fbpx
Filter by Suburb
Select all
Broadbeach
Burleigh
Coolangatta
Currumbin
Main Beach
Mermaid Beach
Miami
Nobby's Beach
North Burleigh
Palm Beach
Robina
Southport
Surfers Paradise
Tugun
Water Fun

Flying high on flavour

Hungry Jacks touches down at Gold Coast Airport with a fresh facelift.

Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Whether you rarely travel by air or you rack up the sky-miles like T-Swift, you’ve no doubt caught wind that Gold Coast Airport is in the throes of a $500m multi-stage glow up.

As we continue to get glimpses of the ongoing expansion, transiters are getting a taste of just how (sky)high the bar is set – as stalwart burger haunt, Hungry Jack’s unveils its slick new look Airport location.

Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

In what will be a long line of lush new watering holes, eateries, and boutique shopping outlets for the re-imagined Gold Coast Airport – the zhuzhed up new look and feel for our faithful burger franchise is Hungry Jack’s like we’ve never seen it before.

Though it might be sporting a fancy new facade, Whopper fans can breathe easy, with all the familiar, flame-grilled faves now back alongside Barista-made coffee and a sleeker, more cafe-style experience… plus a couple of extra creature comforts thrown in for good measure.

Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Now residing right by Gate 5 (the opposite end of the terminal from its predecessor) the revamped airport location now also includes self-serve ordering (introverts, rejoice) alongside the full Hungry Jack’s menu.

For jetsetters with time to kill, the fancy-pants new iteration also boasts its own dedicated outlet seating, offering plenty of space to escape the hustle-bustle, catch up on emails, or just stretch your legs and before takeoff.

Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Now churning out bright-and-early brekkie wraps and hashie’s to bleary-eyed (… remind us again why we picked the 6am flight?) travellers every day of the week.

Further bolstering the offering, the in-house Jack’s Café inclusion means punters can also pick everything from barista-made Piccolos to Caramel Lattes made with the award-winning, ethically sourced bean blend from 5am daily. #PraiseBe.

Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Of course, should you need to refuel a little later in the day, they’re churning out the beloved, fast-food style classics ’til the last departing flight every night… and hey, who among us can resist a cheeky comfort-feed of flame-grilled burg and fries when hunger calls?

Certainly not us.

Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Excitingly, the new and unexpectedly lush Hungry Jacks dining experience barely begins to scratch the surface of the works delivered, underway or in the pipeline for the Gold Coast Airport precinct.

Off the back of the multi-level, 30,000 sq metre terminal expansion revealed in late 2022 – travellers will soon be treated to a slew of world-class food, beverage and retail outlets in both the expanded and existing terminal courtesy of the spruce up. Which pretty much provides all the incentive we need to start planning our next big getaway.

Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Either way, Gold Coasters, next time you find yourself jetting off for business or pleasure, we think you’ll agree this refreshing new ‘departure’ for our humble burger purveyor is one that really satis-fries.

Where: Gold Coast Airport, Eastern Ave, Bilinga (near Gate 5)
When: Daily 5am–last departing flight

Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.

STORY SPONSORED BY GOLD COAST AIRPORT

Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Hungry Jacks at the Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Caffeinated and ready for takeoff

Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

By now you’ve surely seen the Gold Coast Airport’s glow-up *chefs kiss*. We’re especially fans of a glow-up when it brings coffee to the table – literally. Put your landing gear down because there’s a new coffee joint in town and we’re here to spill the beans.

Enter: Merlo Coffee Roasters, delivering that iconic Queensland Merlo flavour you know and love.

Coffee at Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Coffee at Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

There are two distinct types of airport people. We all know the first – they’re at the airport three hours before their flight in case something crazy happens like, you know, every single road to get you there shuts down and you need the extra time.

We like to call these the parents of the group, either literally or figuratively. The second prefers to skate in by the skin of their teeth and we swear they always travel together.

So if you’ve bean looking for somewhere to caffeinate pre-flight, Merlo Coffee Roasters is your saviour.  Settle in for a coffee or a cheeky bite to eat.

 

Matt Jefferson’s Slipper Lobster roll, Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Matt Jefferson’s Slipper Lobster roll, Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Nestled at the airport’s entrance, this chic café, operated by Airport Retail Enterprises, is a very welcome addition to the ever-expanding roster of exciting venues at the bustling travel hub that is Gold Coast Airport.

It’s also the only coffee spot in the airport where you can grab a brew and bite before you head through customs, making it the perfect pit stop for if you’ve got anyone popping in to bid you goodbye.

