A powerhouse collab will reinvent the famous street corner.
A powerhouse collab will reinvent the famous street corner.
Ever since our beloved Hard Rock Café suddenly shut up shop last year (sigh), we have waited with bated breath to find out who or what would take over this iconic corner of the glitter strip.
Well, that day has finally arrived and holy newsflash Batman, the next chapter is set to #SrslySlay. With more bells and whistles than you can poke a 17-metre guitar at (too soon?), the collab we never knew we needed has revealed an epic plan for GC’s hottest address.
Sports fans, beer enthusiasts, and basically anyone who loves a good time, you’re in for one helluva treat as The Sporting Globe and 4 Pines Brewing Company combine their experience, ingenuity, and all-round awesomeness.
The result; a micro-brewery, sports viewing hub, and the Gold Coast’s largest island bar with capacity to accommodate up to 900 peeps. Woah.Nelly!
Set to open in time for summer 2024, this American sports bar vibing space and micro-brewery will become THE stomping ground for locals, and an absolute must-visit for tourists.
Serving up the tastiest, coldest, and freshest beer on the Coast, fans of the amber ale can sample brews from 80 taps, and side note; we vow to try them all! This includes special sunshine state inspired 4 Pines limited release varieties, and this is not the place you ever want to visit on DD duty.
The exciting new partnership will see 4 Pines work their magic on the micro-brewery, while the venue will continue to be owned and operated by Sporting Globe, a part of Signature Hospitality Group.
Speaking of, we can expect the usual awe-inspiring, state-of-the-art fit out from The Sporting Globe, with over 70 high-definition TVs, a nine-screen video wall, and signature booths with touch screen booth TVs®. Offering stellar sports vision throughout bar, restaurant and function spaces, its entertainment flex is bigger than Arnie’s actual flex during his Mr Olympia days.
Such a big-budget development is right at home at the Paradise Centre, which has recently enjoyed a $40 million makeover. It’s a game-changing addition to the levelled-up, long-standing ‘core’ of Surfers, and will play a significant role in positioning the Paradise Centre as our fave dining, retail and entertainment destination.
Echoing this sentiment is The Sporting Globe’s Founder and Signature Hospitality Group CEO, James Sinclair.
He says the unique experience and vibe will be a major win for the precinct, re-establishing Surfers as the true heartbeat of the Gold Coast. And this certainly isn’t his first rodeo, launching 19 locations of The Sporting Globe since the OG venue opened in Geelong 13 years ago.
And further to that, it’s not the first time these power players have joined forces, with a hugely successful sports bar and brew pub at Sydney’s King Street Wharf.
4 Pines Brewing Company CEO, Todd Atkinson, can’t wait to create the same energy with the super venue’s Surfers Paradise instalment. Founded in Manly by Todd and his old man, 4 Pines is so next level that in 2019, it won Champion Beer for all entries at the Australian International Beer Awards. We’ll drink to that!
So get ready to see the glitter strip’s ‘golden child’ address reclaim its position as top dog next summer. Spread the word, watch this space, and get ready for a new era of sports, eats, sips and entertainment.
When: Due to open by summer 2024
Where: Corner Cavill Avenue and Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Is it just us (it’s not) or is there A.LOT going on in our beloved Surfers Paradise right now? It goes without saying that it’s always been a non-negotiable for visitors, because a trip to the GC just isn’t a trip to the GC without a stint in our tourism capital. And let’s be real, it’s certainly housed a fair share of good times for us ‘natives’. From beach days to big nights (the latter of which live on in our somewhat blurred memories – and faded prints from our disposable cameras), it’s always held a special place in our hearts. Well, our iconic glitter strip’s shimmer will shine brighter than ever come Friday 9th September, when Paradise Centre unveils its hotly anticipated $40 million redevelopment. *cue jaw drop.
Set to redefine the Gold Coast’s beachfront dining and shopping scene, Paradise Centre will reveal a stunning new exterior with eight brand new dining experiences, complete with unparalleled ocean views. We can also expect the addition of some very welcome retail hard hitters, and oh how we love this for us. Let’s talk food first because the only thing we live for more than shopping is eating, and we are already stressed about where to go first.
