The Star Gold Coast’s signature Japanese dining experience Kiyomi has undergone one of the most impressive glow-ups the Gold Coast has ever seen showcasing a stunning multi-sensory experience you’ll need to see to believe. The renewal has been dubbed “a creative collision of ritual and art” and includes an elevated menu and brand new private dining space.

If you’ve not yet had the pleasure of the Kiyomi experience, now is the perfect time to treat yourself to something special; think time-honoured Tokyo craftsmanship meets the adventurousness of Australian cooking.

The brand-new magic is evident as soon as you step through the entryway, which is adorned with a blend of raw, transformative textures. The 112-seat main dining space offers a warm, welcoming vibe with Japanese calligraphy as a beautiful, decorative feature.

The recent addition of a 16-seat private dining space further elevates Kiyomi with bold graphic artwork and an intimate moody feel. The perfect option if you’re in need of a fine dining experience surrounded by quiet luxury (and a select few of your favourite people).

The private space is open for lunch with a selection of set menus and both a sushi and sashimi grazing table. Dinner choices include a 10-course Omakase menu or the Premium Omakase menu, including a Chef demonstration the likes of which you’ve never seen before.

Head Chef Winson Law, who has been led Kiyomi for the past seven years has created a menu leaning into soy and miso flavours along with the delicacy of dashi (a combination of sweet, salty, bitter and sour) which he says is quickly becoming one of the most requested tastes on the Coast.

He says, “We are fortunate in Australia to have some of the best ingredients and freshest seafood, which complements our Japanese-inspired dishes. One of our most popular dishes is because of the quality of Australian Wagyu beef. Its exquisite marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture really brings a meal to life.”

New additions to the menu include the likes of Red Snapper, sashimi and Kombujime Amaebi with pickled daikon and ginger lime dressing, Mooloolaba Prawn toast with Karashi miso, Spanner Crab and cabbage, plus aged Pork Tomahawk with apple wasabi, pork jus with Okinawa black sugar.

As always, an unrivalled drinks menu is on offer to accompany the five-star dining experience. Choose from an impressive selection of sake and Japanese whiskey, an exceptional wine list and of course perfectly crafted cocktails to reflect the magic that is Kiyomi.

So quite obviously, the next time you’re in need of a Japanese dining experience that is modern, traditional and as good as you’ll find anywhere in the world, look no further than Kiyomi, right in the heart of Broadbeach at The Star Gold Coast.

Where: Lobby Level The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: 5.30pm – 9pm, Monday – Sunday

Words by Kirra Smith

STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST

The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be 18 years or over to enter the Casino. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT. Gambling Helpline 1800 858 858.

If you love to wine, dine and shop you’ll love Broadbeach. If you prefer to surf, laze in the sun or strut along beachfront esplanades, you’ll also love Broadbeach. From cult-followed cafes to shiny new eats, boujee bars and shopping boutiques, this burb’s an A-grade entertainer that shines bright in the eyes of locals and visitors alike.

There are many reasons locals – and Gold Coasters far and wide – love a bit of Broady, but here are 15 to get you started.

The Star Gold Coast
If ever there was a reason to call up the babysitter, it’s for a session at The Star. Here, you’re greeted with live music and a melange of premium food options- you won’t need to go anywhere else. Start with a few bevvies at the Atrium Bar before choosing your cuisine for the night. Will it be the fresh Garden Kitchen & Bar or the award-winning Cantonese at Uncle Su’s? Why not taste Tokyo right on the Gold Coast at Kiyomi, authentic Italian eats at Cucina Vivo or the ultimate buffet experience at Harvest Buffet? Or maybe you’re looking for the chic rooftop bar at Nineteen at The Star or a sneaky drink at the new look Veladora?
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant
If you’re after a tried and tested, long-standing comedy cabaret, good ‘ole Dracs has been serving up frights, food and frivolity since we were all ankle-biters. Most people are sold when they hear there’s a ghost train alone, let alone the actual show, which changes every so often, so there’s always a reason to go back! Enjoy a quality 3-course dinner and a menu of magical and mystical cocktails and shots!
Where: Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach

Social Eating House + Bar
If you consider yourself a gastronome, then this Oracle Blvd darling is for you. Social serves modern Australian flavours in a casual meets fine dining setting. For this, they’ve secured more hats than a Milliner’s workshop and have just won 3 glasses at the 2024 Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards. This comes as no surprise with Executive Chef Matthew Jefferson in charge. With a recently refreshed menu (promised to please even the most refined palates), you’ll experience a carefully curated range of bar snacks, charcuterie, and small and large share plates featuring the finest Australian ingredients and paired to perfection.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach

Blues on Broadbeach
Unlike our other listings, this one’s not here 24/7. However, it’s that much of a Broady icon that it would be criminal not to throw it a mention. As the name suggests, it brings us world-class blues music and jazz from locals and famous acts alike, performing across multiple venues over four unforgettable days. And it’s free. When does that ever happen?!
Where: Various Broadbeach venues

Elk Espresso
This place has never met an empty table; it’s constantly bulging at the seams with raving fans. Of course, we are one of such fans. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the beach, the coffee is all-time, the menus are seasonal and heavenly, and they do a Boozy Bottomless Brunch. And sold!
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

The Oasis
It’s an everyday escape for locals, and one of our top shopping centres on the coast (for good reason). The Oasis is home to stunning fashion boutiques, and the number of fabulous eateries at hand is impressive in of itself. In addition to the ones we highlight in this article, we’re talking Mario’s, Madison’s Café and Patisserie, Spice Kitchen and Bar, and The Broadbeach Tavern, to name just a few. It’s a #OneStopShop.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Broadbeach Bowls Club
Ahhh, good old lawn bowls. The game that never fails to deliver a good time. If you’re looking for the best way to spend a chill arvo on the GC, it’s with a game of barefoot bowls, brew in hand at Broadbeach Bowls Club. When you’re finished, they have a full bistro menu waiting with big portions of all your go-to pub-grub meals. They also have a canape package perfect for a laid-back birthday or celebration.
Where: 169 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

kōst Bar & Grill
Just over a year old, yet kōst has already wriggled its way onto our hot list… sneaky bugger. Just kidding, they’re here for a reason, and credit is due! The contemporary style bar and grill is perfect for sophisticated sips, flame-grilled eats and boujee’ bar snacks’, all within a relaxed-luxury setting. Champagne with a side of caviar, anyone?
Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

No Name Lane
Well, if it isn’t No Name Lane making a name for themselves as Blake Lively’s favourite coffee. In her exact words “”the best coffee of her life”. We can attest to this, alongside the cafe’s cult local following. Not only are they adored for their cuppa, but their all-day breakfasts and gourmet lunches also go down a treat so if you haven’t been, remedy this immediately.
Where: 16 Charles Ave, Broadbeach

Kurrawa Surf Club
Ocean views don’t come any better than this. With legit THE most prime location, Kurrawa Surf Club has everything you’d want from a Surf Club…and more. With awesome regular members specials and fresh ingredients, there’s no such thing as a bad meal here. They host a trivia night and live music, and of course there’s the obligatory gaming lounge for those who like a flutter.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach

CHA CHA Japanese Restaurant
Gold Coasters have been CHA CHA bound for an authentic Japanese nosh-up which won’t break the bank for years, and that’s not about to change any time soon. The banquet menu is divine and every visit you’ll experience the same level of scrumptiousness. But the soy on the dim sum…it’s BYO and it’s hard to find an already affordable yet high-quality restaurant offering our 3 favourite letters. Score.
Where: 2705 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

Pacific Fair
This list wouldn’t be complete without mention of THE queen. Pacific Fair (aka Pac Fair) is any Gold Coasters first point of call when a new ensemble or therapy (retail or other) is required. It has every retailer you could possibly wish for, fabulous food options and indisputably the most gorgeous fit-out you’ve ever seen. Nothing rivals it.
Where: Gold Coast Hwy and Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach

Costa Taco
You bet we did a happy dance when news broke that our fav taqueria from Palm Beach had opened a third location in Broady (the second was Byron). For us, and many (most) Gold Coasters, it was a love at first bite. Costa Taco stole our taste buds with their authentic, flavour-filled eats and there was no turning back. And why would we? You would have to be coco to say no no to coconut margaritas?
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

The Lamb Shop
In a pita shell, you’re getting bangin bar snacks and succulent souvlaki- what’s not to love? After a long day on Broadbeach beach (presumably), when you’re feeling sun-kissed and salt wrapped, is there anything better than biting into a tangy lamb-filled pita wrap to replenish exerted energy? No! The Lamb Shop’s entire menu is prepared in-house daily, using only fresh local produce, premium cuts and authentic grilling techniques. That’s why we love em!
Where: 1 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

The Beach Hotel Broadbeach
There’s no better place to snag a seat and sink a beer (or a Golden Hour Sour) on a Saturday arvy than at the brand new The Beach Hotel in Broadbeach. The airy spaces and indoor-outdoor flow let the sea breeze carry through the beer garden into the public bar. The vibe is set to ‘summer chill’, eats are delish, sips are refreshing and every corner is designed for the perfect gathering with your pals. After some spirited fun, head inside Cora, a restaurant within The Beach Hotel, where fine dining and a laid-back atmosphere come together to deliver palate-pleasing Mediterranean-inspired bites and crisp, cool drinks. Don’t mind if we do.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

Born and bred Gold Coasters have witnessed the transformation of The Star Gold Coast before our very eyes. No longer just our default for the sneaky late night afterparty, it is the party – a world class destination for everything from swanky rooftop pre-drinks, gastronomic feasts and everything in between.

