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Get ready for a rum-believable June

Warm up your winter Barbados-style with Bumbu Rum at Nineteen.

Bumbu Rum (image supplied)
Bumbu Rum (image supplied)

Calling all groovers and shakers, and sip partakers – the mercury on the GC may be dropping, but things are heating up over at Nineteen at The Star Gold Coast. Spicing up our winter prospects one very smooth sip at a time, Bumbu Rum is bringing the spirit of Barbados to Nineteen at The Star every Friday night in June. An unmissable month of next-level rum-fused, rooftop fun? Sounds pretty neat to us, party people!

Nineteen at The Star, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Nineteen at The Star, Broadbeach (image supplied)

Founded in 1893 and crafted from the finest sugarcane and pure Barbadian water, Bumbu Rum has perfected the art of serving up a top notch cocktail. Promising the world’s best rum, the distinctive bottle and perfectly-spiced flavour profile has long been a staple addition to cocktails, bars and bottle-o shelves from here to Barbados. And if you reckon your preferred rum-based libation tastes even better with a side of rooftop revelling and certified club bops – it’s your lucky day month.

DJ Chelsea Sharne (image supplied)
DJ Chelsea Sharne (image supplied)

Combining forces with Nineteen at The Star, this historic Caribbean-born sip will showcase the unparalleled quality of their signature cane sugar spirit across four epic events – and with complementary entry, we get multiple opportunities to oblige them! We all know when two professional good times purveyors join forces, you’re in for a treat – and this rather sip-tacular collab will be no exception!

Bumbu Rum (image supplied)
Bumbu Rum (image supplied)

Teaming up for double the fun and yum, every Friday night from June 7 to June 28, The Star Gold Coast’s rooftop destination will be transformed with a little help from some impeccable Barbados-style party vibes courtesy of the Bumbu Rum crew. The glamorous 19th level will be going off like never before, with headline sets from some of our nation’s most talented DJ’s and Bumbu’s signature Power Bar shaking up a selection of delicious rum-based cocktails.

DJ Running Touch (image supplied)
DJ Running Touch (image supplied)

Bumbu Rum’s vibrant, month-long residency kicks off on June 7, with the launch party to end all launch parties – and spoiler alert, dance/electronic fans, you’ll want to keep the calendar clear for this one. Getting this cocktail-studded party started, will be a headline DJ set from electronic producer powerhouse, Running Touch. Frequenting stages from here to Coachella, and with several certified bops to his name, we can attest your ears are in for a treat.

Nineteen at The Star, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Nineteen at The Star, Broadbeach (image supplied)

In addition to roaming entertainment and Bumbu bottles popping left and right, DJ sets from beat-slinging sensation Chelsea Sharne throughout the series will ensure vibes remain as elevated as Nineteen’s rooftop setting. With straight fire coming from the decks, a spectacular backdrop and some of rum island’s finest warming us from within – winter spirits have never been higher, Gold Coasters!

Get all the details here.

Where: Nineteen at The Star, Level 19, The Darling at The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach
When: Every Friday night in June

Words by Kellie Leader

STORY SPONSORED BY BUMBU RUM

Bumbu Rum (image supplied)
Bumbu Rum (image supplied)

Lights, camera, drag-tion!

Thursday’s A Drag, Atrium Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Thursday’s A Drag, Atrium Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

Thursday nights are about to get a glittering glow up with more sparkle and sass than you can poke a rhinestone encrusted stiletto at. Back by popular demand, get ready to sashay your way once again to Atrium Bar at The Star Gold Coast for Thursday’s a Drag #OnThursdayNightsWeWearPink.

Starting from 30th May and strutting its way through every second Thursday night until 11th July, it’s a celebration of all things fabulous and fierce. Each high-energy 90-minute show features four iconic queens and a headliner ready to werk, twerk, and throw more shade than a Cool Cabana.

Cocktails at Atrium Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Cocktails at Atrium Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

From electrifying performances to iconic lip-sync battles, the queens of Thursday’s A Drag will slay you into a standing ovation with dazzling renditions of your favourite diva anthems and classics that made ‘Priscilla Queen Of The Desert’ so iconic.

Inspired by the legendary Les Girls, Thursday’s A Drag is a nod to the golden era of drag entertainment. Step into a world where the spotlight is brighter than your highlighter, with a smorgasbord of glamour, costumes, and awe-inspiring performances that will leave you gagging for more.

