There’ll be truffle in paradise if you miss The Star’s Truffle Season.
There’ll be truffle in paradise if you miss The Star’s Truffle Season.
Panic stations, people! We don’t know if anyone else has consulted a calendar lately, but winter is almost over, and with it, the window for indulging in devilishly decadent comfort food is rapidly closing in on us (much like the waistband of our fave jeans).
Never fear, because you didn’t think the good people at The Star would let us go out on anything less than a bang, did you?
Of course not! Because they’ve gone and rolled out a limited time Truffle Season event, which is excellent news for foodies, and the perfect excuse for those who are yet to see what all the truffle is about.
Prepare to jump aboard the truffle bandwagon, we’re going out with one last hurrah before the warmer months see us return to salad szn and treating our bodies like temples (slightly dilapidated temples that really like spicy margs, that is).
In a very fortuitous turn of events, Australian truffle season also coincides with our winter months, making it one perfectly overlapping, ultimate Venn diagram of indulgence #howserindipidous #anddelicious.
Nineteen At The Star
To kick off Truffle Season, we’re taking this tastebud party straight to the top – that is, the glistening jewel of The Darling’s crown, Nineteen at The Star. It’s only fitting – since truffles are known as the diamonds of the kitchen, after all. So y’know, you’ll be living the high life literally, and figuratively while you’re noshing on the limited time Truffle inspired menu.
Watch the world go by from one of the best vantages of the coast, and choose from one of three truffle inspired dishes dreamed up by the culinary masterminds behind Nineteen at The Star, or instead choose to add Truffles to any items on their menu. Call us cray-zy, but we’d happily throw back both the Butter Poached Marron made with Jerusalem Artichoke, Marron Jus, Truffle or the Dry-Aged Berkshire Pork, Radicchio, Celery Root, Sauce Pèrigueux, Truffle every. day. of. the. week.
And if your truffle obsession limit does not exist, finish the whole delectable soiree with a perfectly balanced Roasted Pear & White Chocolate, Vanilla, Hazelnut, Truffle sweet treat for desert.
Kiyomi
Sensational Japanese eats and enough hats to warrant a hat rack, Kiyomi is immediately where our mind goes when we start daydreaming about a luxurious fine-dining feast, so we know we are in excellent hands trusting them with our truffle fix, too.
Two mouth watering dishes are available at Kiyomi throughout August, it’s hard to imagine a more satisfying dish than a perfectly cooked Kagoshima Wagyu (MBS 12, thankyouverymuch) with Black Truffle. And before you go thinking they’ve peaked, hold on to your truffle hounds – because the perhaps even swankier yet Whole Flounder made with Brussel sprouts, capers, Lemon Kombu Butter and Truffle is bound to make a splash.
Cucina Vivo
A truffle a day keeps the sadness away, or, er.. something like that. Even though that’s not technically the saying, foodie fans of this highly sought after ingredient know this is 100% #facts. And when it comes to the iconic pairing that is Italian food and truffles, we have officially reached the pinnacle of indulgence (shh, no one tell France).
For maximum satisfaction, we highly recommend treating The Star’s Truffle Season event as a culinary scavenger hunt, ticking off each delectable venue (or dish, for the high achievers) as you go, and we could think of no better way to finish than luxuriating on the Cucina Vivo terrace, poolside with a decadent bowl of Truffle Risotto made with Black Truffle, mushroom, Parmigiano Reggiano, crème fraiche and soft herbs. Because that’s how the Italian’s would do it, and they know a thing or two about luxurious eats.
And if you see us at The Star every day for the month of August, no you didn’t.
When: Various activations through July & August
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Words by Kellie Leader.
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be aged 18 years or over to enter the casino. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT.
Gold Coasters—winter is here! Or at least our version of it, which means we can crack out our knits and knee-high boots (or if you’re really brave – and tall – the thigh-highs). It’s the best time of the year to be out and about, flaunting fabulous hair free from the humidity’s tyranny, and where better to enjoy the cooler season than Garden Kitchen & Bar at The Star Gold Coast?
As always, they’ve lined up some stellar winter noms to keep you warm and well-fed, plus every Friday and Saturday night there’ll be a DJ on deck, inviting you to break out your best moves…without breaking a sweat.
Fire Pit Package
I mean, what’s winter without a fire pit? Picture you and up to five of your closest pals gathered around a crackling fire, toasting to good times with a bottle of Pepperjack Shiraz, and snacking on a specially crafted charcuterie box. And, Garden Kitchen & Bar are even including chocolates in the hamper package, because they don’t go straight to your thighs in winter (that’s our story and we’re sticking to it). It’s the ultimate way to experience a cozy winter evening without having to set up camp in your pokey backyard. This two-hour session of pure winter bliss will set you back $99 for the package for up to 6 people. Bookings are recommended.
