Apparently there’s something to be said about sipping cocktails in a semi-outdoor space with views for days and an ever-present, balmy breeze.

So much so that rooftop bars are the Gold Coast’s new drinking destination of choice and, as of tonight (November 17th), Southport’s jumped on the bandwagon.

Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar is the long-awaited venue that’s guaranteed to give the suburb a whole new lease on life thanks to the combination of everyone’s favourite things – cheese and cocktails.

Let’s start from the top. But actually the bottom. On the ground floor of the building you’ll find the deli section of the establishment, with an array of delicious meats and cheeses that will be brought together in platter form for your feasting pleasure. There’s also an old-school bar with a focus on whiskeys and quality wines. Probs gonna move in to be honest.

Up the stairs is where you’ll find the rooftop bar (shocker) complete with summery, feel good vibes and a brightly coloured “in good company” mural by local legend Claudio Kirac. The rooftop is all about cocktail jugs and tasty eats in the way of pizzas, share plates and a few fancy mains that’ll knock your socks off – we’ve got it on good authority the duck meatball hero is a party in your mouth.

All the foods can be eaten in both the bars so all you’ll need to do is decide whether you’d like to dine with a low-lit vintage vibe or in an open, airy space with bulk sunset-watching opportunities. Tough gig.

What else. The name of the place comes from Southport’s first main Postmaster who lived in the building from 1909. Philip Palmer Agnew was a poet, artist, scriptwriter and illustrator. We’re told he was a crazy character all the locals loved, who was renowned for putting on plays and drawing the world around him. And so, the bar was named after Mr PP and we reckon he would have loved it.

As will you friends. Race ya to the roof.

LOCATION: 43 Nerang Street, Southport
HOURS: Tuesday to Thursday 4pm until late and Friday and Saturday 12pm until 12am

Words and photos by Kirra Smith.

It may be home to the Gold Coast’s bustling business district but Southport can also boast a huge array of incredible eateries, culture and general good times.

We’ve rounded up 15 things locals love about the place and we reckon you might enjoy them too.

In no particular order, enjoy.

Southport Sharks
There is many a good time to be had at Southport Sharks including dining at one of the delicious dish-packed restaurants, drinking at Aviary Rooftop Bar overlooking the city, joining in on one of their classes at the Health + Fitness Centre or getting involved in one of their many good time events. The possibilities are endless. It’s the perfect spot for a family event or take the crew for a Sunday afternoon session. Happy days no matter what.
Where: Olsen Avenue and Musgrave Avenue, Southport

Southport Yacht Club
Waterfront dining is the name of the game at Southport Yacht Club with two venues to choose from and stunning scenes from whichever you choose. You’re also welcome to just sit back and kick up your heels with a cold beverage or two while gazing lovingly at one of the many beautiful yachts in the marina. It’s one of the Coast’s best locations and you’re guaranteed to have a good time.
Where: 1 MacArthur Parade, Main Beach

Zero Latency
Zero Latency is a free-roam, virtual reality experience like no other. With up to eight players per game, you’ll have the BEST time fighting zombies, exploring mystical places and challenging your friends on space stations. All you need to do is put on the VR headset, strap into the backpack and pickup the controller. Get 10% off here. It really is so good.
Where: 34 Smith Street, Southport

Panezski Distillery
The Coast’s first vodka distillery opened in Southport a few short months ago and what a treat. The family-owned business are whipping up three types of vodka, two types of gin and even a couple of beers on the premises and you can pop in to grab a bottle to go, or you can sit down and enjoy a cocktail and a charcuterie board and spend a bit of time. Very cool. 
Where: Unit 7/55 Bailey Crescent, Southport

Vinnies Dive
Who doesn’t love a good dive bar. Particularly one that doubles as a live music venue and has a huge range of your favourite beers on offer (and some you may not have heard of). Head in there to discover some new music from both local and interstate bands and if you’re in the mood for a party, which we know you are, you can hire the space out for your next one.
Where: 44A Nerang Street, Southport 

Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar 
On the ground floor of the building you’ll find the deli section of the establishment, with an array of delicious meats and cheeses that will be brought together in platter form for your feasting pleasure. Upstairs, the rooftop bar boasts tasty cocktails, even more delicious eats and views across the city. It’s a real good time.
Where: 43 Nerang Street, Southport

Randy Wallhole
To put it bluntly, you haven’t lived until you’ve tasted a Randy Wallhole bagel. There are eight flavours to choose from which means you have multiple per day if you so choose. Go for the Pulled Bas first up, it’s got Smokey BBQ pulled beef, peri mayo and apple slaw. Wash it down with some of the best coffee on the Coast and be on your merry way.
Where: 4/21 Nind Street, Southport 

Boudoir Lounge
A newbie amongst the Southport bunch, Boudoir Lounge is the very best spot for a tasty brunch with the girls or simply a few cocktails after work. Found on Como Crescent, it quickly became the go to spot for those looking for some delicious eats, in a sweet setting and with unique sips of course. Inside there’s also a hair and beauty bar so you can get fabulous before you head out on the town. Perfect.
Where: 410/1 Como Crescent, Southport

