Fire up the winter season with these new hotspots.
Fire up the winter season with these new hotspots.
While the temps may be dropping, the Gold Coast is only heating up, especially on the venue front. May served up a sizzling lineup of new openings, from sun-soaked beach clubs to dreamy tea gardens, boujee dog boutiques and a shiny new microbrewery. Whether you’re chasing cocktails, princess costumes (for your pup, obviously), or craft beer, there’s something for every vibe. Let’s take a bite (and a sip) out of the Gold Coast’s hottest May arrivals!
Uncle Bowl has landed in Molendinar, serving fast, fresh and flavour-packed eats that don’t break the bank. Created by Songfei Yuan, this stylish spot dishes up Asian-inspired bowls for every craving like Chicken Karaage,Tonkatsu Pork and even Plant-Based Schnitzel . With interiors by Ni Design and speedy service to match, Uncle Bowl is ideal for a quick lunch or a flavour-filled pitstop. Add bold sides and cheeky shakes like the Biscoff Crumble, and you’ve got yourself a bowl game-changer.
Where: Shop 18/458 Olsen Ave, Molendinar
Dogs of the Gold Coast, rejoice! Pablo & Co. has unleashed its first local boutique in Southport, and it’s a doggy dream come true. Bursting with bold prints, pop-culture flair and pup-perfect accessories, this Insta-famous brand is now serving looks IRL. From harnesses to Harry Potter costumes, there’s something for every stylish snout. Designed with flair and plenty of selfie ops, it’s more than a pet store, it’s a paw-some fashion playground your furry friend won’t want to leave.
Where: 3/15 Pinter Drive, Southport
Steeped in whimsy and blooming with charm, Tarte Tea Garden in Currumbin is the Gold Coast’s newest high tea haven. Nestled beside Tarte Beach House, this dreamy spot blends French patisserie finesse with garden party magic with rose walls, cloud matchas and dainty pastries almost too pretty to eat (almost!). Whether you’re in for the full high tea or just popping by for mini treats and velvety hot chocolate, this leafy wonderland is made for indulgence, Instagram and a little main character energy.
Where: 2 Thrower Dr, Currumbin
Looking for your zen? Breathe Performance Recovery in Arundel is where science meets serenity, redefining wellness one breath at a time. Founded by Ashleigh Wilson, Julia Poole and Kassiah Miller-MacLeod, this luxe recovery hub offers everything from infrared saunas and magnesium plunge pools to reformer Pilates and Normatec compression lounges. Designed to soothe both body and mind, the space blends earthy aesthetics with cutting-edge equipment. Whether you’re an athlete or office warrior, Breathe makes recovery feel like the ultimate self-care ritual.
Where: 10/354 Brisbane Road, Arundel
Say good morning to your new weekend ritual at kōst Corner in Broadbeach. From the creative minds behind kōst Bar & Grill comes this chic pop-up café serving next-level toasties, luxe pastries and seriously good coffee every Friday to Sunday. Tuck into truffle mushroom toasties, smoked salmon bagels, and matcha cheesecake that hits just right. Add a flat white from Willy’s Beans and some fresh blooms (yes they sell those too), and you’ve got the perfect excuse to make “just one coffee” last all day.
Where: kōst Corner at kōst Bar & Grill, Shop 135S/3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
Eastern Europe’s cult-favourite dessert has officially landed at Harbour Town, and yes, we’re completely obsessed! Swieetie is serving up freshly made soft-serve in a swirl of flavours, piled high with fruits, candies and drizzles to match every sweet craving. The showstopper? The Dubai Chimney Cake: crisp on the outside, fluffy within and stacked with toppings your sugar-loving heart will thank you for. Freshly baked, seriously indulgent and absolutely worth every bite of the sugar rush.
