Your Euro summer starts at Hope Island Tavern.
Your Euro summer starts at Hope Island Tavern.
Ah, Euro summer – the season our social feeds morph into a dreamy montage of Aperol Spritz, ocean dips and food pics. We’d love nothing more than to be living la dolce vita ourselves, but let’s be real … the cost of living isn’t exactly saying bon voyage right now.
Pack your (imaginary) bags and prep your palate – Hope Island Tavern is serving up a slice of Euro summer right here on the Gold Coast, no boarding pass required.
Running through the balmy months of winter (we use that term loosely), the Tavern is unveiling a celebration that’s all about sunshine, spritzes and seaside vibes.
Hot on the heels of the stylish renovation last year – hello, coastal cool meets pub comfort – the Hope Island Tavern team is now doubling down on the holiday-at-home feels.
If you are yet to see the makeover, allow us to fill you in. The coastal-inspired reno brought a lush beer garden, retro interiors and a family-friendly playground to the Tav – perfect for everything from lazy lunches to watching live sport.
With that came a new menu, blending pub classics (hello, chicken parmy, fish & chips and smash burgers) with new faves like prawn & bug rolls, charred prawns with chorizo, wild mushroom arancini and wood-fired pizzas. There’s even a gelato station with boozy options for grown-ups.
And this new season will see the Tavern’s outdoor area dressed in its Euro best, complete with citrus pops of lemon and orange, soft-blue hydrangeas and a coastal feature wall that’s practically begging for a sunset selfie. It’s Santorini at your door step, and we are so here for it.
The food? A total tastebud tour. The chef is putting the finishing touches on a specialty menu packed with Mediterranean-style tapas, pizzas, and (we’re whispering it so as not to jinx it) decadent desserts. It’ll give your friends in Europe FOMO.
The real hero, though? A limited-time Spritz menu that promises a refreshing twist on the classics. Just the thing to sip while soaking up the golden hour glow.
Weekends will be dialled up a notch with “Spritz & Shares” packages – light bites and bubbly bevs made for those long-lunch-to-sunset hangs. Whether you’re dreaming of a hot Euro summer or just want to feel like you’re on one, this is the spot for it.
No need to queue for customs – Hope Island Tavern is bringing the European vacation to you. Step into the backyard-turned-Riviera and experience the Med without the jetlag. Cheers (or should we say saluti) to that!
Words by Lisette Drew
STORY SPONSORED BY HOPE ISLAND TAVERN
It’s official—Hope Island Tavern has had the ultimate glow-up.
Tucked in the heart of Hope Island, this much-loved local watering hole is stepping into its 2.0 era with a complete renovation, and trust us, it’s ticking all the boxes.
Whether you’re seeking a lazy family lunch, a cheeky drink with mates, or a front-row seat to the game of the season, this is your new go-to for good times on the Goldie.
Gone are the days of the old tavern setup (RIP, but thanks for the memories). Now, you’re greeted with a lush new beer garden that’s basically sunshine and happiness rolled into one.
Picture this: picnic tables nestled under market umbrellas, surrounded by greenery and a vibe that screams coastal cool. Add a playground and voilà—you’ve got the ultimate family-friendly destination.
It’s all about alfresco living here, and LBH, is it even a Queensland pub if you can’t sip a cold one while soaking up some rays?
Inside, the revamp leans into the tavern’s coastal retro vibe, with green stripes and rattan setting the scene for a relaxed yet elevated experience.
The bistro has had a zhuzh-up too, and the sports bar is now a sports fan’s dream come true.
We’re talking mega screens showing all the live action, so whether it’s the cricket or footy that gets your heart racing, you won’t miss a beat. And with plenty of seating options, there’s always room for your crew.
Now let’s talk about the menu because, honestly, we’re always thinking about food.
The good news is they’ve kept your fave pub classics, because who doesn’t love a Chicken Parmy or a good Smash Burger?
But they’ve also gone next-level with some seriously drool-worthy additions.
Case in point: the Prawn & Bug Rolls, slathered with chervil mayo and paired with crispy fries. Or how about the Sauteed Prawns with Chorizo, swimming in smoked paprika butter and sherry and served with house-made focaccia for mopping up every last drop?
Then there’s the pièce de résistance—the Salsiccia Pizza, straight out of the wood-fired oven, with mozzarella, pork and fennel sausage, caramelised onion, broccoli, and thyme. It’s basically a party on a plate.
We hope you left room for dessert. The gelato station is a hit with kids and adults alike, and for the grown-ups feeling a little extra, you can even opt for a boozy gelato paired with your favourite liqueur. Genius, right?
If all that wasn’t enough, Hope Island Tavern’s weekly programming seals the deal. Thursday nights mean trivia, Fridays are for tradies with a BBQ and live music from 5pm, and Saturdays bring free kids’ entertainment from 2pm, followed by more live tunes.
Sundays? It’s Family Fun Day, featuring activities for the little ones and a classic Sunday Roast that’s calling your name.
Venue Manager Troy Williams nailed it when he said the renovation was all about putting the community front and centre. And with a massive local’s weekend celebration planned for January, it’s clear that Hope Island Tavern isn’t just back—it’s better than ever.
So, whether you’re rolling in for the gelato, the pizza, or just want to kick back in the beer garden with a frosty brew, this newly revamped tavern is where the good vibes live. Don’t walk, run—because this place is about to become the talk of the town. Cheers to that!
