Costa Taco is dishing up authentic Mexican eats.
Costa Taco is dishing up authentic Mexican eats.
Combining great-tasting food and sustainably sourced ingredients is a realm we should be looking to head if climate-related headlines are anything to go by. Two brothers who believe in this ethos are brothers Matt and Nick Stanley, who are the gents behind Palm Beach’s soon to open taco den — Costa Taco.
For those who do the rounds of farmers markets, you may recognise these two who also double as the proprietors of Cuzzie Pies. They’re ones to keep themselves busy and have been since holding regular taco pop-ups at Dust Temple’s Summer Series, Alfred’s Apartment and Bundall Farmers Markets; keeping finger-licking tacos coming to the masses right across the Coast.
With the increasing popularity and desire to find themselves a spot to call home, the guys landed themselves a humble yet fun space right on the Gold Coast Highway in Palm Beach. This is an honest-style Mexican taqueria where you’ll find no Oz-Mex cliches — only wholly authentic-tasting tacos, ice-cold beers, and a simple but rustic setting where banter and good vibes are guaranteed to gush.
From their time spent around farmers markets and talking with dedicated growers and producers, the two brothers became acutely aware of how our little corner of the world mirrors Mexico’s climate. With near-identical weather patterns and even soil types, they began to experiment with chillies and vegetables, fully appreciating how food from local farmers not only rewards you with quality produce but a much smaller carbon footprint. And before you know it, Costa Taco was born!
Everything you ingest at Costa Taco is sourced from our sun-drenched local area and is highly seasonal. But what else would you expect?
The guys are adamant about keeping their food offering small and delicious — no dishes acting as purely menu fillers here. You’ll have a straightforward choice of five tacos: Beef Birria, Pork Canitas, Guerrero Chicken, Baja Fish and Seasonal Veggie, which comes as your vegan choice. All of these delights come on pillowy corn-based tortillas — meaning zero gluten for you, compadre! Running alongside this will be an ever-changing and evolving sides and specials list with a handful of exciting and ‘of the moment’ dishes the guys are excited for you to try and share amongst friends.
For drinks, you’ll find a small selection of wines and one of the iciest assemblages of Young Henry beers ever seen — perfect for when the spice begins to cut in.
In the space, there’s low seating for couples, and a stand-up bar for those who want to chat whilst they sip beers and munch tacos. You’ll also notice a fun and eye-catching part of the venue is a spice thermometer painted on one of the walls: handily indicating where specific chillies and peppers sit in the grand scheme of hotness. You’ll then have the option of customising your tacos to whatever level of heat your heart desires. Finally… you can now settle that argument over which sauce is the spiciest!
Authenticity is at the heart of Costa Tacos. While Palm Beach might not be a dusty cactus-filled town in Mexico, the local produce and dedication to flavour more than make up for this fact!
Hours: Opening 14 Saturday August 2021 then Tuesday-Sunday, 5pm-late
Where: 1136 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
Feeling hungry? Science proves that you might in fact be thirsty and what better remedy exists than the holy grail of liquid love, the margarita. This rings especially true on International Margarita Day on Saturday 22nd February which, side note, may just be the greatest day ever created.
Here’s our roundup of THE places to sip THE drink famous for making us go weak at the knees (quite literally….).
Franc Jrs
This joint can do no wrong. Delivering more than just a carb coma with their iconic mouthwatering pizzas, this cult fave also whips up a mean – and strong – frozen margi. And believe you me, nothing says happiness like a ten-outta-ten pizza washed down with an icy take on ‘Me-hi-co’s’ national treasure. No frills here but that’s part of the charm and bonus, you can sink one on the footpath while you’re waiting for your takeaway.
Our pick: Frozen margarita
Where: Shop 2/32 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach
Cooly Breeze
The fare here is *chef’s kiss* but let’s talk the business; their epic cocktail selection, particularly their signature sip which just happens to be a margarita #obvi. If you’re not already acquainted with Cooly Breeze Rooftop and Bar, it’s time to be. Sitting (very) pretty on the 13th floor, it’s the Coast’s only fine dining rooftop restaurant with spectacular views to the southern coastline and the Tweed River surrounds. Bliss!
Our pick: Cooly Breeze Margi – tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime juice and homemade pineapple jalapeno syrup
Where: Level 13 of Beachcomber International Resort, 122 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Siblings
With some of the most exotic and creative margi’s we’ve ever seen (and, umm, sunk), rita-lovers unite at Siblings. Their expansive cocktail menu is the real McCoy, but in our humble opinion, the ‘Margarita Obsession’ section is pure Pegasus-material. Combined with the heritage-listed beachfront location, 1950’s Miami beach vibe fit-out, and a menu to dine for, marg our words – just go.
Our pick: Sex in an Hour – blueberry infused Olmeca Altos Plata, 100% agave tequila, Joseph Cartron Watermelon liqueur, fresh watermelon juice, a touch of Philippe De Bourgogne Crème de Cassis & Fiorente Elderflower liqueur, fresh lime juice, Herradura agave nectar, pink Himalayan salt, & sugar rim
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra
Veladora
This senorita needs a margarita (and we have the shirt to prove it, shout out to Sabbi Clothing) and where better than Veladora at The Star, Gold Coast. This Mezcal-inspired speakeasy bar with an extensive range of signature cocktails, Mexican beers, and unique snacks, serves up THE OG margi to beat all margis. Bonus incoming; there’s live music on Fridays and Latin-inspired beats on Saturdays. Salud (on repeat).
Our pick: The Margarita! Herradura Plata, orange liqueur & fresh lime juice
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Kirra Beach House
Margi’s land different here so don’t walk, run. With immersive panoramic views of Kirra Beach, a Mediterranean-style grazing menu, and an exceptional selection of world-class cocktails perfection mode is activated.
Our pick: Kirra Beach House Tommy’s Margarita – tequila, agave, fresh lime, & coastal salt
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Tommy’s Taco Bar
The crew behind Tommy’s Italian have gone full Mexi-mode with Tommy’s Taco Bar, bringing bold flavours and good vibes to Currumbin. With top-notch tacos, a killer drinks list, and a laid-back, vibrant atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to sip, snack, and settle in for a fiesta.
Our pick: Cilantro Margi, coriander infused Arette Blanco, chilli, agave and lime
Where: 140 Duringan Street, Currumbin
JuJu
Level up your nights at JuJu, the hotspot in Nobby Beach that brings upscale dining and a European-inspired after-party vibe. JuJu is all about keeping the energy high, even after dinner. Expect playful decor, delicious dishes like Pollo Ballotina and a 1kg wagyu tomahawk (yep, named after the one and only Tom Tate), plus cocktails that will have you partying like you’re in Mykonos. So whether you’re here for the food or the late-night fun, JuJu is your new fave spot for both.
Our pick: Jalapeno Kiss,1800 tequila, triple sec, jalapeno, cucumber and fresh lime juice.
Where: 2235 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Costa Taco
Bringing the bold flavours of Mexico straight to the GC, Costa Taco is all about authentic eats made with top-notch local ingredients. What started as a humble market stall is now a three-location sensation, with their newest spot in Broadbeach dishing up next-level tacos, tostadas, and chilaquiles. The laidback, beachy vibe makes it the perfect spot to roll in, grab a bite, and pretend you’re in Baja.
Our pick: Try the ever-changing Margarita Special.
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach, 1136 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach and 20 Jonson St, Byron Bay
Bonita Bonita
As you’d expect from one of the most loved Mexi-venues around, Bonita Bonita’s margarita list is off the chain good. As is the chow and the vibe, hence why it continues to pull a sizeable crowd year after year. If you’re going to line your belly coz #tequila, go with the banquet and get the best of everything this GC fave has to offer.
Our pick: Tom-Yum Margarita – 1800 coconut tequila, fresh lime, habanero, lemon grass & ginger syrup, grapefruit juice, & a salt rim
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Palm Springs Burleigh
Palm Springs Burleigh is a Southern Californian-inspired café, eats and drinks heaven on earth. With All.The.Things you’d expect from somewhere with Palm Springs in the name, you’ll find arches, cacti, Slim Aarons, plenty of green, mint and white hues and of course, M.A.R.G.I.S! A tried and tested Burleigh fave, extra points awarded for the get-in-my-belly-good nosh.
Our pick: Chilli Margarita – chilli infused 1800 silver tequila, Cointreau & fresh lime juice
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Nude Amigos
With three locations serving up fresh, modern Mexican, Nude Amigos is all about bold flavours, quality ingredients, and margaritas that hit just right. Say adiós to basic Tex-Mex and hola to authentic eats, top-tier tequila, and vibes that’ll transport you straight to the beaches of Acapulco.
Our pick: Cool as a Cucumber – Patron tequila, Triple Sec, agave, house-made cucumber syrup, fresh squeezed lime & a sea salt rim
Where: Lot 1, 70 Surf Parade, Broadbeach, Shop 25/80 Marine Parade, Coolangatta and 60 Marine Parade, Kingscliff
Mexicali
It’s always margarita mania at Nobby’s Mexicali! Served on the rocks and made using fresh fruit and house infused tequilas, all margis are crafted using 100% Blue Agave tequila or mezcal, freshly squeezed lime juice, and agave syrup. Choose from classic, watermelon, strawberry, passionfruit, chilli, cucumber & jalapeno, mezcal, and coconut. And we’ll take the lot #thx.
