Broadbeach's award-winner does New York luxe better than New York.
Broadbeach's award-winner does New York luxe better than New York.
If we asked you to name your favourite Gold Coast restaurant (we’re asking), we fully expect a chorus line of enthusiastic voices chanting Social Eating House for the win. But, did you know that this local multi-award-winning supernova has recently reemerged as an even more sublime version of its former self? Undergoing a super sleek renovation, just when you thought it had reached the pinnacle of perfection, whoomp here it is…. Social Eating House + Bar 2.0!
Still serving up Modern Australian and International cuisine like a boss, husband-and-wife restaurateur warriors Matthew Jefferson (also Executive Chef) and Dayna Cooper decided to do something special for their business baby’s tenth anniversary this December.
And what better way than to revamp the Social space and brand to pave the way for another decade at the top of the foody game. Describing it as New York luxury but approachable, it’s relaxed fine dining executed with finesse and impeccable attention to detail, thanks to the expertise of Arch Interiors, CSF Shopfitting and brand architects, Here Agency. With kitchen and bar dining options and indoor / outdoor seating for 140 people (a must with its enviable location in the heart of Broadbeach’s Oracle precinct), it also houses a private dining room for soirees and functions.
Winner for three consecutive years of the People’s Choice ‘Chef of the Year’ Award, Matthew Jefferson and esteemed Head Chef Youngkyu “YK” Reu, continue to lead and nurture their ‘family’ of five-star hospitality heroes. Just like the OG Social Eating House, expect share plates so amazing that you won’t want to actually share them. The Wagyu rump cap 7+ with smoked celeriac, burnt onion, kale and native pepper jus is one of the standout starters and yes, you just had an ‘aha’ moment re. the whole no sharing comment.
Another fave from the small plate selection is Roast Quail with pumpkin puree, savoy cabbage and venere rice and omg, back up the van already because we didn’t mention Charcuterie. This is downright blasphemy because, CHARCUTERIE! Served with accompaniments and baguette, we recommend the Jamon Iberico de cabo 50g and as always, you’re welcome.
Level up the experience with one of the extensive award-winning wines, and/or (we’re going with ‘and’) Social’s signature cocktails. Now normally we only profile one, but this is possibly the most experimental and exciting curation of cocktails we’ve seen, so we’re upping the ante. The Beet It with Botanist Gin, yuzunshu, beetroot and ginger, yuzu, lime and sesame oil spoke to us, as did the El Troppo with Bacardi, pineapple, lychee, allow, green tea, lime and tapioca pearls. And if you’re really feeling something unique, go with the Uni-corn; Mezcal, Herradura Reposado tequila, creamed corn, lime and smoked Orgeat. Yep, our minds are blown too.
Finally, we must insist you do right by your stomach and leave room for something sweet, like the Lemon Chiboust, white chocolate ice-cream and brown butter crumbs. Or ask the super-knowledgeable staff for their recommendations because they are so genuinely passionate, friendly and eager to share their foody intel and love of all things Social.
So happy (early) anniversary Social Eating House and thank YOU for having a milestone birthday – because we are the ones who get to celebrate your new New York swagger.
Where: 136-138, 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
When: 12pm – 3.30pm daily for lunch. 5pm – midnight daily for dinner.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Social Eating House + Bar has long been a ‘casual fine dining’ Gold Coast favourite. With an impressive international tapas/shared plate style menu that includes the likes of Grilled Miso Quail, or even Lightly Smoked and Grilled Ocean Trout, it’s no wonder they’re a winner of not just one but two Hats from The Australian Good Food Guide. Freshly appointed Head Chef, YK, joined the team just a little over a month ago and has since hit the ground running. We had the pleasure to get to know him a bit more, and find out that he is a Chef passionate about making people happy, seeing them come together and enjoy the food he has prepared.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
Not very long! I have only been on the Gold Coast for just over a month.
What do you love most about living here?
