You don’t have to duet it alone!
You don’t have to duet it alone!
In all the utter joy and harmless humiliation, you gotta love Karaoke. You’re mic in hand, belting it out to your favourite hit song, all while being cheered on by your best mates (and maybe a few good-time spectators). It’s an activity that’s often stumbled upon (literally)- not planned. They’re a regular Saturday turned wild. Or maybe, a work party gone rogue- you didnt realise Sharon from the front desk had it in her. Needless to say, they’re a memory-making machine.
As it turns out, there are a few places around the Gold Coast where you can sing your little lungs out without fear of judgement and enjoy yourself in a lyric-fuelled good time!
Strike Bowling
This place is a playground for adults and kids alike. They’ve got everything – bowling lanes, escape rooms, a bar to keep you fueled – and yes, private karaoke rooms! That’s right, you and your mates can hire out a room, meaning no crowd of strangers to stir up your nerves.
It may not be your typical karaoke bar experience (which some folk will find a relief), but the laughs and memories with your crew are guaranteed to be gold. Plus, you get full control over who’s up next to sing! Pair it with a few rounds of bowling or an escape room challenge, and you’ve got a night to remember.
Where: Circle on Cavill, Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
The Avenue
The Avenue is popular on any given day of the week, with people converging for daily specials and a host of events. However, Mondays are where the magic happens. Yep, Monday is a mundane weekday no more! You have after-work business to attend that involves a microphone and one too many martinis. At 8:30pm, the musical mayhem and karaoke antics begin! When it will end, nobody knows. That’s for your Tuesday self to find out.
Where: 3-15 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Fat Freddy’s
Did someone say cocktails and karaoke?! We’ll sing to that! Fat Freddy’s is already the go-to for American eats, killer cocktails, and all the sports you can handle, but on Saturdays, they add a little extra something – Cocktails and Karaoke hosted by Adam James Warmington! From 8:30 pm- which allows more than enough time to sink some liquid confidence if required- you’ll be treated to laughs, prizes, and a whole lot of sing-along fun. Margaritas with a side of Madonna, anyone?
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Tune-Up
Okay, this one’s legit! Tune-Up is a proper karaoke bar designed solely for your singing pleasure. It’s a hidden nook amidst the bustling streets of Surfers Paradise, where you’re guaranteed a good time. If you’re brave, take the stage, or snag a private booth with your friends for something a little more low-key (but high-vibes). The entry price? Just grab a drink! And trust us, finding people who sing worse than you is almost guaranteed – so no pressure!
Where: 23 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
E-Star Karaoke
If something a little bit fancy is your jam, E-Star Karaoke is the one. With gold gilded armchairs, wallpaper fit for a queen and over 300,000 songs to choose from, this Southport gem is an entirely unique experience. There’s a delicious buffet restaurant to fill your tummy before you take to the stage to belt out a beat. It seems Chinatown in Southport is the place to be karaoke fans. Remember, you’re the voice!
Where: Davison Lane, Southport
Roji Cat
Considering Roji Cat place is modelled on the neon-laden Dotonbori district of Osaka and downtown Tokyo’s Shinjuku district it’s only fitting they’ve got a karaoke room. When in Rome Japan, right? The specialty (sound proof) karaoke room is just off the main bar area so you and your crew can belt out a tune to your heart’s content without a single note being heard outside. Tuck into some next-level Japanese street food (you gonna need sustenance) before heading in to crank out some tunes of your own for only $60 per hour! Roji Cat will also keep you well-hydrated with an impressive and extensive selection of Japanese brews and sake!
Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami
Black 8 Pool Hall
Southport’s Black 8 Pool Hall is your go-to spot for a killer arvo of entertainment. With their premium karaoke party rooms and American 8-ball tables, you can sing your heart out and shoot some pool all in one place. For just $20 per person, you get a whopping 5 hours of karaoke fun from 1pm to 6pm – talk about bang for your buck! If you’re feeling fancy, check out their VIP pool tables for an extra touch of luxe. Whether you’re belting out tunes or lining up your next shot, Black 8 has you covered!
Where: 138 Scarborough Street, Southport
So technically we’ve already given you 7, but this one is so much fun it deserved a special mention. Here for a good time not a long time…
Rockaoke
If you’ve ever dreamed of living out your rock star fantasy, now’s your chance! But you’ll want to get in quick- this Gold Coast classic is about to take its final bow. Atrium Bar’s Rockaoke nights are in full swing every Friday through September. With hits from the ’70s to today’s chart-toppers, a drum, bass, and guitar trio backing you, and lyrics on screen to keep you on track, it’s the perfect way to end the week on a high note. Entry is free, so don’t miss out!
