As the Gold Coast’s foodie scene slowly creeps further south, it was inevitable Tugun would get swept up in the excitement.
An intimate, low-lit space with cosy corner chairs, Hidden is reminiscent of a cocktail bar in downtown New York. Serving up tasty tapas, wines for every taste and some unexpected entertainment, it’s already drawing crowds from across the Coast.
Found down an arcade passageway behind Groove Café on Golden Four Drive, Hidden is a brand new concept for the southern suburb and one that’s bound to change the social scene there.
With free live music Friday and Saturday nights and an artistic performance (think comedy acts and one woman plays) every month, it’ll be up close and personal entertainment you won’t find anywhere else.
Of course, tapas is always a good idea and even more so when there’s something a little bit different to indulge in.
Don’t go past the Pork Belly with pickled apple and a sticky soy glaze or the Tempura Soft Shell Crab with tomato chilli jam.
The wine list is long and luxurious, as expected, and features delicious drops from all your favourites including Italy, France, Tasmania and the Barossa Valley.
A decadent array of cocktails take pride of place on the menu too. The Thyme and Bourbon Mash made with fresh thyme, peach mash and grapefruit juice comes highly recommended as does the Passionfruit Basil Vodka Sour and the Apple Pie (taste it to believe it).
HOURS: Wednesday to Saturday nights 6-12pm.
LOCATION: 255 Golden Four Drive, Tugun (behind Groove Café).
Words and photos by Kirra Smith.
Nestled between Bilinga and Coolangatta, Kirra may be small but she is also mighty.
Best known for a pumping, world-renowned surf break and ever-present chill vibes, there’s so much more to Kirra than just waves and a pristine stretch of sand (although that’s motivation enough for us).
Here are 14 reasons Kirra locals ain’t budging for love nor money, and why the wider GC community can’t get enough of this thriving yet mellow footwear-optional ‘burb.
Billy Chow
When news spread that Kirra was scoring the new sister to Nobby Beach cult fave Ally Chow, involuntary salivation immediately ensued. One of the more recent additions to the eats scene of this beach-blessed suburb, Billy Chow is already beloved and absolutely no one is surprised by this development. Serving up share style all-day feasts, it’s one of those spots that’s got everything going for it – incredible pan-Asian eats, stellar sips, a swoon-worthy fit out and a ripper beachfront vantage. All of which make it an especially swell long (looong) lunch spot, if you ask us.
Where: 76 Musgrave Street, Kirra
Kirra Beach House
Making waves for all the right reasons – the hotly-anticipated arrival of Marine Parade’s sprawling new dining addition, Kirra Beach House, redefined the southern eats and sips game. The handiwork of local hospo gun, Dave Galvin, which speaks to the caliber in and of itself – but just wait till we get to the three seperate bars, insta-worthy interiors, cabana-studded wraparound terrace, and panoramic ocean views from all angles! We’d be remiss not to also mention the Mediterranean-style grazing and crafted cocktails. Perfect 10’s all round.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
MADE
No longer coasting by on the merits of its stellar beaches alone, Kirra’s really been stepping things up on the foodie front of late. Just one of the hip new haunts we can thank KTQ Group’s multi-million dollar beachfront transformation for, Made is the second endeavour for Tugun’s MADE Barber & Barista founders Josh Blair & Britt Westcott. A slick, industrial style space bringing gourmet toasties, cafe treats and tight trims to Kirra’s esplanade, beach trips just got a little more productive and whole lot tastier.
Where: Corner of Musgrave & Miles St, Kirra
Kirra Beach Hotel
Back and looking better than ever after a hefty zhuzh up, a fresh look for Marine Parade’s stalwart watering hole is yet another slam dunk we owe to the mammoth Kirra Point Project development. Still the same no-fuss favourite at heart, now nestled one level beneath the slightly posher Kirra Beach House. If you’re in the mood for casual chews and brews, this place will happily hook you up with a cheeky pint and parmi – and some pretty spectacular views, of course.