The ocean. Wherever I go, I am so close to the beach. Plus the Gold Coast has some pretty friendly people!
Tell us about your chef journey thus far.
I have been studying cooking since I was 15 years old. I graduated Kimpo University (a culinary art association) and went to the Army Service for 2 years as a Chef. Once I finished my duty of service I moved to the USA, and held an Internship for a year at The Ritz Carlton Hotel in Naples, Florida. After this, I moved back to my home country where I started to work at the Banyan Tree Hotel. It was there that I was fortunate enough to meet some great Chefs. Not long after I returned, I began to think of moving to Australia because there are lots of different fresh produce and cooking techniques that intrigued me. From there, I explored and looked into the opportunity of graduating from Le Cordon Bleu in Sydney. The next thing I know, I was working at Quay Restaurant, then Bennelong and then moved to Aubergine Restaurant in Canberra. I worked for Ben (Aubergine Restaurant Owner & Chef) for five years and learnt a lot of cooking techniques and how to ‘respect’ all ingredients. It wasn’t until my wife and I were on a Gold Coast holiday that we realised that we had fallen in love with the Gold Coast and wanted to call it our home.
What’s your proudest chef moment?
When my service has been smooth and everyone is happy.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Jeffo (Matt Jefferson)
What’s your favourite dish to cook at home?
Korean instant noodle
Tell us about what changes you are bringing to Social Eating House + Bar.
I am currently working on implementing some recipe books for the restaurant. Further to this I am trying to implement a super organized kitchen where chefs can work smart and efficiently.
What else is in the works for you in 2021?
I am having a baby, so very much looking forward to adding to my family.
Tell us your favourites on the Coast…
Café for breakfast: I am new here so I haven’t been everywhere but I have been to Bam Bam Bakehouse, Mermaid Beach
Coffee spot: no name lane, Broadbeach
Restaurant for dinner: Has to be Social Eating House + Bar, Broadbeach
Bar or pub for a drink: Again, has to be Social Eating House + Bar, Broadbeach
How does your weekend usually look? I usually spend my time at home with my wife, and lately we have been getting ready for our new baby.
Broadbeach has long been regarded as one of our wining, dining and shopping. With a number of ‘stayers’ boasting staunch followers for many moons, sprinkled with a hearty helping of shiny new eats and drinks players, nothing can dull the sparkle of this burb’s A-grade entertainer status.
Here are precisely 17 reasons why locals – and Gold Coasters far and wide – love themselves a piece of our much-loved Broady.
Social Eating House + Bar
If you’re a foodie, this is your go-to. A modern Australian sensation, Social has more hats than a Milliner’s workshop. With Executive Chef Matthew Jefferson in charge, you’ll experience a carefully curated range of bar snacks, charcuterie, and small and large share plates, all featuring the finest Australian ingredients and paired to perfection. A meal here is worth.every.cent.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
The Star Gold Coast
If ever there was a reason to get a babysitter, it’s for a session at The Star. Between the live music and amazing food at the Garden Kitchen & Bar, award-winning Cantonese, Japanese and modern Australian cuisine at Uncle Su, Kiyomi, and Nineteen at The Star, authentic Italian eats at Cucina Vivo, the ultimate buffet experience at Harvest Buffet, a few bevvies at the new-look Atrium Bar and/or the Insta-fave rooftop lounge bar at Nineteen, who needs to go anywhere else?
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Broadbeach Bowls Club
Nothing says a chilled GC arvo like a game of barefoot bowls with a brew in hand. Another enduring favourite amongst the local set here on the GC, Broadbeach Bowls Club never fails to deliver a feel-good time for young and old. They serve up big portions of all your go-to pub-grub meals and do a great canape package for a laid-back birthday or celebration.
Where: 169 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant
If you’re after a tried and tested, long-standing comedic cabaret, good ‘ole Dracs has been serving up frights, food and frivolity since we were all ankle-biters. Most people are sold when they hear there’s a ghost train alone, let alone the actual show (which changes every so often, so there’s always a reason to go back), banquet dinner…and shots in syringes!
