If we were asked to describe restaurant heaven, it would go a little something like this: We’d be perched on an outdoor terrace with our posse, rocking our cutest #OOTD and soaking up the beautiful GC rays. We’d naturally have an exotic cocktail (or mocktail) in hand, before tucking into a delicious modern Persian feast. For the keen foodies playing along, we just described a lunch or dinner at the famous Shiraz, which has recently climbed even higher up the food chain of GC eats venues. With the recent addition of a terrace, this Middle Eastern mindblower will eternally have us in its corner. And let’s be real, when you share your name with our favourite tipple, we were always coming along for the ride #PowerMove.

A well-established local hero, Gold Coasters and tourists alike have been flocking to Shiraz for over a decade. It became so popular that owner Erfan Jalilian and business partner Mohammad Shirmehrjerdi moved to a larger venue allowing Shiraz to spread its wings…ironically into Mantra Wings Surfers Paradise. Occupying the world-famous site where The Pink Poodle once thrived, the GC Highway site is iconic once more with Shiraz’ army of stage five clingers growing by the day.

The one thing diehard devotees wished for was a sun-drenched area with a bar vibe, where they could catch up with mates, hydrate with a beverage in the afternoon and/or evening, and enjoy our city’s enviable climate. Erfan and Mohammad certainly listened, delivering a stunning terrace space accommodating up to 60 bods, with a tasty side of people watching.

Using only the finest and most authentic Persian ingredients, the food is as phenomenal as ever. To wet your whistle, there are a variety of Persian style entrees, lamb shanks, marinated lamb cutlets, chicken skewers and kebabs, and seriously why have abs when you can have kebabs? There are plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options too, plus the likes of baklava and saffron ice cream sandwich to keep the sweet tooths smiling.

The unmissable signature dish is Gardan, which is slow-cooked lamb neck cooked in a unique turmeric sauce and caramelised onion. Served with Baghali Polo (green rice mixed with broad beans and dill), it’s an Iranian party in your mouth. Pair it with either the signature cocktail, Persian Love (vodka, cherry liqueur, cranberry juice, mixed berries, lemonade and Persian fairy floss), or the non-boozy Persian Gold made in house with saffron, rose water, sophia seeds and honey, and you’ll understand why Shiraz has more awards than you can poke a pistachio at.

Catering to couples and families, it’s also a great choice for a large group thanks to its central location and easy access to parking. They have numerous food and drink packages, available to individuals and corporates too, so keep this one in mind for those Christmas parties! Plus, there is a new jam-packed schedule of events offering a different drawcard for each day/night of the week, including live music every Friday and Saturday night. Our fave has to be Tight Tuesday (extra points awarded for the name), as diners who spend $99 or more will score a complimentary mezze platter. Yes please!

So do yourself a favour with flavour and head to Shiraz for the best Persian on the Coast (with the gongs to prove it), and a look at the brand-new outdoor terrace. You’ll quickly realise why it’s been in the top 1% of Trip Advisor reviews Australia-wide for nine years running, and make it your new local haunt.

Where: Mantra Wings Surfers Paradise, 2893 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
When: 11.30am – 9.30pm, Monday – Sunday

Words by Bianca Trathen.

STORY SPONSORED BY SHIRAZ AUTHENTIC PERSIAN RESTAURANT