Teppanyaki, omakase and more, Arakawa returns in style.
Teppanyaki, omakase and more, Arakawa returns in style.
Forget passport stamps, your next Japanese dining adventure is right here on the Gold Coast. Arakawa, the beloved Japanese restaurant at RACV Royal Pines Resort has had a glow-up, and trust us, you’re going to want a front-row seat. This Gold Coast institution has returned with a sleek new look, elevated menus, and a dining experience that’s nothing short of immersive. Think teppanyaki theatrics, exquisite sashimi, and omakase artistry – all wrapped in a setting that effortlessly blends tradition with modern sophistication. If you haven’t been to Arakawa lately, you’re seriously missing out.
From the moment you step inside, it’s clear that this isn’t just dinner – it’s a whole vibe. Striking murals of Japanese women in traditional dress set the tone, while textured décor and moody flooring contrast with crisp table settings and delicate serve ware. And if you think the interiors are impressive, just wait until the food hits the table. Every dish is plated with precision, every cut of sushi and sashimi is intentional, and every bite is a masterclass in balance – flavour, texture, and aesthetics working in perfect harmony.
Now, let’s talk about the real stars of the show, the menus. Consider them a love letter to Japanese cuisine. You’ve got three main options: à la carte, omakase, and teppanyaki set menus, plus a separate (and surprisingly refined) children’s menu. The à la carte lineup spans everything from snacks to sushi, tempura to grills, and let’s just say – we have our eye on the Moreton Bay bug with spiced mayo, sea herb and fennel slaw, as well as the Kakuni braised pork belly with umeshu compressed apple and shiso. It’s fancy and we love it.
The true heart of Arakawa is its teppanyaki. If you like your dinner with a side of flames (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), the teppanyaki table is where you need to be. Skilled chefs turn cooking into a high-energy performance, flipping ingredients mid-air, setting fire to creations, and making sure your taste buds get just as much of a thrill as your eyes.
With four set menus – Akane, Murasaki, Sakura, and Vegetarian – plus a kids’ option, you’ll be treated to sizzling hotplates, expert knife skills, and a flavour explosion in every bite. We’re talking beef tenderloin with sesame yakiniku sauce, Hokkaido scallops with truffle soy butter, and, of course, a generous side of fried rice and ikura caviar. The only downside? Having to choose.
Whether you’re in the mood for an intimate tatami table experience or a front-row seat at the teppanyaki station, Arakawa delivers. Sophisticated but never stuffy, this is the kind of place that works for date night, group celebrations, or just a spontaneous treat-yourself moment. And while a trip to Japan might not be on the cards just yet, this is about as close as you’ll get, without the airfare.
Where: RACV Royal Pines Resort, Ross Street, Benowa
Phone: (07) 5597 8700
Book today
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY RACV ROYAL PINES RESORT
Ready to have your dinner flipped, tossed, and sizzled right before your eyes? Teppanyaki is the ultimate foodie performance art; part dinner, part high-flying knife skills, and 100% delicious. Whether you’re dodging a flying prawn, catching a bowl of fried rice mid-air, or just here for the flame-fuelled theatrics, the GC has no shortage of teppanyaki joints to get your grill on.
From elegant fine dining to more casual interactive feasts, we’ve rounded up the best spots to get your teppan fix.
Chopsticks at the ready!
Misono
Inviting us to embrace the energy of Japanese artistry, it’s a resounding “HAI” from us. Misono’s teppan experience brings an inescapable energy and delight from the highly skilled teppan chef’s intricate knife work and interactive theatrics. The celebrated elements artfully manage to retain the JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa’s elevated atmosphere and dining with an elevation of surprise and excitement. The best.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Murasaki Teppanyaki
Murasaki Teppanyaki Broadbeach is the ultimate Japanese dining experience – minus the jetlag which we love for us all. Located in the heart of Broadbeach, no matter your love language (sashimi, wagyu tatiki or teppanyaki), we’re taking a big ole’ tickity tick in every box. If you’re after a hearty and entertaining feed (extra points for the vivacious teppanyaki chefs), this is The.Place.
Where: The Wave Resort, 91 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Arigatou Teppanyaki
A fiery feast with a side of showmanship – Arigatou Teppanyaki has been bringing the sizzle to Broadbeach for 22 years. With flicks, tricks, and a whole lot of flavour, the chefs here turn cooking into an art form, dazzling diners with their knife skills and signature teppan theatrics. Expect juicy teriyaki chicken, buttery garlic steak, and the freshest seafood, all cooked to perfection right before your eyes. Pair it with a handcrafted cocktail or traditional sake, and you’ve got yourself a dining experience that’s as exciting as it is delicious.
