Because when was Mexican ever a bad idea?
Because when was Mexican ever a bad idea?
It’s fair to say we’ve had a bit of rain lately. As Gold Coasters, the outdoor lifestyle is engrained in our psyche; so when we can’t get outside and feel the sun on our face — and a margarita in our hand — suffice to say we’re liable to crack the sad.
It is, however, only a matter of time before our glorious weather returns. And as the air begins to turn crisper and the sun begins to take a shorter path through our southern sky, it’s time to explore those eateries with open-air spaces where you can hang out enjoying some great food, sipping alluring drinks and actually wear some layers for a change.
Backyard Café in Nobby Beach is already the locals’ favourite place to grab breakfast and/or coffee after a morning dip. Not just content with satiating all your morning needs though, the guys here are excited to bring themselves into the nighttime food realm with their Friday and Saturday night Backyard Cantina menu. Serving from 3pm – 10pm on both nights means adequate time to swing in either for a much-needed early Friday knock-off or a leisurely Saturday night with your crew.
The menu is hinged on family-friendly tex-mex style Mexican cuisine. Nothing is super-hot, and whilst everything is super tasty, it’s likely dishes you’re comfortably familiar with. Fair to say, it’s scrumptious food with little fuss.
Choose your fillings and then choose your style of dish — it’s that simple. From Loaded Quesadillas, Nachos and even Taco Platters, through to house-made hot Churros with chocolate sauce. Perfect for those with a sweet tooth that won’t take no for an answer.
Plenty of sharing options and a dedicated kid’s section means Backyard Cantina aims to welcome everyone. The vibe is relaxed, and the back lawn area is the epitome of what an outside eating space on the Gold Coast is all about: a sun garden during the day and fairy light lit utopia of conversation and mingling in the evening. The kind of space our big city-dwelling cousins normally fight over — aren’t we a spoilt bunch!?
The drinks list is a savvy admixture of Mexican beers, Australian wines and a cleverly put-together cocktail list. Showcasing the handiwork of the Gold Coast’s ever-popular Mr Consistent cocktail mixers, there’s a flavour for everyone. Rest assured people, your drinks will be delicious and flawless every time you order a new round.
Now that the clouds have dispersed, we say grab a friend or two and enjoy yourself some south-of-the-border flavours at Backyard Cantina. Plus, are we right in saying a slice of fine Autumn weather is long overdue?
LOCATION: 17 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach
WHEN: Open 3pm to 10pm Friday and Saturday evenings
Words and photos by Alex Mitcheson.
Here’s some news that will likely incite happy dancing across the Gold Coast.
Nobby Beach has a new backyard bar and restaurant and it’s the work of someone whose venues you already know and love.
Yes friends, the newbie is brought to you by none other than Scott Imlach and his team at The Imlach Group, owners of local favourites Hideaway Kitchen and Bar, Mr Hizola’s, Bine Beer Bar, Nightjar and Nightcap.
Clearly a group of people who don’t like sleeping but hey, works for the rest of us.
The new spot is now open where it is absolutely likely to be overrun by revellers who don’t mind sipping beers in the sunshine (all of us).
Found within the space formerly occupied by beautiful The Yard Café, the new venue is a coffee shop for the time being, but will include a popup backyard-style bar and restaurant and seriously, why didn’t we think of that?
It’s called The Backyard Café and it sees the crew head back into the breakfast scene after seven years. Their original breakfast chefs are back to join the team and both Bowen Choat (ex Barchino Head Chef) and Danial Garbes are stoked (obviously) to be working with the Imlach Hospitality Group again.
GUYS remember how good Barchino was?
So what’s on The Backyard Cafe brekky menu? Your old favourites such as the Classic Eggs Benny and Big Brekky Burger make an appearance, in addition to some new and exciting ones.
The Southern Style Baked Eggs with crushed tomato, black beans, spices, roast pumpkin, free range eggs, baby spinach and avocado are a vego’s dream.
While the Healthy Burrito Plate with fluffy scrambled egg, brown rice, black beans, fresh basil tomato, totilla, avocado, sambal and salsa verde will put a smile on the dile of the fit tribe of Nobby’s.
The outdoor space will be doubled in size with picnic tables and plenty of space for the entire family.
The plan is to trade at night too, offering themed nights with as many different cuisines from around the world as possible.
Guest chefs and pop-up food trucks will also be on offer until something permanent is in place.
The Backyard Café opened on Wednesday August 5th and has already brought together that Nobby’s community vibe we love so much.
They’ve done it again Gold Coasters, bring on the laidback backyard feels.
LOCATION: 17 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach
WHEN: Open everyday from 6am to 2pm
When it comes to heartfelt and delicious food with little fuss, we imagine most people will find themselves siding with Mexican as one of their all-time favourite cuisines. What is there not to love?
