Over the last few years, there has been a hole lot of changes for the now happening 4221 postcode, with the recent addition of its own specialty sanga spot, UE Bagels proof of a ‘full circle’ moment for the formerly sleepy suburb of Palm Beach.

And hole-y moley, there’s a good chance we’re about to eat our body weight in beachside bagels, whether we’re bready or not.

Sandwiched between a coupl’a beloved Palmy haunts, UE Bagels has expanded from it’s OG Varsity Lakes location – taking up residence in the same block as Ritual Yoga & Pilates and The Collective.

Resulting in a very convenient side quest for all our pre-beach brekkie bites and obligatory post-pilates pick-me-up’s (perhaps, a little too convenient?).

So if you do happen to see our sweaty, messy-bun-sporting selves slinking limping across the road to UE, no you didn’t.. we’re just trying to up our hole foods intake, yes?

And if you’re not familiar with the names Mitchell Barling & Emily Hugo, you might well know the faces, as the duo behind the GC’s unofficial hook up of boujee bagels for several satisfying years now.

The pair of beloved bagel bringers have both channelled their extensive, well-traveled hospo backgrounds into the mouth watering venture.

With Mitch most recently spending a stint as the Cubby Bakehouse commis chef prior to embarking on the humble beginnings of UE Bagels – distributing deliciousness schmear and far from the confines of their faithful food truck.

A forced return from aboard mid-panny (pandemic, not panini for anyone else with #breadonthebrain) took a fortuitous turn, with the duo taking the opportunity to dream and scheme their next move on Mitch’s family farm in Killarney, with the picturesque property ‘Upwey’ inspiring the namesake ‘Upwey Eats’ aka UE Bagels.

With their sights firmly set on some fresh (bae)goals, the pair quickly bounced back to rise to the challenge of bringing us a daily staple from their travels, the traditional North American bagel.

Which is our kinda souvenir, tbh.

With a passion for providing fresh, affordable food and an emphasis on sourcing local ingredients where possible, it didn’t take long for word of these signature sandos to get a ‘round’.

Starting with small with events and home deliveries, later taking up residence on the GC market circuit (The Helensvale Farmers Market, later followed by Burleigh Farmers Markets). With a following of besotted bagel devotees in tow, the pair was able to realise their dreams of a brick and mortar space for their bag-ass biz late last year.

The Varsity location is the heart and soul of the business, where the bagels are pumped out every morning from 3am.

The success of the spot spurred Mitch and Emily to further expand, settling on Palm Beach as the seaside sister-site for UE.

Adding “We always wanted to be close to the beach and in a thriving local and holiday community.”

And well, #missionaccomplished guys.

The vibe for the new location is a cosy industrial style cafe, a sunny spot bready and waiting with ample street-side and indoor seating for our still-salty selves to sidle up and refuel post dip.

The ever-chic combo of black, white and wood is familiar and welcoming, with a wrap-around timber counter, classic subway tiles and polished concrete floors to bring the fit out together.

While the space might be a welcome reprieve for beach-goers from the summer sun, the menu will be of equal interest for hungry tums.

Soley holey focusing on their speciality of house-made bagels, there’s an array of savoury and sweet options with which to load ‘em up.

Keep it simple with a choice of Spreads, such as the classic Cream cheese – or if you’re feeling rather ravenous, go the whole hog with a Pulled Pork Bagel, loaded with Braised Pulled Pork Served on a Bed of Coleslaw topped with our Cola BBQ Sauce.

Purists need look no further than the Everything Bagel and if you’re feeling a little extra, the Loaded Lox Bagel with Smoked Salmon, Cream Cheese, Sliced Red Onion and Capers on your choice of House-made bagel.

(Honourable mention to the the decadent S’mores French Toast Bagel for the fellow sweet-tooths among us).

Of course, those sweet little buns are not all they’re slinging, with the sando selection all perfectly complemented by the usual array of cafe-style bevvys with which to quench your thirst.

The crew will be plying us with our preferred style of caffeine in the form of hot, chilled and filter and the signature UE Brew Coffee Blend.

Shut up and take all our dough already.