Beverly Kills, Thursday’s A Drag, Atrium Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Beverly Kills, Thursday’s A Drag, Atrium Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

Kicking off the series on 30th May is ultimate drag scene trailblazer, the bedazzling Beverly Kills. With performances that explode with energy and a wit as sharp as her eyeliner, this glittering glamourpuss is proudly the first and only Queensland representative on RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under.

Shimmying in on 13th June is sequin slinging sensation, Hannah Conda. Recently crowned runner-up on the Stan’s Original Series sensation, the award-winning RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under Season 2, she’s currently slaying the screen again on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Vs The World.

Thursday’s A Drag, Atrium Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Thursday’s A Drag, Atrium Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

On Thursday 27th June, bow down to Kween Kong! Finalist on Drag Race Down Under Season 2, illustrious leader of the House of Kong, and a choreographer/dancer who even performed on tour with Nelly Furtado, she’s far more than just a pretty face with the world at her sky-high-heel-clad feet.

And last but certainly not least on Thursday 11th July is Art Simone who’s not just breaking stereotypes; she’s stomping them flat with her fierce footwear. From pushing boundaries to promoting inclusivity, Art is leading the charge to make drag a mainstream sensation. And trust us, this queen is just getting warmed up!

Art Simone, Thursday’s A Drag, Atrium Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Art Simone, Thursday’s A Drag, Atrium Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

The hottest ticket in town, a night with these dazzling divas is $25 per person and even includes a signature Skyy Vodka cocktail to wet your whistle and get the party started. And speaking of bevs, there’s special food and cocktail menus available throughout the night to keep you fuelled and fabulous.

Thursday’s A Drag, Atrium Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Thursday’s A Drag, Atrium Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

So for a night of fun fit for a queen, round up your pals and head to the epicentre of entertainment, Atrium Bar at The Star Gold Coast, for Thursday’s A Drag. Grab your tickets here: https://www.star.com.au/goldcoast/whats-on/thursdays-a-drag-series

May the fabulosity be with you.

Where: Atrium Bar, The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When:  Doors open 6pm for a 7.30pm start. Show concludes at 9.30pm. Thursday 30th May, Thursday 13th and 27th of June, and Thursday 11th of July.

Words by Bianca Trathen.

STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST

Guests must be 18 years or over to enter Atrium Bar and the Casino. The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Bet with your head, not over it

14 next-level Gold Coast rooftop bars

Aviary Rooftop Bar, Southport (image supplied)
Aviary Rooftop Bar, Southport (image supplied)

If Queensland weather doesn’t shout rooftop bars at you in a high-pitched squeal, we don’t know what will. Our climate, coupled with the amazing hospitality scene here in our city, means these open-air meccas of good times and delicious libations are the prime place to find yourself — any time of the year! It’s all about drinks in the sunshine and snapping selfies with picturesque backgrounds for Insta-bragging purposes.

So, in honour of bars in high places, here are 14 next-level rooftop bars (listed north to south) you should prioritise visiting this weekend, next weekend, and the weekend after…

Aviary Rooftop Bar
Perched atop Mantra on Sharks, Aviary Rooftop Bar’s views are as stunning as their extensive drinks list. With 180 degree views over the Surfers Paradise skyline and the ocean, it’s the perfect place for an after work beverage or Sunday arvo session with the crew. Ohh and don’t even get us started on their authentic Italian pizzas, and tapas… if you know, you know.
Where: Mantra at Sharks, Melia Ct, Southport (next to Southport Sharks)

Mr PP's Deli & Rooftop Bar (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)
Mr PP's Deli & Rooftop Bar (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)

Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar
A game-changer in Southport’s food and beverage scene, Mr PP’s is a multi level pizzeria and rooftop bar boasting city views and plenty of good vibes in the century-old postal building. There is a generous menu full of pizzas, tapas and charcuterie boards, the ideal scenario. Plus cocktails and local tipples, of which there are many. Live music on Sundays too.
Where: 43 Nerang St, Southport

Last Night on Earth
Pretty sure that if it were, in fact, your last night on Earth, you would want to spend it at a sweet rooftop bar with bulk cocktails at the ready. Which maybe isn’t the point of Southport’s Last Night on Earth but a good intro nonetheless. Last Night on Earth is the work of local legend Arran Wollams and his crew. It’s a somewhat underworld themed rooftop bar in the heart of Southport offering good times aplenty. It’s a dive bar, but not as you know it. Check it out.
Where: 50b Nerang St, Southport 