Montezuma’s Mexican restaurant in its former spot in the Theatre Arcade of Burleigh was, well, a bit of an institution. For a little over 40 years, they were the go-to spot for many people’s taco and guacamole fix. When the proposed demolition of the arcade began to do the rounds not so long ago, most Montezuma fans began to shed a tear. But the owners had other plans…
Find yourself in the back lanes of Burleigh and you will come across the reincarnated venue, occupying a prime position on the corner as you come out of the Big B arcade and head up towards Park Avenue. You really cannot miss it!
Being perpetually drenched in the afternoon sun, this could very well be your new place to grab tacos (with margaritas of course) for a lunchtime treat.
The interior remains true to the spirit of Montezuma’s with a groovy Aztec/Mexican feel which is by no means cheesy; certainly not as cheesy as their Queso Fundido dip boasting a blend of melted cheeses, onion, peppers and a stack of toasted corn chips. Perfect for sharing.
Once the ball is rolling, we recommend you tackle yourself a combination plate, or better yet a taco platter all with the freshest ingredients and tender as they come meats for you to choose from. Even that always-hungry friend will be satisfied.
For all you vegans and gluten-free folks out there, fear not, these guys have you well and truly covered with a great selection of dishes such as gluten-free tortillas, vegan nachos and the list goes on. Not just the standard one or two picks for you to choose from! Hallelujah!
Keeping yourself hydrated is a serious job, so we highly suggest you try one of the array of margarita’s on offer there, which include: traditional, frozen or blended and a long list of flavours to choose from including bubble gum — yep that’s right. Warning, you may have more than just the one though.
For a refined Mexican experience with a dose of sunshine and genuine hospitality, be sure to check these guys out next time you’re in Burleigh Heads.
LOCATION: 1/19 Park Avenue (in the alleyway from James Street to Park Ave), Burleigh Heads
HOURS: Tuesday to Sunday – Lunch from 11.30am – 2pm and Dinner from 5.30pm – 8.30pm
We’ve lost count of all of the best beachside spots on the Coast where you can eat, drink and shop your little heart away, but one of the ol’ favourites has had a comeback and we’re all here for it.
Nobby’s is well and truly in its slay era and to be honest, we can’t get enough. Locals have loved the beachside suburb forever and to be fair, so have we, but there’s been a surge of seriously epic new venues that have made us fall in love all over again.
We’ve taken the task of trying out the 16 reasons why locals can’t get enough of Nobby’s – you’re welcome – so you can see for yourself what all the fuss is about.
The Oxley 1823
You’ve no doubt seen it pretty much everywhere (guilty), but have you actually visited The Oxley yet? It’s been one of Nobby’s most anticipated new arrivals for as long as we can remember, and we think it’s safe to say now it’s well and truly living up to expectations. They’ve got brekky and lunch covered with the crew at Sunkist, coffee on tap at Buoy and everything you need from groceries, fresh meats and seafood, flowers and made to order juices covered at The Oxley Village Grocer, Butcher and Sub Station. A little birdy also told us there are even more goodies opening a little later this year, so watch this space.
Where: 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach
Holliday Coffee
Good vibes, great coffee and a seriously strong jaffle game(!!) – what’s not to love about Holliday? No seriously, our caffeine addiction is being single handedly fuelled by these guys. It’s pretty much always buzzing – what is always a good sign if you ask us. Follow the smell of the freshly ground coffee beans, grab a seat outside (our personal favourite spot) and spoilt yourself with a little treaty. Go on, you’ve earned it.
Where: 2251 Gold Coast Highway (corner of Wave St), Nobby Beach
Franc Jrs
Okay big call but this may just be one of the best pizza joints on the Gold Coast and Franc-ly, it’s about time they spread the love to other parts of the city because why should Coolangatta have all the fun? The menu has all the signatures from the Cooly store and you can choose to eat in and soak up the vibes or grab and go – the perfect addition to a picnic on the beach if you ask us. Our favourite part of ordering to-go? Sipping on a cheeky frozen marg while you wait.
Where: Shop 2/32 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach
Alfred’s Apartment
Mermaid’s loss is Nobby’s gain because you best believe we’ve been living at Alfred’s since the OG started calling its new address home. Still the same vibe you love from the original Alfred’s, the space now has a schmick industrial fit out, ripper coffee and, of course, all the merch that we know you can’t get enough of. If you’re off the coffee train you’ll want to get around their viral strawberry matcha.