Where: Atrium Bar, Casino Level, The Star Gold Coast
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
In a very exciting Gold Coast first, a beer bar dedicated to Japanese brews has opened in Miami and it’s already a firm favourite amongst the locals. Roji Cat is vibrant, fresh and exciting and it’s perfectly at home, next to stalwart fave Granddad Jacks, on Lemana Lane.
Reminiscent of the neon-laden Dotonbori district of Osaka and downtown Tokyo’s Shinjuku district, the entirely indoor space has been decked out to resemble an authentic, local alleyway complete with signage, lanterns and a cabinet displaying a huge collection of Bearbricks (a beloved cartoon-style bear) all brought over from Japan.
High tables run along the length of the space, brew tanks take up a huge corner in the back and there’s an open kitchen so you can watch your dishes being prepared. The vibe is high instantly upon entering the space and it’s all exactly what you’d expect to see when visiting a Japanese beer bar.
Perhaps the most exciting part though, is a specialty (sound proof) karaoke room just off the main bar area where you and your crew can belt out a tune to your heart’s content without a single note being heard outside. There’s also an electric darts room with plenty of spots to play and couches to lounge about on while you beat your mates.
Now let’s chat beer. Head Brewer Toshi, whose work you would know from Black Hops, is the most passionate and knowledgeable man on the planet when it comes to beer. There are 12 brews on tap AND a diverse sake bar featuring 24 types of sake, all handpicked by Toshi who has over 20 years brewing experience.
Cocktails include the likes of a signature Tokyo Sour and the signature beer is Toshi’s Japanese Rice Lager which we tried and tested and can confirm, is the goods.
There’s food of course and the menu is filled with elevated, Japanese street food crafted by Japanese culinary expert and Head Chef Helen Rissen. Think Robata Skewers, sweet and spicy Roji Cat Karaage, Gyoza, Sashimi, Miso Corn (love you) and burgers including a Bug Burger with a tempura Moreton Bay Bug, spicy Japanese coleslaw and Kewpie mayo. We’ll take all of that thank you so much.
The entire operation is a family-run affair celebrating close family friend Toshi’s heritage and a shared love of Japanese culture, vibrant food scene and bustling nightlife. All of which has been very obviously and meticulously incorporated into Roji Cat to bring us the Japanese Beer Bar we didn’t know we so desperately needed.
Do yourself a favour and head down to Miami to see what all the fuss is about and find yourself transported to Japan, right in the heart of the Gold Coast.
Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami
When: Thursday and Friday 4pm to 10pm. Saturday and Sunday 12pm to 10pm
Words by Kirra Smith
Images by Kirra Smith
Fan of a frothy? Us too, and if there’s one thing the Gold Coast does just as well as its beaches, it’s breweries. From hinterland hideaways to beachfront beer havens, we’ve scouted the ultimate list of spots for you to sip, sample, and savour. Whether you’re chasing a session ale, a crafty IPA, or just a place to chill with your mates (and maybe your dog), these breweries have got you covered.
So ‘hop’ on down to one this weekend. And every other weekend after that.
Fortitude Brewing Co
Froth fanatics, Fortitude Brewing Company sees you! This hinterland spot has 15 taps, each pouring something different from the range of Fortitude and Noisy Minor beers – all brewed on site! Visitors can nom their way through a variety of made-to-order pizzas whilst sinking a tasting paddle…or two, or… Enjoy the venue’s rugged exteriors and soft-hearted interiors and on weekends, soak up the beats from talented muso’s.
Beer to sip: Fortitude Pacer — the perfect session pale ale.
Where: 165 Long Road, Eagle Heights
Laughing Lizard Brewery
The good times keep on keeping on at Laughing Lizard with over 150 different beers! The best part, however, is that none contain any nasty chemicals or preservatives (yay, no hangover…well, that’s our story and we’re sticking to it…), and there’s even a gluten-free option #CeliacsRejoice! Here you’ll find a micro-brewery, beer and spirits shop, and every party planner’s besty – a keg hire service!
Beer to sip: You can’t go wrong with the Skini – light bodied, low carb, but full flavour.
Where: 27 Sinclair Street, Arundel
Hound & Stag
The Northern GC’s (not so) best kept secret is undoubtedly the Aussie farm styled Hound & Stag. The Coast’s largest taproom and live music precinct, it’s famous for its abundant beer (28 beer taps) and cocktail options, stellar Modern Aussie food menu, huge family-friendly outdoor beer garden, and hosting epic live music events. Always bulging at the seams, even Aussie music royalty like Darryl Braithwaite grace the stage regularly.
Beer to sip: Struggling to pick the perfect pint from the huge range on offer? You can’t go wrong with the award-winning Red Baron for a spritzy and refreshing brew.
Where: 13 Wrights Place, Arundel
SOPO Brewing Co
A hidden gem on the beer scene here on the Gold Coast, we reckon SOPO Brewing Co is one of the suburb’s best kept secrets. They’ve got house brews as well as monthly releases to keep those tastebuds on their toes, with the microbrewery delivering a tasty range of craft beers, lagers and ciders exclusive to the venue.
Beer to sip: When in SOPO one must drink the SOPO IPA of course!
Where: 146 Scarborough St, Southport
Madocke Beer Brewing Company
The ultimate Belgian beer experience awaits at Ashmore’s Madocke! Starting their commercial brewery in a tiny garage, proud owners Jimmy and Annelies are a bona fide local success story! Enjoy the complex flavours and richness of their brewskis at Thursday trivia nights, and pair your pitcher with some belly laughs at live comedy night every Friday. Skohl!
Beer to sip: The creamy and refreshing White IPA Celebration is the perfect night starter – see you on the d floor.
Where: 286 Southport Nerang Road, Ashmore
The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines
You’re always close to the action at The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines! Standing loud and proud on the ex-Hard Rock Café digs, this $6.5 million super venue serves up the ultimate trifecta; brews, bites, and a bumper line-up of the best sports viewing. Pouring everything from crisp Japanese-style lagers through to some sunny state-inspired limited release brews, this family-friendly sports bar is a beer (and sports) lover’s happy place.
Beer to sip: 4 Pines Pacific Ale
Where: Cnr Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
BOB’s Beer
Beers near the beachfront – you’d be hard-pressed to find a better way to spend an arvo on the GC arvo. Whether you’re a local or playing tourist, BOB’s Beer is one of the best joints in Surfers for a cheeky brew, a seriously swanky fit-out with sky-high ceilings, and most importantly those glistening copper pipes delivering that expertly brewed amber nectar straight to our glasses.
Beer to sip: The Surfers XPA of course – a deliciously easy drinking pale ale brewed entirely out of local malt, perfect!
Where: 10/2 Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
The Lucky Squire
In case you haven’t put two and two together, this brewhouse brings to life the story of Australia’s first brewer, the rogue swindler James Squire (cue ‘aha’ moment). Celebrating quality craft beers and modern pub grub, the custom-designed full-functioning microbrewery pumps out small, exclusive batch brews, and it’s a cracking spot to round up your crew for an arvo sesh.
Beer to sip: Check out their limited-release small batch brews rotating the taps. Our current fave is Chivalry – because of course it’s not dead.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
Lost Palms Brewing
This pink and mint icon is a short stroll from the hot spots in Nobby’s and a ‘hop’, skip and a jump from Miami Marketta. Pull up a pew outside, sink some unique and refreshing brews, and make sure you grab some sweet snaps for your socials. Roll up for $1 Wings on Thursday nights and live music on Sunday arvo’s and see why this wicked brewery is a must-visit!
Beer to sip: Lost Palms Talle Daze Hazy Pale — one of their core range beers, named after the local Tallebudgera Creek.
Where: 11 Oak Avenue, Miami
Precinct Brewing
Bursting onto the Miami arts precinct scene with a rapacious welcome, Precinct Brewing now has solid status as the place to pull up a stool, grab a freshly made beer, and forget all of life’s woes. They make matters much more bearable with the tastiest of pizzas, stand-up comedy, and some captivating, limited releases like their recent Big If True, Hazy IPA — yummy!
Beer to sip: Check out their weekly Friday releases for exclusive flavours!
Where: 17 Christine Avenue, Miami
Black Hops HQ & Black Hops II
The runaway success of the original Black Hops in Burleigh spurred the creation of its spacious and upscale sibling, Black Hops II in Biggera Waters. Both serve up 16 beers on tap and have popular food trucks on site to feed hungry punters. So whether you’re north or southside, round up your mates, the fam and even your pooch for some award-winning amber ales.
Beer to sip: Black Hops Send It Session Ale — light, fruity, and not too strong
Where: 15 Gardenia Grove, Burleigh Heads and 671 Pine Ridge Road, Biggera Waters
SOBAH
If you love a social brew but you don’t love the idea of a potential hangover, then Australia’s first non-alcoholic brewery – SOBAH – is for you. Tucked away in Burleigh, the brewery and café boasts a range of full-flavour brews, bringing that real craft beer flavour you know and love without the sore head. Yes please!