Where: 97 Surf Parade, Shop 7, Aria Building, Broadbeach
Hatsuhana Japanese Restaurant
I mean, “Hatsuhuna” is basically Gold Coast speak for the best teppanyaki experience #AmIWrongNoI’mNot. If you live on the GC, tell me you’ve been here without telling me you’ve been here. This multi-award-winning fave offers an unforgettable experience every time, with their fresh seafood and flavoursome meats served straight from the Teppanyaki grill. Cue the drool.
Where: Sea World Resort, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Arakawa
Authentic cuisine, striking murals, dark tones, meticulous plating and sorry, did we mention THE most legit Japanese nosh?!? Every dish, whether it be sushi, sashimi, or teppanyaki hits with purpose, blending technique and creativity. Sophisticated, but far from stiff, Arakawa is perfect for any occasion – fit for a casual yet elegant meal or an exciting celebration…with epic yum factor.
Where: RACV Royal Pines Resort, Ross Street, Benowa
Matsuka Teppanyaki
A whole new pocket of foodie goodness has erupted on the central/northern GC and Matasuka Teppanyaki is at the core! As if the food isn’t enough (it is), the sea breeze and calm views make Matsuzaka a unicorn of relaxation and fine teppa fare. Whether you’re seeking a romantic alfresco dinner or just an excuse to get in front of the teppan table, you will not be disappointed.
Where: 300 Marine Parade, Labrador
Kamikaze Teppanyaki & Bar
With over 10 years of experience, Kamikaze Teppanyaki & Bar is a pioneer offering a selection of the finest meat and freshest seafood for an A+ grade teppanyaki experience. Add a contemporary, funky atmosphere, and it somehow makes teppanyaki even more cool (and let’s be honest, it’s always been a vibe so we’re paying attention). If you live on the far north side – or even if you don’t – it’s a no-brainer.
Where: Westfield Coomera, 103 Foxwell Road, Coomera
KooKoo Teppanyaki and Lounge Bar
“Kooiiiiiiii” teppan loving Aussies coz KooKoo is calling! Don’t be mislead by the opening pun (we can’t help it. It’s in our DNA), KooKoo Teppanyaki is a delicious Japanese dining experience, operating since 2008. A fave with locals and visitors alike, KooKoo Teppanyaki is a place where the knives are sharp, but the teppanyaki skills are even sharper. Do yourself a favour and just go!
Where: 3120 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
SAIKO Teppanyaki
SAIKO serves up a dining experience that will delight the whole family, but is not to be missed by foodies looking for a top teppanyaki fix. Conveniently located at The Kitchens in Robina Town Centre, it’s the perfect stop-in with the kiddos during a day of shopping, or for a delicious date with your lad or lady love. Oh, how we love a multi-tasker.
Where: The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina
Asami Teppanyaki & Cocktail Bar
If you’ve been craving elevated grilled Japanese food with a side of epic cocktails (umm, yeah, please inquire within (insert happy and drooling emojis). The beautiful staff and talented chefs will dazzle your senses with their culinary prowess, transforming fresh ingredients into mouthwatering dishes. Teppanyaki enthusiasts (#us), this where it’s at.
Where: 9 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise
Words by Bianca Trathen
As an adult there’s one thing that should, but often doesn’t, take priority over all else – self care. Primarily due to the old adage that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Which is easier said than done in a world that rarely stops for a breath.
Luckily there are places to help you do exactly that and the very best of them is One Spa at RACV Royal Pines. A luxurious day spa set amidst tranquil greenery, One Spa offers a stunning array of treatments designed to allow you to forget the outside world even exists for a while and fill that cup of yours right to the brim.
Excitingly, One Spa has recently added a Rejuvenation Lounge to its repertoire for additional relaxation purposes with the added benefit of boosting your overall health. The Rejuvenation Lounge is designed to work in conjunction with any of the incredible treatments on offer and includes several soul-soothing options.
The Infrared Sauna boasts unrivalled benefits for mind and body including flushing out toxins, improving skin tone, pain relief, improving cardiovascular function and boosting circulation. The way it works is the infrared rays safely penetrate the skin, circulating heat and positively altering the body’s tissue. It’s warm and cosy, you’ll get a little sweaty and wander out feeling as though you’ve taken a trip to heaven.
