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15 reasons locals love Broadbeach

Blues, brews and bites.

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)

If you love to wine, dine and shop you’ll love Broadbeach. If you prefer to surf, laze in the sun or strut along beachfront esplanades, you’ll also love Broadbeach. From cult-followed cafes to shiny new eats, boujee bars and shopping boutiques, this burb’s an A-grade entertainer that shines bright in the eyes of locals and visitors alike.

There are many reasons locals – and Gold Coasters far and wide – love a bit of Broady, but here are 15 to get you started.

The Star Gold Coast
If ever there was a reason to call up the babysitter, it’s for a session at The Star. Here, you’re greeted with live music and a melange of premium food options- you won’t need to go anywhere else. Start with a few bevvies at the Atrium Bar before choosing your cuisine for the night. Will it be the fresh Garden Kitchen & Bar or the award-winning Cantonese at Uncle Su’s? Why not taste Tokyo right on the Gold Coast at Kiyomi, authentic Italian eats at Cucina Vivo or the ultimate buffet experience at Harvest Buffet? Or maybe you’re looking for the chic rooftop bar at Nineteen at The Star or a sneaky drink at the new look Veladora?
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Dracula's, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Dracula's, Broadbeach (image supplied)

Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant
If you’re after a tried and tested, long-standing comedy 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! Enjoy a quality 3-course dinner and a menu of magical and mystical cocktails and shots!
Where: Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach

Social Eating House + Bar
If you consider yourself a gastronome, then this Oracle Blvd darling is for you. Social serves modern Australian flavours in a casual meets fine dining setting. For this, they’ve secured more hats than a Milliner’s workshop and have just won 3 glasses at the 2024 Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards. This comes as no surprise with Executive Chef Matthew Jefferson in charge. With a recently refreshed menu (promised to please even the most refined palates), you’ll experience a carefully curated range of bar snacks, charcuterie, and small and large share plates featuring the finest Australian ingredients and paired to perfection.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach

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

Blues on Broadbeach
Unlike our other listings, this one’s not here 24/7. However, 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 music and jazz from locals and famous acts alike, performing across multiple venues over four unforgettable days. And it’s free. When does that ever happen?!
Where: Various Broadbeach venues

Elk Espresso
This place has never met an empty table; it’s constantly bulging at the seams with raving fans. Of course, we are one of such fans. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the beach, the coffee is all-time, the menus are seasonal and heavenly, and they do a Boozy Bottomless Brunch. And sold!
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

Elk Espresso, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Elk Espresso, Broadbeach (image supplied)

The Oasis
It’s an everyday escape for locals, and one of our top shopping centres on the coast (for good reason). The Oasis is home to stunning fashion boutiques, and the number of fabulous eateries at hand is impressive in of itself. In addition to the ones we highlight in this article, we’re talking Mario’s, Madison’s 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

Broadbeach Bowls Club
Ahhh, good old lawn bowls. The game that never fails to deliver a good time. If you’re looking for the best way to spend a chill arvo on the GC, it’s with a game of barefoot bowls, brew in hand at Broadbeach Bowls Club. When you’re finished, they have a full bistro menu waiting with big portions of all your go-to pub-grub meals. They also have a canape package perfect for a laid-back birthday or celebration.
Where: 169 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
O’Connor Beef T-Bone, kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

kōst Bar & Grill
Just over a year old, yet kōst has already wriggled its way onto our hot list… sneaky bugger. Just kidding, they’re here for a reason, and credit is due! The contemporary style bar and grill is perfect for sophisticated sips, flame-grilled eats and boujee’ bar snacks’, all within a relaxed-luxury setting. Champagne with a side of caviar, anyone?
Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

No Name Lane
Well, if it isn’t No Name Lane making a name for themselves as Blake Lively’s favourite coffee. In her exact words “”the best coffee of her life”. We can attest to this, alongside the cafe’s cult local following. Not only are they adored for their cuppa, but their all-day breakfasts and gourmet lunches also go down a treat so if you haven’t been, remedy this immediately.
Where: 16 Charles Ave, Broadbeach

Pancakes at No Name Lane, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Pancakes at No Name Lane, Broadbeach (image supplied)

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

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

Pacific Fair, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Pacific Fair, Broadbeach (image supplied)

