All the best Southport venues to sample post-run.
All the best Southport venues to sample post-run.
Some people are planning to run very long distances in the name of fun this weekend and while that’s something we’ve never done, we are quite good at cheering and also finding good spots to eat.
If you are one of said running-for-fun folks, you’re going to be quite the hungry little caterpillar afterwards and here we are to help with that.
Please see below, nine spots to fuel up after your big run this weekend.
Café Catalina
Found right at the finish line, Café Catalina will be serving up ALL of the carby, nourishing goodies you’ll be thinking about from the minute you set foot across the start line. There’s big breakfasts, very tasty coffee AND of course, alcoholic tipples should you be ready to celebrate yourself immediately. The crew at Café Catalina are also putting on a Dine at the Finish Line lunch on Saturday July 7th that you should book into ASAP because there’ll be a cold salad and hot meat station filled with SO many tasty treats and a welcome glass of bubble of tap beers. All for $49pp. Yep.
Where: Broadwater Parklands, 10/11 Gold Coast Hwy, Southport
Giri Kana Cafe
Treating yourself to a tasty vegetarian feast after a big old running session sounds like a good idea to us and there’s nowhere better to do that than Giri Kana Café, just across the road from the track. Think curries, amazing salads, raw sweet treats, smoothies, all of the things that will make you feel top notch. They also cater to vegans and there’s a whole lot of love in every dish so prepare to be wowed by the exceptional flavours. It’s exactly the type of thing you should be putting in your body after a hard day’s work. You won’t regret eating here.
Where: Cnr of Nind St and Gold Coast Highway, Southport
Randy Wallhole
A delightful little community-loving spot, Randy Wallhole are the absolute kings of bagels and we suggest ordering a few for later because one is simply not enough. The Smokey Pink with avo is a real treat, all smoked salmon and dill and all the avocado on a bagel. There are also many a tasty jaffle on offer as well as regular breakfast goodies, all served with good vibes and a friendly chat. The coffee is some of the best around too so all in all; an exceptional time can be expected at Randy Wallhole. Best.
Where: 1/21 Nind Street, Southport
Percy’s Corner
Usually only open through the week, Percy’s Corner will be slinging tasty brews of the coffee variety from 5.30am both Saturday and Sunday. And their brews are some of the absolute best around. They are the connoisseurs of Single O beans and serve filter, cold drip and of course regular old cappuccinos if you’re basic folks like us. Find them in the beautiful old Ambulance building just a short walk from the finish line.
Where: 45 Nerang St, Southport
Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop
If pizza, beer and a stunning rooftop view tickle your fancy after a bit of exercise, Mr PP’s has you covered. Found next door to Percy’s. Mr PP’s are indeed offering up specialty pizzas that’ll blow your mind but not only those. They also have a deli downstairs which means charcuterie boards galore. There are cocktail jugs on offer too (maybe save those for later in the day) and of course, frosty cold beers on tap, all overlooking the skyline and perfect for sunsets sips late into the evening. Love this place.
Where: 43 Nerang St, Southport
42Fifteen
Just down the way a bit, 42Fifteen is the goods for brunch eats of the Australian and Latin fusion persuasion. They’ve got all your coffee needs covered as well as a Banana and Organic Bush Honey smoothie you’ll want to drink about five of. In the food department, everything is good but there are some bagel options that are extra delicious. We’re particularly partial to the Benny with bacon, spinach leaves, soft poached eggs, citrus hollandaise, toasted sesame seeds and fresh garden herbs. The goods after a run guys. So we hear.
Where: 9 Davenport St, Southport
The Roost @ 53
These guys are all about first class food epic coffee and good people to go with both. Works for us. This sweet little place also has VERY affordable eats including breakfast burritos (love you) and a house special souvlaki that we would love to eat every day forever please. There are also salads and quinoa bowls and burgers and all the very best things. They have their own coffee roast, smoothies, milkshakes and the like and we suggest one of everything because it’s all very delicious.
Where: 53 Johnston Street, Southport
PRE-GAME FEAST
If you’re looking for a little pre-marathon carb load, look no further than Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa for dinner on Friday from 6pm and both lunch (from 12pm) and dinner on Saturday. The Gold Coast’s award-winning seafood buffet Citrique will offer a pasta station on top of their usual goodies from just $70 per person and we highly suggest getting involved in that.
Where: Surfers Paradise Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Words by Kirra Smith
It may be home to the Gold Coast’s bustling business district but Southport can also boast a huge array of incredible eateries, culture and general good times.
We’ve rounded up 15 things locals love about the place and we reckon you might enjoy them too.
In no particular order, enjoy.
Southport Sharks
There is many a good time to be had at Southport Sharks including dining at one of the delicious dish-packed restaurants, drinking at Aviary Rooftop Bar overlooking the city, joining in on one of their classes at the Health + Fitness Centre or getting involved in one of their many good time events. The possibilities are endless. It’s the perfect spot for a family event or take the crew for a Sunday afternoon session. Happy days no matter what.
Where: Olsen Avenue and Musgrave Avenue, Southport
Southport Yacht Club
Waterfront dining is the name of the game at Southport Yacht Club with two venues to choose from and stunning scenes from whichever you choose. You’re also welcome to just sit back and kick up your heels with a cold beverage or two while gazing lovingly at one of the many beautiful yachts in the marina. It’s one of the Coast’s best locations and you’re guaranteed to have a good time.
Where: 1 MacArthur Parade, Main Beach
Zero Latency
Zero Latency is a free-roam, virtual reality experience like no other. With up to eight players per game, you’ll have the BEST time fighting zombies, exploring mystical places and challenging your friends on space stations. All you need to do is put on the VR headset, strap into the backpack and pickup the controller. Get 10% off here. It really is so good.
Where: 34 Smith Street, Southport
Panezski Distillery
The Coast’s first vodka distillery opened in Southport a few short months ago and what a treat. The family-owned business are whipping up three types of vodka, two types of gin and even a couple of beers on the premises and you can pop in to grab a bottle to go, or you can sit down and enjoy a cocktail and a charcuterie board and spend a bit of time. Very cool.
Where: Unit 7/55 Bailey Crescent, Southport
Vinnies Dive
Who doesn’t love a good dive bar. Particularly one that doubles as a live music venue and has a huge range of your favourite beers on offer (and some you may not have heard of). Head in there to discover some new music from both local and interstate bands and if you’re in the mood for a party, which we know you are, you can hire the space out for your next one.
Where: 44A Nerang Street, Southport
Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar
On the ground floor of the building you’ll find the deli section of the establishment, with an array of delicious meats and cheeses that will be brought together in platter form for your feasting pleasure. Upstairs, the rooftop bar boasts tasty cocktails, even more delicious eats and views across the city. It’s a real good time.
Where: 43 Nerang Street, Southport
Randy Wallhole
To put it bluntly, you haven’t lived until you’ve tasted a Randy Wallhole bagel. There are eight flavours to choose from which means you have multiple per day if you so choose. Go for the Pulled Bas first up, it’s got Smokey BBQ pulled beef, peri mayo and apple slaw. Wash it down with some of the best coffee on the Coast and be on your merry way.
Where: 4/21 Nind Street, Southport
Boudoir Lounge
A newbie amongst the Southport bunch, Boudoir Lounge is the very best spot for a tasty brunch with the girls or simply a few cocktails after work. Found on Como Crescent, it quickly became the go to spot for those looking for some delicious eats, in a sweet setting and with unique sips of course. Inside there’s also a hair and beauty bar so you can get fabulous before you head out on the town. Perfect.
Where: 410/1 Como Crescent, Southport
Broadwater Parklands
Whether you’re four or 40, there’s tons of fun to be had at Broadwater Parklands. For starters, you can sit and stare out at the yachts you’ll never set foot on. Then, there’s the bouncy pillow (maybe don’t go on there without a child), a kiddies train, a water playground and weekly events from theatre shows to foodie markets. See, fun.
Where: Marine Parade, Southport
D Point Ten
Oh donuts, how we love you. D Point Ten can be found on Stevens Street and, in keeping with the general donut vibe, is a little hole in the wall space pumping out the freshest of donuts we may have ever excitedly shoved into our greedy mouths. In all the best flavours no less. Go the Ferrero Rocher for sure.
Where: 6/1 Stevens Street, Southport
Cardamon Pod
The delightful folk at Cardamon Pod are serving up delightful dishes with a focus on clean eating but of the prettiest variety. They offer vegan and gluten free options for breakfast and lunch with a side of organic coffee and vegan desserts. All very delicious and it’s very hard to stop at just one thing or not to post on your Instagram.
Where: Brickworks Centre, 3/3 Brolga Avenue, Southport
Gold Coast Aquatic Centre
Southport’s centre of swimming is something for all of us to be proud of. It’s as pretty as a collection of swimming pools can be and, as it was home to all the Commonwealth Games water activities, it’s world class. The architecture is sleek and there’s a training room featuring pits filled with foam for the divers to practice in.
Where: Marine Parade, Southport
Escape Hunt
Imagine being wrongly accused of murder, chained to a wall and having to rely on your friends’ detective skills to free you. Who you gonna call? Welcome to Escape Hunt, Southport’s brain bending game guaranteed to test your problem solving skills like they’ve never been tested before. There’s a few scenarios you might be faced with, all of which involve solving a mystery with a set of intricate clues. It’s the most fun you can have inside a locked room. Make sure to take your smart friends. Grab 10% off here.
Where: 2/162 Scarborough Street, Southport
Brickworks Centre
Where to start. There are SO many excellent places to peruse at the Brickworks starting with Ferry Rd Market where you can nab yourself everything from beautiful flowers to the freshest breads, seafood and fruit and veggies galore. God it’s good. Within the Centre, there’s also stunning homewares, fashion and design stores and health and beauty services. Oh, there’s also always some really cool events.
Where: Ferry Road, Southport
Words by Kirra Smith
Like it or not friends, the time has come to start shredding for summer if that is a thing you are a. into and b. willing to sacrifice baked goods for. No judgement over here if not.
If you could stand to shed a bit of winter weight, or you simply want to tone up a little ahead of bikini season, we’ve got good news for you. This Saturday August 25th, Southport Sharks Fitness Centre will host an Open Day and you can both join the gym for $0 and get your first month FREE.
That is an incentive if ever we’ve heard one. Not only that, you get a goodie bag filled with freebies and there’s a mini marketta with all your fave health and fitness brands slinging free samples (think Lorna Jane, Amazonia and ASN to name a few).
If there’s ever been a time to join a gym it is now. What’s so special about this one you ask? Many things Gold Coasters, many things.
Firstly, you can go at literally any time of the day (it’s open 24 hours). Feel like a little sweat session at 3am? Good for you and also, no problem, in you go.
If you’re the kind of person who’s only into the gym for the group fitness classes (same), you’re in luck. Southport Sharks Health + Fitness Centre has over 110 group classes per week so there’s definitely going to be something that’ll get your heart pumping.
Restorative Yoga is probably the fitness level we’re at, or maybe Body Balance or Meditation Yoga. That’s where it ends for us.
If, however, sweating is your jam, there are about a billion choices for you crazy one. Radical Fitness/TopRide is a good time because it’s cycling but with super loud tunes and instructors who are both very good and very encouraging (trust us) and will help you to forget the pain. Not only that, you get to go on three separate adventures throughout the class and the time actually passes super quickly. Which we think is important.
There’s a class called LesMills Sh’Bam and it’s a DANCE CLASS, how fun! Definitely going back for that one. The Zuu is a 45 minute workout based on primal movements and animal instincts including body weight exercises, cardio, strength building and agility. You can also take part in all the usual suspects including Abs, Butts and Thighs, Boxfit, Pump, Step, you get the picture.
The point is, there are so many unique classes to try that you’ll never get bored and by the end you’ll be a fitter, healthier version of yourself and yay for that.
If getting sweaty with strangers isn’t your cup of protein shake, why not try a personal training session? There are quite the array of trainers to choose, each with specific areas of expertise and all ready to whip you into the best shape of your life.
The Inner Athlete Program is yet another option, if you like support from other exercisers to get you through a session. You get body scans, a choice of 16 different sessions per week, workshops, seminars, nutritional advice and access to personal trainers. All for only $29.95 per week.
So you see, there are many, many ways you can get started on that shredding for summer stuff, just head to Southport Sharks Health + Fitness Centre this weekend to choose your fave.
We’ll be over here eating enough for everyone.
LOCATION: Southport Sharks, Cnr Olsen and Musgrave Ave, Southport
HOURS: Open 24/7
STORY SPONSORED BY SOUTHPORT SHARKS
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
It seems like every single day a stunning new Insta-worthy space opens up on the Gold Coast to fulfil our pretty picture loving needs. And not only pretty picture loving. Coffee loving, wine loving AND delicious eats loving. All of the things.
The latest spot to do exactly that is Pearl & Ash, an absolutely stunning new café and wine bar at The Brickworks in Southport that we would like to model every single room in our homes off, thank you very much.
The vibe is modern minimalism at its very best, all blush pinks, steel hardware, tiny little tiles and polished concrete with a sleek espresso machine at one end and a fully stocked wine bar at the other.
A neon sign in our new favourite font shines out from one wall, while a big, old window allows for all the natural light to pour in from the opposite side. One of our favourite fitouts in fact.
The menu is equally as exceptional, filled with breakfast, brunch and sweet goodies that’ll keep you coming back to taste test them all.
The House-Made Granola was a treat with dragonfruit, pannacotta, chia seeds, lime coconut Co Yo, kiwi, berries and toasted coconut. Pretty and delicious.
The Smashed Avo is also a winner (as always) but particularly because it comes with popped baby capers and baby capers are one of our favourite things in the whole world.
For brunch, the Roasted Spiced Cauliflower comes with pumpkin and thyme hummus, baby vegetables, tofu and avocado and it is a healthy, taste sensation.
The Green Lip Mussels are a must-taste with coconut, kaffir lime, lemongrass, chilli, ginger and organic sourdough. Amazing.
Sweets-wise, there are NUTELLA HOTCAKES and wait for it, they are banana choc-chip buttermilk hotcakes, Nutella mousse (OMG), salted peanut brittle, maple syrup, cinnamon and strawberry compote. So all the very best things in the one magical, life-changing dish.
Do not miss that one.
The coffee is made by the team at Locale Espresso so you know it’s the goods and of course, there is a perfectly curated array of wines so you may sip either delicious drink while you brunch or pop in for an after-work catch-up with the girls. Or both.
So, if perfectly put together spaces with a menu that’ll tickle your tastebuds plus coffee AND wine are your thing (and we know they are), make Pearl & Ash the next stop on your foodie tour of the Gold Coast.
You might just find it’s your new favourite.
LOCATION: The Brickworks, Ferry Rd, Southport
HOURS: 8am until 6pm daily
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
