Warm up your winter Barbados-style with Bumbu Rum at Nineteen.
Warm up your winter Barbados-style with Bumbu Rum at Nineteen.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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
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 11 next-level rooftop bars you should make it a priority to visit this weekend — and next weekend, and the weekend after…
The Exhibitionist Bar
When HOTA opened its brand new state of the art gallery building last year (the biggest outside a capital city, by the way), we all knew the art scene was about to go up a level or two. What we didn’t realise was that a sublimely positioned rooftop bar was a part of the deal also. The highly talented Tom Angel heads up a bar and creative 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
Tropic Vice
Glitzy, glamorous, and generally a wonderful time all around, Tropic Vice was the rooftop bar Nobby Beach was yearning for, and it came to fruition in 2021. The ideal spot 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
The Island Rooftop
Find the Gold Coast’s largest open air and much-loved rooftop bar perched on top of the The Island in Surfers Paradise. The Island Rooftop is part nightclub, part bar, part live music venue, and all the parts are a fun time no matter the day of the week. Head there for the epic weekend Grazy Days lunch or just to feel like you’re on Island time.
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
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 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. Oh and be sure to take a snap on the runway that stretches out in the pool!
Where: The Darling, Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
Frida Sol
The Palm Beach Mexi restaurant doubles as a rooftop bar with views out to the ocean and lots of salty ocean breezes. The eats are fresh and flavoursome, and there’s many a margarita on the list to soothe that sweltering summer humidity we’re currently experiencing. Get into Frida Sol.
Where: 1176 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar
A game-changer in Southport’s food and beverage scene was Mr PP’s, a deli 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 and this, folks, is the reason we love rooftop bars. Plus cocktails and local tipples, of which there are many at Mr PP’s. Live music on Sundays too.
Where: 43 Nerang St, Southport
The Collective
Everyone’s favourite multi-restaurant establishment, The Collective also boasts a sweet rooftop bar with some 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.
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Justin Lane
A much-loved favourite and the Gold Coast’s first official rooftop bar, Justin Lane is still one of the most popular rooftop’s since it’s opening in 2011. The space is intimate with booth-style seating overlooking Burleigh and plenty of cocktails to tickle your fancy. Downstairs is all the delicious pizza you could possibly need, so fill up on that, then head upstairs to mingle with the gang.
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
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
Moxy’s Rooftop Bar
This rooftop bar located down in southerly Coolangatta has beautiful glimpses of the ocean, lots of live music and an impressive cocktail menu that’ll keep you coming back for more. Whilst they may not do eats, you can order from the Mexican joint downstairs, and we’re fairly sure there’s nothing that pairs better than bulk cocktails and tacos. Always lively and worth the trip down the Coast.
Where: 2/152 Griffith St, Coolangatta
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 pizza’s, and tapas… if you know, you know.
Where: Mantra at Sharks, Melia Ct, Southport (next to Southport Sharks)
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
Broadbeach has long been regarded as one of our wining, dining and shopping. With a number of ‘stayers’ boasting staunch followers for many moons, sprinkled with a hearty helping of shiny new eats and drinks players, nothing can dull the sparkle of this burb’s A-grade entertainer status.
Here are precisely 17 reasons why locals – and Gold Coasters far and wide – love themselves a piece of our much-loved Broady.
Social Eating House + Bar
If you’re a foodie, this is your go-to. A modern Australian sensation, Social has more hats than a Milliner’s workshop. With Executive Chef Matthew Jefferson in charge, you’ll experience a carefully curated range of bar snacks, charcuterie, and small and large share plates, all featuring the finest Australian ingredients and paired to perfection. A meal here is worth.every.cent.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
The Star Gold Coast
If ever there was a reason to get a babysitter, it’s for a session at The Star. Between the live music and amazing food at the Garden Kitchen & Bar, award-winning Cantonese, Japanese and modern Australian cuisine at Uncle Su, Kiyomi, and Nineteen at The Star, authentic Italian eats at Cucina Vivo, the ultimate buffet experience at Harvest Buffet, a few bevvies at the new-look Atrium Bar and/or the Insta-fave rooftop lounge bar at Nineteen, who needs to go anywhere else?
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Broadbeach Bowls Club
Nothing says a chilled GC arvo like a game of barefoot bowls with a brew in hand. Another enduring favourite amongst the local set here on the GC, Broadbeach Bowls Club never fails to deliver a feel-good time for young and old. They serve up big portions of all your go-to pub-grub meals and do a great canape package for a laid-back birthday or celebration.
Where: 169 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant
If you’re after a tried and tested, long-standing comedic 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), banquet dinner…and shots in syringes!
Where: Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach
Aloha Bar and Dining
This tropical hidden treasure is all fun vibes, good food and cracking good times. Popular for its hospo nights, taco Thursdays, karaoke nights, live music and pumping DJs, there’s always something going on here. The tapas always deliver the feels (bao buns…I die!!), the Cucumber and Jalapeno Margi is (too) easy to drink, and we never tire of the super cute fit-out.
Where: 18 Main Place, Broadbeach
Sofia’s Restaurant & Bar
With an impressive contemporary Coastal European menu, we are completely besotted with Sofia’s…and we’re not alone. A meal here is all about enjoying and sharing simple, delicious food with your favourite people – as it should be, and truly encapsulates the famous words ‘That’s Amore’. Also, you heard it here first but Sofia’s is on the move. Watch this space!
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
Elk Espresso
Have you ever seen this place anything but bulging at the seams? Aaaand of course you haven’t. Since its pre-migration days just up the road, it’s had an army of raving fans and yes, this obvs includes us. A hop, skip and a jump from the beach, the coffee is all-time, the seasonal menus are heavenly, and they even do a Boozy Bottomless Brunch. And sold.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
Blues on Broadbeach
So unlike our other listings, it may not be here 24/7 but 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 and jazz music from locals and famous acts alike, performing across multiple venues over four unforgettable days. And it’s free, and sorry but when does that ever happen?
Where: Various Broadbeach venues
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
The Oasis
An everyday escape for locals, The Oasis is one of our numero uno shopping centres and for good reason. Not only some unique fashion boutiques live here, but the sheer number of amazing eateries is tres impressive. In addition to the ones we highlight in this article, we’re talking Mario’s, Madisons 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
Soho House Bar
Just look for the London-esk red phone box and you know good times await. An intimate, hidden gem-adorned in graffiti and jam-packed with peeps sipping and bopping along to the sweet sounds of live DJ’s, this joint is seriously cool. The cocktail list is l.i.t, the crew are super engaging, and they’ve even been known to host things like a Wild Flower Gin Masterclass. What’s not to love?
Where: Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach (between Queensland and Victoria Avenues)
Unicorn Seafood
You just know it’s destined for greatness with ‘Unicorn’ in the name. This Mediterranean seafood-infused newcomer has hit the ground running with its all-day menu goodness, and show-stopping cocktail menu that’s 20 options deep #hellofriend. You can’t help it but exhale as you settle into the relaxing blue and white-hued space, brimming with ocean murals and friendly smiles from the welcoming staff.
Where: Phoenician Resort, 24-26 Queensland Avenue, Broadbeach
No Name Lane
Okay, Blake Lively declared her caffeine hit from No Name Lane as “the best coffee of her life” and holy heck, if it’s good enough for Queen Blake… Better than any boujee on-trend Melbourne café, the coffee here has a cult following. The all-day breakfasts and gourmet lunches also go down a treat so if you haven’t been, remedy this immediately.
Where: The Oracle, Elizabeth Avenue, Broadbeach
Pacific Fair
Pacific Fair, oh how we love thee. Any time we want a new ensemble for, well, any occasion (retail therapy is real you know), we all beeline for Pac Fair. With every retailer you could possibly wish for, amazing food options and seriously THE most gorgeous shopping centre fit-out we’ve seen, there are luxe and lush coastal accents at every turn.
Where: Gold Coast Hwy and Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach
The Loose Moose
Specialising in “dirty food made clean”, there are always bums on seats in this Prohibition Tap and Grill House, one of the Gennari Group’s most popular establishments. The delish menu offers up the best of the best Canadian fare like ribs, wings, hot dogs and burgers, and is always ready for a crowd to #GetLooseAtTheMoose.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Broadbeach
The Pink Flamingo Spiegelclub
LBR, you had us at Spiegelclub. The Pink Flamingo has become a fave for locals, visitors and critics alike, with its four spectacular resident cabaret-style shows. Custom designed with a twist of swanky art-deco décor and inspired by the original 1920’s Spiegeltent and the NYC Cabaret Club district, it’s five-star luxury and entertainment not to be missed.
Where: Corner of Surf Parade & Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
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
Words by Bianca Trathen.