Providing locals and tourists alike with an eclectic mix of culinary offerings, there’s revamped classics and some BIG new players. We don’t like to name drop (we do), but the Wahlberg family’s first Queensland instalment of their infamous Wahlburgers is opening, and we are fangirling out of control. Serving up gourmet burger goodness, suddenly all we can think about is a young Mark Wahlberg in his Calvin Kleins circa 1992 and honestly, that changed us.
Back to the task at hand, the stunning revitalisation also includes legendary tex-mex restaurant El Camino Cantina. It’s launching its very first ever breaky in Oz and the only thing better than going out for Mexican or for breakfast, is going out for a Mexican breakfast! Also on the star-studded roll-call is American institution TGI Fridays, and our day has legit just been made.
It’s not all about American and Mexi themed nosh though, with other popular additions in the melting pot of new multicultural nomming options. We’re talking flavoursome Italiano cooking as good as Nonna’s at Enzo’s Cucina, and Thai food so authentic that even ‘Thai-hard’ food critics will agree that all you need is ‘larb’ – and Nahm Talay Thai!
Everyone’s quick, fresh and healthy food-on-the-go hero, Hero Sushi, made the cut, as did Gelato Messina and its 40 redonkulously good varieties of gelato #IDie. Another note-worthy addition is the premium barista-made coffee and modern Aussie cuisine at La Playa, coz one can never have too much quality caffeine in their life.
Also injecting new blood into the Surfers region is the refurbished Eastern Mall. Who can resist Ava Beauty, Stateside Sports, Rip Curl and Baku Swimwear, and may we suggest you try on the latest bikinis before you hit the restaurants…for obvious reasons #BurgerBloat #TheStruggleIsReal. Joining the recently launched Surf Dive N’ Ski and Vans, the Paradise Centre’s line-up of shopping haunts will delight any shopper.
This exciting redevelopment adds to Paradise Centre’s 90+ specialty shops, alfresco dining and humdinger entertainment precinct with the world’s largest Timezone, Zone Bowling, MANIAX Axe Throwing, and more to come. In our humble opinion, this couldn’t have come at a better time with new hotels opening and action a-plenty unfolding around the heart of the GC.
Now more than ever, our beloved Surfers Paradise is doing justice to the second part of its idyllic name, thanks to the likes of our favourite seaside shopping and dining hub, the levelled-up Paradise Centre. For more information, visit here.
Where: 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
When: New dining precinct opening Friday 9 September. Wahlburgers and TGI Fridays exact opening date TBA.
STORY SPONSORED BY PARADISE CENTRE
Words by Bianca Trathen.
TGI Fridays Is now open in Surfers and holy burger Batman, we’re tickled red, white and blue ya’ll!
And let it be known that we’re not just talking about any TGI Fridays here, this is the Australasian flagship restaurant, so get ready for more fanfare than you can poke a full rack of ribs at.
Right at home in the revamped Paradise Centre beachfront dining precinct, this American hospitality icon is throwing everything its got at the epic launch celebrations starting today.
Call your burger buddy and wing man for not one but four days of bun, we mean, fun…but actually bun too….guaranteed to delight the whole fam from your macaroni mad mini-me to your nacho nomming Nanna.
Current mood: chip-per!
Station yourself on the Esplanade, surrounding streets or inside the Paradise Centre today between midday and 3pm to see the TGI Fridays cheerleaders in action and srsly, is this not the ultimate in American frivolity. Better yet, they’ll be armed with FREE fairy floss* and TGI Fridays treats* to give away and are we too old to score free floss, asking for a friend?
Who isn’t keen as mustard for happy hour on a Friday arv, and never a stupider question has been asked. Enjoy a beverage from the Classics, Fridays Favourites, Born in NYC, and Ultimate Cocktails ranges, or the super spesh limited-edition cocktail launching exclusively at TGI Fridays Surfers Paradise #RubberArmTwisted. The aptly named Surf’s Up is a refreshing spritz made with Malibu, pineapple juice, Prosecco and a pineapple garnish and if we were an ocean side cocktail, this would be it.
