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Distill my heart

Beech Mountain Distillery’s new bar is the gin to our tonic.

Beech Mountain Distillery (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Beech Mountain Distillery (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

If you’re partial to a gin and srsly, who isn’t, then we need to talk about Beech Mountain Gins. We’ve long been fan-girling over their bespoke, small batch spirits with distinctive native botanicals, and may or may not have popped into their Lower Beechmont distillery. Like, A.Lot. We’ve also enjoyed more than our quota of their glorious gins from their Gin Wagons at various markets and private soirees.

And now we’re staring down the barrel of a new era for Beech Mountain Distillery as they expand into the Pink Galah restaurant next door with their very own brand-spanking new bar and tasting booths. This means we now have a place to sit, sip and savour our fave drops and guys, it has all the makings of our new local – even though we’re not actual Lower Beechmont locals but details….

Beech Mountain Distillery (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Beech Mountain Distillery Gin Wagon (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

With a hugely popular soft launch this month, let the fun officially be-GIN. Plus there’s a big-bang grand opening locked and loaded for June to coincide with the distillery’s second birthday, and we wish someone would gift us a gin bar for our next lap around the sun…. The prohibition-era themed party will be the hottest ticket in town, and is sure to go off like a flapper doing the fox trot.

Managing Director, builder and interior designer of both the distillery and bar Clyde Watts certainly has a fitting mix of skills, with stints as an artist and carpenter working in the film and construction industries for 27 years. Similarly, Director and Master Distiller Julian Hoyle brings a background as a professional musician and 10 years as a distiller to the table bar, and we want to be a booze brewing muso when we grow up.

Beech Mountain Distillery (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Bottles of Gin, Beech Mountain Distillery (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

These two lads go back three decades, and we also have friendships this enduring which is heart-warmingly beautiful (insert happy tearful emoji), but also depressing AF (insert multiple granny emojis). After sampling one of Julian’s ten-outta-ten gins, Clyde asked his mate what he was hoping to do with his exceptional talents. When Julian replied he wanted to have his own distillery one day, Clyde decided his Lower Beechmont property was just the place. So, Julian packed up his life in Newcastle, shifted into Clyde’s studio and three years later, Beech Mountain Distillery was born. Booya!

Since day dot, this distillery dominating duo have wanted to be a part of the café/restaurant next door, and building the bar and tasting booths within Pink Galah has mutual benefits for both businesses #SupportLocal. Everyone’s a winner here, especially us because we now have an epic new venue nestled in the rolling hills of our gorgeous Gold Coast Hinterland.

Beech Mountain Distillery (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Beech Mountain Distillery (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

The vibe and fit out is described as old-world Irish / English tavern meets a prohibition-era bar in an alternate reality, which kinda sounds like the plot for a new blockbuster film. There’s an indoor bar, private booth seating and dining room floor tables, outdoor garden seating, and a licensed café restaurant kitchen.

Inside has capacity for 60 bods, with another 80 outside which means many things, mainly Big.Party.Vibes. The friendly service and hospitality is the garnish on the drink, and just how we like the treatment from our hinterland haunts.

Beech Mountain Distillery (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Gin Cocktails at Beech Mountain Distillery (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

The seasonal cafe restaurant menu is just the thing to complement the bespoke, award-winning, artisan made gin and other alcoholic beverages. Our fave is the the Butterfly Chai cocktail, incorporating their exclusive Butterfly Pea Gin, house made Chai syrup, and naturally dyed coconut milk. And while you’re there, pick up a bottle of two of the smokey Siberian Route Gin (Silver Medalist – 2022 Australian Distilled Spirits Awards), Strawberry Gum Eucalyptus Olida Gin and The Swashbuckler – Navy Strength Gin (both bronze medallists at the 2022 Australian Distilled Spirits Awards).

So trust your gin-tuition (and our advice) and add the new bar at Beech Mountain Distillery to your must-visit list. And remember: Drink responsibly – Don’t spill any.

Where: 707 Beechmont Road Lower, Beechmont
When: 3pm – late Wednesday to Friday & 11am – 10pm Saturday & Sunday. Closed Monday & Tuesday.

Words by Bianca Trathen.
Images by Carly Snodgrass.

