Tommy's Italian has stolen a pizza our heart.
Tommy's Italian has stolen a pizza our heart.
If big fresh flavours of Italy combined with unsurpassed views of our enigmatic ocean are the type of thing you long for, then might we suggest you take a trip down to Currumbin beach and take in the newly opened Tommy’s Italian!
For those with a keen eye, you will notice that this ode to Italian cuisine has taken over the 1920s heritage building where the once-loved Beach Shack Cafe once was. But where one thing finishes, another often begins, and the extensive refurbishment incorporating hues of deep green and earthy tones reshape this venue to take the space to another level altogether.
Behind any tremendous new opening, there are naturally some correspondingly impressive figures. Hospo young gun Tom Torchut first cut his teeth at Gemelli Italian, and then at Brisbane’s Eleven Rooftop Bar (now Maya) and Brisbane’s short-lived – but utterly brilliant – Arc Dining. Joining him in this particular venture is the former owner of Burleigh Heads’ Fish House, Ronnie Tarabay: together, the two men are hospitality forces to be reckoned with, and from what is going on inside these four walls at Tommy’s, you will begin to understand why.
With such an incredible stretch of beach right out the front, this is a fresh Italian Trattoria with a view we can get behind.
If you’ve ever made it to the old country and sat portside with a Negroni in the Cinque Terra or gazed out over a bowl of pasta at the cliffs of the Amalfi, you’ll agree that this cuisine and spectacular views were made for one another. And we’re pleased to report that although we may not be in the Mediterranean, you won’t give it another thought.
Should you be lucky enough to bag yourself a table upstairs, and in particular a place on the balcony amongst the red and white striped cushions, then prepare your eyes for a sublime feast of incredible scenery punctuated by some of the most drool-worthy eats we’ve seen to date.
The menu gives a respectful nod to Italian classics by working in excellent local produce. And we must say, these guys really nail everything.
In the mornings, you can wander off the beach and enjoy takeaway Single O Speciality coffee, baked treats and a Bacon and Egg Roll like no other; we’re talking thick-cut Mortadella ham, fried egg and mozzarella. When in Rome, right?
Or perhaps stop by for lunch or dinner, as this is where the real magic happens.
Set out like a traditional Italian menu, you have a few different options, yet the antipasti are a winning place to start. Prepare your tastebuds for the wonders ahead with a Heirloom Tomato Salad with a tangy Balsamic and basil dressing or perhaps their Grilled XL King Prawns.
After this, you’re spoilt for choice with an array of tempting seafood and meat options across delectable handmade pastas and pizzas – the latter displaying imaginative toppings and the former vying for your attention with dishes like the Duck Ragu Pappardelle with red wine, parsley and parmigiano. Or is the Italian Sausage Rigatoni with broccoli rabe and pecorino calling you?
For a taste of the sea, we think the big pizza winners are going to be either the Vongole with a mussel base, clams, fermented chilli and preserved lemon or the Gamberi with a zucchini base, fior di latte, garlic prawn, parsley and lemon zest.
Regardless, this is one menu where choosing what you’ll have is going to leave you feeling ever so perplexed ‑ #sorrynotsorry.
If making decisions is not your thing (same), there are two banquet set menus available for a minimum of 4 people priced at either $65 or $95 per person, which will ensure you won’t encounter food envy on another table.
Rounding off this seaside eatery’s whole casual and breezy demeanour is naturally a great selection of drinks. The cocktail offering is something to behold with separate headings for spritzes, jugs, signatures, mocktails, and not forgetting the classics. And beside a worldly and diverse range of quality wines on offer, the chance of you pairing amazing food with equally impressive drinks are at an all-time high.
Casual dining meets impeccably tasting food, underpinned by breathtaking vistas and some of the most attentive service around. Do yourself a favour and head on down to Currumbin for a slice of la dolce vita!
When: Monday – Sunday: Coffee window: 6am – 12pm (takeaway only)
Wednesday – Sunday: Lunch: 11:30am – 3pm & Dinner: 4pm – 10pm
Where: 818 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
For those who have a keen eye around the Southern end of the Gold Coast, you may have noticed some intriguing work being done not so long ago to one of the shop fronts on Currumbin Beach.
Suspicions started to fly around: was it a boutique clothing store, a surf shop, or indeed a café? Well, we can confirm the latter is the answer here and we give to you Barefoot Currumbin.
When you’re only a hop, skip and jump from the beach — and one of the most gorgeous we have — then sitting outside is never going to be an issue. The new café fully utilises its cute, elevated porch area to full capacity, with a good number of high tables outside, you‘ll be dazzled by the surf and catching ocean breezes without even trying.
Inside it’s a snug affair with cosy bench seating for those who feel like a break from the heat or for when the heavens decide to open. A modern and open barista area and kitchen mean you can see the talented people hard at work.
With three other highly successful cafes to their name, this fourth installment does not give any slip-ups. The coffee is consistently poured to perfection and comes from a Gabriel Roastery’s Monte Carlo Blend: with notes of candied citrus and chocolate — yum.
The menu will look familiar to those who are long-term fans of the other venues, giving you ample options to push the boat out and have yourself either an extravagant breaky, brunch or lunch. Famed for their Crispy Potato Hash, make no mistake, this is some seriously delicious carbohydrates people.
Should it be after midday and a burger is how you feel like tackling your hunger, the Cajun Fish Burger is wholeheartedly our recommendation. If you’re feeling like something a little healthier the Zucchini Halloumi Fritters Salad Bowl is the only way to go in our books.
No doubt you’ll stay awhile and enjoy yourself this brilliant space, so we strongly suggest you take a look at their tasty pastries and house-made cakes and slices — Pistachio and Cranberry anyone?
Barefoot Currumbin is shaping up nicely to be the go-to spot when the Southern end is calling your name.
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
Currumbin is the gift that keeps on giving, and locals just can’t get enough! From lush wildlife sanctuaries and delectable dining spots to vibrant cultural hubs and scenic coastal views, this coastal gem truly has it all.
Whether you’re an avid foodie, nature enthusiast, or culture vulture, there’s something here to tickle your fancy and keep you coming back for more. Let’s dive into 18 of the endless reasons why Currumbin is the place to be.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
If there’s one place that’s been synonymous with Currumbin for as long as we can remember, it’s Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Nestled within a lush 27-hectare outdoor sanctuary, people of all ages can enjoy a variety of fun and educational shows, feed the lorikeets, cuddle a koala, visit the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, and enjoy a bite to eat at The Homestead. Enjoy 10% off adult/family general admission on us here.
Where: 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin
Tommy’s Italian
From day dot, Tommy’s stole a pizza our hearts with its incredible Italian nosh partnered with the breathtaking backdrop that is Currumbin Beach. Expect familiar favourites but served Tommy’s style (fresh, authentic, and using the finest local produce) prepared with passion. Do yourself a favour and book on the upstairs balcony – it’s the spritz to your Aperol.
Where: 818 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Chicos Taqueria
This is the fast and fresh Mexican we’ve all bean waiting for, served from a vibrant nook that radiates geniality. Serving a loud and proud curation of Mexican-Aussie faves, Chicos leans in to super fresh ingredients (delivered daily) and bold flavours. The no-risk, all-reward menu offers all the classics, namely tacos, enchiladas, burros, burritos, and nachos. It’s quac-en good.
Where: 27-31 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Waters
The Bread Social
Get b-ready! After baking out of The Farm in Byron for eight years, mates Sam Saulwick, Tom Scott and Paul Giddings moved the entire operation to a huge new space on Queensbury Ave. The café design invites patrons to peep on the bakers, involving us in all aspects of sourdough bread and pastry production. Think scrolls, croissants, tarts, baked cheesecake, cookies, sandwiches and more.
Where: 2 Queensbury Avenue, Currumbin Waters
Tarte Beach House
Cult flavourite alert! We were shook when our Burleigh-based numero uno Tarte Bakery launched a bigger and slightly more refined big sis lunch venue. Tarte Beach House is an elegant combo of Paris meets The Hamptons, while looking out over the crystal-clear waters of Currumbin. All items are made completely in house using the freshest ingredients possible, and the mouthwatering menu changes seasonally.
Where: 2-4 Thrower Drive, Currumbin
Kinship
Nestled underneath the Currumbin SLSC’s new Junior Activity & Community Centre is the kool-as Kinship. Rivalling all the edgy hipster haunts, its menu combines fresh and trendy takes – such as brekkie tacos and biscoff crumpets – along with your classic cafe faves. The breezy beachside spot offers sit-down service, along with plenty of equally delicious portable options for peckish passersby.
Where: 766 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Aperitivo
If a charming Italiano café full of character is your vibe, you’ll fall head over heels for Aperitivo. Tucked away in Thrower Drive, nom your way through tasty focaccias, paninis, arancini, sfogliatelle, Roman style pizza, lasagne, cannoli, tiramisù, and grazing boxes to order. Go on a weekend and you and your pooch can pull up a pew in neighbour Currumbin Dental Care’s quaint garden space next door.