Broadwater Parklands
Whether you’re four or 40, there’s tons of fun to be had at Broadwater Parklands. For starters, you can sit and stare out at the yachts you’ll never set foot on. Then, there’s the bouncy pillow (maybe don’t go on there without a child), a kiddies train, a water playground and weekly events from theatre shows to foodie markets. See, fun.
Where: Marine Parade, Southport

D Point Ten
Oh donuts, how we love you. D Point Ten can be found on Stevens Street and, in keeping with the general donut vibe, is a little hole in the wall space pumping out the freshest of donuts we may have ever excitedly shoved into our greedy mouths. In all the best flavours no less. Go the Ferrero Rocher for sure.
Where: 6/1 Stevens Street, Southport

Cardamon Pod
The delightful folk at Cardamon Pod are serving up delightful dishes with a focus on clean eating but of the prettiest variety. They offer vegan and gluten free options for breakfast and lunch with a side of organic coffee and vegan desserts. All very delicious and it’s very hard to stop at just one thing or not to post on your Instagram.
Where: Brickworks Centre, 3/3 Brolga Avenue, Southport

Gold Coast Aquatic Centre
Southport’s centre of swimming is something for all of us to be proud of. It’s as pretty as a collection of swimming pools can be and, as it was home to all the Commonwealth Games water activities, it’s world class. The architecture is sleek and there’s a training room featuring pits filled with foam for the divers to practice in.
Where: Marine Parade, Southport 

Escape Hunt
Imagine being wrongly accused of murder, chained to a wall and having to rely on your friends’ detective skills to free you. Who you gonna call? Welcome to Escape Hunt, Southport’s brain bending game guaranteed to test your problem solving skills like they’ve never been tested before. There’s a few scenarios you might be faced with, all of which involve solving a mystery with a set of intricate clues. It’s the most fun you can have inside a locked room. Make sure to take your smart friends. Grab 10% off here.
Where: 2/162 Scarborough Street, Southport

Brickworks Centre
Where to start. There are SO many excellent places to peruse at the Brickworks starting with Ferry Rd Market where you can nab yourself everything from beautiful flowers to the freshest breads, seafood and fruit and veggies galore. God it’s good. Within the Centre, there’s also stunning homewares, fashion and design stores and health and beauty services. Oh, there’s also always some really cool events.
Where: Ferry Road, Southport 

Words by Kirra Smith

The Surfers Paradise party scene is set to skyrocket in the sophistication stakes with the news that Hyde Paradiso, Australia’s first venue by renowned lifestyle brand Hyde, will swing open its’ doors on April 1st.

Taking up space at Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise, where Seaduction once lived, Hyde Paradiso is said to be the oceanfront playground the sparkly suburb is missing and, if the groups’ previous rap sheet is anything to go by, we’re in for a good time or two.

If you’re not familiar with the Hyde brand, think chic party venues in locations such as Miami, Las Vegas and LA, the likes of which draw hordes of celebrity attendees and now, we lucky Gold Coasters can get in on the action.

The fitout will incorporate a blue, white and peach colour scheme combining traditional Italian materials including terrazos and mosaic with light timbers, coastal whites and earthy neutrals offering a Mediterranean-esque vibe we already love and would like to copy every aspect of.

A standout feature of the space will be the Hyde Paradiso Sgroppino Room, which can be used as a private dining space, including a dedicated bartender serving a range of signature Sgroppinos – an Italian cocktail traditionally made with sorbet, Prosecco and Limoncello – be still our hearts.

The drinks list will make your life infinitely better, curated by Tim Philips- Johansson, a bartender who brings 17 years of experience to Hyde Paradiso and will soon be your new favourite guy. The focus, as is Hyde’s way, will be on fun, flavour-filled tipples perfect for balmy afternoons overlooking the ocean or, a night of dancing and bulk drink sampling with the crew.

The food menu is all about sharing with influences from Europe and the US plus, of course the freshness of coastal-inspired eats. One of our favourite dishes in the world, Spanakopita, will make an appearance as will sumac squid and Heirloom tomato with whipped feta (to name a few select treats). There’ll also be fresh, delicious salads and lots of freshly made dips including another one of our fave dishes, Taramosalata. So good.

Executive Chef Joel Bryant, formerly of local fave Oskars on Burleigh, will head up the Hyde Paradiso team bringing a menu inspired by his travels (and 20 years of experience) with the bold flavours of Greece, Turkey, Italy and Morocco and please hurry up and open now.

So, Gold Coasters, it seems we’re in for a treat.

The relaxed, beachfront space seems certain to evoke nostalgic memories of summers spent on faraway Coasts but right here in our very own backyard.

If stunning Sunday sessions, long lunches and lively social scenes are your thing, mark April 1st in your diaries and prepare yourself for the game-changer that is Hyde Paradiso.

Stay tuned for more information.

LOCATION: Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise, Level 2, 8 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

Words by Kirra Smith