Beech Mountain Distillery (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Beech Mountain Distillery (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

9 breathtaking waterfalls around the Gold Coast

Curtis Falls waterfall in Tamborine Mountain, Hinterland (image suppled by Destination Gold Coast)
Curtis Falls waterfall in Tamborine Mountain, Hinterland (image suppled by Destination Gold Coast)

When it comes to impressing visiting family and friends, is there any better way than going on an adventure and chasing a waterfall — or two? Because beyond epic beaches, and one of the world’s most renowned surfing reserves, we also have world heritage listed rainforests and breathtaking surrounds literally right on our doorstep. And the best part about these fantastic places and mind-blowing natural spectacles is they are entirely free!

So we highly recommend you clear your schedule, pack your swimmers and embark on a fun-filled sojourn into the green behind the gold in search of large pieces of falling water. Set your phone to silent and let the serenity feed your soul.

Here are a few of our favourites, all within an hour or so from the Gold Coast.

Beechmont
Lip Falls
38.7km from Surfers Paradise
Just a 50-minute drive from Surfers Paradise and nestled amongst the Denham Scenic Reserve are the Beechmont rock pools — or Lip Falls as the locals call them. Once you park your car (on Doncaster Road), it’ll only take half an hour to make your way down to the falls. Be aware; these walking paths are steep and narrow and right next to deep gorges.
Where: 45-57 Doncaster Dr, Beechmont

Elabana Falls, Lamington National Park (image supplied)
Elabana Falls, Lamington National Park (image supplied)

Mt Tamborine
Cedar Creek Falls
44km from Surfers Paradise
Cedar Creek Falls are one of the better-known waterfalls on Mt Tamborine and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike (be warned – it can get quite busy). Your best bet is to explore the area via the Cedar Creek Circuit (3.2km), which will take you along all the cascades and rock pools.
Where: Cedar Creek Falls Rd, Tamborine Mountain – To get there, take Tamborine Mountain Road until you get to Cedar Creek Falls Road, just past the information map stopping bay on the left. From there, it’s only a short drive down a narrow road and across a small creek before coming to the Cedar Creek Falls section and the car park at its entrance.

Curtis Falls
39.2km from Surfers Paradise
It’s a short, beautiful walk through the rain-drenched Eucalyptus forest to the magical Curtis Falls. You’ll wander past towering trees and through a canopy of ferns, down to this miniature and photogenic waterfall. There are lots of cute creatures to spot along the way too, keep an eye for resident platypuses and wallabies. The walk should only talk half an hour or less to get down to the falls, but you will likely want to stay awhile and soak up the peacefulness. It’s just a 1.1km round trip, so you can knock it over in the early morning then stop for a spot of morning tea at the Curtis Falls Cafe.
Where: 16 Eagle Heights Rd, North Tamborine – Get there via Eagle Heights Road and park right at the entrance to the walk.

Natural Bridge, Springbrook National Park (image supplied)
Natural Bridge, Springbrook National Park (image supplied)

Lamington National Park
Elabana Falls
67.4 km from Surfers Paradise
Elabana Falls are certainly a hidden gem located amongst Lamington National Park close to O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat (a great spot to grab a bite to eat after your waterfall adventure). Park your car at O’Reilly’s and make your way through the rainforest, past Picnic Rock and further downhill for another 400 metres until you reach the cascading falls. Make sure you refresh yourself with a snack or sit down before embarking on your way back up; it gets pretty steep!
Where: Lamington National Park Rd, Canungra

Springbrook National Park
Natural Bridge
47 km from Surfers Paradise
As you probably know, Natural Bridge is a heavenly cave-like rock formation at Springbrook National Park that is home to glow worms and a colony of tiny bent-wing bats – it’s also one of the most photographed spots on the Gold Coast. Start the short one-kilometre rainforest walk clockwise to the Natural Bridge rock arch to get down to the action.
Where: Nerang-Murwillumbah Rd, Springbrook – It’s super easy to find; just follow Nerang-Murwillumbah Road until you get to the car park signage at Bakers Road.

