The Palm Beach venue opens new upstairs space.
The Palm Beach venue opens new upstairs space.
If, like us, you’ve long dreamed of a quick little jaunt in Tulum, Mexico but spend way too much money on things you definitely don’t need (same), your life is about to change in a big way.
No, we’re not sending you all to Tulum (sorry) but we are letting you in on something even better, a little slice of the far away paradise right here in our own backyard.
It can be found at Frida Sol in Palm Beach and yes, we know you’ve been there already to drink bulk Coconut Margaritas and take a million Insta-snaps, but where you haven’t been is the newly opened upstairs section that we are here to introduce you to.
The fitout is the work of Morgan Walsh, owner of FuFu Chinese Diner and Poke Poke in Mermaid Beach and, as you’d know from her work there, she’s quite the eclectic interior design extraordinaire.
After opening (and designing) five restaurants over the course of the past five years, she has decided to dedicate more of her time to projects such as the fitout of Frida Sol and we are pretty excited about it.
So, obviously, Frida Sol is a Mexican venue (owned by one Ryan Renwick) and the design is extremely reflective of that with giant succulents and cactuses planted throughout, brightly coloured artworks and copper adornments to bring the space to life and textured tables and walls giving it an authentic Mexi-feel but in Palmy (yay). It’s all whites and greens and rattan furniture and the vibes are high there. Love it.
In the new upstairs area, the sophisticated, earthy vibe is the same but the space has been absolutely transformed from it’s previous 8th Ave Terrace life.
It’s an intimate space, inspired by the beachside location, with louvered windows opening out to 180 degree views of the pretty Palmy ocean and while it’s an extension of the downstairs area, it’s also got a few fun little additions.
The floors are polished wood and offset by concrete-esque high tables that all back onto rendered, highly textured walls that look like they would be quite the challenge to make (for people who have no idea how to make things i.e. us). The entire space has a stunning sandy, seaside cave-like feel but it’s refined and beautifully lit and we would like to move in.
The bar looks like it belongs on a balmy Mexico beach with shaggy grass sprouting out the top into the room and giant cactuses and succulents (that we would like for our house please) are placed into planters along the side walls and through the middle of the space while the prettiest round pendant lights hang from above.
Morgan has used polystyrene that she chipped away to give the appearance of a natural rock formation on the walls and honestly, how does she come up with this stuff.
There are also water features along the back wall and quirky little touches that you’ll recognise as Morgan’s unique touch throughout.
The space can be hired for your next party and it’ll also be open for sunset drinks and a little plate of Mexi-goodies or two with the gang. It’s casual but also fancy and perfect for any good times you might be planning in the future.
It’s a real stunner gang, get in there and prepare to be amazed.
LOCATION: Level 1, 1176 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
HOURS: Open nightly from 5pm
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
If there’s anything better than sipping a frosty, perfectly salted margarita in the sunshine, overlooking the sparkling ocean, we can’t (and won’t) think of it. Throw in a few spicy tacos and some of those Gold Coast good vibes we know and love and, well, it’s pretty much the perfect time.
Which is why, we are beside ourselves with the news that Frida Sol opened in Palm Beach just a short while ago bringing all of the above to the very-in-need-of-an-epic-Mexican-eatery, beachside suburb. And what an epic Mexican eatery it is.
Taking up space where 8th Ave once graced us with its presence, Frida Sol is perfectly at home perched above the Gold Coast Highway and overlooking one of the most beautiful stretches of sand around (biased). Having been transformed by the one and only Morgan Walsh (owner of Poke Poke and FuFu Chinese Diner), the space is quirky and eclectic with bright pops of colour and we, quite frankly, are in love.
You’ll enter through the dining room, passing the Chefs hard at work preparing tasty eats and a backlit bar punctuated with flowing greenery and, of course, all your favourite tipples.