Get comfy because at 8pm, local musos Vanessa Krumma Duo will be there pumping out some bangers to help you savour every single moment.
Then, be one of the first hunji people waiting outside the restaurant on Saturday morning at 11am for a FREE* Signature Whiskey Glaze Single Stack Burger. This grass-fed beef patty basted with signature Jack Daniel’s glaze, topped with melted American-style cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles and roasted garlic aioli is a taste sensation, and the one bun for us. Pair it with some drinks overlooking the big blue and LBH, they had us at whisky glaze.
Settle in on Saturday evening because DJ Jatrixx will be providing the tunes from 8pm until late.
This brings us to Sunday, the ultimate family fun day with a balloon twister from 12pm to 3pm, plus FREE* game for the kiddos. Just add ankle-biter friendly party platters and build your-own sundaes available for purchase, and #PerfectDayMade. One lucky diner will win a holiday and nope, this is not a drill. To celebrate the launch, you have the chance to score yourself a $500 hotel voucher, $500 spending money, $500 voucher to spend on local activities*, and a $500 VIP TGI Fridays experience! Mic drop. All you have to do is sign up to MyFridays via the TGI Fridays AU app or website by 8th December, select Surfers Paradise as your favourite restaurant.
Shut up and take our entry already.
If you can’t make it this weekend, firstly cancel your original plans coz this is more important and secondly, the Friday’s famous all-day dining menu will be available from 10.30am – late seven days a week. We’re talking finger lickin classics like signature wings, juicy burgers, shoe-string fries, wraps, nourishing bowls, salads, fresh-mex meals, mouthwatering steaks, and slow-cooked, flame-grilled ribs with your choice of glaze.
Oh and bonus, kids eat free Monday to Thursday* so mum and dad, that’s your cue to take a night off from kitchen duty and enjoy the perfect family ‘ketchup’.
For more information on TGI Fridays, or to book go here. Bookings are encouraged, especially with a weekend as packed full of fun as this one.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
When: Launching Thursday 8th November from 10.30am. Then open 10.30am – late Monday – Sunday.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY TGI FRIDAYS
* Conditions apply
Picture this: the game’s on, your crew’s assembled, the beer is icy cold, and the only thing louder than the crowd is your mate who suddenly thinks he’s the coach. Anything less than this elite setup? Unacceptable. But finding the ultimate spot to soak up the action – one with massive screens, solid feeds, and an atmosphere that screams game on – isn’t always an easy feat.
Luckily, we’ve done the legwork (no pre-game warm-ups required) and rounded up the best sports bars on the Gold Coast. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a casual observer, or just here for the snacks, these Gold Coast sports bars (listed north to south for your convenience) have you covered. Now, go forth and cheer responsibly – or, you know, as loudly as possible.
Hope Island Tavern
This coastal-cool tavern has had a massive glow-up, and sports fans, you’re going to love this one. The brand-new sports bar is stacked with mega screens, TAB access, and an ice-cold beer lineup that’ll keep your thirst quenched from the first whistle to the final siren.
Not just a sports haven, this revamped spot also brings next-level pub bites (hello, Prawn & Bug Rolls and Salsiccia Pizza) and a lush beer garden perfect for pre-game pints or post-match celebrations. Add in a pool table, air hockey, and weekly entertainment, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate sports, sips, and good vibes HQ.
Where: 93 Broadwater Ave, Hope Island
Crafty’s Sports Bar
Shopping and sports? An unexpected MVP combo. Smack bang in Harbour Town, Crafty’s lets you mix and match – stock up on the essentials, then settle in for some top-tier craft beers and next-level eats while you catch the action. Or, better yet, let your partner hit the stores while you lock in for the game. Win-win.