Purling Brook Falls, Springbrook (image supplied by Destination Gold Coast)
Purling Brook Falls, Springbrook (image supplied by Destination Gold Coast)

Twin Falls
40.6km from Surfers Paradise
Start your 4km journey through the sub-tropical rainforest from the Tallabana picnic area or Canyon lookout in an anticlockwise direction. You’ll reach a small bridge, flowing water and immense rock formations after a couple of minutes (perfect for an Insta snap). Keep hiking down the track until you come across two rushing waterfalls. At the base of Twin Falls — after a worthy hike — you’ll find a large rock pool perfect for a rewarding swim!
Where: Canyon Pde, Springbrook

Purling Brook Falls (image supplied by Destination Gold Coast)
Purling Brook Falls (image supplied by Destination Gold Coast)

Purling Brook Falls
37km from Surfers Paradise
The Purling Brook Falls are immense, towering at over 100 meters in height and are naturally best visited after rainfall. Start your 2 hour hike clockwise along a scenic and elevated path into a subtropical gorge to view the amazing falls from below. Venture further down the track until you reach waterholes that are great for swimming. When you have had enough, prepare for a steady climb up through the rainforest, which will bring you back to the picnic area.
Where: 63 Gwongorella Parade, Springbrook

Minyon Falls lookout in Nightcap National Park. (Photo credit: Jimmy Malecki)
Minyon Falls lookout in Nightcap National Park. (Photo credit: Jimmy Malecki)

Northern NSW
Minyon Falls
113km from Surfers Paradise
Yes, we know the following two locations aren’t on the Gold Coast, they aren’t even in Queensland, but it will take you a short drive along what is probably the most breathtaking scenic drive, until you reach Nightcap National Park in Northern NSW. Make sure you come prepared because getting to Minyon Falls can be quite the journey (well worth it, though). We recommend you start with Minyon Falls Lookout, providing you with outstanding views before adventuring further downstream towards the base of the falls.
Where: Nightcap National Park, Newton Dr, Nightcap 

Killen Falls
108 km from Surfers Paradise
Killen Falls are undoubtedly one of the most epic waterfalls to dive into with its large swimming hole and rock pools. The rock has been eroded significantly behind the waterfall, forming an impressive cave. Ever wanted to take a waterfall shower? Well, at Killen Falls, that’s not a problem as you can swim across the pool and climb up the rocks just to sit right underneath the falling water.
Where: Killen Falls Dr, Tintenbar – Killen Falls are super easy to find, just minutes off the Pacific Highway near Byron Bay.

Twin Falls, Springbrook (Image from Destination Gold Coast)
Twin Falls, Springbrook (Image from Destination Gold Coast)

But it’s important to remember, whilst it’s tempting (and refreshing) to go for a swim in the rock pools and lagoons, it’s prohibited in some, so please adhere to any safety signs and be 100% sure it’s safe to swim before diving in. Also, be sure to pack closed-in shoes, plenty of water, mozzie repellent and sunscreen (the sun will still get you between the canopy).

Last but not least, take nothing but photographs and leave nothing but footprints behind!

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

Five Sunday drive destinations

Sunflowers (image Courtney Cook via Unsplash)
Sunflowers (image Courtney Cook via Unsplash)

Sundays are reserved for one of three purposes; chilling with the fam and getting prepped for the week ahead, sneaking in a little Sunday sesh to delay Monday as long as humanly possible, and our fave, a spot of road trippin!

We’re lucky on the GC as we’re inundated with scenic drive options, and only need to travel an hour or two to find lots of beautiful, unique sights and activities.

We’ve broken it down to five destinations and provided a small snapshot of what you can find at each.

Toot toot!

Cauldron Distillery (Image: 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Cauldron Distillery (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Mt Tamborine

Gallery Walk
A trip up the mountain isn’t complete without a stroll along Gallery Walk. It’s a melting pot of eclectic finds, with over 70 shops in the one block. You’ll find everything from fashion, jewellery, arts and crafts, cellar door outlets, chocolate, fudge, food outlets, cafes…and even a cuckoo clock shop. If you’re looking for something unique or need to buy that friend who has everything a gift, chances are you’ll find something here.
Where: Long Road, Tamborine Mountain

Curtis Falls
Enjoy a beautiful walk through the rain-drenched Eucalyptus forest to the magical Curtis Falls. Wander past towering trees and through a canopy of ferns, down to this miniature and photogenic waterfall. The 1.1km walk should only talk half an hour or less to get down to the falls, but you will likely want to stay awhile and soak up the peacefulness. Top it off with a spot of morning tea at the Curtis Falls Cafe. Lovely!
Where: 16 Eagle Heights Road, North Tamborine – Get there via Eagle Heights Road and park right at the entrance to the walk.

