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Mangia magic

Bar Monte raises the bar on Italian cuisine.

Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)

Over the past few years, Miami has transformed from a small industrial suburb nestled beside bold and bustling Burleigh, into its own thriving cultural hub buzzing with culinary gems and creativity. Now, its food scene has hit a new high with the arrival of an exceptional Italian dining spot. It’s called Bar Monte, and it’s already making its mark in Miami.

Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)

Bar Monte is the brainchild of hospitality legends Lorenzo Toscani, Kim Stephen and James Sutherland. Kim and James, are the dynamic duo behind popular ventures such as Light Years, The Smoking Camel, Pixie Food & Wine and Moonlight Hibachi & Wine Bar, bringing a wealth of business savvy to the table.

Bistecca steak, Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Bistecca steak, Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)

Lorenzo, with over a decade of experience managing top-tier spots like Caffe’ e Cucina in Melbourne and Pixie Italian in Byron Bay, is no stranger to creating memorable dining experiences. Together, they’ve created a space that strikes a perfect balance between high-end sophistication and relaxed coastal charm.

Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)

The design of Bar Monte, led by Will Rathgeber of Studio Plenty, mirrors the restaurant’s thoughtful approach to dining. The space is stylish yet inviting, with wine bottles surrounding the dining space, transporting you to a trattoria in Italy, with a modern twist.

Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)

Head chef Nicolo’ Meani is the culinary force behind Bar Monte, and his impressive resume speaks for itself. From his early days training at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Monza to his time with the iconic Nobu in Ibiza, Meani’s journey has taken him across the globe. Now, with his focus on Italian cuisine at Bar Monte, he’s blending international influences with fresh, local ingredients, delivering a menu that’s as bold as it is delizioso.

Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)

Speaking of the menu, Bar Monte isn’t your average Italian eatery. While many Italian restaurants lean towards expansive menus, Bar Monte keeps things sleek and sophisticated.

Start your culinary journey with a fresh and oozy Burrata complemented with Spicy Nduja And Cashew Pesto, Basil Oil and Grilled Bread. Or indulge your taste buds in a decadent Eclair filled with Chicken Liver Parfait And Cherry. 

Linguine di Mare al Cartoccio, Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Linguine di Mare al Cartoccio, Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)

Pasta lovers will swoon over Rigatoni, Vodka Sauce, Nduja and Stracciatella, while seafood aficionados can dive into Linguine di Mare al Cartoccio brimming with Clams, Mussels, King Prawn and Calamari.

Expertly crafted dishes like Bistecca steak lovingly coated in Porcini Rub, Onion and Marrow Butter will have the whole table giving it a chef’s kiss.

Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)

Pair your meal with one of the signature cocktails – perhaps a vodka concoction with salted passionfruit, peach and fresh lemon juice – and you’ve got a match made in culinary heaven. Salute to that!

Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)

With the wine list curated by world-renowned sommelier Andrea Martinisi, it’s no surprise that Bar Monte is quickly becoming a go-to for wine lovers. No need to wine about your options here – it’s all vino perfection!

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is one spot you’ll want to pasta by and stay awhile.

Where: No.3 Mountain View Ave, Miami
When: Wednesday – Thursday 4:30pm–10pm. Friday, Saturday 12pm–10pm, Sunday 12pm–9pm

Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Mathilde Bouby

House Made Focaccia, Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
House Made Focaccia, Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)

Miami’s meow-vellous new brewery

Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

In a very exciting Gold Coast first, a beer bar dedicated to Japanese brews has opened in Miami and it’s already a firm favourite amongst the locals. Roji Cat is vibrant, fresh and exciting and it’s perfectly at home, next to stalwart fave Granddad Jacks, on Lemana Lane.

Food at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Food at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Reminiscent of the neon-laden Dotonbori district of Osaka and downtown Tokyo’s Shinjuku district, the entirely indoor space has been decked out to resemble an authentic, local alleyway complete with signage, lanterns and a cabinet displaying a huge collection of Bearbricks (a beloved cartoon-style bear) all brought over from Japan.

Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

High tables run along the length of the space, brew tanks take up a huge corner in the back and there’s an open kitchen so you can watch your dishes being prepared. The vibe is high instantly upon entering the space and it’s all exactly what you’d expect to see when visiting a Japanese beer bar.

Karaoke room at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Karaoke room at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Perhaps the most exciting part though, is a specialty (sound proof) karaoke room just off the main bar area where you and your crew can belt out a tune to your heart’s content without a single note being heard outside. There’s also an electric darts room with plenty of spots to play and couches to lounge about on while you beat your mates.

Darts room at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Darts room at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Now let’s chat beer. Head Brewer Toshi, whose work you would know from Black Hops, is the most passionate and knowledgeable man on the planet when it comes to beer. There are 12 brews on tap AND a diverse sake bar featuring 24 types of sake, all handpicked by Toshi who has over 20 years brewing experience.

Cocktails include the likes of a signature Tokyo Sour and the signature beer is Toshi’s Japanese Rice Lager which we tried and tested and can confirm, is the goods.

Food at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Food at Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

There’s food of course and the menu is filled with elevated, Japanese street food crafted by Japanese culinary expert and Head Chef Helen Rissen. Think Robata Skewers, sweet and spicy Roji Cat Karaage, Gyoza, Sashimi, Miso Corn (love you) and burgers including a Bug Burger with a tempura Moreton Bay Bug, spicy Japanese coleslaw and Kewpie mayo. We’ll take all of that thank you so much.

Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

The entire operation is a family-run affair celebrating close family friend Toshi’s heritage and a shared love of Japanese culture, vibrant food scene and bustling nightlife. All of which has been very obviously and meticulously incorporated into Roji Cat to bring us the Japanese Beer Bar we didn’t know we so desperately needed.

Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Do yourself a favour and head down to Miami to see what all the fuss is about and find yourself transported to Japan, right in the heart of the Gold Coast.

Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami
When: Thursday and Friday 4pm to 10pm. Saturday and Sunday 12pm to 10pm

Words by Kirra Smith
Images by Kirra Smith

Exterior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Exterior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Let the fun be-gin

Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Get ready to shake up your summer nights! Burly Gin is taking over Currumbin’s bar scene and we’re gin-uinely excited about it! Nestled in The Warehouses on Currumbin Creek Road, this innovative venue combines a modern aesthetic with a bold, flavour-forward approach to gin. It’s where sleek sophistication meets a spirited good time.

Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

The Warehouses, the latest creation from the Cornerstone Stores crew, brings together work and play in an airy, industrial-style space that captures our coastal charm. Among the first to call The Warehouses home was Lobby, the go-to spot for your morning brew. Now, as the sun sets, Burly Gin takes centre stage, lighting up your nightlife.

Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

The brainchild of Piri Bennett, Richard Bennett, Airhia Bennett and Rob Sendall, Burly Gin began as a passion project fueled by Piri’s time in New York. A seasoned bourbon distiller at Brooklyn’s renowned Kings County Distillery, Piri returned to the Gold Coast armed with expertise and a dream of creating a gin perfectly tailored to the subtropical climate. The result? A trio of gins – cucumber, citrus and berry – that redefine refreshing.

Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Step inside Burly Gin’s tropic-meets-New York lounge, designed by Will Rathgeber of Studio Plenty. From the industrial-chic elements crafted by Glenn Warren Projects to the bespoke furniture from Atelier, every detail whispers sophistication, with a mezzanine-level lounge perfect for private dining and events.

Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Will Rathgeber said, “it’s eclectic continental influence restrained by Japanese sensibilities – an experimental composition set in a masterful industrial redevelopment.”

Once seated, prepare for a gin-spiration overload. The bar serves the entire Burly Gin range through a dazzling cocktail repertoire. Not sure where to start? We recommend the tasting pallet – serving up all three signature gins – cucumber, citrus and berry – with your choice of mixer.

Then, take a walk on the herbaceous side with the Garden Smash, a mix of cucumber gin, lime, basil, cardamom and elderflower foam.

Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

As the sun goes down, the Sunset Negroni of citrus gin, Davidson’s plum, rosé vermouth and orange tastes like a golden hour in a glass.

