If there’s one thing we’re sure of, it’s that we can never have enough Italian or mozzarella in our lives. This is fact, completely non-negotiable and as far as we’re concerned, Kate Moss got it wrong coz pizza, pasta and cheese taste way better than skinny feels. So we’re all ears when we hear a new Italian joint has opened and legit, our tummies are already rumbling. Get excited fellow carbo loaders coz Southport’s Mozza Mozza has unleashed its cheesy, Eastern Euro goodness and it is Prosecco’nd to none!

Located inside our beloved Southport Sharks where Carmody’s once lived (RIP), prepare for everything from tableside cheese wheels and tiramisu to wood-fired mozza(rella) pizzas, fried mortadella sandos, and negroni slushies (okay hiiii)…and that’s just the digestible variety. Add a hat awarded Head Chef and a side of disco tunes and it’s official – we have discovered actual heaven.

Iconic owner Dave Galvin, the man, the myth, the legend behind Crafty’s Sports Bar, continues to redefine the northern GC eats and sips scene, and keep doing what you do good Sir. Securing Mozza Mozza’s digs in mid-2021, the vision was to bring fun feels and classic share-style Italian food to the north side.

The 160 seater is the perfect spot for a family feed or group function, boasting an 18-seat private dining room which would you believe is the only one north of Broady (we would).

We’ve been told to expect a little bit of theatre with our nosh and we cannot espresso how much we love this for us. Plus rumour has it there’ll be 80s and disco bangers blaring from the boom box, and nothing says happiness like a side of Prince with our prosciutto or Abba with our arancini.

But Mozza Mozza doesn’t just bring joy through its menu and music, but also its majestic four-metre-tall olive tree. Standing loud and proud, front and centre of the space, it’s quite the show-stopper creating a warm, welcoming ambience and packing some serious wow-factor punch.

Recruiting Mitch Chesterton as the venue’s all important Head Chef was nothing short of a power move. Mitch has worked in multiple hatted restaurants including Alchemy, Michaels on Tedder Ave and Peak Dining at Iceworks in Paddington, plus was the Chef/Owner of Iku in Burleigh where he won a Chef Hat Award. As one would expect with a resume like this, the menu at Mozza Mozza is #goals and srsly, Pasta La Vista summer bod diet.

Some standouts include the Mozza Meatballs, made from pork meatballs, tomato sugo and fresh basil. Prepare for the obligatory Bug Rolls to be blown out of the water this Gold Coast summer with the arrival of the Fried Mortadella Sando. The Italian version of the Katsu sandwich, just went up a notch.

The Burrata deserves a shout out with its garden pea pesto and pine nut goodness, and the Cacio e Pepe pasta served tableside from a wheel of pecorino cheese is an icon in the making #ded.

The crowd-pleasing rossa and blanci wood fire pizzas made from dough fermented for (drum roll please) 48-hours are next level, especially the Eggplant Parmigiana Pizza, with fried eggplant, tomato, mozzarella, parmesan and basil. Bellissima!

What’s a meal without a cocktail you say and we concur! The Spicy Southport Sour with white oat chilli and mango gin, Cointreau, lemon, simple syrup will go down a treat and holy cannoli, we just remembered the Boozy Slushies! Our vote goes to the Coconut Margarita with tequila, triple sec, agave, coconut and lime, and it’s official – we’re calling an Uber.

Or, if you’re a traditionalist who likes to pair their Italian fare with vino, you’re in good hands with a selection of Aussie and Italian wines to try #winenot.

So for your next family dinner, long lunch, corporate gathering or even just a lazy Sunday sesh, don’t be alfredo to try the pasta-tively amazing Mozza Mozza.

Where: Southport Sharks, Corner Olsen Avenue & Musgrave Avenue, Southport
When: 11.30am – 3pm & 5pm – late Wednesday to Sunday. Closed Monday & Tuesday.
Instagram: @mozzamozza_au

Words by Bianca Trathen
Images by Carly King

Been wanting to get the gang together for the ultimate dinner party but the six-seater dining table you’ve got at home isn’t cutting it? Allow us to introduce the private dining room. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking to host the family, your besties or work colleagues, the private dining experience is the ultimate for high impact and low effort so you can outsource the wining and dining.

We’ve scoured the city for the best private dining spaces at some of the city’s top-tier restaurants so that you can sit back and relax (without prying eyes) for a fab meal that you and your guests won’t forget in a hurry. And even better, no dishes to clean up – consider us sold.

