If you’re craving a hot new Thai spot, satay no more because Limlay Thai is here (well they will be come Friday 21st June). Since it’s a tad inconvenient to pop over to Thailand for a quick feed they figured they’d bring true Thai, Gold Coast style to Burleigh.

The brains behind Nahm Talay in Surfers and Valyn Thai in Isle of Capri have brought our favourite flavours down south so the rest of us can get in on the action. It’s about darn Thai-m!

Nestled among Burleigh’s best and busiest restaurants you’ll find Limlay Thai on the Gold Coast Highway taking pride of place where Suzy BBQ once called home. You’ll find loads of variety on the menu as you would expect if you’re familiar with their sister restaurants. Think Thai refined street food – blending traditional flavours with a contemporary flair.

Limlay means by the sea, a perfect fit for this locale. It’s beachside dining at its best. The clean, modern interiors shine with pops of print and colour, so you can get comfy while you wait for the good time to start rolling. And by good times, we mean cocktails, of which there are loads.

Think colourful concoctions with a side of theatre, like the Lychee Martini hidden among a haze of smoke as it’s served. Gin lovers, you’ll want to get your hands on the Crystal Pink – the ultimate combo of gin, white rum, ruby Tuesday press juice, lime, strawberry and passionfruit with a pink sugar stick on top. It manages to taste even better than it looks.

Now let’s talk starters. Did you really go to a Thai restaurant if you didn’t get Chicken Satay Sticks? Not in our books tbh, but we’ll forgive you because if chicken isn’t your vibe you’ll want to give the BBQ Pork or Beef Skewers a try. Think succulent marinated meats perfectly seasoned Thai style.

For seafood lovers, the Prawns with Chilli Lime Dressing pack a punch with their mix of prawns, cabbage, chilli, garlic, lime, coriander, and mint. It’s just as flavourful as it is colourful #winwin. Or go large with the Whole Barramundi with Thai ‘Three Flavour’ Sauce and thank us later.

Now winter is here which means we’re craving classic curries and delish soups, because nothing warms the stomach and the soul like a big bowl of Tom Yum or a Hot Pot.

It’s a bold claim but we believe Limlay has some of the best-tasting curries in all of the Gold Coast (there – we said it) on the menu. It’s time to get better acquainted with traditional Thai and crowd favourites like the BBQ Chicken Yellow Curry which combines red onion, watermelon and coriander for a seriously fresh flavour combo that we bet you’ve not tasted before.

Whether you’re all about venturing out of your comfort zone or sticking to the classics like a Red Duck Curry or hearty Lamb Shank Massaman the menu is packed with rich and rare flavours we can’t get enough of.

Freshen up your palate with a side of Limlay’s signature salads like the Thai Som Tum with green pawpaw, chilli, garlic, snake beans, tomatoes and peanuts doing all the talking. The ultimate combo to break up the rich Thai flavours, so you can keep going back for seconds… or thirds… or fourths. No judgement here.

No meal is complete without a cheeky side of dessert and what better excuse than to get a taste of Thailand with Mango Sticky Rice or their signature Toast with Creamy Pandan Coconut? Sounds simple but trust us, the flavours are anything but.

In a curry? We mean, hurry… Limlay Thai’s grab-and-go menu has you covered with quick bites like Pork Skewers and crunchy Calamari to keep the hunger at bay while you go about your day.

Where: 1/1730 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
When: Open daily for lunch and dinner
Monday – Thursday from 11:30am – 3pm and 5pm – 9:30pm
Friday from 11:30am – 3pm and 5pm – 11:30pm
Saturday from 11am – 4pm and 5pm – 11:30pm
Sunday from 11am – 4pm and 5pm – 9pm

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski
Venue Images by Mathilde Bouby

2025 has seen some exciting new venues open, adding an extra dose of deliciousness to the Gold Coast dining scene. Whether you’re after a laid-back brunch, a fiery Latin feast or a sweet treat to satisfy your summer cravings, this month’s hot new spots are guaranteed to impress. Here’s a round-up of the top venue openings that are already making waves.

A couple of these venues opened late last year, but we covered them in January, so we’ve included them in our round-up.

Bobby Bang’s
Bang on delicious— Bobby Bang’s is shaking up the cafe scene at The Oxley with its vibrant, Asian-inspired brekkie menu. The team from Lucky Bao have crafted a menu that has something for everyone – from breakfast ramen with crispy bacon to shokupan French toast topped with whipped cream, strawberries and hojicha caramel. The ceremonial matcha drinks and signature cocktails complement the bold flavours and zen vibes.
Where: The Oxley Atrium, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach

Tallebudgera Surf Club
Talle Creek Park’s $12 million upgrade has transformed it into a must-visit hotspot for locals and tourists alike, and now Tallebudgera Surf Club has matched that with a glow up itself. Offering a range of new experiences, the club features the Bean Surfing Beach Café, perfect for a post-surf breakfast, and a lively Sports Bar for cheering on your team. Enjoy ocean views with fresh dishes like Lobster Tacos and the Seafood Platter for Two. With an extensive drinks menu, gelato bar and classic surf club meals, every visit supports the lifesavers keeping the beaches safe.
Where: 1505 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Burly Gin
Burly Gin is shaking up the Gold Coast’s bar scene with its bold and refreshing flavours in Currumbin. Located in The Warehouses, this sleek venue offers a sophisticated blend of New York-inspired design and tropical charm. Burly Gin’s trio of gins – cucumber, citrus and berry – are the stars of the cocktail menu, with standout drinks like the Garden Smash and Sunset Negroni. Pair your sips with modern Australian dishes such as Anchovies with Egg Butter and Kingfish Ceviche. Burly Gin is the perfect spot for gin lovers and newcomers alike.
Where: 60 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin

Sonder
Discover something special at Sonder, the Broadbeach cafe that’s all about meaningful connections and great coffee. With a stunning mid-century modern vibe, this spot invites you to relax, enjoy your meal and connect with others. The menu features creative eats like the truffle cheese toastie and breakfast bagels, plus a range of delicious coffee options, including the specialty Mont Blanc. Whether you’re in for a quick bite or a leisurely catch-up, Sonder has you covered.
Where: 1/12 Philip Avenue, Broadbeach

Harvest Foodhouse
Sprouting up in Robina is Harvest Foodhouse, offering a delightful culinary escape. The creation of Anja and Jonathan Ede, this vibrant spot blends exceptional Australian flavours with a relaxed, garden-inspired atmosphere. Anja, a fifth-generation baker, brings her legacy to every dish, while Head Chef Kristie Flower’s menu delivers a fusion of cafe classics with modern twists. With its outdoor seating area, stunning murals, and inviting ambiance, Harvest Foodhouse promises a tranquil retreat where food, friends and good vibes flourish.
Where: Shop 16, 361 Robina Parkway, Robina

Norte and Sueño
Bringing vibrant Latin flair to Nobby Beach, the Rick Shores team is serving up a festive culinary experience at their new venues Norte and Sueño. Inspired by Mexico City and Latin American culture, Norte offers a chic, sultry atmosphere with flame-kissed dishes like 72-hour short rib and Fremantle octopus, while the sun-drenched rooftop at Sueño serves ceviches, tacos, and skewers. With a 150-bottle wine list and cocktails that sing, these venues promise to deliver a fiesta for both the taste buds and the soul. Grab your friends, sip tequila and savour the flavours!
Where: The Oxley Atrium, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach

Gelato Gemelli
Gelato Gemelli brings authentic Italian gelato to Nobby Beach, offering a sweet escape with every scoop. Created by the Carney brothers, known for their popular Gemelli Group Restaurants, this cosy gelato haven features creamy creations made from scratch using imported equipment from Bologna. Signature flavours like Pisellino (pistachio cream and white chocolate) and seasonal options like Amafli Limone transport you to Italy. Whether in a cone, cup or brioche gelato sandwich, Gelato Gemelli promises a taste of Italy’s dolce vita.
Where: The Oxley Atrium, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach

Butter Bodega
Butter Bodega, a New York-style bodega in Labrador, is bringing Big Apple flavour to the Gold Coast. Created by husband-and-wife duo Ivan and Monique, this chic convenience store serves up mouthwatering sandwiches like Black Truffle Squid Ink Salami and Spiced Beef Pastrami on New York Rye, alongside specialty coffee and unique drinks like Biscoff Lattes and Pumpkin Spice Matcha. With its stylish interior and family-friendly vibe, Butter Bodega is the perfect spot to grab a bite or shop for gourmet treats.
Where: Shop 15, 300 Marine Pde, Labrador

Bar Monte
The Light Years team is raising the bar on Italian dining, with their new Bar Monte in Miami offering a menu that’s simply pasta-tively divine! From oozy Burrata to a decadent Chicken Liver Eclair, its dishes have Gold Coasters saying “mamma mia!” Seafood lovers will see just how good Linguine di Mare al Cartoccio can be, while meat enthusiasts can savour a Bistecca steak lovingly coated in a Porcini Rub. Paired with divine wines and signature cocktails, it’s clear – Bar Monte is your passport to Italy– no boarding pass required.
Where: No.3 Mountain View Ave, Miami

Wendy’s
Wendy’s is bringing the sizzle to our fast-food scene with its first-ever Australian location in Surfers Paradise! Square away your hunger with their iconic fresh beef square patties and crispy chicken tenders, specifically made for Aussie taste buds. Whether you’re biting into the Classic Double or the Baconmator, it’s no wonder this chain is famous for its flavours. Don’t forget to dip into signature sauces and for the sweet finish, the Frosty is sure to have you melting with joy! It’s just the beginning of Wendy’s big expansion across the country!
Where: Paradise Centre, Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise

Pokkoi
Pokkoi is wok-ing its magic in Coolangatta, serving up a sizzling fusion of Asian flavours that will have you soy excited! Owner Rachael Nguyen has brought her expertise and enthusiasm across the ditch for her first Australian venture, and we welcome it with open mouths. From the zesty Hiramasa Kingfish to the indulgent Beef Rendang Donut, every bite is an explosion of umami goodness. For the ultimate Asian fusion dish, the Whole Burrata served with heirloom tomato, chilli oil, Viet mint and roti is sure to make your taste buds dance. Wash it down with a Thai Tea Cocktail and you’ve got yourself a flavour-packed feast!
Where: 52-58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

