If there is one thing out there we can all likely agree on; it’s that superb food and libations deserve to be enjoyed in fabulous surroundings. And whilst the Gold Coast is a playground of natural beauty and sublime weather, some eateries simply gel with their environments that little bit better, you know?

One segment of the bustling eating scene we think fits this bill to a tee is Mexican food and a good sea view. The kind of place where a steady afternoon sea breeze helps you get over all those spicy flavours and a sandy outlook provides the perfect backdrop to sip a margarita — or five.

Aligning the ever-beautiful Kirra beachfront with zesty and vibrant flavours of Mexico is the newly opened Agave Rosa on Musgrave Street. A strong contender for your new preferential summer hangout!

The owner behind this newly opened venue is no stranger to hospitality. Franz Zdesar had a hand in the much-lauded Project Tokyo in Mermaid Waters, and long before that, spent years living and working as a chef in some of Europe’s most well-respected restaurants. Let’s just say he knows his way around a chopping board! Now with a fantastic position just off the sand, he hopes to bring an energetic and easy-going taste of Mexico to the southern Gold Coast.

The fit-out to this oceanside venue is bright, fun and ultimately welcoming. Outside there’s high bar seating with views out to the beach and built-in concrete booths, which cleverly look rustic yet refined at the same time. Inside is where immense accents of hot pink and warm reds come to life, with cactus flower beds and a seriously eye-catching mural. All punctuated by a charismatic white breeze block bar aptly positioned to pour cocktails all afternoon long.

Franz has a deep understanding and love for all things Japanese, but at the same time appreciates and adores the simplicity and enjoyability of Mexican food: the kind of stuff you could eat every day, right?! This said, the menu is a modern take on Central America — minus the cliches — and with added hints of Japanese flavours. Meaning if you order the Hibachi Wagyu Rump, your corn side will come dripping in miso butter — trust us, it works! These nuances throughout the menu are subtle. In the separated taco section, you’ll be able to choose from traditional flavours like crispy skin pork belly, pickled cabbage, and salsa verde or tempura fried line-caught fish, chipotle mayo and grilled pineapple salsa.

And if this little section had the salivation glands in your mouth activating, just wait until you read the rest of the menu.

The menu can be shared amongst a few or enjoyed more traditionally. You’ll also come across a selection of smaller plates ‑ such as fish ceviche — sides, extras and a couple of desserts worthy of your attention: avocado brûlée and chilli chocolate truffles with dulce de leche.

Like any Mexican establishment worth their salt, a smart and tasty collection of signature cocktails is supported by a slew of differing margaritas like the Coco (coconut) and Chile (chilli). The beer selection is simplistic, and in time they will be pouring Japanese-made beer from the tap. For those who feel like a lighter refreshment, we suggest you familiarise yourself with one of Mexico’s most famous soft drinks: Jarritos. There are five flavours for you to choose from, and once poured over ice, these are a sure-fire way to cool yourself down in the summer heat.

With a recent opening, the venue has already experienced a flurry of attention. At this point, they are kindly asking all diners to book ahead where possible. All that’s left once you have your booking is to wander in off the beach and saunter over to Kirra’s newest down-to-earth taste of Mexico.

Hours: Open Wednesday – Sunday 5pm – late & Lunches: Friday-Sunday 12pm noon – 2.30pm
Where: 2/74 Musgrave Street, Kirra

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

Nestled between Bilinga and Coolangatta, Kirra may be small but she is also mighty.

Best known for a pumping, world-renowned surf break and ever-present chill vibes, there’s so much more to Kirra than just waves and a pristine stretch of sand (although that’s motivation enough for us).

Here are 12 reasons why Kirra locals ain’t budging for love nor money, and why the wider GC community can’t get enough of this thriving yet mellow footwear-optional ‘burb.