Beer to sip: The Pepperberry IPA or Davidson Plum GF Ale are our regulars, celebrating the best of our native Australian ingredients.
Where: Unit 1, 314 Burleigh Connection Road, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Brewing Co.
With gold medals for days from the World Beer Championships, you know you’re in for a good ale here! Famous for their paddle boards, relaxed atmosphere, big smiles and super friendly service, it’s the perfect way to spend a lazy Sunday arvo (or Friyay / Saturday sesh). There’s even awesome live music to set the mood while you quench your thirst. Cheers!
Beer to sip: Burleigh Brewing Burleigh Bighead — No carb, no-fuss big flavoured thirst quencher.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads
Aardvark & Arrow Brewery
This Varsity based microbrewery may produce ‘petite’ batches, but their list of return customers is anything but small! Consistently producing and supplying chemical and preservative free beer and cider that exceeds expectations, the boutique beers here are on point. The staff are uber friendly and knowledgeable and the prices will blow ya mind (in a good way).
Beer to sip: For something fresh, opt for the GC Crisp – a seriously refreshing light coloured, crisp beer perfect for a brewery sesh.
Where: 13 John Duncan Court, Varsity Lakes
Balter Brewing Company
With awards up the wazoo, the amazing Balter Taproom never disappoints. Its line-up of founders includes some seriously famous sporting legends, and it just oozes chillax and cool in equal measure. Whether it’s from the tap or can, there’s a variety of styles to get your tastebuds singing. Kick back in the beer garden and enjoy live beats with your brew, along with food truck goodness.
Beer to sip: Balter XPA — Balter’s most awarded beer can be yours fresh from the production line.
Where: 14 Traders Way, Currumbin
Currumbin Valley Brewing
Complete with a 10hL Rolec copper cladded brew house (brew-speak for ‘legit’), the Currumbin Valley Brewing HQ offers choice aplenty, including 16 beers on-tap. This artisanal farmhouse brewery combine crafted burgers, bowls, bougee bar snacks, and boutique beverages in an environmentally-conscious space that is as much about community as it is craft beer.
Beer to sip: The Alley – Session IPA (aptly named after Currumbin Alley!)
Where: 27 Traders Way, Currumbin Waters
4 Pines Coolangatta
Another beachfront favourite of ours, but this time nestled on the Cooly shoreline is 4 Pines Coolangatta. The relaxed Southern Gold Coast vibe makes this little brew spot the perfect place stop in for a session. With six taps of their finest beers and two Keller door taps pumping out fresh flavours, as well as a dedicated Doggos of 4 Pines polaroid wall, it’s loved by locals for a reason.
Beer to sip: Nothing says 4 Pines like their Pacific Ale – fresh, fruity and floral, it’s impossible not to love.
Where: The Strand, 28/72 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
A LITTLE FURTHER AFIELD
Straddie Brewing Co
Just across the water, you’ll find this three-level architecturally designed showstopper. The ground floor welcomes you with double-height glass windows and the awe-inspiring brewery. Up the stairs you’ll find a 90-seat taproom with eye-popping art installations, and the top deck featuring panoramic views of the BrisVegas CBD skyline, the Glasshouse Mountains, and the stunning Redlands Coast #ShowUsYourSunsets. Plus there’s a menu with plenty of fancy local seafood inspired sharesies.
Where: 5 Junner Street, Dunwich, North Stradbroke Island
Perentie Brewing Co
Perentie Brewing Co. is an exciting new addition to the local brewery scene, located in Eagleby. This $6 million-dollar brewery, part of the Distillery Road Market (DRM) entertainment hub, offers authentic lager beers, seasonal bar bites, and a sprawling beer garden on the banks of the Albert River. With 68 taps of beer, including three signature products and a seasonal menu, Perentie Brewing Co. is set to become a central craft brew hotspot, attracting visitors from far and wide.
Where: 124 Distillery Rd, Eagleby
Ventura Brewing
Ventura Brewing is Australia’s first craft hard kombucha taphouse. With 12 taps, there’s an array of options to suit every taste. If you’re a fan of a destination venue that is serving up good vibes, tasty beverages and world-class views in spades, Ventura Brewing is your new favourite Sunday arvo sipping spot.
Where: 10/141 Lundberg Drive, South Murwillumbah
Words by Bianca Trathen