Curtis Falls (image supplied by Tourism & Events Queensland)
Curtis Falls (image supplied by Tourism & Events Queensland)

Cauldron Distillery
This 18-acre working distillery is the darling of the Scenic Rim. A Prohibition-style space with an established vineyard, lush rolling meadows and of course, a generous gin and cocktail bar, there’s a lot to love. Settle in for a bev or a feed, or BYO picnic rug and chill amongst the vineyards. You can partake in complimentary lawn games if you so desire, and they’re pro pop here so Fido can come too!
Where: 89-123 Hartley Road, Tamborine Mountain

The Glow Worm Caves
Take a guided half-hour walk through lush rainforest to a purpose-built cave, filled with thousands of shimmery glow worms! Everyone can get up close and personal with a glow worm here without damaging delicate wild habitats #CueApplause. And the best part? It’s conveniently located in the Cedar Creek Estate Vineyard and Winery, you can enjoy a tipple pre or post tour…or pre and post tour!
Where: Cedar Creek Estate, 104-144 Hartley Road, North Tamborine

Mountview Alpaca Farm (image supplied)
Mountview Alpaca Farm (image supplied)

Canungra

Mountview Alpaca Farm
Located in O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyard, you can meet alpacas and drink wine and srsly, life made. Choose between 15 and 60 minute alpaca experiences where you can walk and feed these cute creatures, or go all out with an alpaca picnic, alpaca devonshire tea, or a wine, cheese and alpaca package (#us). Set in a boutique vineyard and historic Queenslander homestead, it’s as picturesque as it is fun.
Where: 852 Lamington National Park Road, Canungra

Farm & Co Restaurant (image supplied)
Farm & Co Restaurant (image supplied)

Cudgen

Farm & Co.
No doubt Instagram has informed you there is a field of sunflowers just a short 25 minute drive away where you can frolic, take selfies, pick said sunflowers and generally pretend you don’t have a care in the world. There’s also a coffee shop where you can sink into an oversized lounge chair while gazing at the sunflowers and contemplating a new career in farming, live music of a weekend, a tasty array of brunch eats and fresh veggies you can take home too.
Where: 529 Cudgen Road, Cudgen 

The Chindy
Check out restful riverside town Chinderah, stopping in for a refreshment and snack at The Chindy. Also known as Chinderah Tavern, The Chindy boasts a big old deck overlooking the widest river in the world (not a fact) and supplies all the cold beer, wine and tasty eats you could wish for on a Sunday afternoon. There’s live music, sunsets if you time it right, and just general non-city good times. Right next door is Cubby Bakehouse you can get yourself some dessert for the drive home.
Where: 156 Chinderah Bay Drive, Chinderah

The Farm, Byron Bay (image supplied)
The Farm, Byron Bay (image supplied)

Byron Region

The Farm Byron Bay
A must visit for everyone (especially anyone with a little person in tow), The Farm is a destination in itself. See how the farm operates and say hi to the animals, and meet the infamous mascots Braveheart the Scottish Highland cow and Bobby the rooster. Collect macadamia nuts from the macadamia trees, have a meal at Three Blue Ducks restaurant, or grab a little something from The Bread Social to eat outside on a picnic rug. There’s a playground for the anklebiters and plenty of beautiful open space to explore.
Where: 11 Ewingsdale Road, Ewingsdale

The Crystal Castle in Mullumbimby
Instagood alert! Sit in an ancient amethyst cave, pose with rare and amazing giant crystals, and wander five hectares of subtropical, crystal-filled Shambhala Gardens and rainforest. You can even touch the World Peace Stupa, a project blessed by the Dalai Lama and join in Crystal Sound Healings at 12pm and 3pm! Grab a bite with a stunning hinterland view at Lotus Café and let the kids run amok in the playground.
Where: 81 Monet Drive, Montecollum

Shambhala Gardens, Crystal Castle (image supplied)
Shambhala Gardens, Crystal Castle (image supplied)

Hotel Brunswick
The heart of beautiful Brunswick Heads, swing in for a drink or a feed at this classic Aussie pub. Somewhat of an institution and a fave far and wide, relax under the beautiful Poinciana trees in the beer garden and soak up the ambience. Always busy on Sundays, if you can push the friendship and stay on till the early evening, you’ll generally be rewarded with live music and an even more awesome vibe. Pub grub at its best.
Where: Mullumbimbi Street, Brunswick Heads