Pacific Fair
This list wouldn’t be complete without mention of THE queen. Pacific Fair (aka Pac Fair) is any Gold Coasters first point of call when a new ensemble or therapy (retail or other) is required. It has every retailer you could possibly wish for, fabulous food options and indisputably the most gorgeous fit-out you’ve ever seen. Nothing rivals it.
Where: Gold Coast Hwy and Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach

Costa Taco
You bet we did a happy dance when news broke that our fav taqueria from Palm Beach had opened a third location in Broady (the second was Byron). For us, and many (most) Gold Coasters, it was a love at first bite. Costa Taco stole our taste buds with their authentic, flavour-filled eats and there was no turning back. And why would we? You would have to be coco to say no no to coconut margaritas?
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

Costa Taco, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Quesabirrias, Costa Taco, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

The Lamb Shop
In a pita shell, you’re getting bangin bar snacks and succulent souvlaki- what’s not to love? After a long day on Broadbeach beach (presumably), when you’re feeling sun-kissed and salt wrapped, is there anything better than biting into a tangy lamb-filled pita wrap to replenish exerted energy? No! The Lamb Shop’s entire menu is prepared in-house daily, using only fresh local produce, premium cuts and authentic grilling techniques. That’s why we love em!
Where: 1 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

The Beach Hotel Broadbeach
There’s no better place to snag a seat and sink a beer (or a Golden Hour Sour) on a Saturday arvy than at the brand new The Beach Hotel in Broadbeach. The airy spaces and indoor-outdoor flow let the sea breeze carry through the beer garden into the public bar. The vibe is set to ‘summer chill’, eats are delish, sips are refreshing and every corner is designed for the perfect gathering with your pals. After some spirited fun, head inside Cora, a restaurant within The Beach Hotel, where fine dining and a laid-back atmosphere come together to deliver palate-pleasing Mediterranean-inspired bites and crisp, cool drinks. Don’t mind if we do.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

The Beach Hotel Broadbeach (image supplied)
The Beach Hotel Broadbeach (image supplied)

8 of Broadbeach’s best breakfast spots

The thing about Broadbeach is that they just GET breakfast. Well I mean, they also get bars, fine dining and even shopping but if you ask us, the humble brekky is where they really shine. Whether you’re a savoury sarnie lover, a sucker for a smoothie, or someone who loves an epic brunch spread, they’ve just got a bit of everything to be honest. Here’s our pick of the top spots where you can fuel up for a big day of whatever that little heart of yours desires.

Pancakes at No Name Lane, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Pancakes at No Name Lane, Broadbeach (image supplied)

No Name Lane
This place might not have a name, but it sure has a reputation. And a darn good rep at that. Known for its specialty coffee, No Name Lane is where the caffeine connoisseurs flock. Pair your cup of joe with their avocado toast or signature scrambled eggs, and you’ll be ready to take on the world (or at least Broadbeach). It’s cool, it’s stylish, and it’s the perfect way to kick off your morning – and it’s the spot that celebs (hello Blake Lively) can’t stop flocking to when they’re on the the glittering GC.
Where: 16 Charles Ave, Broadbeach

Elk Espresso (image by Jade Quinlivan Photography)
Elk Espresso (image by Jade Quinlivan Photography)

Elk Espresso
Elk Espresso is the breakfast spot not just for the ‘gram, but obviously your taste buds too. Their menu changes seasonally, so there’s always something new and exciting to discover – no matter how many times you’ve been before – but you can always expect some epic flavours and almost-too-pretty-to-eat dishes like their French toast. or chilli scrambled eggs. Not to mention, they’re home to the boozy brunch so if you prefer your espresso in martini form then they’ve got you sorted.
Where: Shop G044 Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Ave, Broadbeach

Food at Banksy Bar & Kitchen, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
A breakfast spread at Banksy Bar & Kitchen, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Banksy
No, this isn’t the spot where you’ll find a rogue, anonymous graffiti artist, but you will find one of the best breakfast menus in town. Banksy is all about blending creativity and comfort food, with dishes like the Banksy Big Breakfast along with grab and go goodies like the Fish & Crisp Toastie – they’re not just bringing big flavours but also big feels, with a huge focus on sustainability so you can eat in good conscience.
Where: The Spot, Shop 1/2763 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

