If you haven’t noticed already, Winter is officially here on the Gold Coast. The temperatures have dropped dramatically, and it’s high time to pull out your finest wintery gear — you know the stuff we’re talking about, the clothes you’ve lovingly been eyeing for the last nine months, but it wasn’t nearly cold enough for. Whilst you’re at it, how does a good old campfire sound? However, camping isn’t for everyone. So, if you prefer sleeping in your own bed and your dinner and clothes smoke-free, make a booking and snuggle up with a glass of red at one of these Gold Coast establishments with a crackling fireplace included (yes, we do have some!).
Miss Moneypenny’s
The swankiest fireplace to be found in and around the central Gold Coast belongs to this Broadbeach fine dining favourite. The beautiful decor by renowned designer Paul Kelly Design is an Instagrammer’s dream, but while there is plenty for your eyes to feast upon, the grand looking fireplace is the real treat here. Treat yourself to any one of their lavish cocktails, or for an authentic winter’s evening experience, grab a whiskey and submerge yourself in a velvet chair stat.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
The Polish Place
The beloved Polish Place at Mount Tamborine has been through a lot in recent times. Completely rebuilt from the ground up following a devastating tragedy, we are so glad owners Phil & Ania were unequivocally committed to bringing back the best Polish food and hospitality around. The beautifully restored fireplace sits pride of place in their dining room, essentially there to warm your soul while you devour the eats and take in the spectacular view.
Where: 333 Main Western Road, Mount Tamborine
Woodchoppers Inn
We love a good old pub with a bit of charm, and with some of the best wood-fired BBQ meats around, this one is always on our repeat hit list. But why keep the wood fire in the kitchen? This modest family business has since 1995 been serving up all the wood-fired meats, craft beers and wine, right next to a big open fireplace, of course. That is if you can claim a seat beside it!
Where: 64 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
D’Arcy Arms
Located in the heart of the Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise, D’Arcy Arms Irish Pub has been serving hearty Irish meals for over 30 years — a testament to their popularity amongst tourists and locals alike. While our winters are just a tad warmer than Ireland’s — ok, a lot warmer — we are still thankful they decided to bestow upon us a crackling, open fireplace to gather around over a Guinness or three. Take full advantage of their fireplace and book your Christmas in July for the full Euro-winter effect.
Where: 2923 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
The Wine Barrel
It must be said, nothing else makes you feel as warm and fuzzy inside as a glass of wine next to an open fire, meaning The Wine Barrel in Mudgeeraba has seriously got its priorities in order. This tapas and wine bar is a family-owned and run hidden treasure, featuring some of the best tapas and share platters the Gold Coast has seen. So, grab a couple of mates and proceed to devour serious eats, next to the fireplace naturally…
Where: 8/59 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
The Fireplace
Ok, this one is in the name. Still, the fine-looking Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove Resort is home to a restaurant rightly named The Fireplace, and yes, you guessed it: it does indeed have an impressive fireplace within the dining room that is also used for cooking. But don’t just go for the roaring embers; the menu features locally sourced cuisine, a 300-strong wine library and a delightful wine-matched degustation. This is serious date night material, maybe even staying overnight wouldn’t be the worst idea you’ve ever had! There’s even a second fireplace located in the foyer at the Verandah Restaurant and Bar that you can cosy on up to with one of their 50 whiskies.
Where: Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