Where: 2225 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Fosters Bakery
No one does pies or baked goods quite like Foster’s Bakery, they’re famous for a reason and known for delivering that classic bakery feel of yesteryear. The ultimate spot for a pie (you know you love them) or a jam donut loaded with sugary goodness, we’re nostalgic just thinking about it.
Where: Shop 1/2227 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Tropic Vice
This place is a VIBE. The sun-lit rooftop is the perfect setting to sip on signature cocktails & graze on a unique “Florribean” inspired menu, combining flavours of the Caribbean and South America. The space was stylishly updated last year, still paying homage to the iconic Palm Springs and Miami influence, it’s one of those spots you just want to sip and stay all day.
Where: Upstairs 2215 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach
About a Girl
One of our favourite little gems in Nobby’s is of course, About a Girl boutique. They’ve got the perfect mix of wardrobe staples and current trending pieces, they’ve got gorgeous linen sets, minis, maxis and so much more for every occasion, as well as a curated selection of hand-picked homewares you didn’t know you absolutely need.
Where: 2/2211 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Tayta Nikkei
This Nobby newcomer brought a taste of Nikkei cuisine to the Gold Coast. With its intimate setting boasting 60 seats, Tayta Nikkei exudes a dark and moody ambiance, complemented by traditional Peruvian colors and patterns. The menu showcases a delightful array of seafood and ceviche-style specialties, inviting guests on a culinary journey like no other.
Where: 2/2243 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Mexicali
You had us at Mexican. We challenge you to find someone who doesn’t love a good Mexican feed… Go on, we’ll wait. Calling Nobby’s home for probably longer than most of us have, Mexicali never fails to bring the vibes (and the bevs) all year long. Once you make your way upstairs it’s seriously like entering the ultimate secret spot, if you close your eyes for a second it’s almost like you’re actually in Tulum. Once you’ve knocked back a few tacos and cocktails, don’t forget to snap the iconic stair shot as you exit – you know what we’re talking about, don’t lie.
Where: Level 1, 2223 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach
Bine Bar & Dining
Let’s talk Bine. Specialising in craft beer and perfectly matched food, and…need we say more? With 8 rotating taps, a bunch of different bottled beers, a selection of wines and mouth-watering cocktail options matched with a modest yet decadent menu, there are plenty of reasons to love it….and come back again and again.
Where: 1/28 Chairlift Ave, Nobby Beach
Okazu
Now there’s a decent dose of Japanese going around our hood, but we can never get enough. Have any of these sushi bars or poke bowl dreamboats failed us? The answer is a hard no. Okazu is no exception, this convenient grab and go spot featuring Donburi, Okonomiyaki and Sushi Rolls is as fresh as it is delicious and it has us coming back every day.
Where: 2223 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach
BSKT Cafe
Ahh BSKT, you are simply the gift that keeps on giving. The menu just keeps delivering year on year and honestly, if you haven’t been here yet are you even a true Gold Coaster? Consistently voted one of the best tables in town, there is not a single dish that doesn’t hit a home run.
Where: 4 Lavarack Rd, Nobby Beach
Nobbys Shack
If health food is your (sugar-free) jam, one would hope you’ve cottoned on to The Shack Superfood Café and if not, it’s about time you convert. With tasty eco-friendly meals like smoothies, acai bowls and wraps in a breezy, non-pretentious environment, the brand spanking new version of the previous fave The Shack Superfood Café, lives up to its predecessor’s high standards…and then some.
Where: 2241 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach
Cambus Wallace
A nautical-themed rum and whisky bar delivering old school service and quality, it’s a long-standing crowd-pleaser for good reason. The space is low-lit, close-knit and always pumping. Swing in for some delish share plates, a drink or two and soak up the intimate ambience. Live music with a side of gin and fresh squeezed apple juice? Name a more iconic duo, we’ll wait…
Where: 4/2237 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach
SOMM Wine Store
Yeah we’ve talked a lot about foody joints (how unlike us – said no-one ever) but there is absolutely no denying that SOMM Wine store is a firm local favourite of the vino variety. SOMM (aka us) might even say it’s the only place you should be exploring to find your favourite drop. Owned by husband and wife duo Joe and Natalie, their backstory is reflected in the carefully curated wines begging to occupy real estate at your next dinner party. Specialising in boutique wineries, their wine experts will help you find a winner every time.
Where: 2245 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach
That mural
Speaking of Mexicali and epic art (and no, we’re not talking about the food this time), a much-loved part of the Nobbys highway strip is the eye-catching mural adorning one side of the restaurant in all its bright-hued glory. Designed and painted by local legend Luke Day, the colourful creation and all its pinky bluey goodness is THE spot to snap the most aesthetic insta shot you could wish for. Say cheese…or churros!
Where: The north side of Mexicali (you won’t miss it)
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.
