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10 Gold Coast restaurants with roaring fireplaces

Warm up this winter next to an open fire.

Miss Moneypenny's interior (image supplied)
Miss Moneypenny's interior (image supplied)

Winter is officially here on the Gold Coast and baby it’s cold outside. When the temperature drops for that hot minute you bet we’re making the most of soaking up the winter vibes, and nothing says winter like cosying up by the fireplace with a glass of red and some of the best food the Gold Coast has on offer. We’ve found the best Gold Coast restaurants with roaring fireplaces so you don’t have to try and flex your fire making skills at home – you’re welcome.

Miss Moneypenny’s
The swankiest fireplace to be found in and around the central Gold Coast belongs to this Broadbeach fine dining favourite. The beautiful decor by renowned designer Paul Kelly Design is an Instagrammer’s dream, but while there is plenty for your eyes to feast upon, the grand-looking fireplace is the real treat here. Treat yourself to any one of their lavish cocktails, or for an authentic winter’s evening experience, grab a whiskey and submerge yourself in a velvet chair stat.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

The Polish Place
The beloved Polish Place at Mount Tamborine not too long ago got completely rebuilt from the ground up following a devastating tragedy. And we couldn’t be more glad that owners Phil & Ania were unequivocally committed to bringing back the best Polish food and hospitality around. The beautifully restored fireplace sits pride of place in their dining room, essentially there to warm your soul while you devour the eats and take in the spectacular view.
Where: 333 Main Western Road, Mount Tamborine

The Polish Place, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)
The Polish Place, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)

Woodchoppers Inn
We love a good old pub with a bit of charm, and with some of the best wood-fired BBQ meats around, this one is always on our repeat hit list. But why keep the wood fire in the kitchen? This modest family business has since 1995 been serving up all the wood-fired meats, craft beers and wine, right next to a big open fireplace, of course. That is if you can claim a seat beside it!
Where: 64 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

D’Arcy Arms
Located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, D’Arcy Arms Irish Pub has been serving hearty Irish meals for over 30 years — a testament to their popularity amongst tourists and locals alike. While our winters are just a tad warmer than Ireland’s — ok, a lot warmer — we are still thankful they decided to bestow upon us a crackling, open fireplace to gather around over a Guinness or three. Take full advantage of their fireplace and book your Christmas in July for the full Euro-winter effect. We promise a fireside meal at D’Arcy Arms will soften the blow of missing out on that Euro trip.
Where: 2923 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise

D'Arcy Arms (image supplied)
D'Arcy Arms (image supplied)

The Wine Barrel
It must be said, nothing else makes you feel as warm and fuzzy inside as a glass of wine next to an open fire, meaning The Wine Barrel in Mudgeeraba has seriously got its priorities in order. This tapas and wine bar is a family-owned and run hidden treasure, featuring some of the best tapas and share platters the Gold Coast has seen. So, grab a couple of mates and proceed to devour serious eats, next to the fireplace naturally…
Where: 8/59 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

The Fireplace
Ok, this one is in the name. Still, the fine-looking InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort is home to a restaurant rightly named The Fireplace, and yes, you guessed it: it does indeed have an impressive fireplace within the dining room that is also used for cooking. But don’t just go for the roaring embers; the menu features locally sourced cuisine, a 300-strong wine library and a delightful wine-matched degustation. This is serious date night material, maybe even staying overnight wouldn’t be the worst idea you’ve ever had! There’s even a second fireplace located in the foyer at the Verandah Restaurant and Bar that you can cosy on up to with one of their 50 whiskies.
Where: Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove

The Fireplace, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort (image supplied)
The Fireplace, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort (image supplied)

