A food that needs zero introduction – pizza is Italy’s gift to the world that just keeps on giving (to our happiness levels and waistlines, mainly). From office parties to cozy date nights, this god-tier culinary creation is the celebratory cornerstone of gatherings everywhere. We can think of no occasion that isn’t improved by the addition of this beloved Italian staple…. and if there is, we don’t wanna know about it.

A dish steeped in tradition; pizza is divisive as it is delicious. Team crispy, or team chewy and chonky, deep dish style?  Then there’s the question of the toppings – to olive, or not to olive? – and don’t even get us started on pineapple!

Heck, even trying to narrow down which of our fine establishments serve the best slice is a controversial endeavour. Which is why we’ve compiled this trusty guide to all the most legit GC pizza joints in whom pizza-loving locals eternally crust.

Here are 17 of the best, from North to South, so you can dig in without delay (okay maybe just a little delay, molten hot cheese is no joking matter).

Mozza Mozza
We mean, you only need to cop a look at the whopper wood-fired oven sitting pride of place to know these guys mean business. Mozza Mozza sure knows how to sling a mean Margherita… and Capricciosa and Diavola and… yeah, you catch our drift (they also throw the best discotheque-themed, spritz-studded bottomless brunch going, but we digress…)

Offering a playful, family style vibe, Mozza Mozza dishes up insanely good Italian feasts with a side of groovy disco beats on the daily. Local hospo legend Dave Galvin has again bestowed unto northern Gold Coasters absolute gem of a spot where good vibes and even better slice is a given. Get down on a Thursday for the ‘Pizza Party’ to end all pizza parties.
Our pick: Hawaiiana (fight us)
Where: Located inside Southport Sharks, Cnr. Olsen & Musgrave Ave, Southport

La Calabrese at Ocean
Situated right next to the pristine beach, La Calabrese at Ocean is all about traditional Italian ingredients with a modern twist. The pizzas in particular are food-gasmic, and if you don’t concur then soz but #weir-dough. Anything but your average pizza, a process called ‘biga’ is used to make the dough and honestly, the ‘yeast’ we can do is divulge why this technique is so special. How about a Fior di latte, fontina, porcini mushrooms, prosciutto di parma, truffle oil? Drool.
Our pick: Marylou
Where: Where: Level 1, 84 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

Surfers Pizza & Kebab
Late night just pizza hits different – and you haven’t lived until you’ve hit up this Orchid Ave icon for a dirty kebab and/or giant slab of pizza at stupid o-clock after a night of boozing and boogying. With fresh and authentic pizzas, kebabs, snack packs and more, if you’ve got a hankering for something carby, cheesy or saucy, SPK will hook you up with the greatest midnight snack you’ll ever have. Also open in Arundel, the hours may be slightly different, but the pizza quality is the same!
Our pick: Pepperoni Pizza
Where: 24 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise & Corner of Napper Road & Daintree Drive, Arundel

Gemelli
If you haven’t been to Gemelli Broadbeach (or one of its sibling restaurants), are you even an actual Gold Coaster? Cooking up real Italian food made with love, their traditional methods combined with modern flair mean all the meals are a ten-outta-ten. With a cosy yet cool rustic vibe, there are always bums on seats and the atmosphere is lit. If you’re craving the kind of handcrafted Italian eats Nonna would approve of, this place is the whole package.
Our pick: Salina Pizza
Where: Mantra Broadbeach on the Park, 2685 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