Cotton Living
Who doesn’t love a luxurious homewares store that’s also a patisserie café, and the answer is a unanimous NOBODY. In its beautiful new location, Cotton Living showcases stunning handmade furniture and timeless accessories to make every room in your abode sing. Everything is Insta-worthy with a focus on natural colours and textures, plus you can grab a croissant with your cushion and #WhatsNotToLove. This luxurious space right by the beach is family-owned and the obvs choice for your next coffee date with the gals.
Where: 1 Lord Street, Coolangatta

Siblings
Once a humble Pizza Hut (and the hottest piece of real estate going around), the iconic and heritage listed beachside Kirra Pavilion has been reincarnated! Founded by local restaurateur royalty Jarrod Kyle and TJ Cianci, Siblings is a modern Australian brunch and dinner showstopper, dripping with 1950’s Miami beach vibes goodness. The menu is infused with fresh seafood and share-plates a-plenty and don’t even get us started on the cocktails! You haven’t lived till you’ve been.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra

Agave Rosa
From the brilliant mind that brought us Project Tokyo comes an all new, sandy-shore-dwelling, Mexican fusion dining experience and yep, that was a mouthful. Speaking of mouthfuls, you’ve never tasted better modern Mexican fare, with fresh, delicious dishes infused with dashes of distinct oriental flavours and srsly, the tongue-twisters are coming in hot today. The fit out is bright but totally on-fleek, just how we like our Mexi restaurant and taquerias.
Where: 74 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta

Kirramisu
Famous for an overflowing dessert cabinet including, you guessed it, tasty tiramisu, this little gem has become an institution in the beachside suburb. Not only loved for their clever name, Kirramisu serves up a bangin’ breakfast and lunch menu, fresh juices and smoothies, all with a side of multi-million-dollar sparkling ocean views. It’s the little place with the big soul.
Where: 28 Musgrave Street, Kirra 

Kirra Surf
Speaking of institutions, Kirra Surf is a must-visit when cruising into this salty (good salty) seaside suburb. Their range of surfing products and apparel is unrivalled, the staff are super friendly, and there’s always at least (twenty)two things you’ll want to take home with you. Ladies, pop in for a visit and marvel at the larger-than-life posters of your fave easy-on-the-eyes surfer boys. You’re welcome.
Where: 8 Creek Street, Kirra 

Bread and Butter
From Spanish tapas, stone baked pizzas, handmade gnocchi to cocktails and a large selection of wine and beer, you’re in for a treat at this Kirra icon. A lively space where the good times always roll, take a seat on the terrace and soak up the delightful ocean breezes and beach views. With $20 pick-up pizzas and $25 gnocchi and pasta until 6pm, it won’t break the bank which is the icing on the cake (or the butter on the bread).
Where: 76 Musgrave St, Kirra 

Kirra Beach Bakery
A visit to Kirra isn’t complete without hitting up the local bakery and this is a fact. Whether you’re in need of a post-surf pie, sausage roll, quiche or pastie, a healthy salad or sandwich for the road, or some pre-dinner cake, slice or a sweet treat (don’t judge), Kirra Beach Bakery is the place. Get down there early in the morning for fresh-out-of-the-oven bread and enjoy a slice or two with the local ‘gulls while watching the sunrise. Best.
Where: 100 Musgrave Street, Kirra 

HiPoke
The poke bowl phenomenon has taken the Gold Coast by storm and why wouldn’t it. Originating in Hawaii, poke bowls are made up of protein and salad combinations artfully arranged in bowls and perfect for both consuming and Instagram snaps. Of the signature bowls, we’re all about the Karaage Chicken with edamame, carrot, corn, sweet chilli mayo and lotus root chips. Satisfying and healthy, the entire menu is preservative free and all seafood is sustainably sourced. How good!
Where: 48 Musgrave Street, Kirra

Kirra Surf Life Saving Club
Located right on the beach, this old boy has been around longer than you (est. 1916) and is a firm fave amongst all Gold Coasters. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon cold one overlooking the ocean or an affordable dinner with the crew. Sit yourself on the deck and let that balmy sea breeze take you to your happiest place.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra 

Kirra Hill Lookout
Where better to feast your eyes on the world-famous Kirra beach! Trek to the top of the headland and prepare to be wowed by views from Main Beach to Snapper Rocks and everywhere in between. Pack a picnic or fire up the barbie (you’ve earned it after that walk), and thank your lucky stars you get to live in the best place on Earth. No bias, just #truth.
Where: It’s on the big hill, you won’t miss it! 

