The Oxley 1823 has gained some serious lip service this week, with another hot spot joining the lineup and making a stache-ing impression. Putting a whole new Euro twist on the café, restaurant, and bar game, it’s hotter than a handlebar mo in the 80s and is aptly called, Moustache. Here to turn your average breaky/brunch/dinner into something follicle-ly fabulous, it’s compact but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in charm. Think intimate, cozy, and effortlessly cool – just the way we like our noshing and watering holes.

The epic menu is inspired by the continent where food is practically a religion (#amen) offering small bites that pack a big punch. Then there’s the bevs and let’s start with the espresso which is strong enough to curl your ‘stache and in our humble opinion, is the perfect brew.

Moving on to the boozier stuff, Moustache has an expertly curated selection of cocktails that come with a healthy splash of European flair. And the vinos? Let’s just say they’ve been handpicked with the kind of finesse that only sommelier with a penchant for Euro panache could muster.

Now let’s talk about the space itself. This intimate little pocket rocket packs a stylish punch, combining comfy vibes with cool factor in equal measure. It’s the kind of place where you can sip, savour, and soak in the ambiance, all while feeling like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem because, well, you have (you’re welcome).

Now let’s talk about the space itself. This intimate little pocket rocket packs a stylish punch, combining comfy vibes with cool factor in equal measure. It’s the kind of place where you can sip, savour, and soak in the ambiance, all while feeling like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem because, well, you have (you’re welcome).

Moustache is all about keeping things down-to-earth, with a strong focus on community and making everyone feel welcome. No need to make a reservation – just stroll on in and the team will whisk you away to a cozy corner, whether that’s at a street-side table perf for people watching, perched on a bar stool, or tucked away in the vibey laneway.

Moustache is all about keeping things down-to-earth, with a strong focus on community and making everyone feel welcome. No need to make a reservation – just stroll on in and the team will whisk you away to a cozy corner, whether that’s at a street-side table perf for people watching, perched on a bar stool, or tucked away in the vibey laneway.

The genius behind Moustache is none other than Brodie Green, the mastermind who brought us the neighbouring crowd fave, Buoy, and started Seadog (voted the best café on the GC, thank you very much). Brodie’s got a knack for creating spaces that feel like home (only way cooler) and with the official opening date right around the corner, you can betcha bottom dollar that it’s un-beard-lievably good.

In the kitchen, Head Chef Rodrigo Paraboa will wield his culinary wand, with a resume that reads like a foodie’s dream: Little Truffle, Paper Daisy, and The Paddock Restaurant at Beechmont Estate. And if you’re wondering what dish has him most excited, that would be Charcoal Grilled Prawns, paired with spreadable salami. It’s a combo which sounds kinda wild, but tastes oh-so-right. Chef’s orders – and we’re not about to argue because when Rodrigo speaks, we listen.

So, get ready to meet the new ‘it’ boy in town, all about keeping things simple and doing them exceptionally well. Moustache is here, and he’s ready to charm his way into our bellies, one perfectly brewed espresso, expertly crafted dish, and carefully curated vino at a time.

Where: 2217 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: 6am to 12pm Monday to Friday & 4pm till late Wednesday to Sunday

Words by Bianca Trathen
Images by Kirra Smith

You know the saying, when the time is right, it will find you? Well, you must be ripe for some sleek Mediterranean-style dining because, evidently, your time is now! Bar Leo Food & Wine has been quietly thriving under your radar, so we’re glad we finally get to make your acquaintance. Welcome to your new neighbourhood rendezvous.

Bar Leo is the thrumming heart of Sorrento, a local frequent and a top recommendation for visitors. You can hear the hum of patron chatter as you pass by. The warm ambience allures as you gaze from afar, making you wish you, too, had made a reservation. Not to worry! You can make a reservation right now!

Picture this, it’s 4pm on a Friday afternoon, the week is done and happy hour has begun. There’s a light summer-esque dew in the air, so you opt for the Balmy Nights ‘Fizz’ Petillant Natural on recommendation from the waiter, “It’s a perfect wine for these humid days”.

The refined wine list and seafood-inspired share plates, small and large, leave you with that wonderful conundrum; what to try first? Then, your dining buddy chimes in, “I think this is going to be our new local”. You nod in agreeance and take a heavenly sip of the Vermentino & Grenache blend (recommendation approved), chilled red you have all the time to try everything on the menu more than once. You’re on cloud wine.