These libations pair seamlessly with a menu masterminded by Harry Robbins, previously of Stable Coffee and Kitchen. The culinary offerings lean into modern Australian cuisine, with standout dishes like the Anchovies with Egg Butter served on Toasted Focaccia.

For a zesty pop, there’s the Kingfish Ceviche with Fingerlime Ponzu. And for a comfort dish you didn’t know you were craving, the Roast Cauliflower with Cheese Sauce and Gremolata is a crowd pleaser.

Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Whether you’re a seasoned gin aficionado or just beginning to dabble in juniper delights, Burly Gin promises an gin-tastic experience. Like what you sipped? You can grab a bottle of Burly Gin directly from the bartender, making it easy to recreate your favourite cocktails at home.

So, why not gin-vest in your next night out? Drop by and let Burly Gin charm you one sip at a time.

Where: 60 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin
When: 4pm – late, daily

Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Mathilde Bouby

Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Grill seekers rejoice

Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Get ready foodie friends because the culinary scene on the Coast has a sizzling new addition. The eagerly awaited Lars Bar & Grill is ready to fire up its woodfired wizardry and pop open the bubbly on Thursday 8th August.

Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (image supplied)
Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (image supplied)

Nestled in the heart of oh-so-trendy lifestyle hub, The Oxley 1823, Lars Bar & Grill brings a whole new level of deliciousness to the Nobby’s/Mermaid Beach ‘hood. Mark our words; if your taste buds had a bucket list, this place would be at the very top!

Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Helmed by Lars Kollrepp, son of Oskars on Burleigh founder and Gold Coast hospitality legend Marty Kollrepp, this joint is basically a Michelin Star in the making. With over two decades of experience and a resume that reads like a who’s who of top-notch dining (think Executive Chef of all Simon Gloftis’ Brisbane restaurants, including Hellenika, SK Steak & Oyster, Sunshine and Sushi Room), it’s safe to say Lars would bring home the gold if cheffing was an Olympic sport.

Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (image supplied)
Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (image supplied)

“I had the dream of opening my own restaurant for a very long time,” he says. “I jumped at the chance when it came. I have a deep appreciation for fine dining cuisine, gained through my many years in the industry; however, being a Gold Coast boy, I love the laid-back lifestyle it brings.”

“My aim for Lars Bar & Grill is a restaurant where simplicity meets modern flavours, and quality dining and impeccable dishes meet a relaxed and welcoming vibe and where people can truly unwind and enjoy themselves.”

Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

And unwind you shall. The menu is a mouthwatering mix of woodfired steaks and the freshest local seafood, promising a taste of Queensland like never before. Sink your teeth into starter and entrée style dishes like Caviar Tarts, Baked Scallops with garlic chive butter, and the decadent Roasted Pumpkin Ravioli with sage brown butter and Pinenuts.

For mains, it’s a steak lover’s paradise with ten different cuts to choose from. Each bite celebrates the region’s coastal bounty and locally sourced stockyard beef, ensuring every steak is a cut above the rest.

Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (image supplied)
Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (image supplied)

Perhaps a melt-in-your-mouth Pork Tomahawk with burnt onion mustard and jus gras gets you going? Or for seafood swooners, the Grilled Coral Trout with smoked tomato and capsicum is sure to float your boat.

Lars Bar & Grill isn’t just about the food though. The vibe is as important as the vittles, with a dining room seating 80 and an outdoor area for 30 more, perfect for soaking up that sweet Gold Coast sunshine. For extra special occasions, there’s a private dining room offering an exclusive space for up to 10 guests, made to order for celebrations, business meetings, or just because you deserve a little exclusivity.

Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

With its blend of fine dining and a laid-back coastal vibe, Lars Bar & Grill is set to become the new go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. The grill is always hot, the vibes are always cool, and the food is nothing short of extraordinary so book yourselves in stat to experience this delicious new chapter in the Gold Coast’s ever-evolving culinary story.

Where:  2217 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: 5.30pm till late, Wednesday to Sunday

Words by Bianca Trathen
Images by Kirra Smith
Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Lars Bar & Grill, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
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