Where: Harbour Town, 147-189 Brisbane Rd, Biggera Waters
Labrador just scored a triple threat in comfort food with Sandy’s Burger, Pizza & Pasta – a laid-back local delivering big flavours and even bigger portions. From sky-high burgers stacked with Aussie classics to crispy pizzas and creamy truffle pasta, this is carb heaven in casual-cool surrounds. With a sports bar vibe, family-friendly feels and a cocktail list that knows how to party, Sandy’s is your go-to for weeknight dinners, game-day feeds or any excuse to ditch cooking. Stretchy pants encouraged.
Where: 37 Musgrave Ave, Labrador
Broadbeach, your fried food game just levelled up. Fricken has landed and it’s serving serious crunch. What started as a Canberra food truck is now a full-blown flavour fest, dishing out golden tenders, epic fries and house-made lemonade in a cheeky surf-meets-street diner setting. With gluten-free options, retro interiors and that now-iconic Fricken Box, this is a crispy cult in the making. Come hungry, leave clucky.
Where: 89-91 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
From Southport with love (and a whole lot of cheese), Rossa Pizzeria & Bar is bringing big flavour and even bigger vibes to the lobby of TRYP by Wyndham. This casual Italian stunner is dishing out hand-tossed pizzas, pillowy calzones, polpettini starters and live music four nights a week. With bottomless pizza Mondays, party-perfect vibes, and a woodfired oven straight from Italy, Rossa is your new go-to for carb-filled good times. Mangia, sip, repeat.
Where: 59 Meron Street, Southport
The historic Commercial Hotel Boonah has been lovingly restored and has upped its cool factor with the addition of Boonah Brewing Co. microbrewery. With a brand-new beer garden to sip these new brews and pub classics reimagined by Executive Chef Jake Nicolson, it’s your ultimate Scenic Rim road trip pit stop. From housemade fish fingers to the show-stopping Bull + Bug, there’s something for every appetite. Crisp craft beer and country vibes? Boonah’s never looked better.
Where: 39 High St, Boonah
Words by Lisette Drew
Hold onto your tastebuds, because cyclone season just brought a whirlwind of exciting new foodie hotspots! As the Gold Coast bounces back from the chaos of Cyclone Alfred, local businesses are ready to roll and eager to please the community. From moreish bites to mouthwatering sips, here’s your inside scoop on the hottest openings from last month.
Got matcha on the mind? Palm Beach’s ’94 is serving up the finest green goodness, and it’s quickly becoming the local hub for caffeine and community. From their signature Salted Caramel Matcha to the fresh fruit-infused options, ’94 is all about quality, with homemade syrups and mouth watering eats like Open Toasts, Toasties, Banana Bread and Muffins. Whether you’re in for a chill sip or just up for a chat, ‘94 wil have you coming back for more.
Where: 1114 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Craving a slice of Italy? Papa Luigi’s has landed at Nobby Beach, bringing gourmet pizzas with a side of Italian flair! Chef Davide Turra serves up pizzas with dough that proves for 48-72 hours, resulting in a perfectly crunchy crust. Try the Mortadella pizza, topped with burrata and pistachios, or the focaccia with porchetta and Naheda’s Dip House garlic sauce. Don’t forget an Aperol Spritz to wash it down. Mamma mia, we will meet you there!
Where: The Oxley 1823, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach
Mini & Me in Mudgeeraba is a go-to spot for the kids to let off steam while you enjoy a steaming cup of coffee. With an indoor playroom, cubby house, toys and a ball pit, it’s a haven for little one’s imaginations to run wild. The menu blends Serbian and Australian flavours, featuring delicious burek pastries, homemade cakes and sweet treats. Parents can enjoy freshly brewed coffee or while their kids indulge in milkshakes or healthy, sugar-free bites. Kid-friendly fun for all!
Where: 5/59 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
Familiar Spirits Distillery has opened in Burleigh Heads, offering a unique family-run retreat for cocktail lovers and foodies alike. Husband-and-wife duo Justin and Lana Bell, along with their team, serve up expertly crafted spirits and seasonal cocktails, including our favourite – Butler’s Secret with The Butler’s Gin (distilled onsite) mixed lovingly with Elderflower, Orange Oleo Sacrum Lemon, Orris & Angelica Root. The intimate, tropical space is complemented by small plates like Beef Carpaccio and Tiramisu made with house-made rum. Familiar Spirits promises to leave you in good spirits. Cheers to that!
