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Start your weekend on (roof)top

Nineteen reasons to head to The Star Gold Coast.

Breakfast at Nineteen, The Star (image supplied)
French Toast, Breakfast at Nineteen, The Star (image supplied)

Judging by the buzz of our fave brunch haunts, we think we can safely speak for the entire GC when we say weekend breakfast just hits different when someone else makes it. Super bonus points when you also get to skip the dishes.

And somehow, somewhere along the line, we blinked, and queuing up at ‘da club instead became queuing up for our fave Eggs Benny and extra hot Cap – life sure comes at ya quick. Regardless, the payoff is infinitely higher because instead of lost phones and vodka-raspberries that taste like regret, these days we’re instead rewarded with basking in the morning sun, savouring delicious brunch morsels (with our dignity firmly intact).

Bellini Saturday's at Nineteen at The Star (image supplied)
Bellini Saturday's at Nineteen at The Star (image supplied)

And luckily for us locals, at any given moment we’re only one elevator ride away from one of the best breakfasts on the coast, luxuriating poolside, watching the world (or the GC, technically) go by below and if we haven’t already sealed the deal, the breakfast cocktails certainly will.

Nineteen at The Star Restaurant (image supplied)
Nineteen at The Star Restaurant (image supplied)

As fit for all the most special of occasions as it is for ‘just because’, feel free to stroll on in to The Darling’s – well, darling Nineteen restaurant and bar like you’re stepping onto a yacht. If you’ve not treated yourself to a trip up to the 19th floor lately, the swanky digs coupled with those spectacular city views will leave you wondering, why so long between drinks?

The luxe interiors, decked out in plush jewel-toned velvet seating, and framed with floor to ceiling windows with the outlook to the city and ocean beyond are worth the trip alone – but the eats and sips are definitely worthy of sticking around and getting comfy on one of those aforementioned velvet lined lounges.

Breakfast at Nineteen, The Star (image supplied)
Crab Omelette and Southern Buttermilk Biscuits, Breakfast at Nineteen, The Star (image supplied)

Now this is not your regular breakfast, it’s a boujee breakfast. As controversially as reading the last page of a book first, we’re coming out swimming and skipping straight to the crabtivatingly claw-dropping creation that’s Crab Omelette – QLD Spanner Crab, Tarragon, Hash Brown, Fermented Chilli, because if that doesn’t scream 5-star-breakfast, we don’t know what does.

Breakfast at Nineteen, The Star (image supplied)
Bircher Muesli, Breakfast at Nineteen, The Star (image supplied)

Chef Uday Huja has put his sophisticated spin on all the b-fast faves plus some of his trademark Southern specialties for maximum indulgence. Now of course the breakfast gang’s all here, like Bircher Muesli with Seasonal Fresh Fruits – aka the dish making oats way more delicious than they have any right to be (and try as we might, we can never get ours as good at home). Still on the sweet side, but just a dash more indulgent – a tower of French Toast, Seasonal Fruits, House Made Butter all doused in Maple Syrup is a perennial fave that always hits the spot. For those who prefer their breakfast on the savoury side, it will be a tough call between the Corn Fritter, Jalapeño Salsa, Avocado Mousse or Eggs Benedict, Mushroom or Ham, Onion & Balsamic Jam, Sourdough.

Breakfast at Nineteen, The Star (image supplied)
Avocado on toast, Breakfast at Nineteen, The Star (image supplied)

And would you look at that, we got so carried away at the thought of starting our day with all that deliciousness that we almost forgot to mention one of the best parts about a fancy-pants brunch outing – the brekkie cocktails #blasphemy. Because who wants to skip the chance to indulge in a Breakfast Martini or Breakfast Margarita? And as if by magic, somehow by slapping the word ‘breakfast’ in front, a mid-morning cocktail becomes a whole lot less ‘really Janet, it’s 9.30am?’, and a whole lot more channelling our inner ‘real housewives of the GC’, daaaahling.

Bellini Saturdays at Nineteen at The Star (image supplied)
Bellini Saturdays at Nineteen at The Star (image supplied)

But if even the thought of some classy breakfast cocktails aren’t enough to peel you out of bed – never fear, because sometimes you can have your sleep and sips too. This is one situ where the early bird doesn’t always get the worm – sometimes the early bird misses out on Bellini Saturdays at The Star, and well, we know what we’d prefer #cheers.