Wolf Restaurant
Just in case you needed another reason to make your way up to Mount Tamborine, the newest kid on the block Wolf is bringing big flavour to bite size. Fine dining meets the relaxed mountain vibe you know and love, Wolf’s menu of seriously aesthetic dishes are begging to be ‘grammed. The cosy meets contemporary space fills with natural light, highlighting the showstopping stone-clad fireplace that takes up residence in the heart of the restaurant. There’s a reason locals are a big fan of this place, so don’t mind us while we plan a day trip up the Mountain pronto.
Where: 13 Main St, Tamborine Mountain

Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Panchos
It’s a Gold Coast institution for good reason, nestled in Mudgeeraba is the colourful ‘roadhouse’ style Mexican joint Panchos. It’s been lovingly restored to its former glory by local couple Lachlan and Maddie (the geniuses who brought us Suzy BBQ and TOKOH), holding onto the iconic 80’s character but dishing up a 2023-approved Mexican feast. We’ve pretty much never met a margarita we didn’t like, but something about them tastes even better when there’s a roaring fireplace and live music to keep you snug and beat the Hinterland chill.
Where: 581 Springbrook Road, Mudgeeraba

Pasture & Co
If you haven’t been to Pasture & Co have you really been to Currumbin Valley? Local, organic and sustainably sourced ingredients are the heroes on Pasture & Co’s menu, and it quite literally caters to everyone (and we mean EVERYONE’s) dietary preferences and cravings. Wholefoods are a hero but if you know a thing or two about coffee, the organic fair-trade brew will blow even the biggest coffee snob away.
Where: 6 Village Way, Currumbin Valley

Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Shiraz Persian Restaurant
It might be in the heart of Surfers Paradise, but that doesn’t mean they’ve compromised on comfort and cosiness. Enjoy your dinner or date night out in the lantern lit courtyard or sneak a spot inside by the fireplace, either way the home of refined Persian food might just be one of our favourite Middle Eastern restaurants on the Gold Coast (big call, we know),

Nothing says winter warmer like authentic Persian food, and Shiraz celebrates its roots with authentic and flavour rich entrees and mains. The menu has a little something for everyone from traditional skewers to the richest slow cooked stews, as well as a generous range of vegetarian options. We’re all about warming up from the inside out.
Where: Mantra Wings Surfers Paradise, 2893 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.

Shiraz Persian Restaurant & Bar Surfers Paradise interior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Shiraz Persian Restaurant & Bar Surfers Paradise interior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

11 Christmas in July celebrations on the Gold Coast

Christmas in July (image supplied)
Christmas in July (image supplied)

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 off a couple of key words: Christmas on the GC… IN JULY.

We have some seriously tree-mendous Christmas in July options here guaranteed to squelch the resting Grinch face in all of us – and we’re here to tell you all about them. So treat yo’elf and check out the following….

Bon Appetea Teahouse
Fancy a Christmas inspired high tea in a 1900s building with garden tables and a huge sprawling veranda? Yeah, us too! 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 bubbles (treat yourself, after all Christmas only comes around.. twice.. a year) and $30 for the kidlets.
Where: 7 Johns Road, Mudgeeraba
When: Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 July

Distillery Road Market's outdoor entertainment - Christmas in July (image supplied)
Distillery Road Market's outdoor entertainment - Christmas in July (image supplied)

Distillery Road Markets (DRM)
DRM is transforming its outdoor entertainment precinct into a winter wonderland to host Trucks and Tunes – Christmas in July edition! Gather your gang and embark on a street food journey, devouring delicious food made onsite by the line-up of food trucks. Enjoy top notch tunes and support local makers by shopping up a storm with a great line up of local Artisan market stalls hosted by BrisStyle. With free entry and free parking, just YES!
Where: 124 Distillery Road, Eagleby
When: 4pm – 9pm Saturday 15 July