Where: 93 Broadwater Ave, Hope Island
When: Sunday – Thursday 10am – 10pm, Friday – Saturday 10am – 12am
Website: hopeislandtavern.com.au
Instagram: @hopeislandtavern
Words by Belinda Symons
STORY SPONSORED BY HOPE ISLAND TAVERN
Hope Island might be famous for its canal-front living and a name that screams positivity, but there’s more to this northern gem than just golf courses and good vibes. Nestled far enough from the hustle of the CBD to feel like a retreat, yet close enough to dip back into the action, it delivers a lifestyle that’s totally 4220.
And honestly, it makes sense – when a chunk of your neighbourhood is an actual resort, that vibe is bound to stick.
The locals here? Absolutely smitten with their slice of paradise and trust us, they’re not going anywhere. Here are twelve reasons why Hope Island folks are locked in for the long haul.
Sanctuary Cove
I mean, this place needs no introduction. Bursting with top-notch dining, drinking, a world-class marina, primo people-watching opportunities and don’t even get us started on the shopping, it’s no wonder this vibrant spot holds a special place in our hearts. With a lineup of eats and sips venues (keep reading for more deets) and boutiques like Soho Girl and Theo & Joe, there’s no shortage of places to do your dough.
Where: 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove
If you’re after a quadruple threat, welcome. Between the Lagoon Beach Club, epic pool, beautiful accommodation and of course, the wood-fire wizardry that is The Fireplace restaurant, it’s the ultimate stay-cay destination. Plus, if you’re in the market to get hitched, there’s a reason this place has remained on bride and groom’s to-be ceremony and reception list for decades.
Where: Manor Circuit, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Rise
The French know how to wow, and Rise Bakery is no exception. With divine pastries, fresh baguettes, heavenly macarons, and a champagne bar, it’s a slice of Parisian perfection. Add a peek-a-boo kitchen and luxe interiors and you’ve got trés chic indulgence. Pop in for croissants, sip bubbly, and embrace all the bready, sugary goodness – because calories don’t count when it’s French.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Pablitos
When it comes to tacos and tequila, Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria in Sanctuary Cove is a spec-taco-lar must-try. With a fresh, plant-based-forward menu, fancy margaritas, and over 50 sipping tequilas, it’s a fiesta for your taste buds. The chic Mexican-Caribbean vibes, terracotta tables, and divine dishes make this spot muy auténtico. Vamos, amigos!
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Hope Island Tavern
Say hello to the revamped Hope Island Tav, where sunshine, good vibes, and laid-back living collide in the best way possible. Smack dab in the heart of Hope Island, stretch out in the expansive beer garden and let the good times roll. The little ones will stay busy in the awesome playground while you devour drool-worthy wood-fired pizzas and fresh-as-can-be seafood.
Where: 93 Broadwater Avenue, Hope Island
Doughed
Doughed is a bona fide foodie haven, serving epic coffee, matcha, NYC-style cookies, and drool-worthy doughnuts. Their all-day Early Riser Focaccia Sandwich and other sanga options hit every craving, while sweet tooths will go gaga for their array of sugary treats. Don’t miss the signature Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte – it’s qualiTEA perfection!
Where: 99-103 Broadwater Avenue, Hope Island
Rosé Gelateria
This pastel paradise serves artisan gelato, pastries, and coffee fit for a foodie’s dream. Indulge in unique flavours like Fig and Mascarpone or Passionfruit Pavlova, sip affogatos, or snack on a macaron…or ten. Pair your treats with a shake or your fave coffee and take a stroll around the magnificent marina. Yes ploise.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
Ahoy, boat lovers! The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is back for its 38th year and ready to make waves from 22 – 25 May. The most glamorous, immersive, unmissable boating lifestyle event in the Southern Hemisphere, it showcases the latest-and-greatest boating tech and equipment, exclusive waterside VIP experiences and over 43,000+ visitors, 330+ exhibitors, and 760+ boats. It’s a shore thing.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Mecca Bah
If you love Mecca Bah Broady, get ready to fall for its chic sibling at Hope Island. Indulge in fresh, locally-sourced Middle Eastern and Mediterranean delights in a setting that’s as aesthetic as it is authentic. With live tunes on Thursdays from 5pm and dazzling belly dancers every Saturday evening from 7:30pm, prepare to be mezze-merised. Your taste buds will thank you!
Where: 18/10 Santa Barbara Road, Hope Island
Native Harvest
Native Harvest is the northern GC’s worst-kept secret, serving up a fresh take on Australian fusion cuisine and celebrating native ingredients. From Native Australian Chilli Scramble to a Fresh, Tangy Prawn Tartare, the menu is a winner winner bush dinner. Pro tip; pair your nosh with their Native Plum Spritz for peak indulgence. Doggo-friendly and oozing charm, “I’ll (definitely) allow it”.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Hope Island Links Golf Club & Sanctuary Cove Country Club
Hope Island’s heart beats to the swing of a golf club, with world-class courses stealing the spotlight. The Links, crafted by British Open champ Peter Thomson, has aced Australia’s top ten resort courses since 1993. Whether you’re teeing off or tying the knot, this iconic venue isn’t just for golfers – it’s the go-to for unforgettable functions and events.
Where: Springfield Drive and Gleneagles Drive, Hope Island
Destino
Craving a Mediterranean escape sans the airfare? Destino at Sanctuary Cove delivers delish tapas, refreshing cocktails, and top-shelf wine in a chic, sunlit setting. Kick back on the deck or spend your Friday and Saturday nights vibing to a live DJ from 7pm. With its Euro vibes, low tables, and outdoor seating, one drink will likely become three. Take it from us, Destino is your passport to indulgence – no packing required!
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