Bar Leo is every bit as fantastic as this musing. The venue has a contemporary feel, with Mediterranean details that make you feel like you’re on a Santorini sojourn. It’s no surprise patrons want to linger a bit longer when visiting. The seafood is fresh and delicious and the wine list is impressive. And don’t get us started on the hospitality. There are many reasons locals keep coming back, but their stellar personalised service is one of them.

Let us entice you with a few menu standouts. The menu is partitioned into three sections; ‘snacks’, ‘small plates & share plates’ and ‘vegetables and salads’. Shared eats would have to be one of life’s most simple pleasures. For the love of all things gluten, we must put forth the snack plate focaccia with rosemary, sea salt & EVOO. Our next snack plate proposal is the half shell scallop, cauliflower puree with chorizo crumb.

It would be a sin not to endorse the cooked-to-perfection, market fresh fish, lemon & olive oil from the small plates & share plates section. What can we tell you? Simplicity slays. And excuse us, but a black angus sirloin, soubise, sauce bordelaise & fried kale? Tell the waiter we’ll take two with the fried Brussel sprouts, pancetta, honey & hazelnuts. While at it, we’ll take some shoestring fries with rosemary, sea salt and garlic confit aioli.

Bar Leo is perfect for the whole family, with a children’s playground and lawn only a few steps away. Considering the venue is owned by a local family and operated by industry veterans, we can’t say we’re surprised that this venue ticks all the boxes.

Where: 7/4 Panitz St, Bundall
When: Wednesday and Thursday – 4pm till late
Friday – 12pm till late (all day dining)
Saturday – 12pm till late (all day dining)
Sunday – 12pm till 6pm

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

STORY SPONSORED BY BAR LEO

If there’s one thing we never grow tired of it’s a cracking cocktail and lucky for us, the GC is a melting pot of masterful cocktails guaranteed to leave you shooketh.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these spots are a must-visit for anyone who loves a tipple (or five), tried and tested by the team because you know, we had to complete our due diligence. From beachy vibes to moody speakeasies, here’s the scoop on where to sip the best cocktails in town.

Rosella’s
Rosella’s has been bringing all things Australiana to bustling Burleigh since January 2019, recently winning the coveted ‘Best Cocktail Bar in Queensland’ gong. And what’s more quintessentially 2024 Aussie behaviour than sipping on a host of sensational cocktails in a beautiful beachy ‘burb?! Serving up nostalgic and native fare, this little ripper hums until late seven nights a week. ‘Knoath!
Our pick: Fantales. Our fave (discontinued) lolly in liquid form. Rosella’s Blend Bundaberg Rum, Mac. Daintree Dark Choc, Mushroom Garum Caramel, Wattleseed Butter – with their very own custom Fantales.
Where: 1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh

Cantina
Mermaid Beach locals will tell you that if you’re frothing for a quality cocktail (us – always), it’s Cantina for the win. This pint-sized neighbourhood tapas bar proves that good things come in small packages and by good things, we mean cocktails. Forming the perfect pair with sibling Piatto Italian restaurant right next door, line your tum with Spanish style bar bites so that your sneaky cocktail can turn into two…or five….
Our pick: Quattro Bianchi- A citrussy Italian take on the Long Island Ice Tea
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

The Cambus Wallace
If you haven’t stepped aboard The Cambus Wallace, are you even a Gold Coaster? Serving up the finest classic cocktails, international rums and whiskeys, and heartwarming food, the only thing moodier than the dark hues of the boat-themed bar is you if you don’t sample at least one of their tipples. There’s a reason (AKA epic cocktails) that it always gets a nod on our lists!
Our pick: Maiden Voyage #2: Fresh muddled pineapple, Sailor Jerry spiced rum, Brinley coconut rum,  Angostura white rum, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and tiki bitters.
Where: 4/2237 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach

Fig + Frankies
If artisanal cocktails and coastal-inspired tapas are your kryptonite, you need Fig + Frankies in your life. One of Broadbeach’s laneway treasures, the cocktail list is as impressive as the venue’s arch features, exposed brick, and charmingly textured interior. Phone a friend, your other half, or anyone who appreciates a killer cocktail and we’ll meet you there.
Our pick: Number 42 – Arette Blanco Tequila, Piel de Sapo Tea, Maidenii Classic Vermouth + Lychee Foam. Bitter + Sweet.
Where: 4/2707 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