Aviary Rooftop Bar
Wrapped up neatly in another of their “Sessions” series is Aviary Rooftop Bar’s White Christmas event on Saturday 22nd July from 1pm to 3pm. Attendees will be delighted by a two hour food & bev package and some sweet live tunes. With a White Candy Cane martini on arrival, and later a heartwarming Egg Nog cocktail to tide your afternoon over, there will certainly be no issues getting into the festive spirit. Yule get to feast upon a spread fit for Santa and all his helpers, with yuletide high tea towers and a festive grazing station (suddenly the stretchy red trousers make so much sense). Elevate your experience (to rooftop level status) and also enjoy Aviary’s signature authentic Italian pizzas loaded with Chrissy-inspired toppings that are sure to be more lit than a Christmas tree. Guys, tickets are just $73.24pp… so we suggest you gift yourself a good time and book!
Where: Aviary Rooftop Bar, 5 Melia Court, Southport
When: Saturday 22nd July from 1pm to 3pm

Christmas in July (Image by Tim Douglas from Pexels)
Christmas in July (Image by Tim Douglas from Pexels)

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 Wednesday 26 July in your calendar this faux festive season and partake in a 3-course, Christmas-themed share-style dinner for $89pp. There’s also prizes on offer, and definitely not your token pair of socks either, we’re talking proper wine and dining vouchers here folks. Bring your friends, bring your family, bring your appetite – and have a holly, jolly.. fun and festive evening.
Where: Shop 3 G7, Capri on Via Roma, Isle of Capri, Surfers Paradise
When: Wednesday 26 July

Dreamworld
We’re making this list, we’re checking it twice – and even though technically not “Christmas in July” specifically, a little taste of the wonder that is a European white Christmas still ticks the box as far as we’re concerned. Don the beanie (or don’t, because it’s the GC after all) and behold the winter wonderland that is Dreamworld’s Winterfest. Have a crack at ice skating on the full-sized rink ($15pp, or one session free for pass holders), enjoy winter themed shows and Euro inspired delights like waffles, pretzels and (most importantly) mulled wine available for purchase. If you’re the type to try a bit of everything – treat yourself to a Tasting Trail wristband (starting at $27.50pp). Sounds like a super cool day out to us!
Where: Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera
When: 10am 5pm Mon-Sun, 24 June — 16 July

Winterfest at Dreamworld (image supplied)
Winterfest at Dreamworld (image supplied)

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 – Dixie Wrecked, Ivyy Monroe, Shushu Funtanna 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 $35.45pp.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
When: 6.30pm Friday 21 July

The Collective
Tis the season (well, sorta kinda) and The Collective is here for it! Transforming into a Winter wonderland, you’re invited to rug up in your cringiest Christmas jumpers and nom your way around the globe at their annual Christmas in July shindig! The Chefs from Mazi, TaLA, Umami, Luckie’s & Italian Job are putting on a 4-course feast, with three hours of all inclusive beer, wine & speciality CC Christmas cocktail jugs from just $130.50pp. It’s beginning to feel a lot like.. all our Christmases have come at once.
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
When: 6.00pm Friday 28 July 

Christmas in July at The Collective (image supplied)
Christmas in July at The Collective (image supplied)

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 while local musician Saxophonist Ben Ferguson helps you settle into the swing of things with some sweet tunes. 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 Friday 28 and Saturday 29 July

D’Arcy Arms
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, traditional pudding with Brandy custard and Oh-HO so much more. Tuck in to a 2-course festive feed for $50 per adult and $25 per child.
Where: 2923 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
When: Throughout July

D'arcy Arms (image supplied)
D'arcy Arms (image supplied)

The Rooftop Lodge – Cali Beach
Ok, ok. So maybe it isn’t listed explicitly as a “Christmas in July” event either, but we really can’t resist the novelty of a wintery wonderland! And that’s exactly what Cali Beach has turned into this Winter. Treat yourself to a freshly roasted marshmallow (or three) over the fire pit, falling faux snow, over 60 snow-topped trees and an ice skating rink (if you can peel yourself away from the fire pit). We are THERE (and probs kicking back in one of the VIP igloos tbh).
Where: 21a Elkhorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
When: Friday – Sunday, all Winter long