When: Mon- Sat 6am- 1pm & Sunday 7am-12pm (or sold out)
Where: 5/10 Palm Beach Ave, Palm Beach

Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.

Lunchbox icon. Satisfying snack. Celebratory staple. Sandwiches are, quite literally, the best thing since sliced bread. Our infatuation with this blessed bread-based creation is as infinite as the mouth-watering combinations to be found within it’s carb-a-licious confines.

From provolone topped meatball subs to pesto slathered panini’s, Philly cheese steak stuffed hoagies and every gourmet combo in-between – times sure have changed for the humble ham sanga once rattling around in our trusty school bag. Like a good aged cheddar, our love for this lunchtime staple only intensifies with age, and it’s little surprise really, considering the proliferation of tip-top sando joints we are treated to nowadays.

Here are 12 of the Coast’s best sandwiches for when you’ve got bread on the brain.

Tarte Bakery and Tarte Beach House
We will never not be in awe of the world-class deliciousness that Tarte founder, Chloe Watts is capable of whipping up with little more than some basic pantry provisions. A dual location local bakehouse known for some of the best goodies going – with those rows of golden pastries and galettes vying for your attention, do not sleep on the equally salivation-worthy savoury creations. Pick between artisanal sammich vessels such as everything bagel buns, pillowy slabs of sourdough, or warm baguettes, arriving in the form of Five-cheese truffle toasties or Korean Philly Cheese Steak respectively… #SandwichGoals
Our Pick: The Miso Chicken Sandwich is a revelation.
Where: 2 West Street, Burleigh Heads and Shop 1 2/4 Thrower Dr, Currumbin

Cheese Me Baby
Coffee, charcuterie, vino and toasties – Cheese Me Baby does a handful of things spectacularly well and with the way to our heart well and truly established, we see no reason why they should ever stray from their (cheese)wheelhouse. For sandwich-loving fromage fiends, seventh heaven exists just off Mermaid’s Gold Coast Hwy stretch, with golden, gooey Toasties and open-faced Tartines served hot off the sandwich press seven days a week. Keep it classic, or opt for sensational sweet-salty combos such as the raisin cinnamon sourdough, made with rocket, triple cream brie, prosciutto. Hello, lover.
Our pick: Make it a 3 Cheese W/ Tomato Soup and watch all your troubles melt away.
Where: The Pod, Mermaid Beach Village, 2375 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Side Piece
Side Piece is another star pupil on our eats scene that’s certainly no stranger to a little sauerkraut, swiss cheese and sliced meats action. They’ve just launched a killer new menu and among the array of cafe style suspects and some darn good coffee, you can find a couple of saucy, meat and cheese stuffed morsels that will absolutely destroy any crisp white tee’s in their path #worthit. Start your day with the king of breakfast sandos, a pickle and brown sauce stuffed B+E Toastie, or if you prefer big buns, try the barbecue Pork Roll (which, quite frankly, we’re not above starting our day with, either).
Our pick: Our love for a Reuben knows no bounds
Where: 2 Capital Court, Varsity Lakes

George’s Deli
If classic New York-style is the iteration of carb-based vessel you’re craving, skip the long haul flight and head directly to George’s Deli. Contributing copious amounts of retro-inspired cool factor to Kingscliff’s main drag, Marine Parade’s cute-as-a-button reuben-slinger punches out delicatessen classics and caffeine hits with a side of house-made Filipino-inspired desserts like the signature ube-infused handmade donut. Sando fans can savour top-tier pastrami and pickle laden Toasties along with succulent sammie specials like Beef Birria served by the sea – by George, this one’s a winner!
Our pick: La Cubano – plus requisite donut for ‘Ron, obviously.
Where: Shop 3, 106 Marine Parade, Kingscliff

Joe’s Deli
Sandwich fans, when a specialty sando slinger’s designation is accompanied by the word famous, you know those tastebuds ought to sit up and pay attention. Fusing Italian and American street food influences, Joe’s Famous Deli does classic, cold cut stuffed deli subs, sandwiches and piadinas (Italian flatbreads); all wrapped up with a hearty serving of nostalgia. Founded by Patrick Killalea, an ex chef to-the-stars who dedicated almost two decades to delivering the perfect deli, you’d be hard pressed to find a crew more committed to the sandwich craft than these guys. Situate yourself in one of the cushy New York-style booths and let happiness ensue.
Our Pick: The Lobbie Roll
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach

MC’s Sandwich House
Whether your idea of bread-based perfection is a stacked salad sanga, New Orlean’s style Poh Boy sub, or a perfectly-crisped toasty oozing with multiple types of cheese – whatever you’re craving, chances are MC’s Sandwich House is dishing it up. These sure guys know how to play to their strengths; slinging sodas, Coffee Supreme and a tightly curated menu of next-level sando combinations available till sold out. So if it’s sandwich alchemy you’re craving, no dill-y dallying y’all.
Our pick: Hot Chicken with jalapeño brined fried chicken, house slaw, cheddar and jalapeño honey on brioche… *Chefs kiss*
Where: 83 West Burleigh Road, Burleigh Heads

Scott’s Luncheonette
For deli style bites meets apertivo hour, leave those hankerings in the expert hands of Scott’s Luncheonette. An Italian-inspired panino bar specialising in coffee, specialty sambo’s, and sips, head to Palmy to start your day with authentic espresso served with egg and hash stuffed ciabatta Brekky Sangas. The latter half of the day is also sorted; crushing those cravings with classic combos like Leg Ham with provolone cheese, tomato & in-house pickles; chased with a cheeky tipple, should you wish.
Our pick: Mexican Pork made with crumbled feta & Oaxaca cheese… mmmm.
Where: Shop 1, 1114 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Janus Deli and Janus Bakehouse
If it’s incredible sandwiches you seek, Janus Deli is a local delicatessen concept dishing them up every day of the week. No longer Molendinar’s best kept secret, fans can now get their donut or deli fix straight outta Surfer’s Paradise. Be it sweet or salty, there’s plenty to get your tastebuds around here – purists can quell cravings with cold-cut stuffed classic style subs, tease the tastebuds with Korean-infused creations, or get amongst some truly bun-dary pushing sando combos. Such as the sweet-salty big boss; the Bacon & Egg Sanga, served between two sticky Glazed Donut slabs.
Our Pick: Grab the The J.F.C and the name will become immediately apparent.
Where: Shop 14, Crestwood Plaza, 458 Olsen Ave, Molendinar and 12 Hanlan St, Surfers Paradise

Doughed
Dual specialty snack spot, Doughed, is a delightful newcomer bringing spoils of sandwiches and sweets to the hungry folk of Hope Island. Sweet or savoury, crispy-edged NYC-style cookies or palm-sized packages of pillowy focaccia loaded with cold cuts, carb cravings are well and truly curbed here. If it’s superb sandwiches you have your heart set on (always) there’s plenty to wrap your mitts around, with mouth-watering creations like the three-meat Mortadella Medley, with semi-dried tomatoes, pesto, chilli honey and more. Doughed, where’s my carbs?!
Our pick: The Mortdella Medley
Where: Hope Island Marketplace, 99-103 Broadwater Ave, Hope Island

Juniors Deli
Whether it’s a cheeky midday morale boost or all-out midweek slump avoidance; the medicinal properties of a lit lunch should not be underestimated. Juniors Deli is one such spot delighting Mudgeeraba residents by way of spectacular hoagies, such as the specialty; provolone and ranch laden Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches. If you’re after a hand-held meal that’s a little less siesta-inducing, a fully-loaded salad sanga always goes down a treat.
Our pick: Philly Cheese Steak (for obvious reasons).
Where: 2/51 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

Piknik
When you’re in the mood for munching or a light meal that just so happens to smash your daily veg quota, Piknik always delivers. If you’re not yet au fait with Burleigh’s resident rainbow snackery, think fresh smoothies, juices and a display cabinet brimming with some of the most colourful, made-daily sarnie combinations going. Tuck into plant based specialties such as the golden Tofu Schnitzel sandwich; all of which come gluten free and dairy free to keep the tum happy, too.
Our pick: The Burleigh Basic (a misnomer, we promise #drool).
Where: Shop 7/3 Deodar Dr, Burleigh Heads