The Rejuvenation Lounge also has a Somadome Meditation Pod which is an individual pod that uses binaural beats (high frequency sounds) to pop you into a state of ultimate bliss. The pod also uses colour and magnetic therapies, blending the three modalities to create an experience unique to your specific needs.
In case that’s not enough healing for you, the Rejuvenation Lounge offers an O2 Breathing Chair that will guide you through a series of breathing exercises to increase your energy while leaving you feeling calm and rested.
Which is obviously the dream scenario when you’ve already experienced one (or several) of One Spa’s incredible therapies like locally inspired rituals including a combination of body exfoliation and hydration wrap (one of many), a unique water therapy or a delicious full body massage to name just a few of the luxe offerings.
One Spa’s new space is truly the trifecta when you’re in need of an escape from everyday life, a haven for detoxification and recovery and the perfect space to give yourself a gift that will ensure benefits for a long time after you leave.
Do yourself many favours and book a treatment with the addition of time in the Rejuvenation Lounge right now.
Bookings are essential. To reserve your treatment, phone 07 5597 8446 or email [email protected]. For more information and a full treatment brochure, click here.
Why not delight your special someone with the perfect indulgence by gifting them a One Spa Gift Card? Treat them to an unforgettable spa experience that will leave them feeling refreshed and rejuvenated and you well and truly in the good books.
Where: RACV Royal Pines Resort, Ross Street, Benowa
When: 9am – 5pm, Monday – Sunday
Website: www.racv.com.au/rpronespa
Instagram: @onesparacv
Words by Kirra Smith
STORY SPONSORED BY RACV ROYAL PINES RESORT.
Have you stayed at RACV Royal Pines Resort? Even if you have, you haven’t.
If that sounds entirely confusing, it does, but all will make sense once we spill the tea on this local legend’s luxe new look.
Synonymous with five star feels, authentic culinary experiences, and a championship golf course, RACV Royal Pines Resort was already an A-lister. But, to keep up with changing trends and maintain its position as one of our city’s finest, a chic makeover was in order, and this just speaks to us on SO many levels #CanRelate #CanWeHaveOneToo.
Recently undergoing some seriously sophisticated sprucing that would make any discerning resort-goer’s heart go #PadamPadam, RACV Royal Pines Resort 2.0 has arrived! Yes friends, we’re talking a refined refurb so on point, we’re dropping everything and booking a bougie staycay stat!
So, what’s changed? More like what hasn’t changed and no, we’re not trying to confuse you again. We’re talking lifts, lobbies, corridors, doors, room interiors, and holy glow-up Batman – this is legit The Full Monty. Inside each luxurious room and suite you’ll find a timelessly elegant and meticulous remodel, capturing the true essence of coastal glamour. Still paying homage to the resort’s rich heritage, it seamlessly blends legacy with on-trend colours, furnishings, and overall design. Boom!
It feels like the outside has been brought inside, and not in a ‘oops, I have mud on my shoes’ kinda way, but rather a perfectly conceptualized, styled, and beautifully executed mirroring of the resort grounds. And, being the pin-up for breathtaking landscape design with more decadent greenery than you can poke a perfectly pruned palm frond at (try saying that a few times), this was a power move from the resort’s interiors team.
The new colour palette is goals, featuring wood, brass, and stone finishes, paired with soothing earthy tones; sandy hues, cloudy greens and of course, ‘dem fresh foliage greens. Contrasted with crisp whites, the choice of hues is equal parts relaxing and Pinterest-board worthy #HomeRenoInspo.
The spacious King and Twin Rooms, Spa and Executive Rooms feel softer and more subdued, creating an ambiance of tranquility. Inviting us to retreat into the sanctuary of our room while feeling a connection to the natural world, our reply is a unanimous HECK YES. This is precisely what we want from a high calibre resort in 2023, signaling a new era for this GC institution.
With no less than seven exclusive eats and sips venue to experience, a 27-hole golf course, kids’ waterpark, and award-winning event venues, it’s an eleven-outta-ten. And don’t even get us started on OneSpa, the crème de la crème of day spas and cherry on top.
Come see for yourself how the gold standard of hospitality has been redefined with this remarkable transformation. To find out more and book your stay, go here.
As an extra special bonus RACV Royal Pines have a launch staycation $249* package, which includes accommodation, complimentary upgrade to a Superior room*, daily breakfast and late checkout.
Valid for stays now until 22 December, 2023.
Hurry, offer ends 31 August, 2023.
Book your staycation package here.
When: Now!
Where: Ross Street, Benowa
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY RACV ROYAL PINES RESORT.
