaction of a succulent steak cooked to perfection, though there is often a lot more to the art of this dish than meats the eye.

When the urge for a next level steak won’t quit, sometimes you just have to leave it in the hands of the pros. Sit back and grillax, we’ve got those carnivorous cravings covered. Here are 10 of the GC’s most lit steak restaurants worth getting fired up over.

Glenelg Public House Rib fillet, 250g, full blood wagyu (image supplied)
Glenelg Public House Rib fillet, 250g, full blood wagyu (image supplied)

Glenelg Public House
We’re starting strong with Mermaid’s moody gastro-pub, which has garnered itself a solid rep indeed for punching out sear-riously good steaks over the years. These guys take their meat even more seriously than that one mate bordering on a situationship with their smoker, with a full breakdown of cut / weight / breed / producer / paddock / region / feed to agonise over. There are no less than nine top-quality cuts on offer from all over Aus (and that’s not including the stacked selection of share-style dishes) – making this a must-try destination for even the most discerning steak critics (*cough* looking at you, aforementioned mate with smoker).
Where: 9/2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

kōst Bar & Grill
Oh yes, Broadbeach’s very notable newcomer is so much more than a (breathtakingly) pretty face, already pulling a #Bradbury to just as elegantly glide on in and secure their rightful place on this list. This euro-chic vibing contemporary bar & grill boasts one of the city’s only charcoal wood-fire grills, meaning anything not already nailed down is treated to that signature flame kissed treatment. There’s an assortment of steak cuts to acquaint yourself with, including a 1kg Dry Age Steak – O’Connor Beef T-Bone if you’re feeling a little lot extra.
Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

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

Cavill’s Steakhouse
For born and bred locals, the former Labrador icon (affectionately known simply as Cav’s in our youths) summons a whole lot of nostalgia, and thankfully it still stands up to the hype and fond mems all these years on.

In fact, this is one GC institution that has aged like fine wine (they’ve got those too), with a rooftop vibing re-location and grown up new look to match that signature Cav’s experience we’ve known for ~40 years now. They’ve got this steak business down to a fine art, with a sister butchery, an extensive selection of cuts and that traditional steak experience with all the classic trimmings – bc sometimes you just need a decadent, garlic prawn laden steak in your life.
Where: 6 Bayview Street, Runaway Bay

Moo Moo
Another GC mainstay, Moo Moo’s has been serving up all the mouth-watering meat action (and resulting meat sweats) to Broadbeach and beyond going on 20 years now, and they’ve got the receipts – aka slew of awards to prove it.

Specialty steaks are kind of their thing (as are fine wines), with ten mouth-watering options to choose from – though if you and a willing participant have brought your appetite, take on the infamous Spice Rubbed 1kg Wagyu Rump Cap Roast. Carved at the table served with Wagyu Fat Fried New Season Potatoes (and some green stuff for good measure).
Where: 2685 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

Moo Moo The Wine Bar + Grill, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Moo Moo The Wine Bar + Grill, Broadbeach (image supplied)

Outback Steakhouse
If it’s more of a laid back, steakhouse vibe you’re going for, it would be a crying flame to overlook Outback Steakhouse, a family friendly all-rounder also serving up some formidable options when it comes to flame kissed fare. The menu offers up something for everyone, with those in the mood for something meaty treated to eight steak cuts served with your choice of sides. Gather the crew and take on the 1.25kg Angus Tomahawk, or a slightly more surmountable Ribeye, with a little more space to spare for pud.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach

Nineteen at The Star
A spot well known for dishing up the finer things, with a little help from some epic views of the GC skyline, The Darling’s crowning jewel Nineteen at The Star is the kinda place that has it it all. Naturally, there’s an equally impressive selection of swanky steaks, which are almost exclusively sourced locally on the Darling Downs (with exception to the Cape Grim Grass Fed Rib Eye, which, we can definitely manage to let slide, quite frankly).

If it’s truly time to treat yourself, these guys boast one of the largest selections of sumptuous 9+ MBS (aka ‘excellent’ grade) steaks on the Coast – the only thing higher is that stunner of an outlook, tbh.
Where: 1, Level 19, The Darling at The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach

Dry Aged Sirloin, Nineteen at The Star (Image supplied by The Star Gold Coast)
Dry Aged Sirloin, Nineteen at The Star (Image supplied by The Star Gold Coast)

Red Steakhouse
Tucking in to a Dry Aged, New York Strip on the bone surrounded by a cool couple of milli worth of yachts and marina views for days? #thatslivin. A fine dining style steakhouse, though the more upscale take will come as a surprise to absolutely no one given it’s situated within the swanky Sanctuary Cove dining precinct #ohshefancyhuh.