Where: 1/9 Calabro Way, Burleigh Heads
Does your sweet tooth keep you awake at night? Açai Jungle & Desserts in Southport is here to help. Offering indulgent treats day and night, you can dip into a signature soft-serve açai bowl loaded with fresh fruit and crunchy granola, or enjoy a delectable bite (or three) into a Chocolate Pistachio Deep Fried Ice Cream. With cosy vibes and creative sips like Coconut Matcha Cloud , it’s the ideal spot to satisfy your cravings and enjoy a little sweetness after the sun sets.
Where: Shop 2/ 32 Davenport Street, Southport
Sun Devil Drinks Company has saddled up at Strange Days Store in Tweed Heads, bringing a dose of wild west charm to your coffee break. Known for its American-style brews, the Sun Devil Special is a must-try, offering an unforgettable caffeine hit with a zesty twist. Surrounded by vintage pieces and Americana décor, this collaboration between Sun Devil and Strange Days is as one of a kind as the threads you’ll find here. Grab a drink, explore the goods and soak in the good vibes!
Where: 28-30 Bay St, Tweed Heads
Step into Mona Lisa’s Lair at Miami Marketta and indulge in a Parisian escape. This 18+ venue exudes romance with its plush furnishings, soft lighting and eclectic art. The French-inspired menu features mouthwatering dishes like Fondue Tarte, Coq au Vin Blanc and Crispy Pork Belly, all paired perfectly with bubbles from renowned champagne houses. Be it date night or a private event, Mona Lisa’s Lair is sure to make you smile.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
Trust your tummy and take your tastebuds on a trip to Taiwan! Taiwan Tummy in Chirn Park brings the energy of a bustling night market straight to the Gold Coast, serving up street food snacks like sizzling scallion pancakes, and signature bento boxes packed with bold flavours. Owners Jasper and Cynthia are dishing out tradition, with recipes passed down through generations. Whether you crave deep-fried chicken or slow-braised pork, this cosy eatery is a delicious slice of Taiwan, right here at home.
Where: 1/37 Musgrave, Ave, Labrador
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Mathilde Bouby
February was a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it kind of month, but a fresh batch of brand-new venues made sure it didn’t go unnoticed! From a Thai spot bursting with colour to a café serving up serious vacay vibes, here’s your inside scoop on the hottest openings last month you’ll want to sink your teeth into.
Rise & Set has arrived in Coombabah, and it’s serving up more than just brunch – it’s a whole vibe. Helmed by Chef Choi (of Willow Dining fame), this stunning café blends bold flavours with a design-savvy aesthetic. Think Asian-Mediterranean fusion dishes like French Toast & Chicken or the epic Asian Breaky. The drinks? Totally Instagrammable, like the Red Velvet Latte. With indoor-outdoor seating, a pet-friendly policy and plans for a tapas-style dinner menu soon, Rise & Set is your new go-to on Gold Coast’s northern end.
Where: 610 Pine Ridge Road, Coombabah
Making a splash in Surfers Paradise is Pink Whale, dishing up Thai street food with a neon-lit, high-energy twist. From the team behind Valyn Thai and LimLay, this vibrant eatery dishes up sizzling skewers, Fried Rice served straight from a pineapple half and jumbo-sized classics to satisfy the whole tribe. The venue bursts with colour, capturing the chaotic charm of Bangkok’s night markets. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a feast with friends, Pink Whale promises a Thai-riffic dining adventure!
Where: Paradise Centre, 24/2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Kira Kira is rolling fresh Japanese flavours into Kirra, offering top-tier sushi, donburi bowls and refreshing bubble teas. From the mastermind behind Project Tokyo and Agave Rosa, this sleek sushi spot blends traditional techniques with a modern twist. Deluxe rolls like Inside Out Chicken Katsu and Tempura Prawn are instant favourites, while the hearty signature bento box, featuring a choice of protein, gyoza, a Japanese salad, lotus chips and your choice of sushi roll, will satisfy the hungriest of diners.
