It's a buffet but not as you know it.
It's a buffet but not as you know it.
Although technically referred to as a buffet Bazaar, at QT Gold Coast, is a far cry from the soggy salads and tough-as-nails roast meat you experienced at the local for your Nan’s 80th.
No, Bazaar offers the type of buffet you have to see to believe with a menu that changes daily and an array of dishes that will show you the true meaning of the words ‘food coma’.
Unlike anything else on the Gold Coast Bazaar is a contemporary space in a self-described “deluxe street food setting”. It’s your one stop shop for taste-testing dishes from across the world, all of which will knock your socks off.
They say you first eat with your eyes and as soon as you enter the food-filled space you’ll understand why. Beautiful wooden benches laden with colourful, perfectly presented foods are spread out in front of you with Chefs at the ready to answer any queries or perhaps whip up a steak, cooked exactly as you like it, on the spot.
A cabinet filled with dried, hanging meats sets the scene and leads the way to the first section filled with woks, crock pots and baskets of everything from Seafood Paella to cauliflower Gratin, whole fish and warm, wintery vegetable soup.
Moving on, there’s a charcuterie section stacked high with crumbling cheeses, plump olives and many a variety of meat. Save that section for after dessert if you still have space. Next, a bench filled with an array of colourful salads and choices of additional goodies like capers and tiny Cornichons. Moving around the bench you’ll find an abundance of fresh seafood from king prawns to fresh oysters and crab. On your next round load your plate up with a fresh stir-fry, curry or meat-filled, deep fried eggplants and of course a prawn cracker or two.
Now you’re suitably stuffed, its dessert time! An entire wall is dedicated to your favourite sweet treats and the choices are mind-blowing. A soft serve laden with smarties and soft lollies maybe? Or why not try a piece of one of the many whole cakes and tarts (hello Banoffee Pie and gooey chocolate brownies). Shelves filled with citrus slices and tiny jars oozing chocolate cake and melting marshmallows are difficult to ignore while bowls filled with miniature macaroons will have you returning again and again.
Everything you can imagine is real at Bazaar. It truly is a treat for your senses so stretch those stomach muscles and prepare to be blown away.
HOURS: Breakfast: 6:30am to 10:30am
Dinner: 5:30pm to 9:00pm
Sunday Lunch: 12:00pm to 3:00pm
LOCATION: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise.
Words by Kirra Smith.
A Gold Coast institution for over 30 years, Yamagen is set to re-open on July 28th to the delight of the Japanese Izakaya’s countless devotees.
After quietly closing its doors, the venue at QT in Surfers Paradise, has undergone a dramatic makeover fusing a traditional Japanese style of eatery with an eclectic, upbeat, Tokyo-style vibe. Yamagen pays homage to the old maintaining the soul of the restaurant it once was, while introducing modern dining concepts never before seen on the Gold Coast.
Diners enter through a dimly lit bar stocked with an impressive range of Japanese whiskey, sake and of course, a cutting edge cocktail menu.
Jordan Melling, co-creator of said cocktail menu, lists his personal favourite as the Kyoto Old Fashioned made with Japanese whiskey, yuzu bitters (a Japanese citrus fruit) and gelatin foam made with Gyokoro green tea, honey and Nikka from the barrel – phew. You’ve been told.
While you’re sipping watch the Chef whip up Sashimi Tacos and Master Kobe Wagyu from the kushiyaki grill set in the centre of the room. The space mimics a traditional Japanese home where the kitchen or tea is the centerpiece.
When it’s time to eat, there are a couple of options. First, sit yourself around the sushi bar and watch Sushi Master Mitsuo Yoshino work his magic. Think Spicy Jalapeno Hiramasa Kingfish and Yellowfin Tuna Tatare. It’s an all-encompassing experience and the perfect opportunity to get some one on one time with the Master.
Of course, the candle-lit dining room also beckons if you’re after a little sophistication. In an interesting progressive dinner-style spin, you’re welcome to start your night at the sushi bar and then move on in to the dining room when you’re ready to re-ignite your tastebuds.
The menu is sensational, including Tempura Crispy Bugs (Moreton Bay ones!), Steamed Prawn Noodle Dumplings and, in perhaps the best news of all time, Halloumi Skewers with smoked honey and bonito flakes (smoked, dried tuna).
For dessert you must taste the Miso Caramel Chocolate Fondant with goma ice cream and, because what’s overeating, also try the Yonuts – fried sweet donuts with yuzu curd and sesame sugar. Yes, those are real.
The entire experience smacks of traditional Japan while cleverly infusing a dining experience that is the epitome of QT-cool. It’s your new Surfers Paradise go-to. So go.
HOURS: From 5pm seven nights a week
LOCATION: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Words and photos by Kirra Smith.
Is there anything lovelier than enjoying tiny delicacies accompanied by a glass of chilled Laurent Perrier and tea served in a beautiful floral teacup?
We think not.
Thankfully, Chapter & Verse at the Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort is bringing Gold Coasters high tea dreams to life with their indulgent take on an age-old tradition.
Surrounded by greenery with views of the sparkling lagoons, white sandy beaches, and cascading waterfalls, the bar and lounge is located on the ground floor of the majestic hotel.
High tea can be served both inside and out and is made up of a stunningly arranged tier of delightful treats perfect for any occasion.
Savoury bites include smoked salmon bagels, roasted turkey and King Island brie tartlets with cranberry and Mount Tamborine goat’s cheese cones with pistachio – a standout and entirely unique addition.
Sweet dishes are aplenty and include mango cheesecake with kiwi fruit glaze, chocolate macaroons and coconut lime loaf to name a few.
A decadent favourite is the verrine, a glass container filled with apricot chocolate and bronze pearls.
High Tea is also served with freshly baked scones, which are perfectly fluffy and melt in your mouth, and accompanied by cream and strawberry jam.
Beverages include a welcome glass of sparkling wine, freshly brewed organic coffee and a beautiful selection of Ronnefeldt leaf teas.
Pinky fingers at the ready please.
For those looking for something a bit more upbeat, Chapter & Verse also host a tropical Sunday session from 2pm every week complete with a not-to-be-missed Brazilian BBQ, chilled tropical beats and refreshing cocktails.
HOURS: Chapter & Verse is open daily from 7am until late with High Tea served from 11am until 4pm.
LOCATION: Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise.
Words and photos by Kirra Smith.