Nineteen at The Star poolside (image supplied)
Nineteen at The Star poolside (image supplied)

From 4pm – 7pm every Saturday, summon your bestie and sidle on up to bask in those impeccable rooftop vibes on the stunning Nineteen at The Star terrace. $79pp buys you a share platter to fight over and bottomless Bellini’s to sip while you soak up those million dollar views.

Let’s get down to business because these platters are doing their best to show up Bellini’s on repeat, which is no mean feat. Including all the savoury suspects you could hope for, start by slurping (but not really, because our Mum’s taught us better than that) back a couple of Freshly Shucked Oysters and House Cured Olives #fancy. Then move on to crunching your way through the Mushroom Mozzarella Arancini Balls and French Fries w Garlic Aioli. And what share platter worth its salt would be complete without a fine Charcuterie Plate w Toasted Sourdough, complete with Cheese Selection w Pear Gel.

Nineteen's Bellini Saturdays (image supplied)
Nineteen's Bellini Saturdays (image supplied)

So whether you’re an early(ish) bird, or more the graze-the-afternoon-away type, we’ve come up with precisely zero reasons why you shouldn’t kick your weekend off at Nineteen at The Star.

 Where: Level 19, The Darling at The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: Breakfast 7:00am – 10:30am Saturday, 7:00am – 11:00am Sunday, Bellini Saturdays 4.00pm to 7:00pm

Words by Kellie Leader.

STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST

The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be aged 18 years or over to enter Atrium Bar and the casino. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT.

13 bottomless brunches on the Gold Coast

The Tropic, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
The Tropic, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

Ahh, the blessed ritual of brunch. Leisurely feasts of eggs every which way you can imagine, sticky, syrup drenched French toast stacks, and smoked salmon for days – what’s not to love? Plus, it gives us the excuse to sleep in, and our tastebuds are rewarded pretty handsomely for the trouble.

Couple it with a little concept known as bottomless cocktails and life doesn’t get much better. So universally beloved is the sip-happy cousin of this mid-morning rendezvous, we’ve rustled up an entire list of the best places on the GC to get your boozy brunch-fest fix (say that five times fast after two hours of free-flowing mimosa’s).

From north to south, gather your mates, don your stretchy pants and jump on the brunch bandwagon!

Mozza Mozza, Southport (image supplied)
Mozza Mozza, Southport (image supplied)

Mozza Mozza
For a surefire way to stave off the Sunday scaries, the groovy and oh-so boozy, discotheque-themed Italian feast (don’t ask questions, just go with it) going down weekly at Mozza Mozza would have to be one of the best. For $75 per person, the Sunday Bottomless Disco dishes up share-style plates such as Pizzas, Arancini Balls and House-Made Focaccia to load up on – studded by a fruity Spritz and Mimosa menu to strategically work your way through. As far as bottomless spreads go, we particularly love the options on offer here – feeling like flanking your Italian feast with a boozy slushie upgrade? Say no more, fam! Craving Mozza Puff Bread or Tiramisu? Sure thing, just add ‘em on for a fiver. You’ll be shakin’ your groove thang in no time.
Where: Southport Sharks, Corner Olsen Avenue & Musgrave Avenue, Southport

Duck Salad, The Winey Cow, Main Beach (image supplied)
Duck Salad, The Winey Cow, Main Beach (image supplied)

Winey Cow
If you consider yourself a bit of a brunch connoisseur, Main Beach’s resident egg-slinging specialist, Winey Cow is a must try for several reasons. Reason numero uno, is that they live and breathe this brekkie business – after all, the much-lauded namesake Melbourne location has the boasting rights to accolades like Café of the Year and Best Breakfast Restaurant. And when you’re in the mood to take the Chilli Scramble Croissant up a notch, they also throw a particularly spectacular bottomless brunch any ‘ole day of the week. For $55 per person, you can grab a main with endless mimosas for an hour, with Cranberry & Lime and Pineapple, Passionfruit & Lime options if you wanna switch it up from the Classic OJ. And ‘wine’ not, we say?
Where: 5/11 Woodroffe Ave, Main Beach

Director of Champagne, Bazaar Marketplace, QT Gold Coast (image supplied)
Director of Champagne, Bazaar Marketplace, QT Gold Coast (image supplied)