Our pick: Passionfruit Margarita
Where: Level 1/2223 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach
El Camino Cantina
Big, bold, and brimming with tequila-fuelled fun, El Camino Cantina is serving up legendary margaritas with a side of Tex-Mex goodness. Their famous Rita Paddles let you sample four flavours in one go, or level up with a Cadillac Margarita for the ultimate upgrade. Pair it with tacos, wings, or sizzling fajitas, and you’ve got yourself one hell of a fiesta.
Our pick: Blueberry Margi
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Pablitos
Nested in Sanctuary Cove, you’ll find this intimate quintessential modern Mexican cantina with a slight Caribbean influence and srsly, what more could one ask for?! Think terracotta, venetian walls, exposed concrete, Virgin Mary statues, and a cactus at every turn. The house tequila is made with wild agave and they only use organic, freshly squeezed lime in all their cocktails…including their iconic ritas. Gimme gimme!
Our pick: Watermelon Margarita
Where: Sanctuary Cove, 39 Masthead Way, Hope Island
Exhibitionist Bar
We can tell you first-hand (far too many times over) that the resident Margi at Exhibitionist Bar (unpacked below) is one of the best. Sitting high atop the striking HOTA Gallery, this artsy watering hole delivers great flavours and explosions of tastes you won’t forget in a hurry…both in edible and drinkable varieties. Whether you want a light lunch with friends, a cocktail at sundown or a nightcap, this is where it’s at.
Our pick: House Hot Marg – Herradura Blanco tequila, marionette orange, lime & house made hot sauce
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, Top Level, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise
The Collective
Margarita Month has landed at The Collective, and it’s a tequila lover’s dream! Sip your way through their iconic marg menu plus three limited-edition flavours, from the refreshing Strawberry & Mint to the ultra-luxe Millionaire’s Margarita. Until Friday 28th February grab a Margarita Passport, collect stamps, and score some muy bueno prizes—because who knew tequila could be this rewarding?
Our pick: Mango & Chilli Margarita – Patrón Blanco, mango, chilli & lime
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Exciting news for all you theatre cabaret lovers, Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant launched their brand new show just a few short weeks ago and the creepy crew are back at it again.
The newbie titled Muertos; which means dead in Spanish and the latest carnival de carnage is set to be a wild celebration that absolutely explodes on the Broadbeach stage.
It’s a tribute to Mexico’s Day of the Dead celebrations, moving at the bone-rattling pace you’ve come to know and love from Australia’s long running dinner slash theatre show.
There’s carnival-inspired acts, death-defying aerial acrobatics, live tunes from the clever crew and of course, the hilarious brand of comedy only Dracula’s can provide.
Muertos is all vibrant colours and hip-gyrating flamenco meshed with high energy Latin dance. Add dancing skeletons, galloping corpses, rocktacular live music, big wigs and lots of bare skin and you’ve got quite the time.
The Mexican theme has crept into every part of the iconic venue, including the menu, wine list and décor. How good.
Delivering the ultimate entertainment and live music experience, the show appears across five stages, as well as mid-air above the audience.
The talented cast lineup features crowd favourite, Coco Inia Dewar, renowned acrobatic adagio duo Lauren Skapalova and Bray Garcia, señorita deliciosas Amber Dawn-Finch and Sarah Douch, backed by the amazing live music talents of Viola Skyes and Tomi Gray.
For the uninitiated, Dracula’s is a world of nocturnal decadence, with mouth-watering dinner treats and tequila laced cocktails – presented by waiters with unrestrained lip-service.
Plus there’s a ghost train ride that’ll get you every time.
Packages start $59 per person for supper club, show only tickets with optional tapas menu, or $95 per person for a succulent three-course dinner and show experience.
Get on it.
LOCATION: 1 Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach
WHEN: Five days a week, Tuesday to Saturday
Over the past couple of years Palm Beach (or Palmy as it’s affectionately known) has well and truly been embracing it’s new found cool kid status.
While we can’t pinpoint the exact moment it officially transformed to ‘it’ suburb, lucky locals have been living large of late, with the emergence of all the beachside haunts to frolic between (though they do have to compete a little more for parking these days).
While in years gone by, the only thing reliably making Palmy a ‘must stop’ destination was a quiet-ish (albeit stunning) beach, and the high chance of catching a red on the way through. With an influx of laidback eateries, noteworthy restaurants, swanky bars and luxe boutiques popping up left right and centre, there’s never any shortage of things to do. These days, we can think of at least 19 epic reasons that make this buzzing suburb THE place to be.
