A whiskey wonderland waiting for you in Sanctuary Cove.
A whiskey wonderland waiting for you in Sanctuary Cove.
Whiskey, known as the Gentlemen’s Drink, has flown under the radar somewhat when it comes to beverages of choice, particularly amongst Gold Coasters. All that is about to change though, thanks to InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort’s The Verandah Bar.
Having recently been extended to overlook the hotel’s beautifully manicured gardens and luxurious lagoon, The Verandah Bar is elegant, understated and the perfect place to enjoy a Gentlemen’s Drink or two.
The bar itself is made with dark timber and complimented by grey hued, comfort-first lounge chairs and scattered greenery giving it a sophisticated but laidback feel. For those chilly winter nights, a fireplace crackles invitingly in the corner.
Home to over 50 varieties of whiskey, The Verandah Bar’s collection covers the worlds most coveted regions from Scotland to Ireland, America to Japan, and of course, the land down under.
Housing a cellar of rare Japanese whiskey, The Verandah Bar boasts two of Japan’s most renowned drops, the Yamazaki 18 year old and the Hakushu 18 year old along with Sullivans Cove whiskey, hailing from Tasmania and a 1989 Old Putney Vintage from Scotland.
If you’ve never tasted whiskey, this is the place to do it. Smooth and filled with unique flavours, each one is more intriguing than the last.
Of course, once you’re done with all the whiskey, there’s an extensive and impressive cocktail menu to move onto.
The Verandah Bar also offers plates and a full lunch and dinner menu to indulge in if you find yourself unable to drag yourself away from the view.
HOURS: Open 7 days from 12pm
LOCATION: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove
Words by Kirra Smith
The Southern suburbs have seen their fair share of hip new venues lately and now it seems our northern neighbours are keen to get in on the action.
Two brand new coffee haunts have opened their doors, and been welcomed with open arms, with another to join the party this weekend (July 29th).
Whether you’re a top end local or simply keen to explore somewhere new, add these three to your list of must-visits.
The Coffee Deck Paradise Waters
Overlooking the water at Paradise Point, The Coffee Deck opens on July 29th. Promising loaded muffins (check out their Instagram for a sneak peek at these bad boys), homemade cakes and treats and delicious local coffee, this colour-filled space is sure to be a hit. The new space is the longtime dream of Trudie Duncan who promised her late mother, a cook, she would one day open a cafe. Offering all day breakfast and a few lunch options plus a specialty hot chocolate (!) menu, we think you’re gonna love it.
Where: 5 Admiralty Drive, Paradise Waters
Hours: 6am to 5pm daily
Paper Cup Coffee Southport
Their first venue, in Labrador, was such a screaming success that the Paper Cup team recently expanded to open a second on Ferry Rd in Southport. All about keeping things simple, the space boasts polished concrete floors, fresh flowers and plenty of greenery. Open for breakfast and lunch, grab yourself a coffee or takeaway sweet treat or settle in amongst the plants for an acai bowl or breaky bagel. It’s the perfect little spot for a before work cuppa or midday escape from the madness.
Where: 201 Ferry Rd, Southport
Hours: 5am to 5pm daily
Social Brew Paradise Point
Another joint born off the back of a roaring success story further south, Social Brew has joined the café strip along the waterfront at Paradise Point. After travelling 45 minutes from his Sovereign Island home for coffee in Burleigh, co-owner Mike decided the northern suburbs needed something new. Social Brew has taken off in both locations, offering breakfast, lunch and cheeky afternoon cocktails if you’re keen. The new venue also offers a picnic basket option where you can order from the website and have a basket made up to enjoy while gazing lovingly at the sparkling waterway (or your companion, whatever).
Where: 34 The Esplanade, Paradise Point
Hours: 6am to 5pm daily
You heard it here first; a trip to the north is the order of the weekend.
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
Is there anything lovelier than enjoying tiny delicacies accompanied by a glass of chilled Laurent Perrier and tea served in a beautiful floral teacup?
We think not.
Thankfully, Chapter & Verse at the Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort is bringing Gold Coasters high tea dreams to life with their indulgent take on an age-old tradition.
Surrounded by greenery with views of the sparkling lagoons, white sandy beaches, and cascading waterfalls, the bar and lounge is located on the ground floor of the majestic hotel.
High tea can be served both inside and out and is made up of a stunningly arranged tier of delightful treats perfect for any occasion.
Savoury bites include smoked salmon bagels, roasted turkey and King Island brie tartlets with cranberry and Mount Tamborine goat’s cheese cones with pistachio – a standout and entirely unique addition.
Sweet dishes are aplenty and include mango cheesecake with kiwi fruit glaze, chocolate macaroons and coconut lime loaf to name a few.
A decadent favourite is the verrine, a glass container filled with apricot chocolate and bronze pearls.
High Tea is also served with freshly baked scones, which are perfectly fluffy and melt in your mouth, and accompanied by cream and strawberry jam.
Beverages include a welcome glass of sparkling wine, freshly brewed organic coffee and a beautiful selection of Ronnefeldt leaf teas.
Pinky fingers at the ready please.
For those looking for something a bit more upbeat, Chapter & Verse also host a tropical Sunday session from 2pm every week complete with a not-to-be-missed Brazilian BBQ, chilled tropical beats and refreshing cocktails.
HOURS: Chapter & Verse is open daily from 7am until late with High Tea served from 11am until 4pm.
LOCATION: Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise.
Words and photos by Kirra Smith.