QT Gold Coast
There’s Sunday brunch… then there’s Soul Sundays at Bazaar. A bubbly twist on the beloved Bazaar buffet experience we know and love, Soul Sundays takes this fanciful spread to the next level! From 11am–3pm every Sunday, you can nosh your way through brekkie faves like waffles and crepes while being serenaded by the sounds of live music and the chorus of clinking glasses as the champas flows freely. To chaperone your delectable experience, there’s even a Director of Champagne at the ready to customise your sip with a selection of juices and nectars. Yep, this one does indeed speak to our soul.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise

Surfers Pavilion Brunch Club (image supplied)
Surfers Pavilion Brunch Club (image supplied)

Surfers Pavilion
The Surfers Pav always delivers the goods and this is especially so when we’re talking about their Brunch Club experience. The perfect waterfront setting, DJs will be on the decks from 1pm every Sunday to set the mood. Choose from the $59 per head package including a selection of Oysters, or the $99 per head package with a choice of Cauliflower popcorn, Calamari or Chicken riblets, followed by either Nachos, Lamb ragu, Fish and chips, or Mushroom lasagne. Both packages entitle you to Prosecco, Bellinis, Mimosas, Pineapple mimosas, Mango mimosas, Pav lager, along with requisite softies. Walk-ins or bookings welcome anytime from 12.30pm.
Where: 30 – 34 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Hyde Paradiso interior (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)
Hyde Paradiso interior (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)

Hyde Paradiso
It’s the ultimate beachside brunch overlooking the ocean and yeah, we had you at beachside. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, tuck into the Standard Brunch or Vegan Brunch for an all out, four-course feast of Mediterranean-inspired mixed tapas, including delightful bites like Eggs Benny Hash made with truffle honey hollandaise. But ‘bottomless’ we promised, and bottomless ye shall receive – here you can pick your poison with two-hour sip packages such as Aperol Spritz, Bellini Spritz & Limoncello Spritz, Chandon Brut & Chandon Rosé, or perhaps the Veuve Clicquot upgrade will be more your speed. Available between 12pm and 2pm, minimum of 2 people required.
Where: Peppers Soul, Level 2/8 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

The Island Rooftop (image supplied)
The Island Rooftop (image supplied)

The Island Gold Coast
The Island says Saturday afternoons are for gathering, grazing and good times, and who are we to disagree? And yes, technically speaking, this one is classified as a ‘lavishly long lunch’ – but when it comes with two hours of tantalising eats, arrival mimosa and cocktail and spritz carafes – does anyone really mind? Spend your Saturday nibbling your way through Charcuterie and share-style bites of Karaage Chicken, Lamb kofta and Wood-fired pizzas, alternated with jugs of Passionfruit and Vanilla Mojito, Watermelon Margarita Spritz and Mimosa. $79 per person, two sittings (from 11:30am or 1:30pm) available.
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Autumn 2024 menu at Elk Espresso, Broadbeach (image by Brooke Darling)
Autumn 2024 menu at Elk Espresso, Broadbeach (image by Brooke Darling)

Elk Espresso
Broady gem Elk is another superb spot popping the cork on bottomless brunch daily. And bonus, it’s walk-ins only – so just grab the gang and rock up between 10am–1.30pm to partake in their delectable assortment of colourful, petal-topped dishes along with one hour to go ham on the bottomless Mimosa menu. Yep, that’s sixty whole minutes of mimosa action and nope, we sure as heck ain’t driving. Pick your fave between the the Classic, Strawberry lime and Tropical varieties, then ‘sip’ back and marvel as your flute magically refills itself. You certainly don’t have to tell us twice! $49 per head.
Where: Oasis Shopping Centre (opposite the beach), Broadbeach

Miss Moneypenny's interior (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)
Miss Moneypenny's interior (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)

Miss Moneypenny’s
Weekends are for sleep-ins, so if you didn’t quite make it out of bed in time for brunch, turn those lemons into two hours of citrus-studded spritzers, cocktails or French champagne (which absolutely beats lemonade, any day of the week) at the famous Miss Moneypenny’s bottomless lunch. Opt between the degustation-style Chef’s Signature or Three-course a la carte menu, and nosh your way through delectable dishes like saffron-infused Coral Coast Barramundi and Waygu Carpaccio. Talk about lush …we’re not saying it was this stellar spread in particular that was responsible for bagging them an AGFG chef hat for the past three years running… but we’re not not saying it, either. Available Saturday and Sunday, 12–2pm from $110 per person.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