Newrybar Merchants
A collective of creative local artisans and curators of fine goods who are passionate about what they do, this is our jam! Honouring the space and the essence of the Byron Bay Hinterland, Newrybar Merchants enables customers to experience rustic charm effortlessly blended with sophistication within a beautiful and unique retail space. Shop everything from faaarshion, to homewares, to wellness products and everything in between, it’s a must.
Where: 16 Old Pacific Highway, Newrybar

Ivory Waterside (image supplied)
Ivory Waterside (image supplied)

The Tweed

The Ivory Waterside
Barely over the border but for the northern GC folk, it’s a Sunday drive to Tweed Heads so we’ll let this one fly. Recently undergoing a bit of a nip and tuck and overlooking the adjoining marina and picturesque Terra Creek, it’s the ultimate in casual waterside dining. The food is consistently delish and guys, you can even get your rad on with tons of vintage arcade games in Benny’s Arcade. Talk about a one-stop-good-times-shop! Add it to the list.
Where: 156 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads

Wollumbin National Park
This World Heritage-listed national treasure is well worth a look. Previously known as Mt Warning National Park, lose yourself in some of the largest and oldest tracts of sub-tropical rainforest on Earth. Wollumbin, which rises from the park to a height of 1,157 metres above sea level, is a remnant central vent of an ancient volcano and yep, that’s a drawcard right there. Note the Wollumbin (Mount Warning) summit track and the Aboriginal Place remains closed.
Where: About 12km south-west of Murwillumbah off Kyogle Road, Mount Warning

River Terrace, Tweed River House (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
River Terrace, Tweed River House (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Tweed River House
This one is special! From the vantage point of the verdant riverbanks, settled at the tropical foothills of the Tweed Caldera in Murwillumbah, this century-old riverside plantation house has been lovingly restored to maintain its original character and charm. The elegant yet relaxed renovation creates a unique space that reflects the gentle pace of the Northern Rivers, oozing 1930s style with a French twist. They’ve even been nominated for a Chef Hat Award by the Australian Good Food Guide so if the aesthetics aren’t enough to get you there, the nosh will be!
Where: 131 River Street, South Murwillumbah

Baked at Ancora
Another one that’s close by when you’re a bit strapped for time is Baked at Ancora. Believers that sweet treats and waterside picnics go hand in hand, we concur and we can’t get enough of this Parisian style café bakery. From their signature croissants and traditional classics like pain-au-chocolat, to the more unique and inventive flavour combos, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in actual Paris. Well worth the waistline damage.
Where: 118 Wharf St, Tweed Heads 

Interior Wine Wall, Rob Roy Deli & Drinks (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Interior Wine Wall, Rob Roy Deli & Drinks (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre
There’s always something new to discover at the Tweed Regional Gallery, housed in a large, modern, architecturally award-winning building with views to Wollumbin/Mount Warning. Don’t miss the opportunity to see Claude Monet’s painting Meules, milieu du jour [Haystacks, midday] 1890, currently on loan from the National Gallery of Australia (NGA). While you’re there, a meal at the new in-house eats haunt Apex is an absolute non-negotiable. With a stunning outlook and design to reflect the vista, indulge in a unique combo of rustic French patisserie goodies and modern cafe plates with a very ‘now’ pan-Asian twist. Add a cocktail and instant happy place.
Where: 2 Mistral Road, South Murwillumbah

Husk Farm Distillery
Just a hop, skip and a jump over the border, a sneaky visit to the lush Husk grounds is certainly one of the more low effort, high reward outings Gold Coasters have at our fingertips. Our recommendation? Take your tastebuds on a very smooth sip around the signature Husk offerings with a tasting paddle to start. Not only have they mastered treats of the thirst quenching variety, the Husk Farm kitchen offers up a selection of top notch eats to rival their signature spirits selection.
Where: Dulguigan Rd, North Tumbulgum

Words by Bianca Trathen.