Outside, high tables with shaggy dry grass umbrellas are the seating spot of choice so you can gaze lovingly at the black and white portrait of Frida Kahlo herself (an incredible early 1900s Mexican artist for whom the place is named) or, at your back, said beautiful stretch of sand. Along one side, a low textured wall is complete with really quite spiky cactuses and along the other, copper biblical statues shine out above you.
As you know, no Gold Coast restaurant is complete without a neon slogan sign and Frida’s does not disappoint. We’ll let you seek it out. Throughout the venue, little artworks and artefacts have been artfully placed on walls and surfaces, all nods to Frida Kahlo and her colourful, much-loved work.
The whole space comes together perfectly (of course) and it’s exactly the venue Palm Beach needed to lift the nighttime vibe to a whole new level. We could not be more excited.
The menu, love you Mexican eats, is a mix of all the things you know and need in your life, boasting punchy, can’t-get-enough flavours to be washed down with a signature cocktail or three.
To start, there are snacks along the lines of Chile Con Queso (LOVE) with smoked chilli salt, Pork Taquitos and Chipotle Salt and Pepper Calamari to name a few delicious options. From there it’s share plates for the win with a few gourmet tacos thrown in for good measure.
We HIGHLY recommend the Chorizo Croquettes with shaved Manchego, smoked sour cream and Habanero jam, obviously, plus the Charred Cauliflower Ensalada, a chargrilled corn and cauliflower salad with quinoa and toasted pepitas – pretty and delicious. Maybe eat one of everything on that menu though, just to be safe.
There are burrito bowls and an impressive array of tacos to sample. We’d go the Pescado – crispy fish with tomato pico, mango crema and queso fresco and the Cerdo Tirado – pulled pork with tomatillo salsa, pickled cabbage, pineapple chilli jam and cilantro crema.
If you can’t decide a. nobody would blame you and b. there’s a banquet for that. It’s just $40 per person and made up of MANY dishes that’ll be your absolute favourite, one after the other.
On Thursday’s it’s a taco takeover with $5 taco and drink specials and Friday’s get down for ‘Muchos Nachos’ with $10 nachos and drink specials. Sunday’s sees $29 banquets so that’s your weekend sorted.
Was it all down with the very best Coconut Margarita you’ve ever sampled and it’s happy day friends.
That’s a lot of reasons to get down to Palmy and indulge in an absolute tequila-sipping, taco-tasting time. You’re gonna love it.
LOCATION: Level 1, 1176 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
HOURS: Open nightly from 5pm
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
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
Say hello to Palmy’s newest neighbour Mr Bengel – the third son of the man behind Burleigh favourites Justin Lane and Harry’s Steak Bistro.
Adam Haralampou, creative foodie genius, is no stranger to restaurant success on the Gold Coast and he has been eyeing off the prime Palm Beach real estate for awhile saying he’s not trying to reinvent the breakfast wheel but just wants to offer good food, straight up.
With a relaxed, open-living, navy on white look perfect for beachside Palmy living, Mr Bengel, Adam’s first cafe, represents a fictitious laidback local surfer in his 50’s who loves a chat. It’s also
They’re serving the much-loved Supreme Roasters coffee – born and bred in Queensland and a favourite amongst locals.
The best part is, said coffee is free Monday to Friday (March 6th to 10th) from 6am to 9am.
Serving up fresh, affordable food for breakfast and lunch, the menu will include the usual suspects – including ‘Housemade Bircher Muesli’ and ‘Eggs Benedict’ – along with a Harry’s lunch favourite – the Waygu Beef Burger.
If there’s one thing Adam knows how to do it’s simple food made delicious.
Whether you’re coming off the sand after a morning surf or heading down south for a road trip, pop in to say hello to the team at Mr Bengel.
See you there for a coffee on the man himself.
LOCATION: 1099 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach (between Seventh and Eighth Avenues).
HOURS: From 6am to 2pm daily.
Words by Kirra Smith