 

Food and Cocktails at Tropic Vice, Nobby Beach (image supplied)
Food and Cocktails at Tropic Vice, Nobby Beach (image supplied)

Tropic Vice
Yes, this one’s technically a ‘lunch’, but we’re happy to look the other way for any excuse to a) incorporate more margs into our weekend and b) hit snooze few dozen times. From 12–4pm every Sunday, the Tropic Vice rooftop transforms into a free-flowing fiesta with live music, DJ’s bites and bottomless margs for $99 per person. We’re talking a set menu of Truffle fries, Halloumi Bites and Tacos, with the option to upgrade to a Dozen Oysters & Bottle of Luc Belair for an extra $85 if you’re really in the mood to celebrate. Monday can wait indeed!
Where: 2215 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Margaritas at Ally Chow (image supplied)
Margaritas at Ally Chow (image supplied)

Ally Chow
Ally Chow dishes up Asian fusion done right, and their two brunch options do not disappoint. For $99 per person, the Chow Out features the Chef’s choice banquet with two-hours of bottomless thai basil caprisokas, Asahi beer and prosecco. Or, have a go of the Margarita Lunch Banquet and yes, this has us written all over it. For $130, enjoy the same offerings mentioned above, only substitute bottomless caprioskas for bottomless margis! Once again recognised with the Australian Good Food Guides Chef Hat Award, this one is a no-brainer.
Where: Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach

The Tropic (image supplied)
The Tropic (image supplied)

The Tropic
One of the GC’s very favourite ocean-view venues, The Tropic offers a solid ten bottomless brunch and absolutely nobody is surprised to hear this. Taking place exclusively on the terrace on the last Saturday of every month, not only will you be privy to multi-million-dollar views and DJ beats, but deliciously fresh seafood and innovative fare. Think Oysters, Spiced bread, Stracciatella & Persimmon, Pavlova, and more, but no need cuz we’re already #sold. Veuve, Rose and Bellini Cocktail packages available from $75 per person. Don’t mind if we do!
Where: 43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

Waffles at Palm Beach Ave, Palm Beach (image supplied)
Waffles at Palm Beach Ave, Palm Beach (image supplied)

Palm Beach Ave
Palmy’s resident art deco stunner isn’t just a pretty face—it’s also home to some pretty spectacular dining deals (shout out, $60 3-course set menu) – including one of the most irresistible bottomless brunch options going! Every weekend, from 10am to 2pm, get beachside for your boozy brunch fix for only $45 per person. The mid-morning soiree kicks off with a salmon blini canapé to start, while you settle in to 1.5 hours of free-flowing mimosas and ponder between options like the Chilli Scrambled Eggs and Prawn and Bug Roll from the mouthwatering menu… #decisionsdecisions.
Where: 6 Palm Beach Avenue, Palm Beach

Bottomless Brunch at Refinery Coffee, Currumbin Waters (image supplied)
Bottomless Brunch at Refinery Coffee, Currumbin Waters (image supplied)

Refinery Coffee
Why wait for the weekend? Refinery Coffee reckons any day is a good day to bust out the boozy OJ for this beloved mid-morning ritual, and we wholeheartedly agree. Available from 10am daily, gather your celebratory crew and report to Currumbin’s light-filled converted warehouse for the Bottomless Brunch option. Here, you can tuck in to your pick from the all-day eats menu, such as Chilli Scram and Eggs Benny, while throwing back Classic & Watermelon mimosas for 1.5 blissful hours. The only caveat is that your whole crew must be partaking (is that even a question) with a non-alc option also available. Bottoms up!
Where: 37 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Waters

The Tropic, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
The Tropic, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

1970s Las Vegas lives on in the heart of Broadbeach

Marilyn's Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Marilyn's Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

The definition of cool according to the Inside Gold Coast edition of the Oxford English Dictionary is livin it large circa 1970, cocktail in hand (always), somewhere swanky in Las Vegas. Well friends, now we can do exactly that – sans the long-haul flight and time machine. Introducing Marilyn’s Diner & Bar, a high-end watering hole and American style burger bar, transporting us back to the hedonistic 70s with precision and panache.