Delightful
If you’re keen to graze the arvo away on all things cured, brined and aged (and when aren’t we?) then Monique and Alisha are your gals; but if you’re in the mood for antipasti and bread, well, they’re also known to bung on a particularly stellar sanga to boot. After several years spent slinging the prettiest picnic boxes we ever did see, the duo branched out with their aptly named brick-and-mortar venture, Delightful. With their feel-good munchery fuelling the Tweed CBD since, swing by for a fresh daily selection of breakfast toasties, classic and fully-loaded deluxe sandwiches and give your laughing gear something to really grin about.
Our pick: Photo finish between Green Goddess on Turkish or Chicken Bruschetta
Where: 25 Stuart St, Tweed Heads

Words by Kellie Leader

A food that needs zero introduction – pizza is Italy’s gift to the world that just keeps on giving (to our happiness levels and waistlines, mainly). From office parties to cozy date nights, this god-tier culinary creation is the celebratory cornerstone of gatherings everywhere. We can think of no occasion that isn’t improved by the addition of this beloved Italian staple…. and if there is, we don’t wanna know about it.

A dish steeped in tradition; pizza is divisive as it is delicious. Team crispy, or team chewy and chonky, deep dish style?  Then there’s the question of the toppings – to olive, or not to olive? – and don’t even get us started on pineapple!

Heck, even trying to narrow down which of our fine establishments serve the best slice is a controversial endeavour. Which is why we’ve compiled this trusty guide to all the most legit GC pizza joints in whom pizza-loving locals eternally crust.

Here are 17 of the best, from North to South, so you can dig in without delay (okay maybe just a little delay, molten hot cheese is no joking matter).

Mozza Mozza
We mean, you only need to cop a look at the whopper wood-fired oven sitting pride of place to know these guys mean business. Mozza Mozza sure knows how to sling a mean Margherita… and Capricciosa and Diavola and… yeah, you catch our drift (they also throw the best discotheque-themed, spritz-studded bottomless brunch going, but we digress…)

Offering a playful, family style vibe, Mozza Mozza dishes up insanely good Italian feasts with a side of groovy disco beats on the daily. Local hospo legend Dave Galvin has again bestowed unto northern Gold Coasters absolute gem of a spot where good vibes and even better slice is a given. Get down on a Thursday for the ‘Pizza Party’ to end all pizza parties.
Our pick: Hawaiiana (fight us)
Where: Located inside Southport Sharks, Cnr. Olsen & Musgrave Ave, Southport

La Calabrese at Ocean
Situated right next to the pristine beach, La Calabrese at Ocean is all about traditional Italian ingredients with a modern twist. The pizzas in particular are food-gasmic, and if you don’t concur then soz but #weir-dough. Anything but your average pizza, a process called ‘biga’ is used to make the dough and honestly, the ‘yeast’ we can do is divulge why this technique is so special. How about a Fior di latte, fontina, porcini mushrooms, prosciutto di parma, truffle oil? Drool.
Our pick: Marylou
Where: Where: Level 1, 84 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

Surfers Pizza & Kebab
Late night just pizza hits different – and you haven’t lived until you’ve hit up this Orchid Ave icon for a dirty kebab and/or giant slab of pizza at stupid o-clock after a night of boozing and boogying. With fresh and authentic pizzas, kebabs, snack packs and more, if you’ve got a hankering for something carby, cheesy or saucy, SPK will hook you up with the greatest midnight snack you’ll ever have. Also open in Arundel, the hours may be slightly different, but the pizza quality is the same!
Our pick: Pepperoni Pizza
Where: 24 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise & Corner of Napper Road & Daintree Drive, Arundel

Gemelli
If you haven’t been to Gemelli Broadbeach (or one of its sibling restaurants), are you even an actual Gold Coaster? Cooking up real Italian food made with love, their traditional methods combined with modern flair mean all the meals are a ten-outta-ten. With a cosy yet cool rustic vibe, there are always bums on seats and the atmosphere is lit. If you’re craving the kind of handcrafted Italian eats Nonna would approve of, this place is the whole package.
Our pick: Salina Pizza
Where: Mantra Broadbeach on the Park, 2685 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