Where: Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach
Aloha Bar and Dining
This tropical hidden treasure is all fun vibes, good food and cracking good times. Popular for its hospo nights, taco Thursdays, karaoke nights, live music and pumping DJs, there’s always something going on here. The tapas always deliver the feels (bao buns…I die!!), the Cucumber and Jalapeno Margi is (too) easy to drink, and we never tire of the super cute fit-out.
Where: 18 Main Place, Broadbeach
Sofia’s Restaurant & Bar
With an impressive contemporary Coastal European menu, we are completely besotted with Sofia’s…and we’re not alone. A meal here is all about enjoying and sharing simple, delicious food with your favourite people – as it should be, and truly encapsulates the famous words ‘That’s Amore’. Also, you heard it here first but Sofia’s is on the move. Watch this space!
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
Elk Espresso
Have you ever seen this place anything but bulging at the seams? Aaaand of course you haven’t. Since its pre-migration days just up the road, it’s had an army of raving fans and yes, this obvs includes us. A hop, skip and a jump from the beach, the coffee is all-time, the seasonal menus are heavenly, and they even do a Boozy Bottomless Brunch. And sold.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
Blues on Broadbeach
So unlike our other listings, it may not be here 24/7 but it’s that much of a Broady icon that it would be criminal not to throw it a mention. As the name suggests, it brings us world-class blues and jazz music from locals and famous acts alike, performing across multiple venues over four unforgettable days. And it’s free, and sorry but when does that ever happen?
Where: Various Broadbeach venues
CHA CHA Japanese Restaurant
Gold Coasters have been CHA CHA bound for an authentic Japanese nosh-up which won’t break the bank for years, and that’s not about to change any time soon. The banquet menu is divine and every visit you’ll experience the same level of scrumptiousness. But the soy on the dim sum…it’s BYO and it’s hard to find an already affordable yet high-quality restaurant offering our 3 favourite letters. Score.
Where: 2705 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
The Oasis
An everyday escape for locals, The Oasis is one of our numero uno shopping centres and for good reason. Not only some unique fashion boutiques live here, but the sheer number of amazing eateries is tres impressive. In addition to the ones we highlight in this article, we’re talking Mario’s, Madisons Café and Patisserie, Spice Kitchen and Bar, and The Broadbeach Tavern to name just a few. It’s a #OneStopShop.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Soho House Bar
Just look for the London-esk red phone box and you know good times await. An intimate, hidden gem-adorned in graffiti and jam-packed with peeps sipping and bopping along to the sweet sounds of live DJ’s, this joint is seriously cool. The cocktail list is l.i.t, the crew are super engaging, and they’ve even been known to host things like a Wild Flower Gin Masterclass. What’s not to love?
Where: Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach (between Queensland and Victoria Avenues)
Unicorn Seafood
You just know it’s destined for greatness with ‘Unicorn’ in the name. This Mediterranean seafood-infused newcomer has hit the ground running with its all-day menu goodness, and show-stopping cocktail menu that’s 20 options deep #hellofriend. You can’t help it but exhale as you settle into the relaxing blue and white-hued space, brimming with ocean murals and friendly smiles from the welcoming staff.
Where: Phoenician Resort, 24-26 Queensland Avenue, Broadbeach
No Name Lane
Okay, Blake Lively declared her caffeine hit from No Name Lane as “the best coffee of her life” and holy heck, if it’s good enough for Queen Blake… Better than any boujee on-trend Melbourne café, the coffee here has a cult following. The all-day breakfasts and gourmet lunches also go down a treat so if you haven’t been, remedy this immediately.
Where: The Oracle, Elizabeth Avenue, Broadbeach
Pacific Fair
Pacific Fair, oh how we love thee. Any time we want a new ensemble for, well, any occasion (retail therapy is real you know), we all beeline for Pac Fair. With every retailer you could possibly wish for, amazing food options and seriously THE most gorgeous shopping centre fit-out we’ve seen, there are luxe and lush coastal accents at every turn.
Where: Gold Coast Hwy and Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach
The Loose Moose
Specialising in “dirty food made clean”, there are always bums on seats in this Prohibition Tap and Grill House, one of the Gennari Group’s most popular establishments. The delish menu offers up the best of the best Canadian fare like ribs, wings, hot dogs and burgers, and is always ready for a crowd to #GetLooseAtTheMoose.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Broadbeach
The Pink Flamingo Spiegelclub
LBR, you had us at Spiegelclub. The Pink Flamingo has become a fave for locals, visitors and critics alike, with its four spectacular resident cabaret-style shows. Custom designed with a twist of swanky art-deco décor and inspired by the original 1920’s Spiegeltent and the NYC Cabaret Club district, it’s five-star luxury and entertainment not to be missed.
Where: Corner of Surf Parade & Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
Kurrawa Surf Club
Ocean views don’t come any better than this. With legit THE most prime location, Kurrawa Surf Club has everything you’d want from a Surf Club…and more. With awesome regular members specials and fresh ingredients, there’s no such thing as a bad meal here. They host a trivia night and live music, and of course there’s the obligatory gaming lounge for those who like a flutter.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach
Words by Bianca Trathen.
The Groundwater Country Music Festival is up us and our beloved Broadbeach is set to be one hectic hive of activity.
As you’d well know, dancing up a storm makes you hungry and thus, here we have a list of 8 beaut restaurants in the main Broadbeach precinct.
Harajuku Gyoza
A Japanese beer stadium and gyoza bar with plenty of good vibes. Choose from lots of gyoza varieties or a bigger meal if you’re extra hungry. Or both. Harajuku Gyoza is perfect for a quick tasty meal on the go with plenty of people watching opps.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre Mall, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
Elk Espresso
Home of some of the most epic, Insta-worthy breakfasts on the Gold Coast, Elk Espresso is a must visit. The Breakfast Gnocchi is where it’s at.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre Mall, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
Mamasan Kitchen and Bar
It’s modern Asian dining offering Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Japanese, and Thai dishes with a modern twist and it’s all absolutely delicious. As are the cocktails.
Where: The Oracle, Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
Bavarian Bier Café
Mmm bier. This German gem is always a good time and with traditional food and quite the array of biers, you best pop it on your list.
Where: The Oracle, Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
Nahm Kitchen & Bar
The newest eatery on the scene is Nahm Kitchen & Bar at the Oasis Shopping Centre. Serving up some of the tastiest Thai food we’ve ever experienced, the crew is all about authentic eats with an Aussie twist. They’re contemporary, flavourful and paired perfectly with the venues carefully curated wine list. We absolutely loved the Three Flavours Crispy Fish with Barramundi fillets, lychee, pineapple, three flavours chilli sauce and coriander. YUM.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Broadbeach
The Loose Moose
This speak easy style establishment is a whiskey bar slash eatery offering some of the tastiest southern eats around. The Loose Moose does tasty hot dogs, buffalo wings, loaded fries, it’s all good.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre Mall, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
Rivea Italian
Having recently relocated to Surf Pde, Rivea Italian is already a firm favourite. They’ve got all your authentic Italian needs covered. It’s absolutely incredible food from some of the best in the biz.
Where: 89 Surf Pde, Broadbeach
Social Eating House + Bar
Absolutely next-level eats, Social Eating House is one of the best there is. It’s casual fine dining with share plates the name of the game. They’re all taste sensations.
Where: The Oracle, Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
Kurrawa Surf Club
With 180-degree ocean views and a huge menu filled with all the old faithfuls, the brand new Kurrawa Surf Club is a must-visit. There’s very cold beer there too.
Where: Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
Words by Kirra Smith