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

Nineteen at The Star
Okay this one is a little boujee, but if you’re looking to elevate your breakfast game – quite literally – Nineteen at The Star offers breathtaking views and a seriously luxe morning spread. With dishes like decadent Spanner Crab Omelette and Southern Buttermilk Biscuits for the sweet tooth, it’s pretty much the perfect spot for a special occasion or when you just want to feel fancy before noon. Top it off with a mimosa or a glass of bubbles, because why not? It’d be rude not to.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach

Alkemist, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Alkemist, Broadbeach (image supplied)

Alkemist
For those of you looking for a breaky that’s equal parts health-conscious and indulgent, Alkemist is the answer to your prayers. These guys have been making their mark on Broady for a longggg time now and it might have something to do with how their menu is big on vibrant, nourishing dishes that don’t compromise on flavour. Think: acai bowls, vegan delights, and avo toast done *right*. It’s the perfect balance of green goodness and comfort food to set the tone for a bright, sunny day and even better – they’re not just dog friendly, they’re dog lovers.
Where: 1/1 Sunshine Blvd, Broadbeach Waters

Breakfast at Luna's, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Breakfast at Luna's, Broadbeach (image supplied)

Luna’s
You might know Luna’s for its pizza and wine, but don’t sleep on their breakfast menu! Swing by for morning bites that’ll have you coming back for more, the Ricotta & Smoked Salmon Toast with Quail Eggs, Cucumber and Salmon Caviar is honestly the GOAT brekky if you ask us – and we reckon we can say that on pretty good authority. So come on, it’s time to see Luna in a new light – well, morning light that is.
Where: Shop G0.71b The Oasis, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

Tamago Sando & Iced Matcha Jelly, Goya Cafe (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Tamago Sando & Iced Matcha Jelly, Goya Cafe (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Goya
We just love Goya so matcha we couldn’t keep this one to ourselves anymore, because how could you not obsess over Broadbeach’s very own Japanese-inspired café. If you’ve never tried a Japanese sando then you need to get around their signature Tamago Sando with egg, tobikko and mayo or the Fruits Sando – think delish cream with fresh fruit stuffed in the fluffiest bread you’ve ever had. miso soup for breakfast, now’s your chance. Their menu is the perfect blend of east meets west, and a real adventure for your taste buds. If you like your breakfast super colourful order the rainbow cheese toast.
Where: 9/2669 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

Private Dining at Harvest Buffet, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Harvest Buffet, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

Harvest Buffet
Want a little bit of everything? Then the Harvest Buffet breakfast at The Star is your morning jackpot. With stations packed full of everything from pastries to pancakes and eggs to international delights, this buffet is the definition of “go big or go home”, and let me tell you – we’ll be going big AND THEN going home. It’s perfect for the indecisive eater or those of us who just want it all, really – guilty!
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach

Pizza and gelato: a dough-vine duo

Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Just when we thought we had wrangled our willpower, along comes Ciccio’s Pizza & Gelato seducing us with their crispy-yet-chewy wood-fired pizza and decadent, artisan gelato. Don’t they know that’s our favourite pairing? We’re officially weak at the knees for all things kneaded and scooped.

Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Taking the place of Marilyn’s in Broadbeach, Ciccio’s is here to delight with contemporary-style pizza that’s light and airy, with beautifully blistered crusts.

What sets Ciccio’s apart? This isn’t your standard slice. Their pizza crusts are crafted from a long-rising dough that not only tastes delish, but it’s easier to digest. Translation: you can eat more! The long rise delivers a fluffiness that pairs perfectly with premium Italian toppings. With 30+ unique pizzas to explore—think everything from classics to gourmet creations—the hardest part is choosing where to start.

Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Step inside this charming, 60-seater spot, and you’ll be greeted by the warm aroma of fresh pizzas baking away in a wood-fired oven and pops of colour with interiors inspired by Puglia and Sicily, and brought to life by interior designer Laryssa Preisner.  The phrase on the wall declares, “si mangia con le mani”, Italian for you eat with your hands”. Good luck resisting the urge to dive right in!

Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Their menu is sectioned into Classic Red, Classic White, Gourmet and Calzoni-folded. Where to start? We headed straight for the Purple Rain – with a purple potato cream base, topped with Italian pork fennel sausage, golden onion, olive dust, basil and oregano.

Signature options that only a fool would pass up (we’re not fools) include Ciccios Favourite, with a carrot base, topped with pulled beef, pecorino, cherries, fresh stracciatella cheese and shallots and Sweet Lady, featuring fresh local cow mozzarella, gorgonzola, dry figs, Italian parma ham, fresh stracciatella cheese and basil. You’ll be devouring your pizza with gusto.

Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Ciccios' Favourite pizza, Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Ciccio’s Owner and Head Chef Emanuele has been mastering the art of pizza and gelato from a young age, honing his skills it Italy before moving to the Gold Coast in 2015. Fast forward through nine years of craft refining and here we are. Ciccio’s delivers a truly authentic, yet acutely unique pizzeria experience.

The menu is expertly eccentric while keeping all the classics made to perfection. Each pizza is thoughtfully paired with a matching wine or beer to enhance the flavour experience. For a little more oomph, their specialty Limoncello Spritz is another ‘fools wouldn’t pass up’ edition.

Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Now, when they ask “Would you like to see the dessert menu?” you reply “Hell yeah” or live in regret forevermore. In addition to eighteen homemade and heavenly gelato flavours, they’ve created six unique dessert pizzas with gelato toppings. Say less! The Tartuffo di Pizzo Calabro and Sicilian Brioche with Gelato are not to be missed.

Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Dessert pizza at Ciccio's Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

With Emanuele, a Sicilian maestro of pizza and gelato at the helm, Ciccio’s isn’t just a meal—it’s a journey straight to the heart of Italy. Grab a slice, scoop and glass, and let Ciccio’s take you there.

Where: East Tower The Phoenician Building, Shop 10/104 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
When: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 5.30pm. Weekends from 12pm

Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Images by Mathilde Bouby

Coffee and connection

Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Fire up the group chat for a catch-up! Broadbeach has a new go-to spot for coffee lovers and those who love a chat. It’s called Sonder, a café where sipping, snacking and sharing stories are all part of the experience.

Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

The masterminds behind Sonder, Marc Nanfro and Michael Romeo, set out to create more than a café – they wanted a space where locals could gather, share a meal and perhaps even spark up a conversation with a fellow coffee enthusiast.

Marc said, “The word Sonder comes from a book The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows. It is the realisation that everyone has their own story. We want our customers to come in, relax, enjoy a coffee, good food and meet other people from different walks of life.”

Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Marc and Michael’s own story is one of friendship, creativity and craftsmanship that began over a decade ago.

Back then, they were carpenters crafting furniture. Fast forward a few years, and Marc traded his toolbox for coffee beans, opening his first café in Melbourne’s northern suburbs. Six years later, he’s brought his vision to the Gold Coast, teaming up with Michael again to build Sonder.

Poached Pear with pistachio crumble, Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Poached Pear with pistachio crumble, Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

And when we say build, we mean it. From floor layouts to the mid-century modern-meets-luxury interiors, Marc and Michael designed and constructed every inch of the space themselves.

Step inside, and let the crackle of vinyl records set the tone. The cosy lounge area with plush seating and wooden accents invites you to sink into vintage vibes while the dog-friendly outdoor area is perfect for soaking up Broadbeach’s vibrant atmosphere on a hot summer day.

Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

It’s not just the setting that tells a story, though – it’s the menu. Head Chef Liye Sakuma has whipped up a lineup that’s equal parts comfort and creativity.

Start your day with a Breakfast Bagel loaded with scrambled egg, bacon, hash, tasty cheese, rocket and chilli jam.

For the sweet tooth there’s the Fresh Fruit Bagel featuring a blueberry bagel topped with ricotta, fresh strawberries, blueberries and honey. It’s summer on a plate.

Fresh Fruit Bagel, Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Fresh Fruit Bagel, Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

For those seeking decadence, the Truffle Cheese Toastie oozing with cheddar, mozzarella, tasty cheese and black truffle is irresistible.

Craving something heartier? Buddy’s Burger Toastie, named after Marc’s Melbourne cafe, is packed with a smashed burger patty, pickles, tasty cheese and signature buddy sauce. Add a side of hot honey halloumi fries and you’ll have everyone coming over to your table for a chat (and a chip)!

Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

With the owners hailing from Melbourne, you know the coffee will be top notch. Toby’s Estate is the coffee of choice and it’s yours however you choose to sip it. If you’re feeling adventurous, ask the barista for a Mont Blanc – it’s a specialty coffee made with filter coffee, sugar syrup, fresh cream, nutmeg and orange zest.

Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Sonder invites you to sip, savour the moment and share a story or two.

Where: 1/12 Philip Avenue, Broadbeach
Hours: 5:30am – 2pm daily

Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Mathilde Bouby

Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
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