Ensuring you have the best available produce is an endless endeavour for those with an ardour for all things kitchen related. Whilst we’re incessantly spoilt with the incredible fresh produce growing in this fertile pocket of paradise we get to call home — getting your hands on artisanal goods and locally sourced fare can be a job at the best of times.

Sure, don’t get us wrong; scoping out the farmers’ markets on the weekend without a care in the world is one of the treasures of the week for us Gold Coasters. But what about if we told you you could source great paddock to plate staples and pantry-filling delicacies in one place without much hassle?

Well, family-owned and operated Harris Farm Markets have opened their very first store at Via Roma, Isle of Capri on the Gold Coast. Meaning multiple outings to get the very best things to fill your fridge, cupboards, and larder should be a thing of the past!

At over 1500sqm, the Isle of Capri store is no small feat. Shoppers will have top-quality fresh food at their disposal from a whopping 320 Queensland producers, with more than 500 lines of fruit and vegetables featuring the likes of gourmet mushrooms from Brisbane, strawberries from the Sunshine Coast and the crispiest of lettuces from Redland.

Beyond fruit and vegetables, this all-encompassing space brandishes all manner of health foods and products you could possibly desire, with widespread collections of locally made plant-based foods, over 50 lines of nuts and seeds, a range of milks and honey on tap.

Bakery heroes from Tweed, Bread Social, have been invited into the fold with their own counter space. Baking fresh breads, pastries from the mezzanine level above before cascading their goods down to customer level via conveyor belt (fun!).

Gastronomists will rejoice when they set eyes on the gourmet grocery section of local boutique products and an extensive deli with more than 400 cheeses — yes, you read that right. These parcels of joy will feature dairy and nut examples — in their very own Cheese Lane — from hard-working local legends Woombye, Olympus, and Casa Motta, plus many many more.

Five in-house butchers are on hand to cut meats to order exactly as you want them, as well as family-operated Papacosta fishmongers, with over five decades of experience bringing devoted customers the best and freshest seafood from all over the country.

Tying the whole market space together is some carefully considered décor paying tribute to the Gold Coast lifestyle, including over 200 buoys painted by Surfers Paradise State School children, a suspended refurbished boat, and artworks by the Gold Coast’s son of contemporary art and murals Kiel Tillman!

Unfortunately, it is thought some 25% of Australian crops don’t even make it to supermarket shelves because they aren’t attractive enough. Frankly, that’s a crying shame — and a wasteful one at that. Harris Farm Markets proudly gives these fruits and vegetables a chance to be used and enjoyed through their Imperfect and Re-purposeful Picks schemes. Meaning you can get your hands on some luscious produce for a reduced price — perfect for broths, popsicles, and smoothies if you ask us!

With Christmas only just around the corner — and the errands list slowly filling up — look no further than Harris Farm Markets at Via Roma for all your nutrient-dense plate filling needs this festive season!

When: Every day 6am — 10pm
Where: 15/21 Capri on Via Roma, Surfers Paradise

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

They say the best things in life are free. And although this remains true for the most part, whoever came up with this sentiment must have momentarily forgotten about delicatessen-style foods. We’re talking about all those specialty goods like mouth-watering dry-cured meats, artisanally produced cheeses, and all of those delightful dips and spreads — ultimate charcuterie board goals.

When it’s time for a picnic or a lazy Sunday afternoon in the sun with wine in hand, these foods are the perfect accompaniment. But getting your hands on such fare is no easy task. You must know where to look, folks. Head to the supermarket deli counter if you must, but if you yearn for divine savours — and believe you deserve the very finest — read on as we run you through the Gold Coast’s best gourmet deli’s.

Manolas Bros Delicatessen
After a recent swoon-worthy refurbishment, Manolas Bros has only gone and cemented themselves as one of the Coast’s ultimate spots to treat your tastebuds. Not content with just being a continental style deli, you are also now spoiled with wood-fired pizzas, an extensive bar offering, and heaps of takeaway options in the form of some robust filled-to-the-brim food hampers. All we can say is specialty dishes, baked goods, and festive sweets are some of the many reasons people keep coming back to this Surfers Paradise foodie hub.
Where: Shop 3G, 14 Capri on Isle of Capri, 15/21 Via Roma, Surfers Paradise

The Standard Market Company – Southport Brickworks
Your one-stop place to fill your larder with the finest goods the Gold Coast’s CBD has to offer. Specialising in freshly baked breads, cheese, olives and imported gourmet goods, your next picnic will be elevated to lofty new heights. But this isn’t all; their very own butcher counter will tease you with expert cuts of free-range and organic meats, alongside a vast selection of handmade sausages crafted with flavourings from all around the world. Around the world in 80 snags, anyone?
Where: 107 Ferry Road, Southport

Barbosa Fine Food Deli
Cheese is life. A fair statement in anyone’s book (sorry vegans), but with cheese, one must have suitable chutneys, relishes, pickles, and crackers; luckily for Barbosa Fine Food Deli at the Kitchens in Robina Town Centre has all the above plus more. Grab yourself an organic Fairtrade coffee and discuss your next blissful charcuterie board with any of their friendly staff: they’ll help direct you through their incredible assortment of imported and Australian goods. And for those with a craving for fresh truffles, look no further, truffle season is upon us, and these guys have got you covered.
Where: The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

Golosi Food Emporium
This hidden in plain sight place of delectable goods is Burleigh Heads’ ode to fine foods — and we suggest, if you haven’t already, to make this a regular place to stop by. Even if you’re having trouble conjuring up a list of things you might want, don’t fear. Once you step inside, the vast assortment of fare will quickly have you imagining cheese boards and snack plates from your wildest dreams. And if you plan on having yourself an easy dinner one evening, their selection of fresh pastas and divine ready prepared meals are by no means a shortcut.
Where:  3/45 James Street, Burleigh Heads

Ambarella Fine Foods
This enclave of gourmand food and drinks ensures an authentic paddock to plate experience with every visit. Whether you’re looking to stock up on farm-fresh vegetables, lusting for one of our city’s largest selections of cheese, or adamant you must have yourself only the best superbly baked European style bread, then, you’ll find all of these under the one roof here in Burleigh Waters. However, searching out the best goods is tiring — and hungry — work. We suggest you take a rest and fuel up at their café and juice bar, where fresh over-filled sandwiches/wraps and squeezed-on-the-spot juices await you.
Where: Shop 12/1 Santa Maria Court, Burleigh Waters

Quince Fromagerie Cellar
On the southern end of the Coast, the Cornerstone Stores have been a haven of boutique goods impressing locals for the last three and a half years. Integral to this space is the cutest looking wine and cheese shop, Quince Fromagerie — but don’t be fooled, this is a serious case of good things come in small packages. Friendly shop manager Rafa is on hand to lead you through the diverse selection of gourmet goods and cheeses, and if you ask nicely, he may even give you a taste of some. We’re also pleased to say wine plays a role here, and should you want to pair one of their many bottles with anything edible you purchase, go right ahead, you cultured thing, you.
Where: Shop 5/570 Gold Coast Highway, Tugun

Russian Delights
Those with family ties to Eastern Europe or Russia often know only too well how hard it can be to find foods from the old country here in Australia. One place that disrupts and challenges this status quo are the good guys at Russian Delights. This long-established business has been procuring and distributing various foods from several different cultures for over twenty years and shows no sign of slowing one bit. Specialising in smoked sausages and cured meats, they pride themselves on only stocking the very best produce made by the strictest traditional recipes and welcome customers from all varying backgrounds to come and enjoy their selection of international goods. Trust us when we say, locals who know their meats, get it from here.
Where: 1/35a Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

It may be home to the Gold Coast’s bustling business district but Southport can also boast a huge array of incredible eateries, culture and general good times.

We’ve rounded up 15 things locals love about the place and we reckon you might enjoy them too.

In no particular order, enjoy.

Southport Sharks
There is many a good time to be had at Southport Sharks including dining at one of the delicious dish-packed restaurants, drinking at Aviary Rooftop Bar overlooking the city, joining in on one of their classes at the Health + Fitness Centre or getting involved in one of their many good time events. The possibilities are endless. It’s the perfect spot for a family event or take the crew for a Sunday afternoon session. Happy days no matter what.
Where: Olsen Avenue and Musgrave Avenue, Southport

Southport Yacht Club
Waterfront dining is the name of the game at Southport Yacht Club with two venues to choose from and stunning scenes from whichever you choose. You’re also welcome to just sit back and kick up your heels with a cold beverage or two while gazing lovingly at one of the many beautiful yachts in the marina. It’s one of the Coast’s best locations and you’re guaranteed to have a good time.
Where: 1 MacArthur Parade, Main Beach

Zero Latency
Zero Latency is a free-roam, virtual reality experience like no other. With up to eight players per game, you’ll have the BEST time fighting zombies, exploring mystical places and challenging your friends on space stations. All you need to do is put on the VR headset, strap into the backpack and pickup the controller. Get 10% off here. It really is so good.
Where: 34 Smith Street, Southport

Panezski Distillery
The Coast’s first vodka distillery opened in Southport a few short months ago and what a treat. The family-owned business are whipping up three types of vodka, two types of gin and even a couple of beers on the premises and you can pop in to grab a bottle to go, or you can sit down and enjoy a cocktail and a charcuterie board and spend a bit of time. Very cool. 
Where: Unit 7/55 Bailey Crescent, Southport

Vinnies Dive
Who doesn’t love a good dive bar. Particularly one that doubles as a live music venue and has a huge range of your favourite beers on offer (and some you may not have heard of). Head in there to discover some new music from both local and interstate bands and if you’re in the mood for a party, which we know you are, you can hire the space out for your next one.
Where: 44A Nerang Street, Southport 

Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar 
On the ground floor of the building you’ll find the deli section of the establishment, with an array of delicious meats and cheeses that will be brought together in platter form for your feasting pleasure. Upstairs, the rooftop bar boasts tasty cocktails, even more delicious eats and views across the city. It’s a real good time.
Where: 43 Nerang Street, Southport

Randy Wallhole
To put it bluntly, you haven’t lived until you’ve tasted a Randy Wallhole bagel. There are eight flavours to choose from which means you have multiple per day if you so choose. Go for the Pulled Bas first up, it’s got Smokey BBQ pulled beef, peri mayo and apple slaw. Wash it down with some of the best coffee on the Coast and be on your merry way.
Where: 4/21 Nind Street, Southport 

Boudoir Lounge
A newbie amongst the Southport bunch, Boudoir Lounge is the very best spot for a tasty brunch with the girls or simply a few cocktails after work. Found on Como Crescent, it quickly became the go to spot for those looking for some delicious eats, in a sweet setting and with unique sips of course. Inside there’s also a hair and beauty bar so you can get fabulous before you head out on the town. Perfect.
Where: 410/1 Como Crescent, Southport

Broadwater Parklands
Whether you’re four or 40, there’s tons of fun to be had at Broadwater Parklands. For starters, you can sit and stare out at the yachts you’ll never set foot on. Then, there’s the bouncy pillow (maybe don’t go on there without a child), a kiddies train, a water playground and weekly events from theatre shows to foodie markets. See, fun.
Where: Marine Parade, Southport

D Point Ten
Oh donuts, how we love you. D Point Ten can be found on Stevens Street and, in keeping with the general donut vibe, is a little hole in the wall space pumping out the freshest of donuts we may have ever excitedly shoved into our greedy mouths. In all the best flavours no less. Go the Ferrero Rocher for sure.
Where: 6/1 Stevens Street, Southport

Cardamon Pod
The delightful folk at Cardamon Pod are serving up delightful dishes with a focus on clean eating but of the prettiest variety. They offer vegan and gluten free options for breakfast and lunch with a side of organic coffee and vegan desserts. All very delicious and it’s very hard to stop at just one thing or not to post on your Instagram.
Where: Brickworks Centre, 3/3 Brolga Avenue, Southport

Gold Coast Aquatic Centre
Southport’s centre of swimming is something for all of us to be proud of. It’s as pretty as a collection of swimming pools can be and, as it was home to all the Commonwealth Games water activities, it’s world class. The architecture is sleek and there’s a training room featuring pits filled with foam for the divers to practice in.
Where: Marine Parade, Southport 

Escape Hunt
Imagine being wrongly accused of murder, chained to a wall and having to rely on your friends’ detective skills to free you. Who you gonna call? Welcome to Escape Hunt, Southport’s brain bending game guaranteed to test your problem solving skills like they’ve never been tested before. There’s a few scenarios you might be faced with, all of which involve solving a mystery with a set of intricate clues. It’s the most fun you can have inside a locked room. Make sure to take your smart friends. Grab 10% off here.
Where: 2/162 Scarborough Street, Southport

Brickworks Centre
Where to start. There are SO many excellent places to peruse at the Brickworks starting with Ferry Rd Market where you can nab yourself everything from beautiful flowers to the freshest breads, seafood and fruit and veggies galore. God it’s good. Within the Centre, there’s also stunning homewares, fashion and design stores and health and beauty services. Oh, there’s also always some really cool events.
Where: Ferry Road, Southport 

Words by Kirra Smith