We say oui to Room81!
We say oui to Room81!
Bonsoir madames and monsieurs..
Aaand we’ve reached the limit of our French capabilities. Where do we head to fulfil our French food fantasies when the cravings just won’t quit? Straight to the heart of Broadbeach to the crème de la crème of the Gold Coast’s culinary crop, Room81, bien sûr.
You already know the Sofitel Gold Coast’s impeccable reputation for all things indulgent, so naturally, its very own French gem Room81 is a love letter to the world capital of gourmet cuisine. Taking all those beloved flavours and textures of classic French recipes and putting their own contemporary twist for a magnifique gastronomic journey.
Stepping in to the space feels kind of like being invited to some kind of exclu culinary club, it’s cosy and intimate with just the right amount of elegance that gives you the heads up to prepare for an experience that’s a little bit spesh. Rich timbers and dark accents bring the mood, with the exposed beams that line the ceiling drawing your eye out to the alfresco dining space on the deck and street beyond. Bringing the ambience to offset all those dramatic finishes is the warm glow of the various lighting features incorporated throughout the room.
At the helm is head chef YK, who brings a whole lotta experience whipping up deliciousness at the likes of other local faves like Social Eating House + Bar. We were fortunate enough to win him over during a GC holiday a few years back (take that, Sydney), and well, we’ve been reaping the benefits ever since.
Since we can’t resist a cheeky name drop, after previously notching up some rather prolific names such as Quay Restaurant and The Ritz Carlton Hotel in Naples, Florida, YK felt it was officially time for him to set his sights on his dream to “work at a restaurant in a 5-star hotel” here on the Coast. Keen to continue the well-respected reputation Room81 was known for with a YK twist, giving it the “young and kute” treatment, as he calls it. He adds “Room81’s signature dishes are evolving and it will continue to change for giving our lovely guests having fun every time they visit.”
Currently, the menu showcases the signature blend of contemporary and classic Parisian flavours (and of course a painstakingly curated selection of French wines for the full authentic experience). Our tip would be to leave it in YK’s expert hands for the full experience and indulge in the Chef’s Tasting Menu, with a continuous serving of Shared Plates, and at $89pp it’s an irresistibly sweet deal. With a focus on seasonal and local produce, the Chefs offering changes accordingly – but expect to be wowed by dishes such as Tartare de boeuf – Wagyu with dijon, pickles, capers, horseradish, wagyu fat snow, milk skin and the signature Apple salad aka Salade de pommes with compressed apple, almond cream, basil oil, apple balsamic.
And if you’re suddenly in the mood for a fancy French feast, #same. But before you escar-go-t straight over and book yourself in for the full wining and dining treatment that’s a oui bit different in all the best ways, check out our 5 minutes with the man himself, YK.
5 MINUTES WITH CHEF YK
What inspired you to join Room81?
My dream since arriving on the Gold Coast was to work at an established restaurant in a five-star hotel, I knew of Room 81’s reputation from its many awards and through my network of foodies. As soon as I had started in conversation with Executive chef Steve Forrester and learning about his vision and passion for food, I knew I could make this a success, Chef Steve allows me to put my own signature on the food served in Room 81 but it’s also great that I can lean on him for the true French influence from his vast back ground. I’m really excited to work with my young team of chefs and font of house team to honour the Room 81 reputation.
How would you describe the culinary style or concept of Room81?
It’s an homage to French classics, being part of the Sofitel hotel, we try to use classical French techniques and luxury styling as the base, our food, cocktails and even service are young at the moment, since the whole Covid experience impacted many restaurants across the world we felt like we had the chance to start again, so the style and concept will evolve as we do.
How do you plan to give the menu the signature YK touch?
I call it Young and Kute, ha ha, after my name, which is all about being playful, using quality seasonal ingredients and making them shine using colour and multiple textures and techniques on each plate, you really have to try it.
Can you share any signature dishes or innovative menu items that customers can look forward to experiencing at Room81?
Room 81’s dishes are ever evolving, but we always have something for everyone, like our wagyu tartare with wagyu fat milk skin and our yummy version of smoked Tasmanian salmon French toast, sounds like breakfast, but it’s even better as dinner. We are always working with our suppliers to enhance our offering, this next month we have a partnership with Woombye cheese. Chef Steve and I are always looking at new products, but always bring out the classic luxury items like Lobster, caviar and Truffle.
Where: Sofitel Gold Coast, 81 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
When: Tuesday to Saturday – 4pm to late
Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Brittany Kreskas.
STORY SPONSORED BY SOFITEL GOLD COAST & ROOM81
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
PERMANENTLY CLOSED
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
It’s been a minute since we brought news from Broadbeach but what we have to share today will make up for that. You guessed it Gold Coasters, it’s a new eatery for the bustling suburb but not just any old eatery. It’s a sophisticated stunner that’s already amassed a horde of fans and you’re going to be one of them the minute you lay eyes on the place.
It’s called Sofia’s Restaurant & Bar and it’s the work of Henry Hunt whose foray into the restaurant owning business is an impressive one and we think you’re going to adore it as much as we do.
His hospitality rap sheet is filled with some of Sydney’s finest and when it came to creating the newbie, he wanted to offer something truly unique (which he has) where absolutely everything is made in-house.
Found at The Oasis Shopping Centre, where Bloke in a Bar once lived, Sofia’s is the epitome of sophistication fit out with fresh coastal whites, exposed brick and glossy black tiles. It’s an entirely outdoor dining situation (undercover) but with an open kitchen and beautifully appointed bar, you won’t be far from the action.
Let’s talk about the best part though and that friends, is the food. Former Head Chef of award winning The Fish House in Burleigh Heads, Damien Styles, is now the Head Chef at Sofia’s Restaurant & Bar in Broadbeach. Drawing on flavours from coastal European cuisine, Sofia’s is serving simple, fresh seafood and salumi.
Dishes like Grilled Marinated Artichokes, Fresh Figs and Vincotto and Kingfish Crudo with Blood Orange dressing grace the share menu and we can confirm that it’s all absolutely exceptional.
The Cheese and Salumi menu allows you to choose from an extensive range of high end goodies, there’s also fresh oysters, stunning pasta dishes and a mains menu filled with treats like Grilled Mooloolaba King Prawns (some the most incredible we’ve ever sampled) and a 700g Grilled Whole Baby Snapper.
To drink, you’ll have the pleasure of choosing from a VERY impressive wine menu (one of the best in Broady we think!) with drops from across the world. There are cocktails like a Sgroppino Italiana, a Limoncello Pisco Sour and a Barrell Aged Negroni (made in house) and you’ll be hard pressed to choose just one.
Of course there are beers, champagnes and a section of ‘celebration’ sips if you’re in need of something special.
All in all, Sofia’s is something very special and one you’re going to want to return to again and again.
See, well worth the wait for some Broadbeach news.
LOCATION: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Surf Pde, Broadbeach
HOURS: Monday to Sunday 6am until late
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