Where: Shop 6b 1 Douglas Street, Kirra
Bringing holiday vibes to Surfers Paradise, Tropicana Kitchen & Bar is serving up brunch with a side of sunshine. Owner Tina Chaff has just given this sunny Surfers spot a glow up from Irish pub to island paradise. This tropical retreat offers everything from Loco Tacos and Blueberry French Toast to chargrilled Sirloin and Crispy Skin Barramundi. Sip on creative cocktails like the Shark Attack Fish Bowl or dive into bottomless mimosas for the ultimate brunch experience. Sip, snack and simply soak in the vacay vibes, Tropicana is paradise found!
Where: Paradise Centre, 25/2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Craving sun-kissed flavours of Greece? Forget flights because a Greek feast is just a road trip away! Head straight to Tamborine Mountain where Mana Souvlaki serves up souvlaki, saganaki and meze so good that you’ll be shouting “OPA” at first bite! Led by chef Yiani Giannaros, this intimate 40-seat gem blends old-world Hellenic charm with breezy island vibes. Expect chargrilled perfection, golden pita, and feta-stuffed goodness, all wrapped in warm Greek hospitality. Consider this your one-way ticket to a flavour-packed Greek getaway!
Where: 3/11 Main Street, Tamborine Mountain
5B2F Ciabatta is Southport’s newest slice of heaven, straight from the legends at Chirn Park’s 5B2F Bakehouse. After a decade of delighting Gold Coasters, owner Moonsun Yoo has dropped this second location to serve up mouth-watering ciabatta sandwiches, dreamy pastries, and cakes that steal the spotlight. From indulgent truffle-infused ham and cheese toasties to heavenly Earl Grey mousse cakes, every bite is pure joy. With freshly baked goodies and top-notch Allpress Espresso to wash them down, 5B2F Ciabatta is your go-to for a cheeky treat – no special occasion required!
Where: 29 Davenport St, Southport
Get ready for double the deliciousness as Dipcro Pastry has rolled out its second store in Main Beach! With more space to enjoy their signature Dipcro tarts, flaky croissants, and inventive pastries, this chic new spot is a must-visit for pastry lovers. From the Hazelnut Praline Cromboloni to Spinach and cheese pain suisse, each individual pastry is crafted to perfection. Sip Campos coffee or toast with French bubbles, either way you’ll be dipping back for more!
Where: 1/27 Tedder Ave, Main Beach
Ramen lovers, rejoice! Ramen Kyo has landed in Mermaid Beach, bringing Tokyo-style authenticity to the Gold Coast. Founded by ramen aficionado Ayano Low, this minimalist yet inviting eatery serves up deeply flavoured, slow-simmered broths with house-made noodles and tender chicken chashu. With a vibrant menu inspired by colours – Shiro, Aka Oni, Kuro, and more – each bowl delivers a unique taste of Japan. Pair your noods with crispy karaage and a sip of Kizakura sake, and you’ve got pure umami bliss!
Where: Shop 6/2375 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
April has been a deliciously busy month on the Gold Coast, with a fresh crop of foodie spots and lifestyle hubs popping up across the city. From slurp-worthy udon in Southport and elevated all-day dining in Mermaid Waters, to a cool co-working space in Robina and a luxe bathhouse in Surfers, there’s something new for every palate and postcode. Let’s dive into the hottest openings from last month!
Set inside a luxe over-65s village, Harry’s Dining is a surprise culinary gem dishing up good vibes and even better eats for all ages. Led by Chef Jason Wood, this Mermaid Waters hotspot blends nostalgic charm with chef-level flair — think Humpty Doo Barramundi with champagne cream and Sunday roasts worth cancelling plans for. With themed daily specials, friendly feels and interiors that say “stay awhile,” Harry’s proves that next-level nosh truly has no age limit.
Where: 100 Lakeview Boulevard, Mermaid Waters
Slurp alert! Southport’s steamiest new eatery has landed. Jiraiya is dishing up thick, chewy udon bowls with serious slurp factor — from delicate Kake to rich Curry or refreshing Lime Bukkake. This choose-your-own-adventure deli-style spot lets you customise your bowl with tempura, onigiri and more. Helmed by certified Noodle Sommelier Yuki Saito, every bite is bouncy, brothy bliss. Whether you’re fuelling up post-shop or craving comfort carbs, this is the noods fix you didn’t know you needed.
Where: Nerang St, Southport
Byron Bay’s carb game just levelled up with the arrival of Baloney’s Deli — a cheeky New York-Italian sandwich bar that’s as slick as it is saucy. Founded by sandwich savant George McFarlane, this deli dream dishes out stacked sangas, decadent pastries and strong $2 espressos with a Sopranos-style wink. With its espresso-toned tiles, retro charm, and an open kitchen that serves side banter with your pastrami, Baloney’s is the ultimate place to eat, linger and loaf around.
Where: 10-12 Shirley Street, Byron Bay
Carrara’s new Italian crush has arrived and it’s bringing big buon appetito energy. Papa Rolly’s, the latest gem from the Gemelli Group, is rolling out handmade pizzas, hearty pastas and rustic trattoria vibes from its charming new digs on Pappas Way. It’s all comfort, no fuss, with a BYO twist and a scoop (or three) of Gelato Gemelli on the side. Cosy up inside, grab a pizza to go or let the limoncello-fuelled laughter flow.
Where: 124 Pappas Way, Carrara
Main Beach has a fresh new perch, and it smells like AllPress espresso. Sparrow Coffee Co. has officially landed, bringing its signature teal charm and exceptional brews to the north side. Nestled near Breathe Movement Studios and just 200m from the beach, it’s your go-to for post-pilates lattes or sandy sunrise sips. Expect smooth coffee, flaky pastries and easy order-ahead via their app. This little birdhouse is big on flavour, community and early morning magic.
Where: Corner Stafford Ave and Main Beach Parade, Main Beach
Self-care just got a steamy glow-up with the arrival of Lan Bathhouse in Surfers Paradise. This luxe wellness haven is bubbling over with magnesium spas, icy plunges, soul-soothing treatments and serious main character energy. Founded by two mums-turned-moguls, Lan is all about connection, calm and cocktails. Sip, soak and reset just steps from the beach, or join the Lan Fam for unlimited bliss.
Where: Level 1, Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Say goodbye to Zoom fatigue and café squatting – Riva Offices in Robina is here to level up your workday. This sleek, light-filled coworking space blends productivity with polish, offering private suites, designer kitchens and a thriving community vibe. With 24/7 access, flexible memberships and inspiring interiors by Leithal Designs, it’s built for founders, freelancers and creatives alike. Whether you’re networking or just need a killer coffee machine nearby, Riva makes “the office” cool again.
Where: 2/14 Edgewater Court, Robina
Take your tastebuds on a trip to the Far East at Hope Island’s new culinary gem. This luxe-meets-laidback spot brings authentic Asian fusion flavours to the waterfront. Expect bold, flavour-packed dishes, sweeping harbour views and a design that channels coastal opulence with a modern twist. Helmed by a trio of seasoned hospitality pros, TARA Far East Dining & Bar delivers elevated dining without the pretension. From lobster buns to Phuket curry, it’s an unforgettable taste trip through the Far East.
Where: Sanctuary Cove, 40B Masthead Way, Hope Island
Rafiki by the Park has landed in Mermaid Waters, and it’s already making waves with its breezy island vibes and big-hearted hospitality. Created by local legends Tobias Diamandopoulos and Rosalind Pinto, this leafy, laid-back café is all about community, connection and craveable eats. From Monkey Madness smoothies to toasties sprinkled with the cult Rafiki spice blend, it’s a flavour-packed experience. Settle into the sunny deck seating or grab takeaway for park hangs, this friendly new spot is a feel-good feast for all.
Where: 90 Markeri Street, Mermaid Waters
Words by Lisette Drew