This nominee for the GC’s most spectacular slab of beef has got your steak needs covered from A-Z, (or technically W) with a hefty offering including everything from Angus through to Waygu. Got a ravenous crowd of beef buffs on your hands? Tackle one of the mammoth 1-2kg Oakey Reserve Black Angus Tomahawks for your feasting pleasure.
Where: Sanctuary Cove, 46E/4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island

Mr Hizola’s
A very worthy contender for the GC’s best steak hall of flame is Mr Hizola’s and the srsly lit (literally) signature dish – Sizzling Wagyu Steak. Serving up contemporary Cantonese eats, this Burleigh hotspot is adored among the hungry Southern hordes, also dishing up a show-stopper of a steak that no doubt has played a solid part in cementing that status. The dazzling dish is set alight at the table for an unbel-beef-able experience that tastes every bit as good as it looks.
Where: 1730 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Mr Hizolas (image supplied)
Mr Hizolas (image supplied)

Hurricanes Grill & Bar
If it’s stellar steak you’re after, this cosy Surfers Paradise spot is certainly serving it up (along with some mighty fine beach views). Hurricane’s definitely lives up to the ‘Grill and Bar’ title, with a grilliant array of meaty morsels to choose from. On offer is everything from petite Sirloin cuts through to some very boujee beef options indeed – with the pièce de résistance, a MS7+ Tajima Wagyu Beef Sirloin sure to impress even the staunchest of steak snobs.
Where: 1/4-14 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

Woodchoppers Inn
Woodchopper’s has been treating the southern GC to their specialty low & slow method ever since they took their passion for flame-licked fare to full blown obsession, following the installation of the site’s first BBQ back in 2015. Though the legacy of this Mudgeeraba mainstay goes much further back, the addition has gone on to become the GC’s longest standing real woodfired BBQ. Throw in an artisan distillery, and suddenly this little spot is sporting some rather obvious tactical advantages indeed.

The signature steak dish, BBQ Tri Tip Sirloin stars the fave cut of the Woodchopper crew, and who are we to disagree with the experts.
Where: 64 Railway St, Mudgeeraba

Words by Kellie Leader.

Woodchoppers Inn (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)
Woodchoppers Inn (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)

11 of the best Gold Coast seafood restaurants

George's Paragon, Sanctuary Cove (image supplied)
George's Paragon, Sanctuary Cove (image supplied)

Everyone loves a bit of oceany goodness on their plates, do they not? Well, at least we know you do, or we’re afraid you may have clicked on the wrong article! 

If you ARE in the market for a seafood extravaganza, here are 11 exceptional Gold Coast venues to hit up ASAP.

George’s Paragon
Those who know seafood know George’s Paragon is where it’s at when it comes to seafood on the Gold Coast. Their huge seafood platters are legendary for a reason with fresh king prawns, smoked salmon, mixed oysters, barbequed bugs and prawns three ways barbequed, battered and smothered in garlic. Yum! The extensive Greek-inspired menu is perfectly complemented by the restaurant’s perfectly positioned location overlooking the marina at Sanctuary Cove.
Where: 46 The Promenade, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island

The Lazy Lobster
If you’re seeking a seafood platter that doubles as an eating competition, look no further than The Lazy Lobster. Not only do they have four epic (and we mean epic) seafood platters to choose from, but also whole and half mornay or thermidor lobster, oysters served four ways, and an extensive entree and main menu. They also go from surf to turf with a selection of succulent grass-fed Angus steaks.
Where: Shop 2/300 Marine Parade, Labrador

Omeros Bros, Main Beach (image supplied)
Omeros Bros, Main Beach (image supplied)

Omeros Bros Seafood Restaurant
A stunning space overlooking the water at Marina Mirage, Omeros Bros have been serving up the highest quality seafood for as long we can remember. If you’re a fan of all the ocean eats, grab yourself a platter and let the good times (and full bellies) roll. Next-level indeed.
Where: Shop 55/74 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