Where: Harbour Town Eats – 147/189 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters
Ashmore Tavern
If you haven’t checked out Ashmore Tavern’s $5 million glow-up, now’s the time. With a revamped sports bar (hello, sleek screens and balcony views), daily live sports, and a lineup of delicious eats, this place is serving up the action in serious style.
Where: 161 Cotlew Street, Ashmore
The Cavill Hotel
When it comes to bigger is better, The Cavill delivers – literally. With one of the biggest screens in Surfers, this is the place to park up, grab a drink, and catch every second of the action in all its larger-than-life glory. Bonus points for booking a table so you can cheer on your team in style.
Where: 46 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines
This place is a game-changer – literally. Sitting pretty on the most iconic corner in Surfers, The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines is a state-of-the-art sports mecca, boasting wrap-around digital screens, a killer menu, and an on-site microbrewery. Oh, and the city’s largest circular island bar, so you’ll never be more than a few steps away from your next cold one. Game on.
Where: Cnr Cavill Avenue and Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Broadbeach Tavern
Broadbeach Tavern is a coastal icon and your go-to for catching all the live sports action. Whether you’re watching the footy, cricket, or the latest game, the Sports Bar has you covered with huge screens showing every play, goal, and try. Catch all the sports action on the big screens or relax on the spacious deck with a drink in hand, enjoying the sunshine and ocean breeze.
Where: The Oasis, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
The Beach Hotel
Fat Freddy’s may be gone, but what has replaced it? A revamped, reimagined, and ridiculously good sports bar that blends beachy vibes with big screens. The Beach Hotel Broadbeach has more screens than ever, so you won’t miss a second of the action. With wall-to-wall TVs in the Public Bar, a breezy Beer Garden, and a menu that’s part pub grub, part chef-hatted magic, this spot delivers top-tier viewing, top-tier bites, and top-tier vibes. Game on.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
The Star Sports Bar
If sports bars had a podium, this one would be standing front and centre, medal gleaming. With 23 massive screens, private booths (yes, you can pre-book them like a VIP), and a huge 10.5-metre mega-screen, The Star Sports Bar is where legends are made – on and off the field. Add in the iciest beers and a smorgasbord of top-notch food options, and you’ve got yourself a championship-level experience.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Main Gaming Floor, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
The Sporting Globe Bar & Grill
When it comes to knowing what sports fans want, The Sporting Globe has it down to a fine art – and a nationwide lineup of venues to prove it. Expect wall-to-wall screens, daily food specials, and an electric atmosphere that rivals the final seconds of a tied game. Heading to a Gold Coast Titans match at Cbus Stadium? These legends will shuttle you there and back, so you can focus on celebrating (or commiserating) properly. Now that’s a game plan we can get behind.
Where: The Promenade, Robina Town Centre, Robina
Burleigh Bears Leagues Club
Can’t make it to the big game in person? No worries! Burleigh Bears Leagues Club is your ultimate sports haven on the Gold Coast. Whether you’re in the Lounge or the Sports Bar, this place has it all – big screens, a relaxed atmosphere, and the best spot to catch every moment of the game. With cold beers flowing and friendly staff making sure you’re looked after, it’s no surprise that this spot is a top pick for sports fans.
Where: 80 Pacific Avenue, Miami
Burleigh Town Hotel
Burleigh Town Hotel isn’t just playing the game – it’s winning it. Home to an 11-metre mega-screen (the biggest pub screen in the southern hemisphere, no less), this place is an absolute showstopper. Add in a suspended cylinder screen so you can see the action from every angle, plus a sleek new bistro for pre-game feasting, and you’ve got yourself a spectator’s paradise.
Where: Tsipura Drive, Burleigh Heads
Coolangatta Hotel
On the southern end of the Coast, The Coolangatta Hotel is the prime location to catch any sporting activities and be assured of a buoyant and passionate atmosphere. Pair it with a splash and lounge on one of Coolangatta’s famous golden beaches, and then be sure to stick around for the post-game live music, and you are onto a hole in one.
Where: Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Words by Belinda Symons