Cucina Vivo
If simple Italian flavours done exceptionally well toot your horn, then make a date with The Star Gold Coast’s Cucina Vivo. Chef Fabio has gained quite the cult following, affectionately known as the best Pizzaiolo Chef outside of Italy. This man is the master of the woodfire oven, and the ever-popular venue’s secret weapon. Once you’re suitably wined and dined (aka, beyond satisfaction) – buy your digestive system some time to work its way through that carb coma by swinging by the never-ending assortment of fun things The Star has going down. Date night sorted!
Our pick: Fabio’s Pizza
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Luna’s Pizza & Wine
If you’re in or around Broadbeach and craving authentic, woodfired goods, Luna’s Pizza & Wine is where it’s at. The postcode-sharing little sib of Sofia’s, Luna’s is the more laid-back of owner Henry Hunt’s Euro-inspired venue super duo. This alfresco vibing gem offers cute and cosy mall-front dining, so you can perch up and watch the world go by as you tuck in to top notch Italian eats. Italian-born Head Chef and Pizzaiolo, Mattia Bianchi, has been in the biz for 20 years, so what he doesn’t know about pizza isn’t worth knowing, if you ask us.
Our pick: Capricciosa Pizza
Where: Oasis Shopping Centre, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

Matteo’s
Local pizza slinger Matteo’s describes itself as a slice of paradise in Clear Island Waters, and we’re inclined to agree. If you haven’t yet had the pleasure, think crisped-to-perfection circular specialties like heirloom tomato studded Prosciutto Pizzas served alongside Salsiccia E Zucca made with pumpkin, Italian sausage, crispy sage (and multiple types of cheese, obviously). Legit as they come, the fresh pasta and pizzas are handcrafted daily following old family recipes, before the latter is tossed in the woodfire oven. Mouth = watering.
Our pick: Orcamado Pizza
Where: 60 Santa Cruz Boulevard, Shop 6-8, Clear Island Waters

Goccia
When it comes to insanely good pizza, you can always crust in Goccia to deliver the goods. Created by two bona fide northern Italians; think classic Italian pizzeria – and if that doesn’t tell you everything you know, 500+ google reviews and a 4.9 average rating sure as slice should. A charming neighbourhood gem tucked away inside Mermaid Beach Village, Goccia is the go-to for many a pizza lover across GC… if you can manage to get a table, that is. Order literally anything from the menu and you’ll be happy as Larry, just remember to leave room for the tiramisu #Non-negotiable.
Our pick: Papalina Pizza
Where: 1A/2375 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

Franc Jnrs Famous Pizzeria
Now doling out double the deliciousness, we’ve been on cloud nine ever since this cult fave cloned itself a little farther up the Coast. Amassing a horde of adoring pizza fans that would happily follow them to the ends of the earth to get their Franc Jnrs fix, their Detroit style Sicilian slice is famous among pizza-lovers across the GC. Luckily for us, we now only need go as far as Nobby’s or Cooly to get our hands on that signature, crispy-edged pie. Unapologetically old school, Francs feels just like your traditional 90’s pizzeria, only way cooler.
Our pick: White Boy Rick (that sesame crust lives in our dreams)
Where: 2/102 Griffith Street, Coolangatta & Shop 2/32 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach

Crispy Italian Bar
Here’s a factoid for you – in Italy, the term “bar” stands for more of a watering-hole-meets-cafe hybrid; combining coffee, cocktails, sweet snacks like pastries and quintessential savoury Italian fare… so basically, all the best things. Unintentional micro geography lesson aside; this concept is exactly what owner Riccardo ‘Ricky’ Proserpio set about recreating at Crispy – and now you know this place is awesome for several reasons, including (but not limited to) a top-tier traditional pizza selection. Such as the perennial fave, Margherita, which also comes in 1/2 metre size. You won’t be disappointed.
Our pick: Diavola Pizza
Where: 4/1840 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Osteria del Mare
Burleigh’s resident ristorante and pizzeria, Osteria del Mare is another authentic Italian neighbourhood nosher known for its impeccable pizza prowess. Tuck into creations like the portobello mushroom and truffle topped Tartufo, and ride the carb-train straight to complete and utter bliss. Mark the first Tuesday of the month in your calendars and head to Osteria Del Mare for Pizza Club. Bottomless pizza, plus a wine or a beer for $35.
Our pick: Little Piggy
Where: 2/1718 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Justin Lane
There’s no denying that Burleigh stalwart, Justin Lane is the king of pizza. It’s come a long way from its humble beginnings, growing from a wee little pizzeria into a heaving multi-level restaurant, bar and event space. The perfect spot for a casual slice and catch up with your crew (so we assume the cocktails are implied). Pick your cutest stretchy pants, you’re bound to run into at least 35 people that you know. And that’s just on a Monday.
Our pick: Justin’s BBQ Smokehouse
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Balboa Italian
You’ve seen it. We’ve all seen it. The sprawling, modern industrial stunner fronting Palmy’s main drag is a total traffic-stopper, and we’re pleased to confirm that its contents are as epic as the outside. And when it comes to amazing nosh across the board, Balboa Italian sure isn’t pulling any punches. In particular, the pizzas are #goals #IYKYK – and if you don’t – we would suggest remedying this immediately. Take your pick between the selection of red and white sauce bases, or try them all because carbs, shmarbs.
Our pick: Boscaiola Pizza
Where: 1069 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Toro’s
A cosy and uber cute spot where Mediterranean and Moroccan vibes collide; Toro’s does pizza with panache. With peach tones for days (#swoon) – the spread at Palmy’s cosy slice slinging haven is quintessentially Italian, but with a healthy dose of tasty modern takes to keep us on our toes. The super relaxed yet chic vibe is just our type, and the pizzas will delight even the most discerning pizza connoisseur. There’s even dessert pizza if that’s your jam… (well, Nutella, technically speaking). Yep, she’s a winner on all fronts.
Our pick: Di Toro Pizza
Where: 7/2 Eighth Avenue, Palm Beach

Lenny Pizzeria & Bar
Where do we even begin when it comes to Lenny Pizzeria & Bar? For a rather questionable analogy – just imagine Burleigh icon Justin Lane and the locale Mudgeeraba had a baby; courtesy of local culinary legends, Oliver Botha (of Justin Lane, The Fish House, Hellenika and Rick Shores fame) and Justin Lane founder, Robert Morwood. And yeah, consider our case rested! Not unlike the duo’s signature 72-hour fermented dough recipe, which imparts their bases with a next level taste and texture.

No matter how you slice it, the addition is a total score for Railway Street’s dining scene – with sensational woodfired delights like fermented chilli kissed Prawn Pizza and Butternut Pumpkin Pizza served with whipped feta and salsa verde. You know the drill: two, four, six, eight…
Our pick: Fancy 4 Cheese
Where: 58 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

Tommy’s Italian
One minute, we’re passing through Currumbin minding our own business,–and the next, our mouth commences immediately watering at the mere sight of Tommy’s telltale red and white umbrella’s adorning the promenade. And that’s before we’ve even caught wind of the freshly-flamed bites bubbling away within! In only a few short years, this two-storey cutie has become a fixture along the suburb’s seaside strip; serving up multi-million dollar ocean views and mighty fine pizzas to match (and cocktails… because nothing says happiness like a slice of Italy in one hand and a margi in the other).Who can resist? Certainly not us.
Proving that good genes run in the family, Tommy’s has a little sister, Little Tommy’s. Just 500m down the road, it’s the more approachable, relaxed and uncomplicated one, with equally great pizza.
Our pick: Tartufo Pizza
Where: 818 Pacific Parade, Currumbin

Bread & Butter Kirra
If you’re looking for pizza with a view, Kirra’s Euro-eats all-rounder, Bread & Butter, provides exactly the type of vantage (and carby goodness) that we need and mentally transport ourselves to the Amalfi Coast for the afternoon. Perch up on the terrace and feast upon classic, stone-baked combos like Primavera or the pesto-drizzled Pollo. Add in some tapas and an Aperol Spritz or two and you’ve got yourself a party! Who needs holidays when you have pizza like this?
Our pick: Siciliana Pizza
Where: Shop 1, 76 Musgrave Street, Kirra

Words by Kellie Leader