Winter Delights
As the temperature dips, Garden Kitchen & Bar transforms into the ultimate winter retreat for your tastebuds with a special addition to its mind-blowing menu.
Indulge in an un-brrrrr-lievbly good three-course feast, starting with Cauliflower and Parmesan Soup. Elegantly paired with poached bay lobster salad and a lightly smoked chili oil, it’s simply winterful! Then it’s time for the main event and trust us – it’ll be love at frost sight…or bite! We’re talking Braised Lamb Shoulder, served with smoked eggplant puree, pickled red onion, coriander, and mint. To top it all off, dive (figuratively, pls not literally) into the Dark Chocolate Fondant and don’t even try and steal a mouthful of ours because if looks could chill…! The ultimate winter wonderland for your palate, devour its decadent salted caramel sauce, caramel gelato, and chocolate crumble. For $65 per person, it would be rude not to.
Gifts from The Garden
If you need an excuse to round up your crew, complimentary Whispering Angel Rose should do the trick. Order four or more main meals at Garden Kitchen & Bar and receive a 750ml bottle of Whispering Angel Rosé – on the house! Have a bigger posse to entertain? Go big (or go home) with eight or more mains entitling your group to a 1.5L Magnum Whispering Angel Rosé. Cheers to that!
So, grab your friends, your appetite, and your love for all things cozy and head to Garden Kitchen & Bar at The Star Gold Coast. Winter, we’re ready for you!
For bookings and more information, go here.
When: Various activations happening all winter long. Subject to availability, change and cancellation.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Words by Bianca Trathen
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be aged 18 years or over to enter the casino. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT.
When we say Christmas on the Gold Coast, what comes to mind? Fireplaces, hot and hearty food with mulled wine and piping hot eggnog to warm us from the inside out, and (cringe) matchy-matchy pj’s to warm us from the outside in? Sleigh whattttt? Oh soz, our bad – we left out a couple of key words: Christmas on the GC… IN JULY.
So ho-ho-hopefully you’ve been saving room for a feast (or ten) because we’ve found a tree-mendous amount of Christmas in July options that would keep even the big guy in red’s hunger at bay. Get rid of that resting Grinch face because we’re not pudding up with it when there are this many options to treat yo’elf with, go on.. yule want to check them out.
Bon Appetea Teahouse
Fancy a Christmas inspired high tea in a 1900s building with garden tables and a huge sprawling veranda? Yeah, us too! Returning for another year our favourite Hinterland hideaway is bringing Christmas in July high tea back with Christmas carols, live music, mulled wine (eee), little pressies for guests (double eee) and loads of fairy lights. It’s pure Christmas (in July) perfection! Tickets are $80 for adults + $10 for a sneaky glass of bubbles (treat yourself, after all Christmas only comes around.. twice.. a year) and $30 for the kidlets.
Where: 7 Johns Road, Mudgeeraba
When: Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th July
D’Arcy Arms
There are three things in life that are certain… Death, taxes and D’Arcy Arms are going to put on one hell of a Christmas in July celebration. So if one Christmas celebration isn’t enough (it’s not), get your festive on all July long at D’Arcy Arms Irish Pub! Once again transforming their digs into a festive wonderland with all the Chrissy feels, there will be a roaring fire, succulent Christmas roasts, homemade sticky date pudding with caramel sauce and Oh-HO so much more. Tuck into a 2-course festive feast for $50 per adult and $25 per child.
Where: 2923 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
When: Throughout July
Spaghetti & Jazz
Spaghetti, Jazz and Christmas in July? Name a more iconic trio… Nothing says cosy, festive feast like a 4-course Italian feast while you listen to the sweet sounds of live music from crowd favourites Tabatha Ashmore and Ivan Fisher. A Christmas-themed cocktail on arrival is mandatory and probably necessary because the team at Spaghetti & Jazz say dancing shoes are a must. Get ready to get your jingle bell rock on.
Where: 30-34 Commerce Drive, Robina
When: 12.30pm, Sunday 21st July
Aviary Rooftop Bar
Get ready to jingle all the way to Aviary this July! They’re decking the halls and frosting the walls with three fabulous festive events you simply can’t miss.
From 12pm on Sunday 7th July, indulge in a Festive High Tea with high tea towers loaded with sweet and savory festive treats and live music. Elevate your experience (to rooftop level status) and enjoy Aviary’s signature authentic Italian pizzas that are sure to be more lit than a Christmas tree.