Where: 8a Thrower Drive, Currumbin
Little Vine Room
We are so grapeful for this piece of paradise. Decked out in delicious deep green and apricot hues, Little Vine Room is as pleasing to the eyes as its food and sips are to the palette. Think cheese and charcuterie plates, gourmet toasties and jaffles, and a spread of sensational bites, paired perfectly with wines for days and top tier cocktails.
Where: 27-31 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Waters
The Bathhouse at Ground
The Bathhouse offers the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation in the stunning Currumbin Valley, forming part of the Ground community hub. Think mineral enriched hydrotherapy spas, a plunge pool, traditional cedar hot tub, therapeutic cold bath, large wood fired hot stone sauna, an outdoor infrared sauna, massage, and bespoke facials. Tranquilly personified.
Where: 2 Village Way, Currumbin Valley
Currumbin RSL
I mean, who doesn’t love an RSL and this one is the MVP. Set on the banks of picturesque Currumbin Creek, Currumbin RSL also known as ‘The Best Little Club in The World’, is a multi-award-winning boutique style show-stopper. With delish global grub, a pizzeria, hand-crafted drinks, and Soundlounge, a live music lounge with some of the best acoustic artists, everything this place touches turns to solid gold.
Where: 165 Duringan Street, Currumbin
Pasture & Co
Embracing the eco-friendly philosophy with gusto, Pasture & Co is a must-visit family-friendly café with d-lish healthy eats, a prime location, friendly service, and an environmental conscience. Committed to nurturing both people and the planet, self-sustainability, and supporting small local businesses, don’t skip this one!
Where: 6 Village Way, Currumbin Valley
Fuel Bakehouse
Serving up some of the absolute best doughnuts you’ll ever eat is Currumbin’s Fuel Bakehouse. With varieties like Nutella, custard and salted caramel to name a few, calories don’t count here so buy at least four of each. It’s not just doughnuts though, they also do epic pies, cruffins, croissants; all of the baked goodies – and cracking good coffee. Perfection the lot of it.
Where: 44 Currumbin Ck Road, Currumbin Waters
The Salt Mill
A tiny little space directly across from the beach, The Salt Mill is one of the Coat’s most beloved cafes for a reason. Several in fact. They do exceptional coffee, takeaway sandwiches, Açai bowls (arguably some of the best around), smoothies, fresh juices, smashed avo, raw treats – everything that is delicious in the world. Buy one of everything then stroll across the road and take in that unrivalled ocean view.
Where: 784 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Consciously Clean
Consciously Clean is the place to go if you need to stock up on anything and everything eco-friendly in terms of home and body cleaning goods. They have a system where you can bring in your own jar or bottle and fill it with the product of your choice (or purchase one there) – and it’s all very affordable. Not only that, but you can also grab food containers and wraps, drink bottles, pet things, and skincare too. It’s a one-stop shop. We love.
Where: 4/42 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin
Freeman’s Organic Farm
For a tree-change, make sure you add Freeman’s to your weekend rotation. The farm was established in 1915 and in the 1920’s, became the largest commercial banana farm in Australia. Today, the farm grows all organic produce which you can purchase (grocery shop – tick), plus grab a bite and an organic 3 Elements coffee at The Farm Café. Enjoy your treats and take in the sensational hinterland views.
Where: 618 Tomewin Mountain Road, Currumbin Valley
Currumbin Valley Brewing
Currumbin Valley Brewing, crafted by local brewers Pete “Smokey” Wheldon and Luke Ronalds, is the newest gem in the creekside area’s growing list of watering holes. Featuring a 10hL Rolec copper-clad brew house, this taproom and brewery took several years and community support to bring to life.
Where: 27 Traders Way, Currumbin Waters
Dust Temple
All your favourite arty aspects combine at Dust Temple, an ex-warehouse turned gallery, coffee shop, and creative community hang. Hosting local, national and international artists, musicians, poets, an in-house ceramicist, a leatherworker, and a silversmith, it’s certainly a place to go if you need to feel creatively inspired. Amp up the happy vibes with a coffee while you’re there.
Where: 54 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin
Balter Brewery
You’ve heard about it and if you’ve not yet had the chance to visit, make today the day. Balter is the brainchild of your fave local pro surfers combining two of the things we Gold Coasters love the most, beer and waves. It’s a delightfully decked out space with big old beer vats on display, a sweet mural on the wall, and plenty of outdoor spots to sit. Happy days.
Where: 14 Traders Way, Currumbin
Words by Bianca Trathen