Cucina Vivo
If simple Italian flavours done exceptionally well toot your horn, then make a date with The Star Gold Coast’s Cucina Vivo. Chef Fabio has gained quite the cult following, affectionately known as the best Pizzaiolo Chef outside of Italy. This man is the master of the woodfire oven, and the ever-popular venue’s secret weapon. Once you’re suitably wined and dined (aka, beyond satisfaction) – buy your digestive system some time to work its way through that carb coma by swinging by the never-ending assortment of fun things The Star has going down. Date night sorted!
Our pick: Fabio’s Pizza
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Luna’s Pizza & Wine
If you’re in or around Broadbeach and craving authentic, woodfired goods, Luna’s Pizza & Wine is where it’s at. The postcode-sharing little sib of Sofia’s, Luna’s is the more laid-back of owner Henry Hunt’s Euro-inspired venue super duo. This alfresco vibing gem offers cute and cosy mall-front dining, so you can perch up and watch the world go by as you tuck in to top notch Italian eats. Italian-born Head Chef and Pizzaiolo, Mattia Bianchi, has been in the biz for 20 years, so what he doesn’t know about pizza isn’t worth knowing, if you ask us.
Our pick: Capricciosa Pizza
Where: Oasis Shopping Centre, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

Matteo’s
Local pizza slinger Matteo’s describes itself as a slice of paradise in Clear Island Waters, and we’re inclined to agree. If you haven’t yet had the pleasure, think crisped-to-perfection circular specialties like heirloom tomato studded Prosciutto Pizzas served alongside Salsiccia E Zucca made with pumpkin, Italian sausage, crispy sage (and multiple types of cheese, obviously). Legit as they come, the fresh pasta and pizzas are handcrafted daily following old family recipes, before the latter is tossed in the woodfire oven. Mouth = watering.
Our pick: Orcamado Pizza
Where: 60 Santa Cruz Boulevard, Shop 6-8, Clear Island Waters

Goccia
When it comes to insanely good pizza, you can always crust in Goccia to deliver the goods. Created by two bona fide northern Italians; think classic Italian pizzeria – and if that doesn’t tell you everything you know, 500+ google reviews and a 4.9 average rating sure as slice should. A charming neighbourhood gem tucked away inside Mermaid Beach Village, Goccia is the go-to for many a pizza lover across GC… if you can manage to get a table, that is. Order literally anything from the menu and you’ll be happy as Larry, just remember to leave room for the tiramisu #Non-negotiable.
Our pick: Papalina Pizza
Where: 1A/2375 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

Franc Jnrs Famous Pizzeria
Now doling out double the deliciousness, we’ve been on cloud nine ever since this cult fave cloned itself a little farther up the Coast. Amassing a horde of adoring pizza fans that would happily follow them to the ends of the earth to get their Franc Jnrs fix, their Detroit style Sicilian slice is famous among pizza-lovers across the GC. Luckily for us, we now only need go as far as Nobby’s or Cooly to get our hands on that signature, crispy-edged pie. Unapologetically old school, Francs feels just like your traditional 90’s pizzeria, only way cooler.
Our pick: White Boy Rick (that sesame crust lives in our dreams)
Where: 2/102 Griffith Street, Coolangatta & Shop 2/32 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach

Crispy Italian Bar
Here’s a factoid for you – in Italy, the term “bar” stands for more of a watering-hole-meets-cafe hybrid; combining coffee, cocktails, sweet snacks like pastries and quintessential savoury Italian fare… so basically, all the best things. Unintentional micro geography lesson aside; this concept is exactly what owner Riccardo ‘Ricky’ Proserpio set about recreating at Crispy – and now you know this place is awesome for several reasons, including (but not limited to) a top-tier traditional pizza selection. Such as the perennial fave, Margherita, which also comes in 1/2 metre size. You won’t be disappointed.
Our pick: Diavola Pizza
Where: 4/1840 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Osteria del Mare
Burleigh’s resident ristorante and pizzeria, Osteria del Mare is another authentic Italian neighbourhood nosher known for its impeccable pizza prowess. Tuck into creations like the portobello mushroom and truffle topped Tartufo, and ride the carb-train straight to complete and utter bliss. Mark the first Tuesday of the month in your calendars and head to Osteria Del Mare for Pizza Club. Bottomless pizza, plus a wine or a beer for $35.
Our pick: Little Piggy
Where: 2/1718 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Justin Lane
There’s no denying that Burleigh stalwart, Justin Lane is the king of pizza. It’s come a long way from its humble beginnings, growing from a wee little pizzeria into a heaving multi-level restaurant, bar and event space. The perfect spot for a casual slice and catch up with your crew (so we assume the cocktails are implied). Pick your cutest stretchy pants, you’re bound to run into at least 35 people that you know. And that’s just on a Monday.
Our pick: Justin’s BBQ Smokehouse
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Balboa Italian
You’ve seen it. We’ve all seen it. The sprawling, modern industrial stunner fronting Palmy’s main drag is a total traffic-stopper, and we’re pleased to confirm that its contents are as epic as the outside. And when it comes to amazing nosh across the board, Balboa Italian sure isn’t pulling any punches. In particular, the pizzas are #goals #IYKYK – and if you don’t – we would suggest remedying this immediately. Take your pick between the selection of red and white sauce bases, or try them all because carbs, shmarbs.
Our pick: Boscaiola Pizza
Where: 1069 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Toro’s
A cosy and uber cute spot where Mediterranean and Moroccan vibes collide; Toro’s does pizza with panache. With peach tones for days (#swoon) – the spread at Palmy’s cosy slice slinging haven is quintessentially Italian, but with a healthy dose of tasty modern takes to keep us on our toes. The super relaxed yet chic vibe is just our type, and the pizzas will delight even the most discerning pizza connoisseur. There’s even dessert pizza if that’s your jam… (well, Nutella, technically speaking). Yep, she’s a winner on all fronts.
Our pick: Di Toro Pizza
Where: 7/2 Eighth Avenue, Palm Beach

Lenny Pizzeria & Bar
Where do we even begin when it comes to Lenny Pizzeria & Bar? For a rather questionable analogy – just imagine Burleigh icon Justin Lane and the locale Mudgeeraba had a baby; courtesy of local culinary legends, Oliver Botha (of Justin Lane, The Fish House, Hellenika and Rick Shores fame) and Justin Lane founder, Robert Morwood. And yeah, consider our case rested! Not unlike the duo’s signature 72-hour fermented dough recipe, which imparts their bases with a next level taste and texture.

No matter how you slice it, the addition is a total score for Railway Street’s dining scene – with sensational woodfired delights like fermented chilli kissed Prawn Pizza and Butternut Pumpkin Pizza served with whipped feta and salsa verde. You know the drill: two, four, six, eight…
Our pick: Fancy 4 Cheese
Where: 58 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

Tommy’s Italian
One minute, we’re passing through Currumbin minding our own business,–and the next, our mouth commences immediately watering at the mere sight of Tommy’s telltale red and white umbrella’s adorning the promenade. And that’s before we’ve even caught wind of the freshly-flamed bites bubbling away within! In only a few short years, this two-storey cutie has become a fixture along the suburb’s seaside strip; serving up multi-million dollar ocean views and mighty fine pizzas to match (and cocktails… because nothing says happiness like a slice of Italy in one hand and a margi in the other).Who can resist? Certainly not us.
Proving that good genes run in the family, Tommy’s has a little sister, Little Tommy’s. Just 500m down the road, it’s the more approachable, relaxed and uncomplicated one, with equally great pizza.
Our pick: Tartufo Pizza
Where: 818 Pacific Parade, Currumbin

Bread & Butter Kirra
If you’re looking for pizza with a view, Kirra’s Euro-eats all-rounder, Bread & Butter, provides exactly the type of vantage (and carby goodness) that we need and mentally transport ourselves to the Amalfi Coast for the afternoon. Perch up on the terrace and feast upon classic, stone-baked combos like Primavera or the pesto-drizzled Pollo. Add in some tapas and an Aperol Spritz or two and you’ve got yourself a party! Who needs holidays when you have pizza like this?
Our pick: Siciliana Pizza
Where: Shop 1, 76 Musgrave Street, Kirra

Words by Kellie Leader

Our ‘northerners’ on the GC are a fiercely patriotic bunch, long determined for their neck of the woods to get the cool cred normally reserved for the other end of town. Paradise Point is one particularly notable spot where there is much to see and do whether you’re after a family-friendly day out, caffeine hit, an eats spot for date night or a liquid lunch (or actual lunch, although we’re partial to the former) with your gal pals.

Here are a handful of reasons why locals love Paradise Point.

Burleigh Baker
Northern GC folk who were fans of Burleigh Baker (in Burleigh – who’d have thunk it…) were high fiving each other when the Paradise Point sister popped up. With a passion for crafting artisan sourdough bread and brewing excellent Handsome brand coffee, the cafe menu is based around the bread (obvs), with freshly made dishes sourced from the best ingredients. Carbs, come at us.
Where: Shop 7/46 The Esplanade, Paradise Point

Jonez on Ephraim
Dr Jones, Jones, calling Dr Jones…. No there is no doctor but there is a Michelin Star Chef, Gary Jones. So expect a fine-dining haven offering up the finest seasonal ingredients, fresh fish and classical French cuisine. We’re ordering Duck Liver Parfait with sourdough and marinated figs, Quail Porchetta and for dessert, Scroppino; prosecco and vodka lemon sorbet (hells yeah. Can we have seconds…and thirds…and… you get the point).
Where: Ephraim Island, Paradise Point

Paradise Point Parklands
Undeniably one of the GC’s most breathtaking park areas, it’s an absolute must-see. Overlooking the beautiful Broadwater, pack a picnic, throw a snag on the barbie and let the kids entertain themselves for hours in the large playground areas. There are open grassed spaces perfect for a game of cricket, and the walking trail will get your heart-rate up while you take in the million-dollar views… quite literally with views of some Sovereign Island homes.
Where: The Esplanade, Paradise Point

Sweet Bambino
This hole-in-the-wall is a newer player on the Paradise Point eats and coffee scene, and an instant hit from day dot. With a fit-out that screams modern chic (think polished concrete floors, rustic grey walls, foliage for a pop of greenery and moody lighting for days), her it-girl vibes are only rivaled by the coffee and delish counter food selection.
Where: 1/46 The Esplanade, Paradise Point

Mano’s Italian
It’s been a winner with locals for years for a darn good reason. The fresh, hearty Italian food at Mano’s is first class, as is the service and welcoming ambience. Menu highlights include the impressive range of pastas (I die), steak and seafood dishes, not to mention their delish daily specials. They’re fully licenced because what even is pasta without wine?
Where: 40 The Esplanade, Paradise Point

Plant-Based Eatz
Formerly Plant-Based Café, there are no surprises what sort of cuisine this little pearler dishes up. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and featuring arguably the best vegan food around town (and hey, competition is fierce in this space), expect a nosh-up of vegan versions of crowd favourites like poke bowls, burgers, nachos, tacos, wraps, epic sides, juices, smoothies, coffee and more.
Where: 1/2 Grice Ave, Paradise Point

Paradise Point Bowls Club
You get all the trimmings you’d expect from a bowls club here; live entertainment, hearty eats, wallet-friendly drinks and warm, friendly smiles. Bowls, Brews & Chews kicks off every Sunday from noon where you can get a game of bowls, platter for 4, 3L beer tower or 3L cocktail tower (say what?!) from only $85! Oh and there’s a courtesy bus. Which you’ll obvs need.
Where: 22 Thrush Ave, Paradise Point

Buoy Oh Buoy
This nautical-themed northern gem is equal parts cute and cool, founded by lovely local lass Kelly Kohler. We’re ordering a Scram-Bowl every day of the week with scrambled eggs, charred cherry tomatoes, avocado, rocket, pesto dressing and sourdough. And adding haloumi coz, haloumi! To finish, are you treating yo-self to a freshly baked pastry for the road? Oh Buoy you are!
Where: Shop 8/27 Falkinder Ave, Paradise Point

Jabiru Island Park
Everything you need is right here including stunning water views, electric barbecues, sheltered picnic tables, large shade trees, fishing platform, sheltered swimming closure, boat ramp and toilet facilities. Take the walkway under the bridge to Phil Hill Environmental Park, or stroll along the boardwalks for a look at the natural habitat from stunning viewing vantage points. Yes please!
Where: Jabiru Island Park, Oxley Dr, Paradise Point

Cross + Feather
Serving up finger lickin’ good brekkies (and dinners Thursday to Saturday), this one is a must. The chow is first class, as is the friendly and attentive service you’ll get every time. And, there’s just something universally cool about the FOOD wall art piece which sets the tone from the get-go…locals, you know what we’re talking about. Don’t even get us started on the cocktails…. #bookanuber
Where: 2/2 Grice Ave, Paradise Point

Words by Bianca Trathen.

Are you a sucker for a souvlaki? Do you fangirl for falafel? Are you gaga for a Greek salad? And yes, you’ve no doubt guessed where we’re going with this, and that’s straight to Greece. Well, sorta, kinda, not really at all, but you’d be forgiven for thinking otherwise when you feed your face at this northern GC newbie and side note – is it just us, or is it breeding season for eats and drinks spots up this neck of the woods?! Well feta late than never we say, and can we have a round of applause for the new kid on the block, The Charcoal Hub in beautiful Paradise Point. It’s already a fava-rite with the locals and perhaps we’re overdoing the puns again and for this we Apollo-gise.

Serving up authentic Greeky goodness with slow, flame-cooked meats prepared with in-house special flavours that melt in your mouth, you won’t leave hungry. Choose from outdoor or indoor bar-style dining, and watch the chefs flex their culinary muscles as they cook, carve and create in the open style grill kitchen. Founders Jack Chaglasian and Mark Geraghty from The GC Hospitality Group identified the need for some Southern European-inspired chow in the area and set about changing things up. And this isn’t a case of beginner’s luck as these forward-thinking fellas are also behind the renowned Mecca Bah restaurants, so you know they give good nosh.

Bringing a delicious menu to the community for the whole family to swoon over, it’s the perfect stop for a quick grab-and-go smoko. It also fits the bill for hungry mums and dads to take over the road while the kids go bonkers at the famous Paradise Point Park. Or, if you can’t be stuffed cooking (which is us most nights), swing in for a casual family-friendly lunch or dinner. Eats are prepared fresh to order by the team of experienced culinary geniuses, led by Head Chef Jin. Using only the best of the best premium cuts of meat and quality ingredients, the mouth-watering flavours are anything but dis-Crete!

We love ourselves some Southern Europe-inspired chow so we’d happily nom our way through the whole menu but if we must pick a dish, it’s gotta be a traditional Souvlaki. But why choose chicken or lamb when you can go a Combo and get both! With the tenderest chicken and lamb, onion, parsley, tomato, lettuce, tzatziki and house chips, it’s a taste sensation. Or, if you have the family in tow, you can’t beat the Share Plate. It feeds 2 to 3 peeps with 250g of lamb, 250g of chicken, boneless crispy chicken, chips, with roasted garlic sauce and chipotle sauce and ohmygod we’re drooling….a lot. Oh and if you and the fam are caught fighting over the last piece of boneless crispy chicken, (because if you know, you know), you can also order it as a side…. andddd of course you’re ordering a serving of that.

Not a meat-eater? Don’t worry, you’re still welcome here, as their non-meaty meals are nothing shy of pure deliciousness. The Sheep Milk Cheese Souvlaki is a popular choice with yep, you guessed it, sheep milk cheese, onion, parsley, tomato lettuce, tzatziki and house chips. Or, you could sway in the direction of a flavoursome Greek Salas, or Falafel Plate, with four pieces of falafel, tzatziki sauce, hommus and your choice of salad or chips. Cue more drooling.

There is really nothing like it this side of the Gold Coast and one thing’s for sure, once you’ve had a piece of The Charcoal Hub, you’ll definitely be back for more!

Where: Shop 10/ 2 Grice Avenue, Paradise Point
When: 12pm – 3pm & 4pm – 8pm, Monday – Sunday

Words by Bianca Trathen.