These days, Broadbeach’s glistening jewel boasts an impressive seven watering holes for our R&R pleasure – but if you want to see the best of what’s on offer, you’re gonna need to get strategic.

Sports Bar
Being an avid sports fanatic feels like a full time job this time of year, but keeping up with all the action at The Star certainly takes some of the sting out of this arduous gig. Perch up in prime possy for all the big games and oblige in some top notch pub nosh and ice cold bevvys to keep that stamina up.

Atrium Bar
Atrium’s knack for consistently supplying the good vibes and great times is unparalleled. The full facelift it underwent a few years back certainly didn’t hurt – if it’s been a while between drinks we suggest rectifying this ASAP because these days, the Atrium’s a 10 both in looks and personality. This disco babe is #lit in more ways than one, aglow with neons and feature lighting on every surface, and a disco ball for good measure #let’sglowgirls.

And if you’re just not gonna make it to Friday, a #TGIT (thank God it’s Thursday) mid-week boogie is totally an option with DJ’s hitting the decks from 7pm every Thursday-Sunday.

The Lawn
No, we’re not referring to that place where those tasked with the landscaping duties in every household disappear for solid chunks of their Saturday morning. The Star’s alfresco gem is The Lawn at the Garden Kitchen and Bar, and it’s he perfect spot to soak up every moment of those (mostly) balmy GC vibes.

We don’t like to play favourites, but we will always have a soft spot for The Lawn and the unending deluge of free events they throw for us. If you’re ever in need of something fun to do, chances are there’s something epic cooking at The Lawn, including every Friday – Sunday DJ’s on the deck, or on The Lawn from 6pm.

Sunshine, moonlight and good times, indeed.

Cherry Bar
Boasting enough glitz and glamour to make a Gatsby movie blush, the glistening, gold-trimmed Cherry Bar is the epitome of everything we love about stepping out for sophisticated sips. A whopper of a 22m bar with expert mixologists to whip up anything your heart desires, though why would we need to when they #nail the classics like Espresso Martini and Tommy’s Margarita every time.

Boujee, velvet lined booths are up to the task of gathering the BFF’s for a special occasion (and yes, girls night will always qualify as a special occasion in our eyes) though it’s also intimate enough for a cosy date night.

Get your groove on Friday and Saturday nights with a DJ till late (slash early), making this a ch-ery good destination indeed for when you want a party that keeps on keeping on.

Kiyomi Bar
Take a detour through Tokyo (minus the long haul fight!) with Kiyomi Bar’s uniquely Japanese style bar experience. You can choose from shochu cocktails, sake and Japanese whiskies and bottled beers.

It’s no accident that we’ve strategically positioned this gem at the halfway point, because if at this point in the list you’re feeling peckish this is definitely the place you want to stop – Kiyomi’s modern yet authentic Japanese fare is a Gold Coast favourite for a reason.

And, that’s not all Kiyomi has to offer, with Friday and Saturday nights having live music from 6pm.

Nineteen Bar
Just off the top of our heads we can think of at least 19 reasons to visit Nineteen bar (without even trying), and our very favourite one might just be the one that starts with b, and ends in ‘ottomless mimosas’.

This uber-chic lounge bar boasts one of the most magical views of the the sweeping Gold Coast skyline, and come every Saturday afternoon we love her for so much more than just her freakishly good looks.

Saturdays from 4pm to 7pm, score the ultimate rooftop vibes, sip endless Bellini’s along with a gourmet share-sies platter for you and your BFF – not to mention soaking up those million dollar views – all for a verrrry respectable $79pp #don’tmindifwedo.

Veladora
We can neither confirm or deny the rumoured existence of a 7th and final secret bonus bar tucked away at The Star, but what we can say, is if you’re in the vicinity of Harvest Buffet and you happen across a mysterious red palm tree illuminating a secret entrance next door, we would highly suggest that would be one mirage worth investigating. If you *were* to stumble across an intimate Mezcal-inspired speakeasy beyond, you’d be rewarded with an extensive range of signature cocktails, Mexican beers, and truly unique snacks menu. Ask for a spicy marg and thank us later, wink wink drink-drink, nudge-nudge.

Enjoy live music on Fridays and Latin-inspired beats of our DJ on Saturdays (allegedly).

Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: Various opening hours across each venue

Words by Kellie Leader.

STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST

The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be aged 18 years or over to enter the casino. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT.