Dishing up all the tasty newcomers.
Dishing up all the tasty newcomers.
2025 has seen some exciting new venues open, adding an extra dose of deliciousness to the Gold Coast dining scene. Whether you’re after a laid-back brunch, a fiery Latin feast or a sweet treat to satisfy your summer cravings, this month’s hot new spots are guaranteed to impress. Here’s a round-up of the top venue openings that are already making waves.
A couple of these venues opened late last year, but we covered them in January, so we’ve included them in our round-up.
Bobby Bang’s
Bang on delicious— Bobby Bang’s is shaking up the cafe scene at The Oxley with its vibrant, Asian-inspired brekkie menu. The team from Lucky Bao have crafted a menu that has something for everyone – from breakfast ramen with crispy bacon to shokupan French toast topped with whipped cream, strawberries and hojicha caramel. The ceremonial matcha drinks and signature cocktails complement the bold flavours and zen vibes.
Where: The Oxley Atrium, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach
Tallebudgera Surf Club
Talle Creek Park’s $12 million upgrade has transformed it into a must-visit hotspot for locals and tourists alike, and now Tallebudgera Surf Club has matched that with a glow up itself. Offering a range of new experiences, the club features the Bean Surfing Beach Café, perfect for a post-surf breakfast, and a lively Sports Bar for cheering on your team. Enjoy ocean views with fresh dishes like Lobster Tacos and the Seafood Platter for Two. With an extensive drinks menu, gelato bar and classic surf club meals, every visit supports the lifesavers keeping the beaches safe.
Where: 1505 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Burly Gin
Burly Gin is shaking up the Gold Coast’s bar scene with its bold and refreshing flavours in Currumbin. Located in The Warehouses, this sleek venue offers a sophisticated blend of New York-inspired design and tropical charm. Burly Gin’s trio of gins – cucumber, citrus and berry – are the stars of the cocktail menu, with standout drinks like the Garden Smash and Sunset Negroni. Pair your sips with modern Australian dishes such as Anchovies with Egg Butter and Kingfish Ceviche. Burly Gin is the perfect spot for gin lovers and newcomers alike.
Where: 60 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin
Sonder
Discover something special at Sonder, the Broadbeach cafe that’s all about meaningful connections and great coffee. With a stunning mid-century modern vibe, this spot invites you to relax, enjoy your meal and connect with others. The menu features creative eats like the truffle cheese toastie and breakfast bagels, plus a range of delicious coffee options, including the specialty Mont Blanc. Whether you’re in for a quick bite or a leisurely catch-up, Sonder has you covered.
Where: 1/12 Philip Avenue, Broadbeach
Harvest Foodhouse
Sprouting up in Robina is Harvest Foodhouse, offering a delightful culinary escape. The creation of Anja and Jonathan Ede, this vibrant spot blends exceptional Australian flavours with a relaxed, garden-inspired atmosphere. Anja, a fifth-generation baker, brings her legacy to every dish, while Head Chef Kristie Flower’s menu delivers a fusion of cafe classics with modern twists. With its outdoor seating area, stunning murals, and inviting ambiance, Harvest Foodhouse promises a tranquil retreat where food, friends and good vibes flourish.
Where: Shop 16, 361 Robina Parkway, Robina
Norte and Sueño
Bringing vibrant Latin flair to Nobby Beach, the Rick Shores team is serving up a festive culinary experience at their new venues Norte and Sueño. Inspired by Mexico City and Latin American culture, Norte offers a chic, sultry atmosphere with flame-kissed dishes like 72-hour short rib and Fremantle octopus, while the sun-drenched rooftop at Sueño serves ceviches, tacos, and skewers. With a 150-bottle wine list and cocktails that sing, these venues promise to deliver a fiesta for both the taste buds and the soul. Grab your friends, sip tequila and savour the flavours!
Where: The Oxley Atrium, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach
Gelato Gemelli
Gelato Gemelli brings authentic Italian gelato to Nobby Beach, offering a sweet escape with every scoop. Created by the Carney brothers, known for their popular Gemelli Group Restaurants, this cosy gelato haven features creamy creations made from scratch using imported equipment from Bologna. Signature flavours like Pisellino (pistachio cream and white chocolate) and seasonal options like Amafli Limone transport you to Italy. Whether in a cone, cup or brioche gelato sandwich, Gelato Gemelli promises a taste of Italy’s dolce vita.
Where: The Oxley Atrium, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach
Butter Bodega
Butter Bodega, a New York-style bodega in Labrador, is bringing Big Apple flavour to the Gold Coast. Created by husband-and-wife duo Ivan and Monique, this chic convenience store serves up mouthwatering sandwiches like Black Truffle Squid Ink Salami and Spiced Beef Pastrami on New York Rye, alongside specialty coffee and unique drinks like Biscoff Lattes and Pumpkin Spice Matcha. With its stylish interior and family-friendly vibe, Butter Bodega is the perfect spot to grab a bite or shop for gourmet treats.
Where: Shop 15, 300 Marine Pde, Labrador
Bar Monte
The Light Years team is raising the bar on Italian dining, with their new Bar Monte in Miami offering a menu that’s simply pasta-tively divine! From oozy Burrata to a decadent Chicken Liver Eclair, its dishes have Gold Coasters saying “mamma mia!” Seafood lovers will see just how good Linguine di Mare al Cartoccio can be, while meat enthusiasts can savour a Bistecca steak lovingly coated in a Porcini Rub. Paired with divine wines and signature cocktails, it’s clear – Bar Monte is your passport to Italy– no boarding pass required.
Where: No.3 Mountain View Ave, Miami
Wendy’s
Wendy’s is bringing the sizzle to our fast-food scene with its first-ever Australian location in Surfers Paradise! Square away your hunger with their iconic fresh beef square patties and crispy chicken tenders, specifically made for Aussie taste buds. Whether you’re biting into the Classic Double or the Baconmator, it’s no wonder this chain is famous for its flavours. Don’t forget to dip into signature sauces and for the sweet finish, the Frosty is sure to have you melting with joy! It’s just the beginning of Wendy’s big expansion across the country!
Where: Paradise Centre, Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Pokkoi
Pokkoi is wok-ing its magic in Coolangatta, serving up a sizzling fusion of Asian flavours that will have you soy excited! Owner Rachael Nguyen has brought her expertise and enthusiasm across the ditch for her first Australian venture, and we welcome it with open mouths. From the zesty Hiramasa Kingfish to the indulgent Beef Rendang Donut, every bite is an explosion of umami goodness. For the ultimate Asian fusion dish, the Whole Burrata served with heirloom tomato, chilli oil, Viet mint and roti is sure to make your taste buds dance. Wash it down with a Thai Tea Cocktail and you’ve got yourself a flavour-packed feast!
Where: 52-58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
YOMG
Yo, my goodness, YOMG has officially dished out a new spot at Pacific Fair! Flipping the script on burgers and froyo, YOMG is serving up stacked, snackable goodness. Their hand-pressed, locally sourced beef patties are the real MVP, while the froyo bar is a swirl of endless possibilities. From loaded fries to crispy wings, every bite is a taste bud touchdown. Whether you’re in the mood to feast with friends or treat yo’self, YOMG is the ultimate pit stop for flavour-packed bites.
Where: Pacific Fair (opposite Sephora), Broadbeach
Roca
Roca is nacho average Latin eatery in Byron Bay. From the fresh Watermelon Ceviche to the zingy Arroz Chaufa, every dish will have you taco-ing about it long after the meal. The Rocatina Burger, with its tuna, avocado, and fried sweet potato, is post-beach bliss, while the Mixed Fried Empanadas pack a punch of flavour. For an unforgettable dinner party, the Eat Like Papi experience fires up at 5pm with chefs grilling meats and preparing fresh ceviche before your eyes. You’ll be roca–ing and rolling with every bite and sip!
Where: 14 Lawson Street, Byron Bay
Commitment Issues
Hello, is it waffles you’re looking for? Commitment Issues in Nobby Beach will hook you up! Whether you’re swooning over the crispy Fried Chicken ‘N’ Waffle Stack or going crazy about the CI-style burger, there’s more options to choose from than matches on a dating app! The coffee slushies are a cool companion to your meal, and with self-ordering kiosks, you can easily commit to a fresh, seasonal feast. No strings attached, just pure brunch bliss – you’ll fall in love with every bite!
Where: Shop 5/28 Chairlift Avenue, Mermaid Beach
Words by Lisette Drew