Food and drinks at Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Food and drinks at Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

It’s also the place where you can get your hands on one of Social Eating House’s signature lamb empanadas or Slipper Lobster Rolls, iconic additions to the menu from one of our fave restaurateurs Matt Jefferson who has collaborated with the Merlo Gold Coast Airport crew to deliver the snack goods.

We won’t even call you shellfish for refusing to share with your travel buddies.

One of our favourite things about Merlo Gold Coast Airport is their commitment to locally sourced products, so you know you’re getting the freshest food from some of the finest growers.

Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

These mouthwatering creations showcase the culinary artistry that sets this café apart because we know sometimes you just want something more than the classic airport toastie. And for the coffee aficionados, indulge in the signature Merlo Coffee and frappes, a perfect blend of flavour and buzz, because why else are you drinking coffee? Let’s be real.

The café’s interior, designed by AC Fitouts, encapsulates the distinctive branding of Merlo Coffee with its signature blue and black colour scheme. The ambience seamlessly blends comfort with sophistication, so you’ll want to stay all day – well that is until take off at least.

Lamb empanadas, Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Lamb empanadas, Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

If you’re more about soaking up that fresh Bilinga air there are loads of outdoor options with space for 40 customers both inside and outside, so there’s loads of room if you’re travelling with the whole clan. Whether you’re looking to savour a leisurely meal or grab a quick takeaway, the café caters to all tastes and timelines, opening its doors every day from 5 am until the last check-in.

Merlo Coffee Roasters at Gold Coast Airport is so much more than just a café. It’s a destination for both coffee and culinary enthusiasts so you can get that restaurant quality feel before you take flight and I guess you could say we love it a latte.

Where: Inside the Gold Coast Airport, Eastern Ave, Bilinga
When: Daily from 5am until last check-in
Website: www.goldcoastairport.com.au
Instagram: @goldcoastairport

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.

Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Merlo Coffee Roasters, Gold Coast Airport (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Kirra’s new beachfront darling is here

Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)
Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)

It’s a whole new era for Kirra – as the hotly anticipated Kirra Beach House, slinks into town bringing chic sips, cabana chills and rooftop revelling to the formerly not-much-happenining Marine Parade precinct, and totally transforming the southern social scene as we know it.

And let’s all just try to maintain an orderly fashion here.. thankfully, there’s plenty here to go round.

Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)
Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)

Like, 1200 whole sqm of it – the mammoth, terrace-studded stunner is fully prepared for the inevitable inundation as we all clamour to get a glimpse of the dreamy new venue, equipped with multiple indoor and alfresco areas, wine and cocktail bars (three, to be exact!) and high-end event spaces.

Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)
Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)

The kitchen, meanwhile, brings the likes of raw and cooked seafood platters, succulent steaks and signature burgers to Kirra’s picturesque beachfront – slinging perfectly crisped pizzas out of the Marina Forni pizza oven daily.

And did we mention the uninterrupted ocean views from every angle?

The new standard for a spectacular summer has well and truly been set here, guys.

Dave Galvin at Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)

Our jaws may be on the floor, but we’re not at all surprised – after all, the new concept was pioneered by local hospo trailblazer, Dave Galvin, an undertaking a mere four years in the making.

The SITE Hospitality owner/operator has been working tirelessly to deliver us not one, but two bar-raising venues this year alone – already blessing us with Broadbeach show-stopper, kost a few months back (and before that Mozza Mozza, Bird Royale and Crafty’s Sports Bar).

Somebody stop him (but don’t, actually, keep ’em coming Dave).

And frankly, we just have one question.. when doth the man sleep?

Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)
Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)

When it comes to new venues, often the phrase ‘game changing’ often gets bandied about rather liberally (guilty) – but Kirra Beach House is truly unlike anything we’ve seen this far south, the breathtaking venue putting the seaside village on the map as a destination for elevated dining and drinking.

Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)
Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)

And we do mean elevated in all senses of the word – the new venue sits atop it’s more casual counterpart, the newly unveiled and fresh-faced Kirra Beach Hotel one level below.

The new additions signify a whole new chapter for the suburb’s seaside promenade that comes courtesy of the KTQ Group’s multi-stage Kirra Point Project.

Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)
Champagne Pina Colada and Spicy Watermelon Margarita, Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)

“The venue will have a beach club atmosphere about it, with great music, mesmerising panoramic views of Kirra, Mediterranean-style food using the incredible local produce we have on our doorstep, a world-class drinks list and, of course, great service” says Dave.

And really, did anyone expect anything less?

Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)
Food at Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)

The kitchen of Kirra’s darling new destination is led by head chef Drew Wilson, curating a Mediterranean-style grazing menu that is both flavour-packed and true to the laidback, coastal location.

It features a contemporary mix of dishes such as Kingfish crudo with citrus vinaigrette, chive oil and floral salt… or perhaps the summery ‘burrata with yellow peach, aged balsamic and smoked salt’ to woo the cheese fans.

Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)
Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)

Bars Manager, Kaden Pool invites us to ‘dive in’ to a delectable menu of resort-style cocktails, the type that scratch that nostalgia itch in all the right places.

Such as ‘BahamasChampagne Piña coladas and ‘Cancunspicy watermelon margaritas, made for summer sunsets and crafted to make you feel like you’re on holiday…

Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)
Food at Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)

Wait, we’re pretty sure we might be. Or dreaming. Who could say for sure. We might need to get around a few spicy melon margs to determine, first.

Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
When: Sunday to Thursday 11am–l
ate, Friday & Saturday: 11am–1am

Words by Kellie Leader.

Champagne Pina Colada, Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)
Champagne Pina Colada, Kirra Beach House, Kirra (image supplied)

13 epic Gold Coast burger spots

TGI Fridays, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
TGI Fridays, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

We’ve never met a burger we didn’t like. Okay, maybe that’s a bit dramatic, but we’ve never met a burger from this list that we didn’t love. The humble burger has reached new heights thanks to these Gold Coast hospo legends putting new twists of the classic favourite. And what’s not to love? They’re reliable, damn tasty and the ultimate all-rounder.

Think you’re not a burger lover? Well, we challenge you not to be after eating your way through this epicness. Already converted? Thank us later because your tastebuds will never be the same after these bad boys. To us, every day is burger day – so we’ve pulled together a list of the 13 best burger joints for you to eat your way through. So cheers to the GOAT dish and one of our favourite menu items and prepare to loosen those belts people!

Paloma Wine Bar
It’s one of Burleigh’s favourite local haunts for their huge wine range, next-level cocktails and steak frites, but have you tried the Paloma Cheeseburger? The burger itself is pretty large and in charge for a humble cheeseburger, plus it’s paired with their signature fries – name a more iconic duo. They’re available exclusively on Wednesdays to help you wine-down on hump day and for $14, you’d be losing money not treating yourself #girlmath.
Where: 1/12 James St, Burleigh Heads

Cheeseburger, Paloma Wine Bar, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Cheeseburger, Paloma Wine Bar, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

Two Yolks
Burgers and Burleigh apparently go hand in hand! Two Yolks are home to potentially one of the broadest burger ranges, you can literally treat yourself to a toasty bun for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Triple B is a solid (literally) starter to your day with Bangalow free range bacon, pork sausage plus a heap more with… wait for it… tater tots as a sneaky side. Feeling like something a little more classic? Well the options are (almost) endless with spicy fried chicken all the way through to a Mexican moment.
Where: 13 Connor St, Burleigh Heads

Betty’s Burgers
We don’t make this claim lightly, but there is quite literally a burger for everyone here. Vegan? No problem. Don’t make friends with gluten? Say less. These guys clearly take their burgers seriously because Betty’s have a huge 15 different burgers to choose from, your biggest problem will be narrowing it down to just one. The best problem to have if we do say so ourselves. Need some inspo? We can’t go past the Betty’s Deluxe or Shroom Burger. Perfect for refuelling post retail therapy.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Robina Town Centre and Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre

Betty's Burgers (image supplied)
Betty's Burgers (image supplied)

Burgster
With a name like Burgster, it’s only natural they deliver the goods in the burger department. It’s absolutely one of the best burger joints on the Gold Coast so it’s well worth returning to eat your way through each and every options. Now, while you might’ve come for the burgers you seriously need to stay for the tempura oyster, brie bites and margs. A match made in burger heaven.
Where: Shop 2 & 3, 4-10 Philippine Parade, Palm Beach

Burgster, Palm Beach (image supplied)
Burgster, Palm Beach (image supplied)

Wahlburgers
Our favourite movie star Mark Wahlburg and his brothers certainly know what’s up when it comes down to a burger of great proportions. Wahlburgers first Queensland store located at the beach end of the newly renovated Paradise Centre always deliver on big burgers with big flavour. Rock up with the crew after some time on the beach and tuck into a BBQ Bacon Burger (which is brother Donnie’s choice) with a beef patty, tasty cheese, bacon, fresh jalapenos, BBQ sauce and avo spread – the perfect combo with all of your favourites on one delicious burger.  Pro tip: level it up with the famous Fried Pickles to start with and thank us later.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Easy Street Diner (image supplied)
Easy Street Diner (image supplied)