BLOWFISH Ocean Grill + Bar
The newest venture from Steven & Autumn Adams – has some dauntingly big shoes to fill. As you might have gleaned from its culinary lineage, this little sib newcomer is a just little bit extra. The lofty, double-story venue which formerly housed The Bavarian, is wooing up to 150 diners at one time – complete with a lush 24 seat private dining room up on the upper floor.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach

Pipi’s Restaurant
If you haven’t yet caught murmurs of Cooly’s panoramically-blessed gem now presiding over Point Danger, let’s just say the much-anticipated arrival has foodies giddy with glee for very good reason. Leveraging sweeping views of the beachfront that stretches from Snapper Rocks across to DBar, Pipi’s vacillates between laid-back and luxury. Nestle into the sought-after Private Dining Room with magnificent 220 degree views of the Pacific Ocean for an intimate dining experience.
Where: 275 Boundary St, Coolangatta

Little Truffle
Little Truffle 2.0 has been treated to a grown-up glow-up to match its refined eats, combining moody Hollywood Glam elements with Jazz Bar vibes for an aesthetic that we’ve officially dubbed ‘Gold Coast Grandeur’. The suave new space is just about as opulent as our eateries on the GC get – bedecked with opulent baroque mirrors, chandeliers, luxe herringbone floors, strategically draped velvet curtains and two private dining rooms. The second of which remains shrouded in mystery, as a very exclusive vault-vibing space for 20 guests with its own private entry (in sad news for our star spotting ops).
Where: 2444 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

kōst Bar & Grill
A contemporary bar and grill concept, boasting one of the city’s only charcoal wood-fire grills, this mammoth space redefined the way we meet and eat in Broadbeach. Along with seafood towers, roving champagne and caviar trolleys, and a purpose-built dry aged cool room that can be seen (drooled over) from Oracle Boulevard, our wining and dining game copped a serious upgrade. The luxurious space boasts an impressive 130-seat restaurant, in addition to private dining room, bar dining and outdoor pavilion spaces.
Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

Kirra Beach House
Kirra Beach House offers an array of delights, including a charming wine bar, a sun-soaked cocktail terrace, and the cozy wine bar that can be booked for private dining. Additionally, guests can enjoy a private barbecue area, a versatile function space, and a dedicated room perfect for weddings and special events.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Mozza Mozza
It’s the largest private dining room on the northern Gold Coast in one of our most loved pizza and pasta joints, so obviously, Mozza Mozza had to make the list. Holding up to 18 guests makes it the perfect space for your fancy Italian feast, because we’re all about a chance to carb load. The crew have pulled together a ripper-feasting menu with all of the restaurant’s favourites, plus they’ve got spritz packages on offer if you’re in the moody for a cheeky Aperol moment alongside your cheese wheel pasta.
Where: Southport Sharks, Corner Olsen Avenue & Musgrave Avenue, Southport

Glass Dining & Lounge Bar
Elegant and refined, Glass is many people’s go-to place for delicious bites in Main Beach. And it’s relatively easy to see why; with sumptuous seafood and exquisite meat dishes, the incredible view of million-dollar yachts across the Broadwater is merely the cherry on top. Their private space sits up to 10 guests and is prime champagne and oyster territory!
Where: 74 Seaworld Drive & Marina Mirage Waterfront, Main Beach

Misono Japanese Restaurant
If you haven’t been to Misono then where have you been, honestly? While you’re probably familiar with the uber entertaining teppanyaki experience, you might not know they’ve got an adults only private dining space. If the sound of an elevated teppanyaki experience, even more theatrics and paired sake sounds like your vibe then say no more – this Gold Coast institution is here to deliver.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, Level 3/158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise

Edgewater
When it comes to superb views of our spectacular skyline and unadulterated servings of all things delicious, Edgewater Dining is very high up on the list — if not at the very top. Great seasonal Australian produce meets with a twist of traditional Italian style cooking, and the colossal drinks list is truly something to marvel at. Book in for a function/event to their private dining room for an exclusive setting (with an adjacent private balcony) and see what all the fuss is about.
Where: Shop 3 G7, Capri on Via Roma, Surfers Paradise

The Langham
If boujee is the brief, the Gold Coast’s crown jewel – The Langham – is here to deliver. Bringing to the party not just one, but two, private dining rooms they’ve got something to suit both your vibe and your size. Akoya’s private dining space seats up to 16 so you can spread out as you tuck into their iconic buffet, with seafood the star of the show along with global flavours, even your fussy friends will be satisfied. If Cantonese and fine dining is more your vibe, then T’ang Court’s private dining space is the place to be for you and nine of your nearest and dearest. It’s won an AGFG Chef Hat for good reason, so if you didn’t already trust us – trust that.
Where: The Langham, 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise

Social Eating House
It’s the home of casual fine dining and since its recent reno, the team at Social Eating House have created the most beautiful private sanctuary for small groups. The intimate dining space seats eight and is meticulously styled (no surprise there) so you can really immerse yourself in the Social experience. We’ll take any excuse to tuck into their puffed sesame rice cracker fish tartare or lamb empanada en masse without judgement.
Where: The Oracle, Shop 137/3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