Kids Weekend: Christmas in July
Don’t say we never give you anything, because our last gift to you is an entirely free line up of Christmas in July festivities set to hit Surfers Paradise this July. Okay so technically the GCCC is responsible for this gift, but we’re gonna make like Dads everywhere on Christmas morning and take the credit for this epic present. The Surfers foreshore is set to come alive with an open-air beachside ice rink (only in ‘straya), activities like cookie decoration and colouring-in and Christmas movies (please be Love Actually). Mosy through the winter markets and stop by the Igloo Lounge, where you can enjoy live local music and treat yo-ELF to a delightful winter treat.
Where: Surfers Paradise foreshore, The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
When: Friday 28 to Sunday 30 July

Words by Bianca Trathen & Kellie Leader.

The Rooftop VIP Lodges at Cali Beach (image supplied)
The Rooftop VIP Lodges at Cali Beach (image supplied)

Sink your fangs into Wolf

Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Outdoor seating at Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

In case you haven’t sauntered up to Mount Tamborine lately, we’re here to let you know it’s high time to scoot on over to the Coast’s favourite mountain (#soz Mt Warning) because it’s really elevated it’s eats game of late. Some seriously some cute new spots to rival their beachside counterparts have started popping all over the mountain up like zits on high school photo day. Our most recent discovery of the frozen goodness churning out of newcomers Tamborine Mountain Gelato Co alone is worth the road trip. Oh, and we should probably also mention the lush scenery, lazily snaking your way up the rainforest fringed route makes for a pretty tops weekend tree-change (but srsly, how good is a double scoop of Mint Stracciatella).

Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Joining the host of #instaworthy Tambo newbies is a fresh option for when you’re feeling a little bit fancy (but not too fancy, because us GC-ers want to be wined and dined but we don’t want to be messing around with 4 different kinds of forks, right?). Because Wolf Restaurant has entered the chat, and they’ve created a new fine dining option that’s really summit special.

Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Exterior of Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Conveniently taking up residence in Tambo’s main street (though, it is literally called Main Street) at the former site of the Three Little Pigs – in kind of an unexpected twist to the fairy tale we all grew up on, the Wolf really did eat the Three Little Pigs this time #alternateending. The owners also know a thing or two about serving up delicious bites, after spending the last year delivering deliciousness to the mountain and its steady stream of day-trippers via their slightly more casual Bush Turkey Bistro location.

Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Building upon their experience of dishing up (mountain) top notch nosh (say that five times fast!), Wolf was designed as the fancier, more grown up cousin (y’know, the one you were always envious of) to its bistro counterpart and it shows. The vibe is decidedly cosy meets contemporary, with an abundance of modern, crisp whites and wall of windows framing the street beyond and filling the space with natural light – excellent news for our selfies and #foodporn snaps. But there’s also the inclusion of rustic elements that still bring a welcoming sense of warmth to Wolf (also literally, on account of the show-stopping stone clad fireplace front and centre in the room) which still honours its welcoming village surrounds.

Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Now while you may be feeling all cosy, before you really make yourself at home (no ‘resting your eyes’ in the corner mmkay Dad, this is a classy place) you’re going to need to familiarise yourself with the menu because you’re about to have some tough decisions on your hands. To start, choose between wrapping your fangs around the Kangaroo tataki fillet or Japanese curry inspired QLD saucer scallops, because they’re sure to leave your tastebuds feeling on top of the world. And there’s no token sad vego options here, with the Tempura Zucchini Flowers, whipped lemon ricotta, confit shallot, chervil and truffle malt proving to be a serious contender.

Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Tempura Zucchini Flowers, Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

For the main event, wolf down (but don’t really, cuz these dishes are made to be savoured) mouth-watering options like the Wagyu 6+ tenderloin, Black kingfish, Confit pork belly or Salt baked celeriac. Oh, and just when you thought you’d decided, may we interest in the share option? Whole market fish or lamb shoulder and your choice of three sides #needwesaymore?