Easy Street Diner
Blink and you might miss this beauty along the Gold Coast Hwy, so keep your eye peeled! What these guys knock out of their kitchen will have you coming back time after time. Menu items such as Jalapeño BitesPickle Poppers and their infamous Pork Belly Nuggets are absolute crowd-pleasers. But who are we to take the shine off their fantastic lineup of burgers, Give us the Royale with Cheese all the way!
Where: 12/2563 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Zepickle (image supplied)
Zepickle (image supplied)

Ze Pickle
This Burleigh Heads corner spot is the very essence of lazy, street-side eating. Swing in when you clock off on Friday, grab one of their 12 craft beers on tap — and relax. Next, seize a menu and struggle to decide which of the next-level burgers you’re set on. The imagination that goes into their selection of burgers is top-notch, with examples like the Baja Fish Taco Burger and Southern Hick Chicken Burger; you’ll not just be wowed with flavour but the menu names also!
Where: 37 Connor Street, Burleigh Heads

Palm Springs
You’ve seen it all over your ‘gram, so if you haven’t been to Palm Springs then where have you been? It’s one of our fav spots to sit back and soak up the Gold Coast vibes, pat all of the pups and of course, tuck into a delish burger. They’ve got four mouth-watering options all served on a classic milk bun, from your classic Bacon & Egg or Fried Hot Chicken Burger choices or if you’re a bit fancy, the Truffle Burger is an all-round favourite.
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Palm Springs, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Palm Springs, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

TGI Fridays
Looking for a place where it’s always Friday and if this isn’t a rhetorical question…?! Add all American juicy handcrafted burgers, plenty of beer on tap and drinks that are always a’flowin and you’ve just described TGI FRIDAYS!
Where: Robina Town Centre, Robina and Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Apres Surf
It’s become an institution for a reason. They’ve got sweet deals on the menu pretty much every day, but there’s pretty much no better way to finish your Monday with a cheesy b – am I right? The crew at Apres Surf are serving up their iconic cheeseburgers each and every Monday for just $6.50, so you can afford to treat yourself to more than one or a cheeky beer if you’re in the mood. The definition of cheap AND cheerful.
Where: Shop 1/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Après Surf bar (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Après Surf bar (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Eddie’s Grub House
This rock and roll infused dive bar delivers teenage kicks and appealing burger action unapologetically to Coolangatta. As far south as you can go before stepping over the street and into New South Wales, the venue is a ‘pull up a stool and sink a few bevvies’ kind of hangout. Ideal if you find yourself needing a refreshment between happenings at Cooly Rocks On. In the realm of burgers, these guys bring out revolving weekly specials with all the best music genre names you can think of. Delicious and always a good time. We strongly suggest you swing by Eddie’s and let your hair down!
Where: 171 Griffith Street, Coolangatta 

Eddie's Grub House (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)
Eddie's Grub House (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)

Luckie’s Diner – The Collective
It’s always cheat day at Luckie’s Diner, one of The Collective’s fave eats offerings! Their American-style menu with an edge never disappoints and their Royale with Cheese Burger featuring beef, cheese, special sauce, lettuce, tomato and pickles served with fries and ketchup will have you coming back for more. We love that there’s an Aussie Aussie Aussie Burger with grilled pineapple, beetroot and egg, because we don’t see this on menus enough these days. Also an honourable mention to the Pork Belly Nuggets served with maple dipping sauce too, a real winner at this local’s haunt.
Where: The Collective, 1128 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Longboards Laidback Eatery and Bar
If you happen to bring your very best hunger game with you to Longboards, you won’t be disappointed. Seventeen handcrafted burgers on offer, including Beach Cheeseburger, the Vegetarian G-Banger, and the Mona Lisa, which arrives towering with wagyu beef patty, crispy bacon, melted brie cheese, garlic-butter mushrooms, caramelised onion, lettuce, tomato, and truffle aioli. Over the top? Maybe just a bit – but we aren’t judging! One of the best burger joints on the Gold Coast? Absolutely!
Where: Q1 Resort & Spa, Corner of Hamilton Avenue &, Northcliffe Terrace, Surfers Paradise

Longboards Laidback Eatery and Bar (image supplied)
Longboards Laidback Eatery and Bar (image supplied)
© 2024 All Rights Reserved.