Where: 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Cotton Living
Who doesn’t love a luxurious homewares store that’s also a patisserie café, and the answer is a unanimous NOBODY. In its beautiful new location, Cotton Living showcases stunning handmade furniture and timeless accessories to make every room in your abode sing. Everything is Insta-worthy with a focus on natural colours and textures, plus you can grab a croissant with your cushion and #WhatsNotToLove. This luxurious space right by the beach is family-owned and the obvs choice for your next coffee date with the gals.
Where: 1 Lord Street, Coolangatta
Native State
A boutique gym and European-style bathhouse, Kirra’s self care prospects have never looked better since Native State swanned into town back in 2023. An all-in-one wellness destination, whether you’re craving an invigorating ice bath, or a sweat-sesh in the state-of-the-art studio or infrared sauna; you can choose your own adventure with casual sessions, classes and memberships available. No matter what your dream workout looks like, reward your efforts with a bliss out with soak in the bathhouse to finish… be warned though, you might never want to leave.
Where: 3/2 Creek Street, Coolangatta
Siblings
Another of Kirra’s panoramically blessed haunts (anybody sensing a theme here?) Siblings revived the heritage listed beachside Kirra Pavilion which was once but a humble Pizza Hut. And lbh, it’s hard to feel sad about farewelling our childhood icon when the replacement comes bearing gifts this good. Founded by local restaurateur royalty Jarrod Kyle and TJ Cianci, Siblings is a modern Australian brunch and dinner showstopper, dripping with 1950’s Miami beach vibes goodness. The menu is infused with fresh seafood and share-plates a-plenty and don’t even get us started on the cocktails, because this place takes their sips seriously! You haven’t lived till you’ve been.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra
Kirra Beach Pavilion
While driving around the headland, you may have noticed the cute little shelter overlooking the ocean. It’s a great place to hide from the scorching sun, and has certainly seen a lot over its lifetime – more than a century to be precise. Early photos of Kirra Beach show the shelter in place by around 1916 and we love ourselves some GC history. The Kirra Shelter Shed makes for a great viewing platform and is the perfect spot to watch whales frolic out in the big blue.
Kirra Surf
Speaking of institutions, Kirra Surf is a must-visit when cruising into this salt-kissed suburb. Whether you’re in the market for some new threads, a new board or you’re a total surfing rookie just looking to get started, these guys will hook you up. Their range of surfing apparel, products and know-how is unrivalled, the staff are super friendly, and there’s always at least (twenty)two things you’ll want to take home with you. 10/10 beach rats agree, this place is one of the best.
Where: 6/8 Creek Street, Kirra
Agave Rosa
A taqueria that does mexi eats, but not as you might expect, Agave Rosa is Kirra’s casa of modern Mexican fusion. The only thing more vibrant than the telltale hot pink interior is fresh and zesty eats this place is churning out on the reg. From the brilliant mind that brought us Project Tokyo, imagine a menu where your favourite Mexi flavours are melded with bold Japanese influences. The result is inventive and tantalising creations like Chipotle Hibachi Chicken Tacos and pico de gallo drizzled Tuna Tataki – just add in a round of Classic margaritas (because sometimes you can’t improve perfection) and you’ve got yourself a tastebud party.
Where: 74 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta
Kirra Beach Bakery
One of the best barometers of a town is its local bakery – and no visit is complete without a trip to Kirra Beach Bakery. Serving quintessential Aussie bakery fare at its finest – if it’s been a while between cheeky nostalgic treats (think Jam and cream donuts and Custard slice) this place will have you reevaluating your priorities. Whether you’re in need (need being the operative word, here) of a post-surf pie, sausage roll, quiche or pastie, a healthy salad sando or sweet treat (don’t judge) for the road, Kirra Beach Bakery is the place. Get down there early in the morning for fresh-out-of-the-oven bread and enjoy a slice or two with the local ‘gulls while watching the sunrise. Good stuff.
Where: 11/48 Musgrave St, Kirra
HiPoke
A dish originating in Hawaii, the poke bowl phenomenon is here to stay. Made of colourful salad and protein combinations artfully arranged in bowls almost too pretty to eat (almost). For our pick of the signature bowls, the Salmon Sashimi always slaps – as does the Karaage Chicken made with edamame, carrot, corn, sweet chilli mayo and lotus root chips. Satisfying and healthy, the entire menu is preservative free and all seafood is sustainably sourced. It’d be rude not to try them all.