Garden Kitchen & Bar
Between incredible drinks, great regular live music, and generally just being an all-time place to hang out and relax in, The Star’s Garden Kitchen Bar can also tame fits of hunger with an impressive menu of fresh and seasonal produce. They’re pretty big on a farm to fork and fish to dish way of operating, and the proof is well and truly in the pudding. There are several private dining rooms that can be sectioned off from the main dining room, so be sure to chat to the team next time you want to experience great food and company — without any distractions.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Miss Moneypenny’s
How does a large-scale exclusive dining and event area in the heart of bustling Broadbeach sound? The Rimini Room at Miss Moneypenny’s is a decadent space completely separated from the rest of the venue and even has its own bar, private outdoor terrace and elevator access. (How cool?!) Perfect for intimate dinners and gatherings — but with the potential to host 70 people if needed.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Maggie Choo
The vibrant street hawker foods of Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpar are lovingly brought to the Gold Coast in deft fashion at Maggie Choo. Apart from amazing cocktails and a colourful atmosphere any time of the day and any day of the week, you can book yourself into their secluded dining space for a cosy meal with colleagues, family, even your running club if you must! There’s space for 14 people, and you have the choice of their Maggie Tease and Maggie Luxe banquets to tuck into.
Where: Shop 105/89 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Balboa
Mamma Mia, if you haven’t checked into this hotbed of Italian goodness in Palm Beach, then you need to rectify that — STAT. If the graceful standalone building and décor aren’t enough, then the stone-baked pizzas and handmade pastas should quash the pain from not being able to visit the old country! Their private dining space is upstairs and seats you and eleven of your nearest with your very own dedicated servers for a superb taste of Italy.
Where: 1069 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Siblings
It was a sad day that we farewelled the GC’s last Pizza Hut buffet, but the building’s resurrection as Siblings Kirra is a triumph. Now a modern Australian brunch and dinner destination, dripping with 1950’s Miami beach vibes goodness from pillar to post. There’s no endless soft serve, but there is a stunning private dining room. The perfect choice for your next shin-dig this room seats 26 guests, with a small private deck attached for a long lunch or intimate private dinner.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.

Broadbeach has long been regarded as one of our wining, dining and shopping. With a number of ‘stayers’ boasting staunch followers for many moons, sprinkled with a hearty helping of shiny new eats and drinks players, nothing can dull the sparkle of this burb’s A-grade entertainer status.

Here are precisely 17 reasons why locals – and Gold Coasters far and wide – love themselves a piece of our much-loved Broady.

Social Eating House + Bar
If you’re a foodie, this is your go-to. A modern Australian sensation, Social has more hats than a Milliner’s workshop. With Executive Chef Matthew Jefferson in charge, you’ll experience a carefully curated range of bar snacks, charcuterie, and small and large share plates, all featuring the finest Australian ingredients and paired to perfection. A meal here is worth.every.cent.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach

The Star Gold Coast
If ever there was a reason to get a babysitter, it’s for a session at The Star. Between the live music and amazing food at the Garden Kitchen & Bar, award-winning Cantonese, Japanese and modern Australian cuisine at Uncle Su, Kiyomi, and Nineteen at The Star, authentic Italian eats at Cucina Vivo, the ultimate buffet experience at Harvest Buffet, a few bevvies at the new-look Atrium Bar and/or the Insta-fave rooftop lounge bar at Nineteen, who needs to go anywhere else?
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Broadbeach Bowls Club
Nothing says a chilled GC arvo like a game of barefoot bowls with a brew in hand. Another enduring favourite amongst the local set here on the GC, Broadbeach Bowls Club never fails to deliver a feel-good time for young and old. They serve up big portions of all your go-to pub-grub meals and do a great canape package for a laid-back birthday or celebration.
Where: 169 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant
If you’re after a tried and tested, long-standing comedic cabaret, good ‘ole Dracs has been serving up frights, food and frivolity since we were all ankle-biters. Most people are sold when they hear there’s a ghost train alone, let alone the actual show (which changes every so often, so there’s always a reason to go back), banquet dinner…and shots in syringes!
Where: Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach

Aloha Bar and Dining
This tropical hidden treasure is all fun vibes, good food and cracking good times. Popular for its hospo nights, taco Thursdays, karaoke nights, live music and pumping DJs, there’s always something going on here. The tapas always deliver the feels (bao buns…I die!!), the Cucumber and Jalapeno Margi is (too) easy to drink, and we never tire of the super cute fit-out.
Where: 18 Main Place, Broadbeach

Sofia’s Restaurant & Bar
With an impressive contemporary Coastal European menu, we are completely besotted with Sofia’s…and we’re not alone. A meal here is all about enjoying and sharing simple, delicious food with your favourite people – as it should be, and truly encapsulates the famous words ‘That’s Amore’. Also, you heard it here first but Sofia’s is on the move. Watch this space!
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

Elk Espresso
Have you ever seen this place anything but bulging at the seams? Aaaand of course you haven’t. Since its pre-migration days just up the road, it’s had an army of raving fans and yes, this obvs includes us. A hop, skip and a jump from the beach, the coffee is all-time, the seasonal menus are heavenly, and they even do a Boozy Bottomless Brunch. And sold.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

Blues on Broadbeach
So unlike our other listings, it may not be here 24/7 but it’s that much of a Broady icon that it would be criminal not to throw it a mention. As the name suggests, it brings us world-class blues and jazz music from locals and famous acts alike, performing across multiple venues over four unforgettable days. And it’s free, and sorry but when does that ever happen?
Where: Various Broadbeach venues

CHA CHA Japanese Restaurant
Gold Coasters have been CHA CHA bound for an authentic Japanese nosh-up which won’t break the bank for years, and that’s not about to change any time soon. The banquet menu is divine and every visit you’ll experience the same level of scrumptiousness. But the soy on the dim sum…it’s BYO and it’s hard to find an already affordable yet high-quality restaurant offering our 3 favourite letters. Score.
Where: 2705 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

The Oasis
An everyday escape for locals, The Oasis is one of our numero uno shopping centres and for good reason. Not only some unique fashion boutiques live here, but the sheer number of amazing eateries is tres impressive. In addition to the ones we highlight in this article, we’re talking Mario’s, Madisons Café and Patisserie, Spice Kitchen and Bar, and The Broadbeach Tavern to name just a few. It’s a #OneStopShop.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Soho House Bar
Just look for the London-esk red phone box and you know good times await. An intimate, hidden gem-adorned in graffiti and jam-packed with peeps sipping and bopping along to the sweet sounds of live DJ’s, this joint is seriously cool. The cocktail list is l.i.t, the crew are super engaging, and they’ve even been known to host things like a Wild Flower Gin Masterclass. What’s not to love?
Where: Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach (between Queensland and Victoria Avenues)

Unicorn Seafood
You just know it’s destined for greatness with ‘Unicorn’ in the name. This Mediterranean seafood-infused newcomer has hit the ground running with its all-day menu goodness, and show-stopping cocktail menu that’s 20 options deep #hellofriend. You can’t help it but exhale as you settle into the relaxing blue and white-hued space, brimming with ocean murals and friendly smiles from the welcoming staff.
Where: Phoenician Resort, 24-26 Queensland Avenue, Broadbeach

No Name Lane
Okay, Blake Lively declared her caffeine hit from No Name Lane as “the best coffee of her life” and holy heck, if it’s good enough for Queen Blake… Better than any boujee on-trend Melbourne café, the coffee here has a cult following. The all-day breakfasts and gourmet lunches also go down a treat so if you haven’t been, remedy this immediately.
Where: The Oracle, Elizabeth Avenue, Broadbeach

Pacific Fair
Pacific Fair, oh how we love thee. Any time we want a new ensemble for, well, any occasion (retail therapy is real you know), we all beeline for Pac Fair. With every retailer you could possibly wish for, amazing food options and seriously THE most gorgeous shopping centre fit-out we’ve seen, there are luxe and lush coastal accents at every turn.
Where: Gold Coast Hwy and Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach

The Loose Moose
Specialising in “dirty food made clean”, there are always bums on seats in this Prohibition Tap and Grill House, one of the Gennari Group’s most popular establishments. The delish menu offers up the best of the best Canadian fare like ribs, wings, hot dogs and burgers, and is always ready for a crowd to #GetLooseAtTheMoose.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Broadbeach

The Pink Flamingo Spiegelclub
LBR, you had us at Spiegelclub. The Pink Flamingo has become a fave for locals, visitors and critics alike, with its four spectacular resident cabaret-style shows. Custom designed with a twist of swanky art-deco décor and inspired by the original 1920’s Spiegeltent and the NYC Cabaret Club district, it’s five-star luxury and entertainment not to be missed.
Where: Corner of Surf Parade & Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

Kurrawa Surf Club
Ocean views don’t come any better than this. With legit THE most prime location, Kurrawa Surf Club has everything you’d want from a Surf Club…and more. With awesome regular members specials and fresh ingredients, there’s no such thing as a bad meal here. They host a trivia night and live music, and of course there’s the obligatory gaming lounge for those who like a flutter.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach

Words by Bianca Trathen.