If you need a teaser for the dessert menu (um hello – obviously) – you know when the Vanilla bean brulée makes an appearance on the menu, you have reached the peak of modern Australian dining. Dw, choc lovers, there’s also a tempting Chocolate parfait layered with raspberry and burnt toast custard to set your heart on fire.

Consider this your sign to book your next Tamborine trip ASAP, after a visit to Wolf your tastebuds certainly won’t need any reminding that you’re on top of the world, er – mountain.
When: Lunch: Wednesday – Sunday, Dinner: Thursday – Saturday
Where: 13 Main St, Tamborine Mountain

Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Carly King.

Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Chocolate parfait, Wolf Restaurant, Mt Tamborine (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Pasture & Co branches out with a new look

Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Ahhh Currumbin Valley. The place where the phrase “how’s the serenity” was coined, and we just made that up. It never fails to fill our cup with all things green, greener, and greenest and LBH – is so much more appealing than a shot of spirulina #gag. Being part of a conservation area, naturally businesses shaped by simplicity and sustainability are drawn to this stunning neck of the woods. Embracing the eco-friendly philosophy with gusto, Pasture & Co (2.0) is a must-visit family-friendly café ticking all the boxes; d-lish healthy eats, prime location, tranquillity (but with a vibe), friendly service, and a partridge in a an environmental conscience. And probs a partridge in a pear tree too coz over-achiever much?!

Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Using local, organic and sustainably sourced ingredients, Pasture & Co practices what it preaches. Operating as self-sufficiently as possible, it’s doing its bit to inspire others to reduce their footprint and make more sustainable choices. Anything but cactus, this sentiment is #trending and giving the likes of Pasture & Co the ‘green’ light and momentum to serve food based on nurturing both people and the planet.

Organic waffles with peaches two ways, strawberries and Caramilk mousse, Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)

The nosh here is amazing and will suit e.v.e.r.y.o.n.e regardless of dietary preferences and beliefs. We’re talking vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and paleo fare. Even omnivores are catered for and side note; we had to google it too, learning that the omnivore lands somewhere between the herbivore and carnivore. It’s not just the savoury stuff either, with yummy vegan, raw and gluten-free sweets that won’t make you feel meh.

Although you can’t go wrong, let’s hero a couple of solid ten-outta-tens. Firstly, the Potato and Zucchini Rosti will do things to your tastebuds that warrant a non-PG rating, and even we’re even sold by our own pitch here. Similarly, the Avocado and Heirloom Tomatoes with macadamia nut butter is legicious (legit delicious), and not just because anything involving a macadamia nut is the duck’s, well, you know what.

Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Moving along to beverages, have a go of the organic fair-trade coffee. If you’re channelling something cold, don’t hesitate to order the Mermaid Smoothie. What’s in a Mermaid Smoothie you ask? We’ll let you discover that for yourself and thank us later #TeaseIntentional.

Now let’s talk fit out and feels because Pasture & Co (and gorgeous founder Dani Riley) deserve a green ribbon in both departments. For starters, the lush position surrounded by endless foliage and cheeky wildlife creates instant zen. The space sprawls seamlessly from inside to outside and we challenge you to leave with anything other than a relaxed mind – and happy tummy. Think simple and recycled, rich brown rattan, timber trimmings, and a stunning lighting feature which instantly grabs you (in an entirely non creepy way). Then there’s the plush leather couch, fireplace, fiddle trees and other gorgeous greenery and drumroll; the take-my-breath-awayyyyyyy views #TopGun4Eva.

Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Created to combine a love of coffee, hand-made cakes and simple fresh food, all whilst supporting other small businesses and farmers in the community, Pasture & Co prove that wholesome foods can be both exciting and nourishing. No twigs attached.

Where: 6 Village Way, Currumbin Valley
When: 7am – 3pm, Sunday – Thursday & 7am – 7pm, Friday – Saturday. Closed Monday – Wednesday

Words by Bianca Trathen.
Images by Brittany Kreskas.

Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)
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