YOMG
Yo, my goodness, YOMG has officially dished out a new spot at Pacific Fair! Flipping the script on burgers and froyo, YOMG is serving up stacked, snackable goodness. Their hand-pressed, locally sourced beef patties are the real MVP, while the froyo bar is a swirl of endless possibilities. From loaded fries to crispy wings, every bite is a taste bud touchdown. Whether you’re in the mood to feast with friends or treat yo’self, YOMG is the ultimate pit stop for flavour-packed bites.
Where: Pacific Fair (opposite Sephora), Broadbeach

Roca
Roca is nacho average Latin eatery in Byron Bay. From the fresh Watermelon Ceviche to the zingy Arroz Chaufa, every dish will have you taco-ing about it long after the meal. The Rocatina Burger, with its tuna, avocado, and fried sweet potato, is post-beach bliss, while the Mixed Fried Empanadas pack a punch of flavour. For an unforgettable dinner party, the Eat Like Papi experience fires up at 5pm with chefs grilling meats and preparing fresh ceviche before your eyes. You’ll be roca–ing and rolling with every bite and sip!
Where: 14 Lawson Street, Byron Bay

Commitment Issues
Hello, is it waffles you’re looking for? Commitment Issues in Nobby Beach will hook you up! Whether you’re swooning over the crispy Fried Chicken ‘N’ Waffle Stack or going crazy about the CI-style burger, there’s more options to choose from than matches on a dating app! The coffee slushies are a cool companion to your meal, and with self-ordering kiosks, you can easily commit to a fresh, seasonal feast. No strings attached, just pure brunch bliss – you’ll fall in love with every bite!
Where: Shop 5/28 Chairlift Avenue, Mermaid Beach

Words by Lisette Drew

Look we’re all partial to a good hat but if you’re a chef, a hat is all that and a bag of chips. Each year, the Australian Good Food Guide awards hats to the crème de la crème in the restaurant world. Although many of our neighbouring states and cities may have once turned their noses up at the GC dining landscape, sir, times are a’changin!

This year, a whopping 26 of our fave local eats destinations scored at least one hat, and we are proud as punch! The AGFG rates each restaurant out of 20. No restaurant has yet achieved the holy grail of a perfect score.

In a twist everyone saw coming, Broadbeach cleaned up with eight venues receiving hats, including BLOWFISH Ocean Grill + Bar, which debuted on the list this year with a score of 13. Social Eating House and Bar (13) also made the list with fellow Oracle Boulevard residents Mamasan Kitchen + Bar, (13), kōst (12) and Orzo (12).

Of course, a couple of The Star Gold Coast’s restaurants collected gongs, including Japanese sensation Kiyomi (14) and Modern Australian go-to for a fancy night out Nineteen at the Star (13).

Rounding up Broady’s winners are grinners list with a score of 13 is long standing steak restaurant, Moo Moo The Wine Bar and Grill.

Moving slightly south to Mermaid Beach and boutique dining superstar The North Room scored a whopping 15, while the beloved Little Truffle has scored 14 and esteemed Japanese restaurant Etsu Izakaya earned a 13.

Euro-inspired newcomer Juju brought a whole new level of fun and flavour to Mermaid in October and made its debut with a score of 12, as did The Oxley’s sizzling new addition, Lars.

Robina’s Eddy + Wolff represented with a well-earned 12. It just goes to show that the ‘burbs can cook up a winner too, not just the Insta-set-favoured pockets. Speaking of, Mudgeeraba’s intimate Japanese (and under-the-radar superstar) Anekawa, earned itself a 14.

Now let’s talk Burleigh and again, there are a few to unpack here. Rick Shores scored 13 for its delectable contemporary pan-Asian cuisine. The Gold Coast highway strip represented with Vietnamese pin-up boy Jimmy Wah’s, Kin and newcomer LIMLAY Thai Street Food & Bar all scoring 12.

Hidden gem, La Bella Cellar also got a well deserved nod (13).

Daniel Ridgeway’s new Palm Beach offering Madame V was shown some love with 12.

Let’s journey back to the central neck of the woods, starting with Surfers Paradise’s Modern Australian superstar Palette located at HOTA, Home of the Arts, who proudly scored 16, earning them the highest score and making them the first three hatted restaurant on the Gold Coast.

The JW Marriott Gold Coast’s seafood superstar Citrique earned a 14, while the QT’s Japanese phenomenon Yamagen and The Langham’s Cantonese gem T’ang Court scored 12.

Neighbouring Main Beach’s modern Australian waterfront venue La Luna scored a 12.

Anyone who still says we’re lacking in the quality eats department here on the Goldie, now is the time to concede defeat because this list of local victories confirms what we already knew – our foodie scene has officially become a force to be reckoned with and there’s plenty more to come…

Words by Belinda Symons