Gold Coast Skydive
Jumping out of a plane is all kinds of a fun time, and jumping out of a plane and landing on Kirra Beach, even better. The good folks at Gold Coast Skydive are based in Kirra and once you’re out of that plane hurtling toward the sand, Kirra is exactly where you’ll land. After that adrenaline rush you might want to calm yourself with a beer or two. Luckily, the surf club is right there to assist.
Where: 1/78 Musgrave Street, Kirra

Kirra Beach Pavilion
While driving around the headland, you may have noticed the cute little shelter overlooking the ocean. It’s a great place to hide from the scorching sun, and has certainly seen a lot over its lifetime – more than a century to be precise. Early photos of Kirra Beach show the shelter in place by around 1916 and we love ourselves some GC history. The Kirra Shelter Shed makes for a great viewing platform and is the perfect spot to watch whales frolic out in the big blue.

Words by Bianca Trathen.

Arguably THE most talked about redevelopment project in recent GC history, the iconic Kirra Beach Pavilion’s (formerly housing the last Gold Coast Pizza Hut buffet) transformation into new eats and drinks capital, Siblings Kirra, is complete! And believe us, she’s a keeper.

This heritage-listed beachfront beauty has been reincarnated as a modern Australian brunch and dinner destination, dripping with 1950’s Miami beach vibes goodness from pillar to post. Blessed with a location like no other (who didn’t want to get their mitts on this unicorn of real estate?), its position and menu, infused with fresh seafood and share plates a-plenty, raises the bar across the region’s eats scene.

Siblings Kirra is the brainchild of local foodie visionaries, brothers Jarrod Kyle & TJ Cianci (the children of founders of firm faves Edgewater Dining and The Fish Emporium); have once again teamed up with Head Chef extraordinaire Blake Fewtrell. The name ‘Siblings’ was born chewing fat around the kitchen table when their dad oh-so-wisely chimed in “surely you siblings can come up with something between yourselves…!?”.

Entrusting Zero9 Constructions and Space Cubed Design Studio with build and interiors, the restaurant seats up to 150 guests, with both indoor and deck dining. The fit-out celebrates its surroundings, with a beachy colour palette (think peach, soft orange and green hues), all offset by timber accents and material-of-the-moment, rattan. The private dining room is the perfect choice for your next shin-dig seating 26 guests, with a small private deck attached for a long lunch or intimate private dinner.

The brunch menu rounds up the who’s who of the classics, but with a Siblings Kirra spin. For those dedicated to all-things-lean-and-green, there’s the Green Goddess Bowl with miso cashew cream, charred greens, avocado, sprouts and seeds. If something more sea-inspired floats your boat (pun intended), you can’t go past the Fraser Island Crab Omlette, with enoke mushroom, herbs, crispy shallot and sesame cracker. Washed down with a cold-pressed juice or mocktail, it’s the perfect way to wrap up a morning sesh on the sand.

Suddenly we’ve moved into cocktail-o-clock territory (yay!) and Bar Manager Paolo has us sorted. Creating a ‘liquid journey’ with over 52 signature cocktails to enjoy, we’ve decided we all need a Paolo in our corner. We loved the Coco Capricorn with Capricorn Pineapple run, Disaronno Velvet, Coco Lopez coconut cream, mudled fresh pineapple, mint sprigs, fresh lime juice and a splash of sugar syrup topped up with soda.

Now let’s talk dinner because we’ve got A LOT to say. How about a round of Freshly Shucked Oysters with seaweed mignonette and lime to kick things off, along with some Baja Fish Tacos with citrus slaw, pickled jalapeno and lime. Or, for the less meat-inclined, there’s the flavour-bomb favourite Popcorn Cauliflower with smoked paprika mayo and lemon.

It’s mains time and why not try this drool-worthy showstopper on for size; Prawn & Bug Meat Risotto with half a bug, pink champagne cream, chilli and herbs. The Barkers Creek pork cutlet with apple, mustard seeds, shaved fennel, pan jus is another frontrunner, not to mention the Siblings Surf and Turf. Which if you bring your appetite, you’ll devour a 500g Black Angus chateaubriand, grilled Moreton Bay bugs & king prawns, with two sides and two sauces. WOWZERS.

For a sweet finisher, who doesn’t dig a dessert that marries up an all-time fave cocktail with an all-time fave desert; a Pina Colada Panna Cotta with spiced rum syrup, coconut, charred pineapple, kaffir lime granita. Nuff said.

Current mood… Hungry? Fix it – go to Siblings Kirra.

Watch our Instagram reel of Siblings Kirra here.

When:  11am – late 7 days a week for lunch and dinner.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra

Words by Bianca Trathen.