Six Tricks Distilling Co.
Hold onto your highball glasses Gold Coast because Six Tricks is redefining the local distillery scene one cocktail, rum, or whisky at a time (okay, maybe more than one). This two-million-dollar masterpiece is state-of-the-art with a spacious indoor bar and sunset deck perf for sipping the night away – and even a private cask hall! You’ll be left shaken not stirred in the best possible way.
Our Pick: Melon & Lime Highball: Lime Leaf Six-Tricks Vodka, Melon Liqueur, Fino Sherry, Lacto Honeydew, Carbonated.
Where: 3 Brightlands Court, Mermaid Beach

The Exhibitionist Bar
Flirt with breathtaking views across the Gold Coast to the Hinterland – and a cracking array of cocktails – at The Exhibitionist Bar. Sitting high on the HOTA Gallery rooftop, its specialty cocktails are inspired and expertly curated using the major art exhibitions as the starting point to each creation. Changing with each new major exhibition, this means you’ll never run out of reasons to pop in for a sip.
Our Pick: NAKED AND FAMOUS- #69  Rhubi Mistelle, Becherovka, Altos Tequila, Amores Mezcal, lime
Where: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise

Granddad Jack’s
Distil our beating hearts! With a fresh curation of concoctions that could coax Sleeping Beauty herself from her 100-year slumber, this magical albeit not-so-faraway Miami-based fave has earned quite the rap for its bewitching, fable-inspired concoctions. If you’re after something extra spesh that you can’t find at every other cocktail bar, welcome. Extra points for everything from syrups to spirits made on site.
Our Pick: The Tainted Apple – Greenhouse Gin, Clear Apple Juice, Sour Coriander Cordial. Green Apple Slice, ‘Tainted’ Charcoal Drops.
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami

Sandfire
Looking for an absolute beachfront cocktail tapas bar? Look no further – this.is.it. Serving up an exciting fusion of coastal charm, inventive cocktails, and sumptuous tapas, it’s a winner winner cocktail dinner. Crafted by expert mixologists, the cocktail list boasts an array of innovative libations, from classic martinis to exotic tropical creations, so you’re assured a perfect pairing for every palate and mood.
Our pick: FUTURE PIÑA- Spiced rum, toasted coconut, jasmine, lemon balm, plum, pineapple C02
Where: 293 The Esplanade, Miami

Bar Evelyn
You’ve never met a cooler Evelyn (and if you’re born after 1980 – you’ve probably never met one). This antipasto and pizza bar has not only garnered a staunch following for its A+ seasonal antipasti, sough dough pizza, and freshly made pizza, but also for the evelyn-utionary cocktails. With warm and cosy feels for days (particularly perf this time of year), Evelyn is especially epic on a cool winter’s night.
Our pick: Limoncello Margarita-  Altos bianco tequila, Limoncello, lemon, sugar. salt
Where: Shop 20, 52-58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Destino
With inspo derived from Mediterranean islands where world class service, design and atmosphere collide to create an unforgettable destination – need we say more? This little gem at Sanctuary Cove is the gift that keeps on giving. Earning a reputation within its first week as a cocktail connoisseur’s haven, the initial hype has not only endured – it continues to soar. If you’re up the north end (or even if you’re not) – just go.
Our Pick: Strawberry Fields- Peach liqueur, vodka, simple syrup, lime & house made strawberry puree
Where: 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island

Suga
With a name that (literally) sums up our guilty pleasure, Suga lives up to its namesake – and then some. When it comes to our local speakeasy, the only thing more satisfying than the cocktails is the…no, it’s the cocktails. The low-lit lamps highlight the insanely good menu, which serves as the perfect belly-liner so that you can partake in another cocktail (yes, even on a school night).
Our pick: Not A ‘Colada- rum, coco, water, pineapple, lime, agave
Where: 1142 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Veladora
Asking us to “find the red palm tree”– challenge accepted! We all know any restaurant or watering hole at The Star Gold Coast never misses a beat and Veladora is no exception. This place is actual cocktail nirvana so take it from us; leave the car at home because you won’t be able to stop at one. Watching the mixologists in action is half the fun and don’t even get us started on the vibe, thanks to Mezcal-inspired speakeasy design.
Our pick: The Margarita! Herradura Plata, orange liqueur & fresh lime juice
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Words by Bianca Trathen