Palm Beach’s café game just levelled up with ’94, a matcha haven by Ahmet Taskin. Blending Japanese café vibes with vintage bar aesthetics, it’s serving up house-made syrups, killer matcha creations, and next-level toasties. More than just great sips and snacks, it’s a community hub with plans for running and swimming clubs. Basically, if you’re in Palmy, you need to be here.
Where: 1114 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Rolling into the former Scottish Prince space, Cadillac Supper Club is bringing vintage vibes, moody lighting, and next-level eats to Palm Beach. The brainchild of Bar Evelyn’s Mark Catsburg and Nick Stanton, this spot opened in August 2024, but has recently reimagined itself as an Italo-American pizzeria and bar, serving up wood-fired pizzas alongside its classic dishes. Add in a stacked wine list, top-tier cocktails (hello, Cadillac Classic Martini), and vinyl-spinning DJs on weekends, and you’ve got your new favourite late-night haunt.
Where: 1176 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
The Gold Coast is home to many an impressive farmers market and one of our absolute favourites can be found in Palmy on Saturday mornings. From 6am at Palm Beach Currumbin High School you’ll find fresh local produce, artisan foods, specialty coffee, epic doughnuts, flowers, dog treats, the lot. The perfect way to spend a weekend morning.
Where: Thrower Drive, Palm Beach
Overcoming the momentary temptation to leave this one out (in hopes of greedily keeping more of those highly coveted tables all for ourselves) – but no list about epic Palmy spots would be complete with such a glaring omission. Dishing up authentic Mexican eats, the menu is short but sweet, sticking only to their specialities with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Any day featuring beachside, street-style tacos like the zesty Birria Beef (complete with signature consommé to dip), and a coconut marg (because marg) is a very bueno day indeed.
Where: 1136 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Tallebudgera Surf Club has undergone a $12 million renovation, transforming it into a must-visit spot this summer. The upgraded venue offers everything from Bean Surfing Beach Café with coffee and breakfast classics, to a vibrant Sports Bar and an ocean-view Restaurant & Café serving fresh dishes like Lobster Tacos and Seafood Platters. There’s also a killer drinks menu, fun cocktails like the Tallebudgera Thunder, and a Gelato Bar with 12 flavours to cool off. Plus, every purchase supports local lifesavers, making it a win-win for beach lovers.
Where: 1505 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Those with little ones will attest to the fact that the Pirate Park is up there with the best on the Coast. Located right near the water, the park far exceeds anything you ever got to play on as a kid with a pirate ship stuck in the sand and upended wine barrels perfect for all day climbing. If you don’t have any babes, Dune Café is close by as is the sparkling ocean and a dog beach on Currumbin Creek that’s always good for a laugh.
Where: 945 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach (on the left before the Currumbin Creek bridge)
No doubt you’ve already set foot inside The Collective more than once and why wouldn’t you with five restaurants to choose from? Open for lunch and dinner, you can stay all day and, as it’s a communal dining setting, you’re bound to make some new friends along the way. So, if you’re in the mood for pizza and tacos, head to The Collective, order both and wash it all down with a cocktail at the rooftop bar.
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
It’s every local boho babe’s dream come true. Opened in 2013, White Bohemian stocks all your favourite hippy-esque labels including GD brand Kivari, Byron Bay cult-fave labels SPELL and Arnhem. These guys were one of the first to bring us the magic of the laid-back luxe aesthetic before the #boho trend took over the world (and our wallets), so we trust them and their epic curation of all things effortless style endlessly. There’s homewares too so, you know, prepare to spend up.
Where: Cnr Seventh Avenue and Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
It goes without saying that if you’ve ever driven through Palm Beach, you’ve definitely laid eyes on Balboa Italian. The beautifully appointed double-storey brick building is in a class of its own serving classic Italian dishes with modern interpretations and the freshest of flavours. It’s worth a visit just to experience the fitout, complete with overhead Vespa and exposed brick walls. The cocktails are unique and the wine selection varied. It’s all good to be honest, get down there.
Where:1069 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Bringing mid-century charm and top-tier coffee to Palmy, Bantr is the new go-to for specialty sips, delicious eats, and a side of banter. Run by longtime locals Dean and Susan Olarenshaw, this laid-back spot serves up All Press Coffee, a TikTok-approved Strawberry Matcha, and crowd-favourite dishes like their famous Breakfast Burrito. With a vibrant atmosphere and a giant Samuel L. Jackson mural watching over your caffeine fix, bantR is where great coffee meets good vibes.
Where: 1389 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
A somewhat secret cocktail bar, tucked away on the Gold Coast Hwy, Suga specialises in rum and good times and if you’re keen on either or both of those you should absolutely get down there. They have an impressive cocktail menu plus plenty of epic wines (pet nats, yes please) and beers so no matter what, you’re gonna love it.
Where: 1142 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Launching a cafe in a hip and happening suburb surrounded by competition stiffer than a morning espresso is not for the faint of heart – but ever since they branched out from their OG Tugun location, locals and weary travellers alike have unanimously agreed it’s always a good day for Good Day Coffee Palm Beach. Friendly faces serving Blackboard coffee and other staples like pastries and goat’s fetta laden smashed avo toast – we could easily eat and drink here every day. The epitome of simple eats, and great coffee, done well.
Where: 1073 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Found upstairs in a sunlit space oozing chill vibes is Ritual Yoga & Pilates. Owned by sisters Rose and Sophie, Ritual is a favourite amongst both Palm Beach locals and those who reside in surrounding suburbs. If you’re in need of some rest and relaxation (or a solid sweat session), Ritual is calling your name.
Where: 9b Palm Beach Avenue, Palm Beach
Bringing big flavour and even bigger vibes to Palmy, Madame V is the newest hotspot from acclaimed Gold Coast chef Daniel Ridgeway. Expect a menu packed with modern Asian-inspired delights, from Sticky Pork Ribs to Spicy Beef Tenderloin, plus a must-try Yum Cha Sunday featuring all the dumpling goodness your heart desires. The cocktails are just as bold—think yuzu-infused whisky sips and sake-spiked tropical creations. Whether it’s a casual bite, a private dining experience, or an all-out Yum Cha feast, Madame V is the place to be.
Where: 6 Palm Beach Avenue, Palm Beach
Freshly made bagels with a variety of savoury and sweet options, from classic cream cheese spreads to loaded pulled pork and decadent S’mores French Toast Bagels. It’s the perfect spot for a pre-beach breakfast or post-pilates pick-me-up. The UE Bagels Reuben is elite. Winning gold at the Olympics level elite. With a relaxed, industrial vibe, this café offers both street-side and indoor seating to enjoy your bagels and their signature UE Brew Coffee Blend. Open daily from 6am (or until sold out), it’s a must-visit for any bagel lover!
Where: 5/10 Palm Beach Ave, Palm Beach
As we’ve probably already well established by this point, us Gold Coasters are big suckers for a cute fit-out. It’s hard to tell if it’s the perfectly peachy-pink interiors, or the Italian aromas wafting from the kitchen that keep us coming back to Toro’s Pizza like moths to a flame. And spoiler alert: it’s definitely the latter, since there are few smells that compare to that of a freshly baked, still bubbling wood-fired pizza. Carbs, cheese, more cheese, and BYO – this place is what Italian dreams are made of.
Where: Shop 7/2 Eighth Ave, Palm Beach
Sporting a sunny new facade with striped yellow awnings and nautical touches, Neptune Kiosk is the perfect spot to grab a coffee and snack by the water. The kiosk now boasts an expanded space, including a dedicated pick-up window for quicker service. Alongside Marvell Street coffee, you can enjoy fresh juices, smoothies, ice creams, and sweet treats like fresh cinnamon donuts alongside oozy cookies and pastries from Custard Canteen. Open daily from 5:30 am, it’s the ideal stop for creekside caffeine and bites.
Where: 1525 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Early risers, rejoice! Mylk Well serves up top-notch brews and all-day eats from 5am daily. Brought to life by hospitality pros Sophia Buntine and Victoria Macbain (formerly of Commune), this sleek Scandi-inspired spot dishes out everything from Kimchi Toasties to Chilli Scrambled Sourdough, alongside Coffee Supreme creations that’ll keep you buzzing. Whether you’re after a killer House Hash Benny, a Green Tea Soba Noodle Salad, or just a perfect iced latte, Mylk Well has you covered. Safe to say, Palmy locals will be milking this one for all it’s worth.
Where: 1134 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Step inside this boutique hideaway, and you’ll be grinning like, well… you know who. What’s old is new again at this six-room motel, a nostalgic mid-century dream decked out with retro furnishings and a colour palette straight from the ‘60s—think tangerine oranges, teal blues, and pistachio greens. Whether you pick the Queen Room or the Bungalow, both are madly impressive. Tucked away on the buzzing Palm Beach strip yet hidden in plain sight, just follow the neon glow and cactus-lined walls—you’ll know you’ve arrived.
Where: 1005 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Words by Belinda Symons