Dining room at Apex Dining (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Dining room at Apex Dining (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

The 2022 Annual Bar & Distillery Round Up

Local, Burleigh (image supplied)
Local, Burleigh (image supplied)

After slugging it out at work all week, there’s not much that could persuade us to skip a night in with takeaway and ‘Pamela, a Love Story’. Unless of course your crew are heading to a new bar or distillery, by which case it’s hoo-roo jim-jams and hello LBD.

2022 was certainly a year for epic sips spots and we challenge you to say that after a few chardys. We’ve penned the holy grail of last year’s newest power players on the GC watering hole scene, so grab your Berocca and get ready to experience 15 of the best.

Malibu Racquet Club, Bureigh Heads (image supplied)
Malibu Racquet Club, Bureigh Heads (image supplied)

BARS

The Malibu Racquet Club
Get ‘served’ like a VIP at this mid-century Southern Cali inspired A-lister. Perfect for a sunset sip, pre-dinner drink and/or sophisticated Modern Australian meal, guests can sit outside and enjoy the beautiful southern GC breezes, park inside at a table or private booth, or simply pull up a pew at the bar. Become a member and unlock a VVIP menu, with bottles ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 #A-ListerFeels.
Where: 1740 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

FINEPRINTCO Art Bar
Sip on a specially crafted artisan cocktail as you admire classic and contemporary works (#HiSlimAaarons) at FINEPRINTCO Art Bar. Expertly fusing a gallery space with a private bar, its vibrant yet restrained aesthetic allows guests to appreciate the art and the elegance of the venue design. Also the perfect option for unique and customised private events. Do.Not.Miss.
Where: Brickworks, Shop 302, 107 Ferry Road, Southport

FINEPRINTCO Art Bar, Southport (image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
FINEPRINTCO Art Bar, Southport (image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Local
Imagine a modern, lush, insta-worthy upmarket pub with a blend of classic and refined lunch and dinner options, late night drinks, and even a breakfast menu #NotYourAveragePub. Nailing contemporary pub-grub and a coastal industrial chic aesthetic, it also houses Burleigh’s only beer garden and a tinnie bar #NuffSaid.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

La Luna Beach Club
The newest addition to arguably THE hottest (or coolest…) venue in town is La Luna Beach Club, Australia’s very first floating beach club. Modelled on life aboard a luxury yacht, imagine a sparking Mediterranean pool complete with sun lounges, plush day beds, and private cabanas. Take a dip, order a cocktail, rejuvenate, and luxuriate, before enjoying a selection of carefully curated European eats at the Beach Club’s exclusive MĀRE restaurant.
Where: Pool Pontoon, Marina Mirage, 74 Sea World Drive, Main Beach

La Luna Beach Club, Main Beach (image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
La Luna Beach Club, Main Beach (image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

The Beverly
Taking over from our fave of yester-year (Melba’s – upstairs), you’ll find this luxe venue thrusting us straight into the LA limelight. Paying homage to the chic coolness that oozes from the bars, clubs, and venues from La La Land, everything from the rich green, blush pink and gold-hued fit out, inane cocktails, live music, and ‘that’ baby grand piano are on point. Joey Lamattina, you’ve done it again #props.
Where: 46 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Little Vine Room
Vine means wine which means LET’S GO! An intimate space decked out in delicious deep green and apricot hues, we are fangirling hard for this place. Work your way through the beverage list curated by esteemed cocktail kween and local icon Breeana Erica, and enjoy gourmet Toasties, Jaffles, Cheese and Charcuterie Plates. Perfect for a girly catch up, drinks with your other half, or a private function to remember.
Where: 27-31 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Waters

Fu Manchu Oriental Bar (image supplied)
Fu Manchu Oriental Bar (image supplied)

Fu Manchu Oriental Kitchen
Think oriental opulence meets British colonial plantation vibes…with a ten outta ten sips and eats experience. Recently undergoing a reno to inject more femininity and warmth, the new black London shopfront welcomes you into the cosy Fu Bar. Upstairs you’ll find a breathtaking a la carte dining area, an intimate private dining space, and a functions area. With chandeliers, a tropical jungle-esk wall mural, leafy ceilings, and exotic wallpapers, it’s Chevron’s best kept secret.
Where: 2/44 Thomas Drive, Chevron Island