Glass Dining Lounge
For lovers of elegant dining and waterfront views, Glass Dining Lounge is an award-winning restaurant that has it all, with truly delectable seafood. Glass does everything with absolute finesse, from kingfish tartare and Moreton Bay bugs to prawn risotto to seafood linguine. Enjoy it all with luxury yachts in the marina as your view.
Where: 27/74 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

Holy Ship Restaurant, Main Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Holy Ship Restaurant, Main Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Holy Ship
Let’s not do things in halves; why not hop aboard a real-life fishing trawler (cleaned and manicured) for your next seafood dining experience? Don’t be scared, think of a gorgeous little restaurant on the water. Tuck into fresh prawns, oysters and charcuterie board feast, and wash it down with a fine glass of Moet. Come between 3-5pm daily for Holy Hour (we agree) and half prices oysters!
Where: Berth 7&8 Marina Mirage, Marina Commercial arm, Sea World Drive, Main Beach (but both vessels are available for functions at private pontoons, Gold Coast marinas and events around the Broadwater).

Shuck Restaurant, Main Beach (image supplied)
Shuck Restaurant, Main Beach (image supplied)

Shuck Restaurant
If all things opulence are on your scene, make Shuck your next reservation. Shuck is another fine dining gem that’s a must for all with a deep appreciation for seafood. Let the caviar-tasting plate set the tone for what is to come. Live music, lush settings and sumptuous seafood dishes await!
Where: 20 Tedder Ave, Main Beach 

Galaxy
It’s the busiest seafood restaurant in Southport for a reason. Thankfully, it’s also the largest. The menu doesn’t take a laser focus on just seafood (but executes what they do, to perfection), which makes it perfect for the whole family with plenty of food options. Another point for Galaxy is that whilst they never compromise on taste and quality, their price point is a little nicer for our wallets!
Where: 6/50 Marine Parade, Southport

Dining at Soul Boardwalk, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Seascape Restaurant, Soul Boardwalk, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Seascape Restaurant + Bar
It’s time to pop on those fancy pants and get up to Seascape Restaurant + Bar. Perched above the Surfers Paradise oceanfront, you’ll experience some of the most incredible seafood of your life- it’s locally sourced and downright mouth-watering. The whole lot of it! You’ll also experience some of the most incredible views of your life with wall-to-ceiling glass windows that also open for that gorgeous ocean air.
Where: 4 The Esplanade, Soul, Surfers Paradise

BLOWFISH Ocean Grill + Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Western Australian Rock Lobster w. Cognac + Gruyere, BLOWFISH Ocean Grill + Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Blowfish Ocean Grill + Bar
If absolute world-class dining and seafood is what you want, then consider it done at Blowfish Ocean Grill + Bar. The restaurant’s ethos revolves around exquisite seafood, with salt-kissed caviar bumps and tempura Moreton Bay bugs on milk buns to show for it. The grandiose continues with architecturally sculpted ceilings and a world-class wine list. Need we say more?
Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach 

Eska, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Seafood Tower at Eska, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Eska
If your idea of the perfect afternoon is a glass of champagne and sashimi, then say hello to Eska! They’re a sashimi and oyster bar located in Nobby’s at The Oxley where relaxed indulgence is the vibe. The entire scene just begs to be snapped and storied on Instagram. 

Treat yourself to cocktails and caviar or something with a little higher sustenance like a plate of impeccable nigiri or some cute AF finger sandwiches.
Where: The Oxley, 17 Lavarack Rd, Mermaid Beach

Pipi's Restaurant, Coolangatta (image by Brooke Darling)
Pipi's Restaurant, Coolangatta (image by Brooke Darling)

Pipi’s
When this spectacular venue opened it immediately had us in its clutches. Pipi’s Restaurant is one of Coolangatta’s latest additions and is a Mediterranean dining darling. The absolute oceanfront position is one thing, the decor is another, but the faultless array of elevated seafood dishes had us speechless. Did we mention they have a dedicated oyster bar?
Where: 275 Boundary St, Coolangatta

Fish burger, Miami Fish Market, Miami (image supplied)
Fish burger, Miami Fish Market, Miami (image supplied)

Takeaway
Got a hankering for some good old fish and chips, to be enjoyed at home or on the beach? Hit up our list of killer Gold Coast fish + chip shops.

Buffets
Want a supersized helping of seafood? Buffets, baby! Hit up our list of the Gold Coast’s best buffets.

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

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