Cali Beach Club, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Cali Beach Club, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Cali Beach Club
Cali Beach Club is not just a rooftop bar, it’s Australia’s largest Beach Club! This Gold Coast classic is the ultimate beachside party destination that’s never known a dull moment. The 2L spritzer and cocktail jugs may have something to do with this… One minute, you’re lounging on your dedicated daybed by the pool. Next, you’re sipping a Cali Colada in the pool. What’s that? The DJ set has begun?! Off to the dancefloor with you!
Where: 21a Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise

The Exhibitionist Bar at HOTA Gallery (image supplied)
The Exhibitionist Bar at HOTA Gallery (image supplied)

The Exhibitionist Bar
News flash: HOTA isn’t just for the arts and culture, people, it’s also for cocktails. Speciality cocktails- each inspired by and changed to reflect the art centre’s current major exhibitions. We feel more cultured already. Enjoy it all while absorbing the breathtaking views of the city skyline. The highly talented Tom Angel heads up the bar and cocktail list, which is a seriously good spot for a sundowner — and the ideal place to take out of towners!
Where: Level 5/135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise

Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Lulu Rooftop & Bar
Say hello to one of GC’s newest editions- the lovely Lulu. Think Miami’s art deco scene meets laid-back tropical Gold Coast, with lush greenery, plush booth seating and marble-topped bars, it’s a vibe! Throw in the fact it’s on a rooftop and we’re sold. Okay, that’s a lie, our booths were booked when we got word of a Frosé Wall! Choose from six boozy frosé flavours (or try them all) and garnish your icy creation with an array of lollies.
Where: Level 2/4 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

The Island Rooftop
It’s the largest open-air (and much adored) rooftop on the Gold Coast, perched on top of The Island in Surfers Paradise. This spot is kind of a unicorn, being part nightclub, part bar and part live music venue. And now, they have taken things up a notch, launching Above Sundays. where killer beats meet delicious eats and craft cocktails. From 11am every Sunday, find a line-up of DJs playing, a specially curated summer cocktail menu, and indulgent share-style eats. Think of it as your new Sunday ritual.
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

Nineteen at The Star poolside (image supplied)
Nineteen at The Star poolside (image supplied)

Nineteen at The Star
The fanciest of the bunch is undoubtedly Nineteen at The Star, complete with velvet booth-style seating, an infinity pool and ocean views for days. Found atop The Star Gold Coast’s The Darling, Nineteen is the perfect place for people-watching, dressing up and sipping on fancy tipples while dancing the night away. Be sure to take a snap on the runway stretching out into the pool!
Where: The Darling, Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach 

Opening night at JuJu, Mermaid Beach (image supplied)
Opening night at JuJu, Mermaid Beach (image supplied)

JuJu
The GC’s newest rooftop bar has serious “it’s a vibe” energy. JuJu in Nobby Beach delivers upscale dining with a side of cheeky fun. Split across two levels, this new venue is perfect for sunset cocktails and late-night revelry. Expect Euro-summer vibes, lush greenery, and after-hours parties that feel straight out of Mykonos. With a sleek rooftop bar featuring a retractable roof, tequila carts, and live DJ-saxophonist duos, JuJu is where you go when you’re ready to keep the night alive.
Where: 2235 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Tropic Vice, Nobby Beach (image supplied)
Tropic Vice, Nobby Beach (image supplied)

Tropic Vice
Tropic Vice is one of (if not, the) hottest bars on the Gold Coast, and for excellent reason. Go from dinner to disco, and dance the night away under the neon lights. The Nobby Beach venue is ideal for a weekend catch-up, a mid-week cheeky cocktail, or an epic bottomless brunch every Sunday. Do yourself a favour, find yourself here sipping a cocktail whilst drinking in the gorgeous hinterland view.
Where: 2215 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

Justin Lane (image supplied)
Justin Lane (image supplied)

Justin Lane
A much-loved favourite among locals and visitors alike, Justin Lane is still one of the most popular rooftops on the Gold Coast and was actually the coast’s first official rooftop bar opening in 2011! Hard to imagine.  The space is intimate, with booth-style seating overlooking Burleigh and plenty of cocktails to tickle your fancy. Once you’re done slinging back bevvys with the gang, head downstairs for some fair dinkum pizza (it’s so damn good).
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

The Collective
Everyone’s favourite multi-restaurant establishment, The Collective in Palm Beach, boasts a sweet rooftop bar with epic cocktails for your sipping pleasure. You can also order eats from one of the five menus on offer and watch the sunset over the ocean while you’re at it. We HIGHLY recommend it.
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach

Burleigh Pavilion (image supplied)
Burleigh Pavilion (image supplied)

Burleigh Pavilion
This one is straight-up iconic and the vibe is a match. It’s as close to the ocean as you can get with a cocktail before it becomes a safety hazard. You may be closer to Earth for this one, but the view here is arguably the best on the Gold Coast. Soak in the stunning sunshine while mulling over which epic cocktail to try first.
Where: 3a/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

The Salty Fox rooftop (image supplied)
The Salty Fox rooftop (image supplied)

The Salty Fox
Made for those who are “here for a good time, not a long time”- literally. The Salty Fox can be found on the 7th floor and rooftop of Rydges Gold Coast Airport and is the perfect destination for your pre-departure or post-arrival drinks. Catch uninterrupted views of the stunning Bilinga Beach from the rooftop as you get ready for takeoff, or settle into the Gold Coast spirit with a cocktail (or a few). You may even snag some live music and DJ sets if you’re lucky.
Where: Lot 5, Terminal Drive, Bilinga

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

15 reasons locals love Broadbeach

Exterior of The Star Gold Coast at sunset with Broadbeach in the background (image supplied)
Exterior of The Star Gold Coast at sunset with Broadbeach in the background (image supplied)

If you love to wine, dine and shop you’ll love Broadbeach. If you prefer to surf, laze in the sun or strut along beachfront esplanades, you’ll also love Broadbeach. From cult-followed cafes to shiny new eats, boujee bars and shopping boutiques, this burb’s an A-grade entertainer that shines bright in the eyes of locals and visitors alike.

There are many reasons locals – and Gold Coasters far and wide – love a bit of Broady, but here are 15 to get you started.

The Star Gold Coast
If ever there was a reason to call up the babysitter, it’s for a session at The Star. Here, you’re greeted with live music and a melange of premium food options- you won’t need to go anywhere else. Start with a few bevvies at the Atrium Bar before choosing your cuisine for the night. Will it be the fresh Garden Kitchen & Bar or the award-winning Cantonese at Uncle Su’s? Why not taste Tokyo right on the Gold Coast at Kiyomi, authentic Italian eats at Cucina Vivo or the ultimate buffet experience at Harvest Buffet? Or maybe you’re looking for the chic rooftop bar at Nineteen at The Star or a sneaky drink at the new look Veladora?
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Dracula's, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Dracula's, Broadbeach (image supplied)

Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant
If you’re after a tried and tested, long-standing comedy cabaret, good ‘ole Dracs has been serving up frights, food and frivolity since we were all ankle-biters. Most people are sold when they hear there’s a ghost train alone, let alone the actual show, which changes every so often, so there’s always a reason to go back! Enjoy a quality 3-course dinner and a menu of magical and mystical cocktails and shots!
Where: Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach

Social Eating House + Bar
If you consider yourself a gastronome, then this Oracle Blvd darling is for you. Social serves modern Australian flavours in a casual meets fine dining setting. For this, they’ve secured more hats than a Milliner’s workshop and have just won 3 glasses at the 2024 Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards. This comes as no surprise with Executive Chef Matthew Jefferson in charge. With a recently refreshed menu (promised to please even the most refined palates), you’ll experience a carefully curated range of bar snacks, charcuterie, and small and large share plates featuring the finest Australian ingredients and paired to perfection.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach

Social Eating House + Bar kitchen (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Social Eating House + Bar kitchen (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Blues on Broadbeach
Unlike our other listings, this one’s not here 24/7. However, it’s that much of a Broady icon that it would be criminal not to throw it a mention. As the name suggests, it brings us world-class blues music and jazz from locals and famous acts alike, performing across multiple venues over four unforgettable days. And it’s free. When does that ever happen?!
Where: Various Broadbeach venues

Elk Espresso
This place has never met an empty table; it’s constantly bulging at the seams with raving fans. Of course, we are one of such fans. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the beach, the coffee is all-time, the menus are seasonal and heavenly, and they do a Boozy Bottomless Brunch. And sold!
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

Elk Espresso, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Elk Espresso, Broadbeach (image supplied)

The Oasis
It’s an everyday escape for locals, and one of our top shopping centres on the coast (for good reason). The Oasis is home to stunning fashion boutiques, and the number of fabulous eateries at hand is impressive in of itself. In addition to the ones we highlight in this article, we’re talking Mario’s, Madison’s Café and Patisserie, Spice Kitchen and Bar, and The Broadbeach Tavern, to name just a few. It’s a #OneStopShop.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Broadbeach Bowls Club
Ahhh, good old lawn bowls. The game that never fails to deliver a good time. If you’re looking for the best way to spend a chill arvo on the GC, it’s with a game of barefoot bowls, brew in hand at Broadbeach Bowls Club. When you’re finished, they have a full bistro menu waiting with big portions of all your go-to pub-grub meals. They also have a canape package perfect for a laid-back birthday or celebration.
Where: 169 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
O’Connor Beef T-Bone, kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

kōst Bar & Grill
Just over a year old, yet kōst has already wriggled its way onto our hot list… sneaky bugger. Just kidding, they’re here for a reason, and credit is due! The contemporary style bar and grill is perfect for sophisticated sips, flame-grilled eats and boujee’ bar snacks’, all within a relaxed-luxury setting. Champagne with a side of caviar, anyone?
Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

No Name Lane
Well, if it isn’t No Name Lane making a name for themselves as Blake Lively’s favourite coffee. In her exact words “”the best coffee of her life”. We can attest to this, alongside the cafe’s cult local following. Not only are they adored for their cuppa, but their all-day breakfasts and gourmet lunches also go down a treat so if you haven’t been, remedy this immediately.
Where: 16 Charles Ave, Broadbeach

Pancakes at No Name Lane, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Pancakes at No Name Lane, Broadbeach (image supplied)

Kurrawa Surf Club
Ocean views don’t come any better than this. With legit THE most prime location, Kurrawa Surf Club has everything you’d want from a Surf Club…and more. With awesome regular members specials and fresh ingredients, there’s no such thing as a bad meal here. They host a trivia night and live music, and of course there’s the obligatory gaming lounge for those who like a flutter.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach

CHA CHA Japanese Restaurant
Gold Coasters have been CHA CHA bound for an authentic Japanese nosh-up which won’t break the bank for years, and that’s not about to change any time soon. The banquet menu is divine and every visit you’ll experience the same level of scrumptiousness. But the soy on the dim sum…it’s BYO and it’s hard to find an already affordable yet high-quality restaurant offering our 3 favourite letters. Score.
Where: 2705 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

Pacific Fair, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Pacific Fair, Broadbeach (image supplied)

Pacific Fair
This list wouldn’t be complete without mention of THE queen. Pacific Fair (aka Pac Fair) is any Gold Coasters first point of call when a new ensemble or therapy (retail or other) is required. It has every retailer you could possibly wish for, fabulous food options and indisputably the most gorgeous fit-out you’ve ever seen. Nothing rivals it.
Where: Gold Coast Hwy and Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach

Costa Taco
You bet we did a happy dance when news broke that our fav taqueria from Palm Beach had opened a third location in Broady (the second was Byron). For us, and many (most) Gold Coasters, it was a love at first bite. Costa Taco stole our taste buds with their authentic, flavour-filled eats and there was no turning back. And why would we? You would have to be coco to say no no to coconut margaritas?
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

Costa Taco, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Quesabirrias, Costa Taco, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

The Lamb Shop
In a pita shell, you’re getting bangin bar snacks and succulent souvlaki- what’s not to love? After a long day on Broadbeach beach (presumably), when you’re feeling sun-kissed and salt wrapped, is there anything better than biting into a tangy lamb-filled pita wrap to replenish exerted energy? No! The Lamb Shop’s entire menu is prepared in-house daily, using only fresh local produce, premium cuts and authentic grilling techniques. That’s why we love em!
Where: 1 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

The Beach Hotel Broadbeach
There’s no better place to snag a seat and sink a beer (or a Golden Hour Sour) on a Saturday arvy than at the brand new The Beach Hotel in Broadbeach. The airy spaces and indoor-outdoor flow let the sea breeze carry through the beer garden into the public bar. The vibe is set to ‘summer chill’, eats are delish, sips are refreshing and every corner is designed for the perfect gathering with your pals. After some spirited fun, head inside Cora, a restaurant within The Beach Hotel, where fine dining and a laid-back atmosphere come together to deliver palate-pleasing Mediterranean-inspired bites and crisp, cool drinks. Don’t mind if we do.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

The Beach Hotel Broadbeach (image supplied)
The Beach Hotel Broadbeach (image supplied)
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