Mona Lisa’s Lair brings French flair to Miami Marketta.
Mona Lisa’s Lair brings French flair to Miami Marketta.
France is the land of romance, where even a sip of champagne or a bite of crème brûlée feels like a love affair. Now Miami Marketta is setting the stage for your happily ever after right here on the Gold Coast with its latest culinary offering – Mona Lisa’s Lair.
Mona Lisa’s Lair brings a touch of the city of love to Miami within Marketta’s already buzzing lineup. From the iconic Street Food Markets, Gin Parlour, Studio 56 and the Cargo Stage, this new Parisian-style à la carte restaurant stands out with Mona Lisa herself on the door, her knowing gaze guarding the delights that lie behind the stained-glass windows.
Step inside and be transported to Paris with soft lighting, plush furnishings, eclectic art adorning the walls and an extensive champagne list that will leave you grinning as if you’re the woman in the most famous painting in the world.
For those looking to enjoy a kid-free, bubble-filled evening, Mona Lisa’s Lair is Miami Marketta’s first-ever 18+ space. Designed for indulgence, this restaurant is perfect for date nights, celebrations or simply pretending you’ve run away to Paris for the evening. And if you’re planning a grand soirée, the venue is also available for private bookings, offering an elegant setting for intimate events.
French cuisine is celebrated worldwide, and the menu at Mona Lisa’s Lair is no exception. Like any passionate affair, it evolves with time, but some French fusion indulgences are simply too irresistible not to mention.
If you’ve ever strolled the banks of the Seine, specifically while dipping a crusty baguette into molten cheese in the Latin Quarter, you’ll know the magic of a good fondue. Mona Lisa’s Lair is dishing up this ooey-gooey delight, with a twist. The Fondue Tarte is a mouthwatering fusion of three cheeses, white wine, garlic-roasted mushrooms, and sourdough croûtes. But that’s just foreplay to the main affair.
Showstopper dishes include Coq au Vin Blanc, a rich and indulgent delight featuring truffled confit chicken Maryland swimming in a leek, pork and white bean cassoulet.
The Crispy Pork Belly offers a playful contrast of flavours, with burnt apple jam, poached rhubarb, toasted marshmallow macadamia crumb and fermented chilli sauce.
Of course, no French-inspired menu would be complete without a sexy dessert or two (or three, who’s counting?). Crack into a Crème Brûlée with rhubarb gel and macarons or fall in love with the Strawberries & Cream, a decadent dish of strawberry caipiroska jelly with elderflower cream, Turkish delight, basil and thyme.
Feeling flirty? Mona Lisa’s Lair boasts a curated selection of fizz from 15 prestigious champagne houses so you can woo your boo with an abundance of bubbles. From the elegance of Moët & Chandon to the refinement of Ruinart, Krug and Dom Pérignon, plus a few hidden gems waiting to be discovered, every glass promises to seduce you faster than you can say “Oh la la”.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
When: Wednesday – Saturday 5pm – late
Words by Lisette Drew
Get in loser, we’re going shopping (and eating, and brewery-hopping, and sight seeing, and exploring street art, and… you get the idea)
Now you might be wondering why we’re throwing around random movie quotes to kick off this list (in our defence there is a Mean Girls line for *every* occasion) – but if suburbs were Mean Girls characters, Miami would for sure be the one to utter this iconic line. Miami has it all, and it knows it. Take one glance at just some of the epic spots we’ve lined up and you’ll soon see why all the other suburbs wish they could be this cool.
It used to be that Granddads were good for stealing our noses and sneaking us butter candy, but in Miami, Granddad Jacks is good for plying us the finest locally distilled spirits, gin making classes, distillery tours and of course and just an all-round cool haunt to sit back with a top notch bevvy and let our mullets run free. These masterful wizards didn’t amass a whopping haul of awards by getting distracted by anything other than distilling, so it’s BYO food too (and surely that means more to spend on the good stuff!). Make sure you try the 65 Miles Gin, recently crowned the Hottest Aussie Gin for a third year in a row!
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami
It would be shell-fish of us not to include Miami Fish Market, as much as we would love to keep this absolute pearl a secret. They hook the Gold Coast up with responsibly sourced, premium seafood from Australia and New Zealand (unlike heading home empty-handed from your holy grail fishing spot). Take some of their freshest and finest home to enjoy, or pull up a stool in their courtyard oyster and sashimi bar for a shuck-tastic time. Now offering a full (fancy-pants) fish and chips menu. Potato scallops and caviar, anyone?
Where: 1/54 Paradise Ave, Miami
The Coast’s OG street food night markets that put Miami on the map as a must-visit destination for foodies and live music lovers alike. The first venue of it’s kind to Miami and perhaps even the Coast, Marketta quickly grew to establish itself as a mainstay among the GC scene, bringing good vibes, live music and great food galore via the eclectic creative and cultural hotspot for over ten years now. Our beloved market brings us all our favourite tastes of the world as well as that same buzzing atmosphere that’s favoured by families especially, for rounding up their rowdy broods for an easy night out that everyone can enjoy.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Pde, Miami
We have a grand idea for ya! Why not take those freshly shucked oysters to-go and hit the picturesque Pizzey Park for a bougie picnic? It’s one of the biggest parks on the coast, a local icon, and a hub for sports, clubs, recreation, and fun times for all ages. There’s an aquatic centre, playgrounds galore, a wheely epic skate park, the Gold Coast’s first and Australia’s largest asphalt pump track and, let’s not forget, the off-leash dog area for our four-legged BFFs. In fact, paw out of five dogs agree that Pizzey is the best park for zoomies on the GC.
Where: 80 Pacific Ave, Miami
One of Miami’s most recent (and appreciated) additions is Bar Monte. This Italian eatery is so good it’s saving us a trip to Rome. They’re bringing the classic trattoria to us, with a modern twist, by blending international influences with fresh, local ingredients. The result is a menu as bold as it is delizioso.
The space is stylish yet inviting, striking the perfect balance between high-end sophistication and relaxed coastal charm. Pasta lovers will swoon over the Rigatoni, Vodka Sauce, Nduja and Stracciatella, and don’t even get us started on the wine list; curated by world-renowned sommelier Andrea Martinisi.
Where: No.3 Mountain View Ave, Miami
It’s no secret us Gold Coasters are quite partial to doing what we can to our put our best #lewks forward, and over the last few years the streets of Miami have also been undergoing somewhat of a glow up themselves (and #spoileralert – there’s no filler to be found here folks). The suburb is at the heart of a thriving GC art and cultural boom, with a bunch of incredible artists transforming the local laneways into a destination in and of themselves. There’s even the Art Roll website dedicated to mapping out the best routes for your own self-led street art tour.
And the event that started the movement, Surface Festival returns at the end of June, set to transform the local footpaths, fence lines, laneways and walls with some art-mazing fresh new works to admire and we’re here. for. it.
Where: Check the Art Roll website for locations
Okay, now it just feels like Miami is showing off and 501 (no kidding) Google reviews can’t be wrong. At first glance those deceptively colourful trademark stairs might look all sunshine and rainbows, but one thing’s for sure – conquer that climb and you will be rewarded with one of the best vantages on the coast. With stunning views of the coastline from Surfers right down to Burleigh, there’s only one thing left to say: How’s. the. serenity. (and maybe a hearty dose of *heavy breathing* depending on how many times you decide to take on those stairs #cardi-no thanks)
Where: At the south end of Miami (you can’t miss it)
If you love a good smash burger (and let’s be real, who doesn’t?), Broken Hearts Burger Club in Miami is calling your name. Born from one guy’s lockdown obsession with nailing the perfect LA-style burger, this cult-favourite joint keeps things simple – and seriously delicious. Choose between a classic or fancy burger, stack it up with one, two, or three patties, and let the molten cheese and house-made pickles do the talking. Throw in some loaded fries, a thick shake, and that retro diner aesthetic, and you’ve got yourself a one-way ticket to burger heaven. #sorrynotsorry
Where: 1934 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
Move over, high-rise hotels – motels of the Gold Coast are getting a makeover, and boy, are they impressing. Exhibit A- The Shores Miami. Nestled just 200 metres from Miami Beach, this 1970s Gold Coast gem has recently undergone a multi-million dollar transformation, blending retro vibes with modern comfort to create its perfect nostalgic charm.
Inside, find bright, modern rooms, orange sun lounges with overhead striped cabanas, a gorgeous pool, lush greenery, and soothing pastel colours. Outside; endless adventure, starting with this list! Staycation, anyone?
Where: 2016 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
There will always be room on the Gold Coast and in our hearts for another coffee roastery (get rid of the servos; we just need coffee). However, by no means is Whyld ‘just another’ coffee bar, channelling the strength of a triple espresso since 2021. That’s what we’re talking about! They promise ‘genuine connection fuelled by bloody good coffee’ and serve it up in a warehouse space/micro-roastery cuter than your grandma’s knitted blankets. Take your organic specialty coffee to go, or take a seat on one of their vintage couches and soak up the good vibes (the recommended take).
Where: 8/43 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
You can’t beat having a neighbourhood bakery (a carb-load close to home), particularly a European-inspired one. An ideal day on a plate for us would look like a warm, buttery fruit Danish for breakfast (washed down with a mighty good coffee), a ham, cheese and pickle baguette sandwich for lunch, followed by a basket full of buttery, flaky pastries for dessert. No veggie in sight! He he.
Where: Shop 5/1934 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
Japanese beer + Japanese street eats = heaven. Therefore, heaven can be found in Miami at the suburbs’ very own Japanese beer bar, Roji Cat. Here, you’ll be transported (at Shinkansen speed) to the neon-lit districts of Tokyo and Osaka, with an interior decorated to resemble their authentic alleyways, down to the signage and lanterns.
What else will you find? Twelve Japanese brews on tap and twenty-four types of sake, for starters! Then there’s the nosh, a curation of elevated Japanese street food that’ll have you sighing ‘oishii’, with every bite. Think Robata Skewers, sweet and spicy Roji Cat Karaage, Gyoza, Sashimi, Miso Corn (love you) and burgers including a Bug Burger with a tempura Moreton Bay Bug, spicy Japanese coleslaw and Kewpie mayo. We’ll take all of that, thank you so much.
Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami
It’s almost time to pack away the budgie smugglers and slip into something a little more cosy as we edge closer to the cooler months. Enter UGG Since 1974 – churning out wearable warm hugs for your feet since, well, 1974. Don’t be feeling sheepish if you didn’t know they’ve expanded their range to include a huge selection of colours, styles and options to customise including monogramming (cute!), as well as paw-dorable pet accessories (even cuter!) With factory tours running right out of Miami, the only thing better than supporting locals is treating your tootsies to a cloud-nine experience in the process.
Where: 23 Christine Ave, Miami
Have you worked up a thirst reading this list? Thankfully, we’ve saved everyone’s favourite brewery (yep, we called it) for last- Precinct Brewing Co. Step through their doors and you’ll be welcomed into one sleek space; all white with high ceilings, wooden beams, a couple more murals and some massive brew kettles in the background of it all. You can see why people say it’s the place to beer! Don’t forget to grab one of the tasty pizzas coming from the onsite kitchen, too…
Where: 17 Christine Ave, Miami
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Over the past few years, Miami has transformed from a small industrial suburb nestled beside bold and bustling Burleigh, into its own thriving cultural hub buzzing with culinary gems and creativity. Now, its food scene has hit a new high with the arrival of an exceptional Italian dining spot. It’s called Bar Monte, and it’s already making its mark in Miami.
Bar Monte is the brainchild of hospitality legends Lorenzo Toscani, Kim Stephen and James Sutherland. Kim and James, are the dynamic duo behind popular ventures such as Light Years, The Smoking Camel, Pixie Food & Wine and Moonlight Hibachi & Wine Bar, bringing a wealth of business savvy to the table.
Lorenzo, with over a decade of experience managing top-tier spots like Caffe’ e Cucina in Melbourne and Pixie Italian in Byron Bay, is no stranger to creating memorable dining experiences. Together, they’ve created a space that strikes a perfect balance between high-end sophistication and relaxed coastal charm.
The design of Bar Monte, led by Will Rathgeber of Studio Plenty, mirrors the restaurant’s thoughtful approach to dining. The space is stylish yet inviting, with wine bottles surrounding the dining space, transporting you to a trattoria in Italy, with a modern twist.
Head chef Nicolo’ Meani is the culinary force behind Bar Monte, and his impressive resume speaks for itself. From his early days training at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Monza to his time with the iconic Nobu in Ibiza, Meani’s journey has taken him across the globe. Now, with his focus on Italian cuisine at Bar Monte, he’s blending international influences with fresh, local ingredients, delivering a menu that’s as bold as it is delizioso.
Speaking of the menu, Bar Monte isn’t your average Italian eatery. While many Italian restaurants lean towards expansive menus, Bar Monte keeps things sleek and sophisticated.
Start your culinary journey with a fresh and oozy Burrata complemented with Spicy Nduja And Cashew Pesto, Basil Oil and Grilled Bread. Or indulge your taste buds in a decadent Eclair filled with Chicken Liver Parfait And Cherry.
Pasta lovers will swoon over Rigatoni, Vodka Sauce, Nduja and Stracciatella, while seafood aficionados can dive into Linguine di Mare al Cartoccio brimming with Clams, Mussels, King Prawn and Calamari.
Expertly crafted dishes like Bistecca steak lovingly coated in Porcini Rub, Onion and Marrow Butter will have the whole table giving it a chef’s kiss.
Pair your meal with one of the signature cocktails – perhaps a vodka concoction with salted passionfruit, peach and fresh lemon juice – and you’ve got a match made in culinary heaven. Salute to that!
With the wine list curated by world-renowned sommelier Andrea Martinisi, it’s no surprise that Bar Monte is quickly becoming a go-to for wine lovers. No need to wine about your options here – it’s all vino perfection!
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is one spot you’ll want to pasta by and stay awhile.
Where: No.3 Mountain View Ave, Miami
When: Wednesday – Thursday 4:30pm–10pm. Friday, Saturday 12pm–10pm, Sunday 12pm–9pm
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Mathilde Bouby
If caffeine is your love language, you’ll be extra peppy to learn of a brand new brick-and-mortar espresso bar for Whyld Coffee Roasters. Promising ‘genuine connection fuelled by bloody good coffee’, expertly extracted brews are just the beginning for this up-and-coming bean slinging crew.
Founded by Rachel-May Follan, an all-round coffee fanatic and barista of some 16 years, Whyld Coffee Roasters has been bounding along on the local coffee scene channelling the strength of a triple espresso since 2021. Bursting with the exact type of enthusiasm that only someone with an unfettered supply of the finest beans can possess, owner Rachel-May’s passion for all things coffee and community is palpable.
Dropping their most exciting project to date (in our totally un-biased opinion *sips coffee*) – the made-with-love micro roastery has officially set down roots in Miami with a brand spanking new espresso bar and roasting facility. From humble backyard beginnings roasting 100g batches at a time, these days the tireless Whyld crew powers a handful of cafes and coffee vans across the coast with their roasted onsite selection of imported and locally-grown beans.
Flaunting a soul-soothing shade of forest green as far as the eye can see, Hillcrest Parade’s latest are supplying the smoothest of brews to get us glowing from Wednesday – Sunday, in addition to a tasty selection of grab-and-go goodies courtesy of Burleigh Baker.
For those that remember Miami’s I Like Ramen days, Whyld’s smooth specialty brews will need no introductions – after a stint dutifully slinging caffeine fixes every weekend out of the pop-up window where Holliday Coffee now resides. During this fateful time Rachel-May ‘fell in love with the community of Miami’.
As someone who’s dedicated her whole working life to slinging lattes and soy caps, Rachel-May had always been keen to delve deeper into her craft and learn the ins-and-outs of where the cup comes from. Talk about living and breathing the bean life! With a little help from some local legends at Burleigh’s Profile Coffee Colab in 2021, Rachel-May embarked on the rollercoaster of learning to roast coffee. And bean’s yer uncle, Whyld was born not long after!
These days, the micro roastery’s small but mighty team consists of Rachel-May and her partner, Tiago Sperb, and who could forget ‘Big Shaz’, the trusty 12kg Probat coffee roaster.
Requiring all hands on deck to pull off, the crew has taken great pains to pour good vibes into their brick-and-mortar milestone. Equal parts eclectic and energising, the result is a charming and sun-drenched spot to swing by for your daily fix, with a rag tag assortment of repurposed milk crate and vintage thrones on which to perch with your morning cup of Joe.
If this sounds suspiciously like your new #happyplace, we have an inkling that might just be by design. “It’s real connections and liquid gold that keep our souls happy” Rachel-May muses, which gets a #HardAgree from our haplessly-addicted selves.
“How often do you meet someone at a cafe? Or say ‘let’s go get a coffee?’ It’s the biggest connector we have”, she adds.
Sounds like a great excuse for one more cup to us!
Where: 8/43 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
When: 6am–1:30pm, Wednesday–Sunday
Website: www.thatswhyld.com.au
Instagram: @thats_whyld_coffee
Words by Kellie Leader
Images by Mathilde Bouby