Metabar
Oozing sophisticated cool with its New York basement feels, ‘it girl’ curves, and luxer than luxe accents, Metabar is an eats, drinks and events spot like no other. There’s indoor and outdoor dining for tapas share plates and pizza, an exclusive private mezzanine space, and luxury booth dining. The beverages are off the charts, plus there’s an area dedicated purely to live music, the secret sauce positioning Metabar as one of our region’s fiercest venues.
Where: 64 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

Cloud Miner & Moon Shot, Metabar Coolangatta (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Cloud Miner & Moon Shot, Metabar Coolangatta (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

DISTILLERIES

White Oat Distillery
Helping reinvent the once sleepier end of the Coast is Biggera Waters’ White Oat Distillery. Pumping out top-notch gins like a boss, the ‘Covid baby’ of three GC mates has quickly become a destination in itself. With award-winning distiller Tudor Duxbury’s fresh take on classic tastes, an on-fleek fit-out, and ‘wise but cool with a hint of old school’ vibe, it’s a must-visit.
Where: 13-14, 211 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters

White Oat Distillery, Interior (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
White Oat Distillery, Interior (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Cauldron Distillery
This 18-acre working distillery is the darling of the Scenic Rim, featuring an established vineyard, lush rolling green meadows and a Prohibition style gin and cocktail bar. Earning a nod in Lonely Planet’s top ten destinations to visit in 2022, you won’t just fine amazing gins and Queensland inspired craft bevvies, but also mouth-watering Modern Australian tapas with native ingredients. Or keep it simple with a BYO picnic rug amongst the vineyards and complimentary lawn games.
Where: Cauldron Distillery, 89 Cauldron Estate, 123 Hartley Road, Tamborine Mountain

Winchester Distillery
Available for functions only and the ultimate IYKYK, this speakeasy distillery tucked away in the burbs nails the intimate, moody, industrial vibe. Accommodating up to 120 bods, if offers exclusive access to phenomenal small batch artisanal liquors and liqueurs. Producing spirits by hand (even the ethyl alcohol, flavours, colours and most of their tinctures), you won’t find their booze anywhere else. Trust you gintuition and check it out.
Where: 38 Kendor Street, Arundel

Burleigh Barrels Brewery, interior (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Burleigh Barrels Brewery, interior (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Burleigh Barrels
Made for and by the locals in the heart of Burleigh, this 2022 newcomer achieved cult status at the speed of light. Just a 10-minute walk from bustling James Street, hook yourself up with crisp lagers, caramel amber ales and ladies, if you’re all about a vino or cocktail (duh), there’s plenty of those. Also a smokehouse (drool), the flavours in their food are ‘pitcher’ perfect.
Where: 3-4/105 West Burleigh Road, Burleigh Heads

Two Mates Taphouse
With a name like Two Mates Taphouse, you just know the place is going to be a big, warm, amber ale-infused hug…and you’d be bang on the money. Brother venue to the Lismore Two Mates Taphouse, it was born from a love of families, mateship, and bringing communities together. The vibe is welcoming, approachable and relaxed, and it even boasts a fully operational kitchen #NoFoodTrucksHere.
Where: 2/235 Varsity Parade, Varsity Lakes

Two Mates Taphouse, Varsity Lakes (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Two Mates Taphouse, Varsity Lakes (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Hound & Stag Brewing Co.
The latest in a string of venues fostering the northern GC’s long awaited coming-of-age has just opened across the road from Harbour Town – and it’s a clanger! Hound & Stag Brewing Co is its name and if you’re a fan of the almighty amber ale (or any other boozy beverage), a top-notch feed and a bloody good time, this one’s for you.
Where: 13 Wrights Place, Arundel

Hound & Stag Brewing Co, Arundel (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Hound & Stag Brewing Co, Arundel (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Straddie Brewing Co
Just across the water, you’ll find this three-level architecturally designed showstopper. The ground floor welcomes you with double-height glass windows and the awe-inspiring brewery. Up the stairs you’ll find a 90-seat taproom with eye-popping art installations, and the top deck featuring panoramic views of the BrisVegas CBD skyline, the Glasshouse Mountains, and the stunning Redlands Coast #ShowUsYourSunsets. Plus there’s a menu with plenty of fancy local seafood inspired sharesies.
Where: 5 Junner Street, Dunwich, North Stradbroke Island

Words by Bianca Trathen.

Straddie Brewing Co., North Stradbroke Island (image supplied)
Straddie Brewing Co., North Stradbroke Island (image supplied)
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