Every aspect of this beautifully executed establishment is designed to immerse you in the glitz and glamour of the era. At the same time, it also pays tribute to one of literature’s most iconic tales of excess and adventure, Hunter S Thompson’s ‘Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas’. With nods to the classic book from pillar to post, Marilyn’s atmosphere is truly unique and captivating. From the specially crafted cocktails served in funky retro glassware, to the eclectic music selection and lively atmosphere, this place is #trending. It’s nostalgic but sophisticated, contemporary yet classic, refined but embraces the quintessential party girl. Simply put, Marilyn’s is unapologetically Marilyn’s.

Owners Alex Marks, Rupert Critchley and James Burrell, Marilyn's Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Owners Alex Marks, Rupert Critchley and James Burrell, Marilyn's Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Opening earlier in the year, the intimate venue boasts 50 seats across two areas including an outdoor “al fresco” lounge area. The bar child of long-term mates Alex Marks, Rupert Critchley, Brad Morgan, and Johnny Rogers, it’s a very welcome addition to the Broadbeach eats and sips scene. Alex (who also dons the Head Chef hat) is a chef, whisky specialist and award-winning cocktail bartender. He has cooked in some of London’s most loved restaurants, plus his impressive resume boasts stints at Melbourne’s Eau De Vie and a brief spell at Rick Shores.

Marilyn's Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Marilyn's Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Rupert has a background in cinematography and film making (cool much?!) specialising in filming food and wine. He’s also owned a cafe/ bar in the Austrian alps (again, cool much… quite literally) and worked at one of Sydney’s top rum bars, The Lobo. The gents found themselves in the right place at the right time meeting with local businessmen (and old friends) Johnny Rogers and Brad Morgan, and the rest as they say is history.

Championing the modern and contemporary styling with era-appropriate swagger was a breeze for Rupert, who worked tirelessly with Alex to design and build the majority of the venue. As luck would have it, the boys have a team of mates who conveniently have the specific trades they needed and note to self; must befriend more tradies.

Marilyn's Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Marilyn's Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

To keep us coming back time and time again, there’s an ever-changing menu featuring the American-style smash burgers and other delicious delights. The staple offering is the Cheese Burger with two smashed beef patties with American cheese, house pickled onion, seasoned tomato, iceberg lettuce, pickles and signature sauce, served on a toasted potato bun. We also find it difficult to pass up the Prawns & Corns consisting of whole fried Tiger Prawns with corn ribs in Mexican brown butter.

Watermelon Sugar, Marilyn's Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Watermelon Sugar, Marilyn's Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

It’s always cocktail o-clock at Marilyn’s and the expertly curated and eclectic selection is #goals. Do yourself a favour and order the Watermelon Sugar with vodka, spiced watermelon, lime, and whey, and suddenly we can’t get Harry Styles out of our head. Then go with a Rupus Du Sol with vodka, hibiscus, strawberry, eucalyptus, coconut, and sherry, followed by the Centre Court with minted rum, sour lime, fresh kiwi, and mescal. If you’re still vertical, finish with the Bold Fashioned with Starward two-fold Aussie whisky, coffee, and caramel.

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, from fresh and crisp wines to delicious and delicate cocktails paired with quality eats, it’s Marilyn’s for the win. See you there.

Where: 10/90 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
When: 2pm – 11pm Tuesday to Sunday. Closed Mondays.
Instagram: @
marilynsbargc
Website: marilynsbar.com.au

Words by Bianca Trathen.
Images by Brittany Kreskas.

Exterior of Marilyn's Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Exterior of Marilyn's Bar, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

17 reasons locals love Broadbeach

Social Eating House + Bar kitchen (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Social Eating House + Bar kitchen (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

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

Exterior of The Star Gold Coast at sunset with Broadbeach in the background (image supplied)
Exterior of The Star Gold Coast at sunset with Broadbeach in the background (image supplied)

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 (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)
Dracula's Cabaret (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)

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 and Bar (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Sofia's Restaurant and Bar (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

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 2022 (image supplied)
Blues on Broadbeach 2022 (image supplied)

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

Exterior view of The Oasis centre from Surf Parade at night (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)
Exterior view of The Oasis centre from Surf Parade at night (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)

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 Restaurant interior (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Unicorn Seafood Restaurant interior (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

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 Shopping Centre (image supplied)
Pacific Fair Shopping Centre (image supplied)

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 (image supplied)
The Pink Flamingo Spiegelclub (image supplied)

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.

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