On Saturday, 20th July, from 1pm to 3pm, enjoy Sessions: Christmas in July Edition with a two-hour food & beverage package featuring yuletide-themed canapés, a festive grazing station, an eggnog cocktail on arrival, and a roving assortment of Aviary’s signature Italian pizzas (suddenly the stretchy red trousers make so much sense). Guys, tickets are just $65pp + bf… so we suggest you gift yourself a good time and book!
On Friday, 26th July, from 4pm for the White Christmas Party, where you can get your festive fashion on for the ultimate shindig! Dress in white, bask in the glow of UV lights, and enjoy a visual feast. And the best part? Entry is completely free!
Where: Aviary Rooftop Bar, 5 Melia Court, Southport
When: Various dates throughout July
Edgewater Dining
It would be rude-olf us to miss this waterfront gem off the list (if only Santa would bring us stunning water views this good on Christmas morning). Put a big ol’ circle around Thursday 25th July in your calendar this faux festive season and partake in a 4-course feed, Christmas-themed share-style dinner with paired wines for $110pp. To get the festive spirit going, start the night with mulled wine. Don’t forget there’s also prizes on offer, we’re talking proper wine and dining vouchers here folks. Get into the spirit with Secret Santa for an extra $10 and in case you needed an excuse to bring out the Christmas ‘fits, there’s a comp for best dressed. Bring your friends, bring your family, bring your appetite.
Where: Shop 3 G7, Capri on Via Roma, Isle of Capri, Surfers Paradise
When: Thursday 25th July
Drag Queen Bingo at Miami Marketta
Secure your Christmas packages and hold on to your jingle bells ‘coz the famous Drag Queen Bingo is back at everyone’s fave night market, Miami Marketta…Christmas style. Sleigh Queen! It doesn’t matter if you’ve been naughty or nice, this enchanting winter wonderland is an all-inclusive affair serving up endless lols. Featuring a lineup with names as big as the hairstyles – Scarlett Fever, Ivyy Monroe and Kathy Pacific, this night will be the gift that keeps on giving #it’sgiving. Don’t be ‘elf-ish and tell your friends! Tickets start from $39.99pp.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
When: 6.30pm Saturday 27th July
The Collective
Tis the season (well, sorta kinda) and while technically this isn’t a Christmas in July theme, it’s Canadian so we’re going to go ahead and say it qualifies. Celebrate all things North America with The Collective’s Canada Day celebrations, the wintery themed Apres Ski festival is being good vibes and great tunes with a live DJ on the decks, and of course classic Canadian fare like Poutine and Chicken & Waffles to keep toasty and warm. Get in the spirit with their exclusive Grey Goose cocktail menu or snow cones for a taste of white Christmas. Entry is free, snow you won’t want to miss out.
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
When: 6.00pm Monday 1st July
Greendays
Welcome to Christmas in July, Bali meets GC style (wow, these are really getting niche). Because who couldn’t use a little mid-year merriment and it’s scientifically impossible have a bad time situated in tropical surrounds with enough fairy lights to make the set of Mamma Mia! blush (unless of course you’re the Grinch, in which case, this may not be the list for you) #hohohoe into delicious food and drinks as Greendays transforms themselves into a winter wonderland with Christmas decos that would make David Jones jealous. Bust out your favourite Christmas attire and get ready for a jolly good time for $106.14pp.
Where: 8/6 Ashmore Rd, Bundall
When: 6.00pm Saturday 27th July
Fox & Hounds
There’s nothing quite like Christmas in London but we’ve found the next best thing, and that’s the Fox & Hounds’ Christmas in July lunches. Tamborine’s wintery, hinterland feel makes you feel like you’re tucked in a pub in the English countryside. There’s a reason people travel from near and far for a seat at the South East’s favourite English Pub. Cosy up by the fire and tuck into a classic roast of turkey and beef and don’t forget to save room for dessert because it’d be sacrilege to not have a taste of Christmas pudding and custard to finish the feed. Served daily and from $40, it’s a whole lot cheaper than a flight to the UK. Thank us later.
Where: Cnr Oxenford Tamborine Road & Elevation Drive, Wongawallan
When: Throughout July from 11.30am, bookings essential for groups
Café Metz
This cute little café in Canungra is famous for its homemade pies and cakes and now, their Winter in July! The fireplace is cranking and the wintery decorations have found the place, ready to turn this spot in a winter wonderland that locals can’t get enough because there’s snowplace like Café Metz. The locally sourced traditional roast ham will warm you up from the inside out along with soup-erb flavours with savoury mince and hearty soups already guaranteed to be crowd favourites. You might still be on the Gold Coast but their spiced mulled wine is giving apres ski so you can relax get cosy by the fire minus you know, the physical activity #winning.
Where: 37 Christie Street, Canungra
Where: Throughout July, from 5.30am to 3pm
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski
