In years gone by, if those on the hunt for a hip new haunt had asked what’s happening in Varsity we’d have said, not whole a latte. As the old adage goes, build a business hub in a family-friendly lakeside suburb, and the trendy spots will follow. Okay so that’s not actually an old adage, or even a new adage, but our point still stands. With Varsity even welcoming their own tap house late last year, it appears that all business-no party rep is slowly on the way out (well, unless you’re one of the local uni students that is..)

For those who prefer to start their morning with a very different kind of brew (or even finish their day – as avid arvo coffee drinkers your secret is safe with us #oneofusoneofus) it’s time to break out the old ‘bedroom eyes’ because Varsity’s got a new side piece, or officially a new Side Piece Coffee and we think locals are going to lake it a lot.

For owners Dylan Jamsa, Miles Gaebel and Lee King, a hot tip about a cool new retail site under construction led the trio to look into the space, and with a little recon they soon realised it was set to be something pretty special for the area. Bringing collective previous experience in management and head barista roles for the likes of GC heavy hitters like No Name Lane and Moo Moo, they know a thing or two about livin’ la vida mocha.

Embracing the contemporary, urban surrounds of the newly-constructed precinct, Side Piece Coffee has taken up residence in the ground floor location conveniently nestled under one of the four new towers underway in the new development. Leaning into the industrial vibe, they’ve opted for polished concrete, accent copper pipes and pops of their trademark olive green to brighten our outlook until the caffeine kicks in.

There’s space for days, with the doors opening out onto the patio for those who want to linger for some sun-soaked alfresco bites, and for bonus points your furry friends are welcome too (and we do mean dogs, not your mate in desperate need of some #manscaping, though of course they’re welcome also).

Their Build your own toast option is perf for those who know exactly what they’re in the mood for (and, side note, is how they got their name), or go for the tried and true king of brunch – The B’n’E with bacon, egg, cheese, pickles and house-made BBQ sauce. On these cooler mornings, the lush Winter Porridge would be a treat with white balsamic strawberries, pistachio brittle, vanilla mascarpone & maple – and yes, we are just as surprised as you to be using the descriptor ‘lush’ in the same sentence as porridge.

For Varsity locals, it will absolakely be a blessing to have such delightful brews and chews on their doorsteps, and we think we can all agree this is one side piece we can wholeheartedly get behind.

Where: 2 Capital Court, Varsity Lakes
When: 7 days, 7am-2pm

Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Belinda Symons.

As a bunch of discernible consumers of all alcoholic beverages, it was only a matter of time before the Gold Coast began to take heed and give us craft distilleries. Gin is having a moment. Whisky has always grabbed a particular pocket of drinkers, and vodka is a staple that, although refreshing on its own, is an excellent base for many delicious cocktails we’ve come to love on the regular (espresso martini, anyone?).

Being one of Australia’s most innovative business start-up areas and having proximity to quality produce and botanicals from the Southeast corner of Queensland and the Northern Rivers, our distilleries were always going to be a success no matter what shape or format they came in.

As there’s a sizeable collection for you to consider either buying from or visiting, we run down the distilleries we deem must-visits and precisely what they offer.

Granddad Jack’s

This multi-award-winning backstreet distillery has seen explosive success since opening its doors. Aptly positioned in the ever-growing creative hub of Lemana Lane and surrounding streets, it’s a guaranteed good going-out spot. The portfolio of spirits is diverse, the atmosphere always on point, and the smiles forever beaming.
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami

White Oat Distillery

Helping reinvent the once sleepier end of the Coast is Biggera Waters’ White Oat Distillery. Pumping out top-notch gins like a boss, the ‘Covid baby’ of three GC mates has quickly become a destination in itself. With award-winning distiller Tudor Duxbury’s fresh take on classic tastes, an on-fleek fit-out, and ‘wise but cool with a hint of old school’ vibe, it’s a must-visit.
Where: 13-14, 211 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters

Six-Tricks

Owned by Chris Macklin and Teagan Peake, Six-Tricks Distilling Co. is the slick distillery shaking up Mermaid’s sip scene. Complete with a cool two million dollar price tag, the-state-of-the-art facility comes bearing a spacious indoor bar, a sunset deck and a dedicated barrel aging warehouse, along with some #mustsip artisan liquors. With the venue focusing on an innovative approach to the fundamental six spirits, the mouthwatering mixology selection includes creations such as the Mango & Rooibos Sour and Melon & Lime Highball, under head bartender James’ expert eye.
Where: 3 Brightlands Court, Mermaid Waters

Capricorn Distilling Co.

This small-batch distillery boasts premium spirits that promise to be ‘as real as it gets.’ Our northern friends may be familiar with Rockhamption’s Saleyards Distillery and now we are fortunate to have the same innovative team bringing their passion to the Goldy. You can expect Spiced Rum, Summer Gin and even Pineapple Rum (for those who love the fruit – even on their pizzas.) Worthy of a tour we think!
Where: 21 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads

Sunny Days Distillery

This Burleigh Heads gem brings laid back beach vibes to life with locally-crafted, premium vodkas. Born from a humble lockdown project, Sunny Days has exploded into an Aussie favourite, known for its top-shelf spirits and playful RTDs. Their 1100-sqm HQ features a vibrant taproom with 16 taps, vodka cocktails, and delicious eats from Fix On 66. Live music, DJs, and community events round out the experience, making this more than a distillery – it’s a celebration of good times and golden days.
Where: 25 Hutchinson Street, Burleigh Heads

Cauldron Distillery

This 18-acre working distillery is the darling of the Scenic Rim, featuring an established vineyard, lush rolling green meadows and a Prohibition style gin and cocktail bar. Earning a nod in Lonely Planet’s top ten destinations to visit in 2022, you won’t just fine amazing gins and Queensland inspired craft bevvies, but also mouth-watering Modern Australian tapas with native ingredients. Or keep it simple with a BYO picnic rug amongst the vineyards and complimentary lawn games.
Where: Cauldron Distillery, 89 Cauldron Estate, 123 Hartley Road, Tamborine Mountain

Hard Fizz

Consider this your sign to get fizzy at the world’s first seltzer brewery, Hard FIZZ HQ! This vibrant hotspot offers freshly brewed seltzers straight from the tap and even lets fans create their own personalized flavors. With a bar decked out in neon lights and beachy vibes, it’s the perfect place to sip on Gold Coast-made fizz, local beers, artisan spirits, and Mr. Consistent cocktails. Founded by local legends like DJ Paul Fisher and pro surfer Laura Enever, this fun-fueled venue is a Burleigh fave.
Where: 16 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads 

Wildflower Gin Distilling

As if we need another motive to love the Burleigh Heads/Varisty Lakes area…. Wildflower Gin Distilling is just another reason we’ll add to an already long list. This industrial feel space creates what they describe to be, in their own words ‘Burleigh in a bottle’. Gins are the main attraction, but the team also turn their hands to vodka, with their recent Lamington Cake vodka a must-try for something sweet and traditionally Aussie!
Offering: group table bookings — 2hr gin masterclasses where you can create your own spirit!
Where: 2/486 Scottsdale Drive, Varsity Lakes

Tamborine Mountain Distillery

A drive out of town to nearby Tamborine Mountain will reward you with one of the country’s most decorated and awarded distilleries. The range of spirits and liqueurs available here is enormous, equating to everyone who visits finding at least one (if not more) favourite tipples. The venue itself is an eclectic mix of old-world charm with a sprinkling of Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory vibes, be sure to bring a crew and enjoy this space — and their tasty drops!
Offering: tasting room bookings — tailored events
Hours: 7 days 10am – 5pm
Where: 10 Macdonnell Road, Tamborine Mountain

Loborn

Bringing a taste of Italy with a distinctly Aussie twist, Loborn is Tamborine Mountain’s specialty amaro distillery that’s spicing up the local sip scene. Founded by local engineer-turned-distiller Thomas Drewett, Loborn crafts modern amaro infused with native botanicals and vibrant local citrus, including their signature blends: Amaro N01 (perfect for Spritz lovers) and Amaro N02 (ideal for Negroni fans). Nestled in the lush North Stores precinct, the sleek tasting room offers cocktail services, walk-in tastings, and masterclasses. With their herbaceous aperitifs and native citrus gin, Loborn’s locally born spirits are a must-try for any bitter enthusiast—spritz in hand, naturally.
Where: Shop 4, 46-48 Main Street, Mt Tamborine

Beech Mountain Distillery

Borrowing some real estate from neighbouring BFF, Pink Galah restaurant, Beech Mountain Gins expanded their offering – unveiling a brand new bar and tasting booths dedicated to their bespoke spirits. Julian Hoyle and Clyde Watts are the dynamic distilling duo known for churning out award winning small batch creations – such as the Siberian Route Gin, and Strawberry Gum Eucalyptus Olida Gin – winning silver and bronze respectively at the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards. With a stellar spirt selection, and prohibition style, old-world tavern vibes surrounded by lush, mountain surrounds, Beech Mountain Distillery is a must visit.
Where: 707 Beechmont Road Lower, Beechmont

Panezski Artisan Distillery

For a long time, vodka has had strong associations with the northern hemisphere. However, take a closer look at where some of the best vodkas are being produced, and you’ll notice such countries as the USA, France and Poland continually pop up — we may even see Australia soon in that mix. This family-owned distillery in Southport takes their Polish heritage seriously, dishing up some fine examples of vodka and gin with fantastic attention taken from the start, right through to bottling.
Offering: tasting room bookings — group events
Hours: Mon-Thurs: open from 4pm | Fri open from 2pm | Sat open from 10am, bookings highly recommended. Sunday (bookings only)
Where: 1/28 Activity Crescent, Molendinar

Beenleigh Rum Distillery

With the title of being Australia’s oldest operating distillery, you’re not only tasting rum here but a slice of history. This quality artisan producer is a must-try for those who enjoy their rums, with a sizeable collection of products and an ever-growing line for you to appreciate — and keep on appreciating! Parts of the distillery known as the Big Red Shed have been part of the setup from day one back in 1884 and are mixed with a modern venue space for all to enjoy.
Offering: various tasting experiences — Master of Rum craft your own rum experience — venue hire/functions
Where: 142 Distillery Road, Eagleby

Husk Distillery

Ok, so we cheated on this one (not technically a Gold Coast distillery, but we love it so much). Pretty hues of pink and purple have made Husk’s Ink gin one of the most recognisable sips in the past few years. Often punctuated with a sprig of rosemary, you’ll find yourself in a little slice of Northern NSW heaven at their picturesque distillery in the removed countryside spot of Tumbulgum. Although across the border, pack the car with blankets and friends and make an afternoon of it.
Where: 1152 Dulguigan Rd, North Tumbulgum

Words by Bianca Trathen and Belinda Symons

One of the keys words that emerged from 2020 was pivot. A lot of things changed for many people; a great deal of us had to adapt to a somewhat different life to the one we had known before. Married couple Lisa and Sean owned and operated a successful security firm for over a decade employing over two hundred people. Within a short period, they had no choice but to close the business.

However, this closure wasn’t the end for the pair. Based in Varsity Lakes, they were asked if they knew anyone who would take over an old café space. So, with a little imagination and, of course, a love for food, they decided Varsity Lakes was missing a top-notch Italian eatery, and they would be the ones to make it happen.

And voila, you have yourself the newly open Oscar Italia!

From the outside, you’ll find the space nestled at the base of a leafy and modern apartment complex in the heart of Varsity. With plenty of seating options outside, you can enjoy the afternoon sun and eat Italian food the way it was meant to be — al fresco. Inside, the space is split into a few different areas with a smaller tucked away room closer to the kitchen (the spot to smell and feel the magic happening) or window seating leading round into a quieter lounge-style area. Here you’ll come across low-down sofas and a bookcase providing a place for you to enjoy your post pasta comatose with coffee in hand whilst the little ones do some colouring in.

The highlight, though, has to be a couple of swinging wooden chairs, which we are told have already seen much attention — the perfect spot to sip a drink whilst your takeaway order is being prepared for you.

The venue aims to bring locals out of their homes in the area and into a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy some home-style Italian cooking with no stress. Their Head Chef has worked alongside the likes of Jamie Oliver, so when it comes to a menu packed with flavour, you know Oscar Italia no doubt has the goods. Start your meal off with flavoursome staples like their Calamari Fritti with shaved fennel and rocket salad or Nonna’s Meatballs slow-cooked in Arrabbiata sauce. For mains, you can take your pick of one of their ten handmade pasta dishes, or a tasty list of stone-baked pizzas, kindly split into red and white base lists for you.  — Brilliant. Oh, and for those of you who like to add toppings or have a special dietary requirement, you will be well looked after.

Naturally, no amount of gorgeous food like this is complete without great drinks. Expect a drinks list with an adequate collection of Australian and international beers, whilst the wine list mixes some standout Italian and Australian made drops, and there’s plenty of soft drinks and milkshakes for those not drinking — or simply not old enough!

The venue will soon open for breakfast and will seriously gear themselves towards express business lunches; ideal for those nearby who want a tasty lunch to break up their workday — but unfortunately can’t graze and sip wine through the afternoon!

And if one enterprise wasn’t enough, the pair have also set about creating a new space just opposite Oscar Italia, and although it is still under construction, we were fortunate enough to have a walkthrough. As a spoiler, it is promising to be a wine bar with a difference and based on an old school English manor house with lashings of leather sofas and old-style fittings — watch this space!

With Oscar Italia, it looks like the eating and drinking out scene in Varsity Lakes just stepped up a notch — bon appétit!

Where: 190 Varsity Parade, Varsity Lakes
Hours: Wed-Thurs: 12pm-9pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-9.30pm, Sun 12pm-5pm

Words by Alex Mitcheson.