Where: 18/48 Musgrave Street, Kirra
Kirra Surf Life Saving Club
We can always count on surf clubs to bring great vibes and an even better location, and this is one of the best (shh, don’t tell the others). Just footsteps from the sand, this old boy has been around longer than you (est. 1916) and is a firm fave amongst all Gold Coasters. It’s the perfect family-friendly spot for dinner with your brood, or a sundowner or two overlooking the ocean. Perch up on the deck and let that balmy sea breeze take you to your happiest place.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra
Kirra Hill Lookout
If by this stage you’re suitably fed and watered (read: bursting at the seams) the only thing left to do is drink in the world-famous Kirra beach in all its glory! Trek to the top of the headland and prepare to be wowed by views from Main Beach to Snapper Rocks and everywhere in between. If you wanna make a day of it, pack a picnic or fire up the barbie (you’ve earned it after that walk) – and thank your lucky stars you get to live in the best place on Earth. No bias, just #facts.
Where: It’s on the big hill, you won’t miss it!
Words by Bianca Trathen & Kellie Leader
Who loves a dirty martini? Ummm, we do! And we love any excuse to drink one… enter: International Gin Day. June 14 is basically our second birthday – okay, technically it’s gin’s, but we’re claiming it.
Luckily for us, the Gold Coast is shaking (and stirring) things up with a bunch of bars serving epic gin creations using top-shelf local spirits.
So in honour of the juniper juice we all know and love, here are the best spots to get your gin fix this Gin Day – or, let’s be honest, any day ending in “y”.
Happy sipping, gin lovers.
Bringing a splash of Polish tradition to the Gold Coast, Panezski Artisan Distillery is a family-run gem crafting premium small-batch vodka and gin with heart, heritage and a whole lot of flavour. While vodka might traditionally be a northern hemisphere affair, Panezski is proving that Aussie soil can produce spirits with just as much soul. From their meticulous distilling process to their beautiful bottling, it’s clear this crew doesn’t cut corners. Drop in for a taste of Europe, GC-style.
Our pick: Northside Rickey – Panezski Gin, lime juice, simple syrup, mint leaves and dry ginger ale. Cool, crisp and straight-up refreshing.
Where: Unit 2/2 Sierra Place, Upper Coomera
Tucked away in an industrial shed near Harbour Town, this gin haven is serving up serious style (think festoon lights, a swoon-worthy pink vee-jay counter, and shiny copper stills that deserve their own Instagram account). Their gin spirits are stellar, and they taste even sweeter in the form of their cocktails.
Our pick: The Mango Weis Bar cocktail with mango gin, mango nectar, lemon juice, vanilla sugar and aquafaba does it for us!
Where: 211 Brisbane Rd, Biggera Waters
If there’s one place that knows its way around a gin cocktail, it’s the OG of Gold Coast distilling – Granddad Jack’s. They’ve seriously upped the ante with their bold new cocktail menu inspired by the Seven Man-Made Wonders of the World. Each drink is a flavour-packed tribute to an architectural icon – think a dry martini-style nod to the Great Wall of China with bold mandarin and umami notes, or a silky, spiced number inspired by the Taj Mahal. There’s even a foamy, tart twist on Chicha Morada repping Machu Picchu. Honestly, it’s a round-the-world trip without leaving Miami (and without needing a passport – bonus!).
Our pick: The Seymour Street, made with their house Greenhouse Gin, fresh lime juice and a dash of eucalyptus. It’s like sipping on an Aussie summer in a glass.
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami
Far more than your standard distillery, Familiar Spirits focuses on crafting tailor-made spirits for cocktails, ensuring each drink is as smooth as a well-aged whiskey. Now we’re talking! Their signature cocktail menu rotates with the seasons, so there’s always something new to try.
Our pick: The Not So Familiar Negroni, with Macadamia Fat Washed Pudding Gin, Lemon Myrtle Campari and Rosso Vermouth is calling our name.
Where: 1/9 Calabro Way, Burleigh Heads
Meet the small-batch distillery that packs a big punch! Found on Scottsdale Drive in Varsity Lakes, Wildflower Distillery crafts exceptional and award-winning gin that can be deemed as ‘Burleigh in a bottle’. Crafted with locally grown botanicals, including cardamom, lemon myrtle and coriander, plus a little drop of honey from the owner’s very own Burleigh backyard, you can now understand why. It’s a very easy drinking drop, a little bit floral and paired perfectly with either tonic, solo over ice (tried and tested) or in their famous ‘Basil Fawlty’ cocktail- delish!
Our pick: The Basil Fawlty cocktail is worth the trip alone
Where: 2/486 Scottsdale Drive, Varsity Lakes
If you’re chasing sleek, sophisticated and seriously sippable, Burly Gin in Currumbin is your go-to. This dreamy gin bar is packed with artisan bottles so pretty, you’ll be turning them into vases when they’re empty (because why not have flowers and gin on display?). The team behind Burly serves up their entire gin range in a lineup of dazzling cocktails, each one more Insta-worthy than the last. The space itself is chic, the vibes are chilled, and the drinks? Let’s just say you’ll want to try the entire menu twice.
Our pick: Italiano Spritz – Citrus Burly Gin, Sanbitter, Grapefruit, Rosemary Shrub & Prosecco. Bellissimo!
Where: 60 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin
Bringing a taste of Italy with a distinctly Aussie twist, Loborn Distillery is shaking (and stirring) up Tamborine Mountain’s sip scene in the most delicious way. Tucked among the leafy charm of Main Street, this boutique distillery is the perfect pit stop for a tasting or a cheeky cocktail session. Whether you’re vibing an Aperol Spritz in the sunshine or settling in for something stronger, Loborn delivers the goods with style, flavour, and plenty of mountain magic.
Our pick: The Classic G&T – Loborn Original Gin, Indian tonic water and an orange twist. Simple. Timeless. Perfect.
Where: Shop 4, 46-48 Main Street, Mt Tamborine
Home of the iconic colour-changing Ink Gin, Husk Farm Distillery is the ultimate gin-lover’s day trip destination. Set on a stunning working farm in North Tumbulgum, this spot is part cellar door, part bar, part café – and 100% worth the drive. While they’re also the brains behind Husk Virgin Cane Rum and Spiced Bam Bam, today we’re here for the gin (obviously). Expect garden-fresh vibes, paddock-to-glass pours, and cocktails that are as pretty as they are delicious.
Our pick: Ink Sloe Fizz – Ink Sloe & Berry Gin, lemon, soda. Light, bright, and berry delicious.
Where: Dulguigan Rd, North Tumbulgum
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
A laidback garden wonderland awaits in Main Beach.
Fresh greenery abounds, juxtaposed with bright, colourful artwork, a spacious open deck and an impressive bar to rival any other on the Coast.
Offering a vast modern fusion share plate menu, with dishes from around the world, N3 Tapas Bar’s focus is on fresh, local ingredients and it shows.
Each dish offers unique flavour combinations and there’s an abundance of options including street food, small bites, small and large share plates and a banquet menu.
Standouts include:
Kingfish ceviche with Amazonian chillies, tiger’s milk and plantain chips;
Charred butternut squash with pistachio pesto, Persian fetta and pomegranate seeds;
Grass fed eye fillet beef tartare with confit egg yolk and potato crisps and;
The pièce de résistance…Peruvian alpaca ragout with celeriac remoulade, watercress and Tasmanian horseradish.
In the spirit of keeping things interesting, N3 have created a fitting cocktail menu with fresh, garden-inspired beverages.
The Secret Garden perfectly fits the theme – a combination of apple cider, apple liqueur, ginger wine, mint and cucumber – and is delightfully presented in a watering can.
The Bees Knees, Watermelon Martini and Pineapple and Sage Margarita are on the list for the next visit.
Of course, there’s an extensive array of beer and wine on offer along with milkshakes (Fifty Shades of Delight please) and the usual soft drink suspects.
If you’re hungry for something a little bit different, head to N3 Tapas Bar, your tastebuds are sure to thank you.
Hours: Monday to Sunday 11.30am to 9pm
Address: Shop 33 Marina Mirage, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach.
Words and images by Kirra Smith.
