First and foremost: our sin-sear-est apologies in advance to our plant-based brethren, with this roundup including exactly zero cauli steaks, might we instead suggest our 10 Vegan Gold Coast Restaurants list.

For the meat eaters among us, if it’s sear-riously good steak you seek, you are definitely in the right place. There are not many dishes that compare to the satisfaction of a succulent steak cooked to perfection, though there is often a lot more to the art of this dish than meats the eye.

When the urge for a next level steak won’t quit, sometimes you just have to leave it in the hands of the pros. Sit back and grillax, we’ve got those carnivorous cravings covered. Here are 10 of the GC’s most lit steak restaurants worth getting fired up over.

Glenelg Public House
We’re starting strong with Mermaid’s moody gastro-pub, which has garnered itself a solid rep indeed for punching out sear-riously good steaks over the years. These guys take their meat even more seriously than that one mate bordering on a situationship with their smoker, with a full breakdown of cut / weight / breed / producer / paddock / region / feed to agonise over. There are no less than nine top-quality cuts on offer from all over Aus (and that’s not including the stacked selection of share-style dishes) – making this a must-try destination for even the most discerning steak critics (*cough* looking at you, aforementioned mate with smoker).
Where: 9/2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

kōst Bar & Grill
Oh yes, Broadbeach’s very notable newcomer is so much more than a (breathtakingly) pretty face, already pulling a #Bradbury to just as elegantly glide on in and secure their rightful place on this list. This euro-chic vibing contemporary bar & grill boasts one of the city’s only charcoal wood-fire grills, meaning anything not already nailed down is treated to that signature flame kissed treatment. There’s an assortment of steak cuts to acquaint yourself with, including a 1kg Dry Age Steak – O’Connor Beef T-Bone if you’re feeling a little lot extra.
Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

Cavill’s Steakhouse
For born and bred locals, the former Labrador icon (affectionately known simply as Cav’s in our youths) summons a whole lot of nostalgia, and thankfully it still stands up to the hype and fond mems all these years on.

In fact, this is one GC institution that has aged like fine wine (they’ve got those too), with a rooftop vibing re-location and grown up new look to match that signature Cav’s experience we’ve known for ~40 years now. They’ve got this steak business down to a fine art, with a sister butchery, an extensive selection of cuts and that traditional steak experience with all the classic trimmings – bc sometimes you just need a decadent, garlic prawn laden steak in your life.
Where: 6 Bayview Street, Runaway Bay

Moo Moo
Another GC mainstay, Moo Moo’s has been serving up all the mouth-watering meat action (and resulting meat sweats) to Broadbeach and beyond going on 20 years now, and they’ve got the receipts – aka slew of awards to prove it.

Specialty steaks are kind of their thing (as are fine wines), with ten mouth-watering options to choose from – though if you and a willing participant have brought your appetite, take on the infamous Spice Rubbed 1kg Wagyu Rump Cap Roast. Carved at the table served with Wagyu Fat Fried New Season Potatoes (and some green stuff for good measure).
Where: 2685 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

Outback Steakhouse
If it’s more of a laid back, steakhouse vibe you’re going for, it would be a crying flame to overlook Outback Steakhouse, a family friendly all-rounder also serving up some formidable options when it comes to flame kissed fare. The menu offers up something for everyone, with those in the mood for something meaty treated to eight steak cuts served with your choice of sides. Gather the crew and take on the 1.25kg Angus Tomahawk, or a slightly more surmountable Ribeye, with a little more space to spare for pud.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach

Nineteen at The Star
A spot well known for dishing up the finer things, with a little help from some epic views of the GC skyline, The Darling’s crowning jewel Nineteen at The Star is the kinda place that has it it all. Naturally, there’s an equally impressive selection of swanky steaks, which are almost exclusively sourced locally on the Darling Downs (with exception to the Cape Grim Grass Fed Rib Eye, which, we can definitely manage to let slide, quite frankly).

If it’s truly time to treat yourself, these guys boast one of the largest selections of sumptuous 9+ MBS (aka ‘excellent’ grade) steaks on the Coast – the only thing higher is that stunner of an outlook, tbh.
Where: 1, Level 19, The Darling at The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach

Red Steakhouse
Tucking in to a Dry Aged, New York Strip on the bone surrounded by a cool couple of milli worth of yachts and marina views for days? #thatslivin. A fine dining style steakhouse, though the more upscale take will come as a surprise to absolutely no one given it’s situated within the swanky Sanctuary Cove dining precinct #ohshefancyhuh.

This nominee for the GC’s most spectacular slab of beef has got your steak needs covered from A-Z, (or technically W) with a hefty offering including everything from Angus through to Waygu. Got a ravenous crowd of beef buffs on your hands? Tackle one of the mammoth 1-2kg Oakey Reserve Black Angus Tomahawks for your feasting pleasure.
Where: Sanctuary Cove, 46E/4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island

Mr Hizola’s
A very worthy contender for the GC’s best steak hall of flame is Mr Hizola’s and the srsly lit (literally) signature dish – Sizzling Wagyu Steak. Serving up contemporary Cantonese eats, this Burleigh hotspot is adored among the hungry Southern hordes, also dishing up a show-stopper of a steak that no doubt has played a solid part in cementing that status. The dazzling dish is set alight at the table for an unbel-beef-able experience that tastes every bit as good as it looks.
Where: 1730 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Hurricane’s Grill & Bar
If it’s stellar steak you’re after, this cosy Surfers Paradise spot is certainly serving it up (along with some mighty fine beach views). Hurricane’s definitely lives up to the ‘Grill and Bar’ title, with a grilliant array of meaty morsels to choose from. On offer is everything from petite Sirloin cuts through to some very boujee beef options indeed – with the pièce de résistance, a MS7+ Tajima Wagyu Beef Sirloin sure to impress even the staunchest of steak snobs.
Where: 1/4-14 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

Woodchopper’s Inn
Woodchopper’s has been treating the southern GC to their specialty low & slow method ever since they took their passion for flame-licked fare to full blown obsession, following the installation of the site’s first BBQ back in 2015. Though the legacy of this Mudgeeraba mainstay goes much further back, the addition has gone on to become the GC’s longest standing real woodfired BBQ. Throw in an artisan distillery, and suddenly this little spot is sporting some rather obvious tactical advantages indeed.

The signature steak dish, BBQ Tri Tip Sirloin stars the fave cut of the Woodchopper crew, and who are we to disagree with the experts.
Where: 64 Railway St, Mudgeeraba

Words by Kellie Leader.

Is it just us, or does Gold Coast life go perfectly with a barbie? And no, we’re not referring to the plastic blonde haired variety (also, we kind of are…), but rather the beer in one hand, snag in the other kind. With over 380 public BBQs in our region, that’s one for precisely every day of the year + 15 days and challenge accepted!

Here are 12 idyllic spots to meet your mates for a BBQ, outside of your very own back yard of course! Let’s take it from the north….

Tipplers
If you grew up on the GC, you’ve heard many-a-story about this place! The iconic Tipplers now offers a super relaxed atmosphere, epic camping, a fab café (#cocktailoclock), a playground, and of course, BBQ’s! Frolic on the sand, set up some beach cricket and eat BBQ tucker till your heart’s content. Find a friend with a boat or book a ferry and check.it.out!
Where: South Stradbroke Island

Bim’bimba Park
This five-hectare $7.5 million super park is a national award-winner. A destination in itself, they’ve thrown everything but the kitchen sink at this one. We’re talking shaded BBQ and picnic areas, an outdoor amphitheatre, an amazing playground, basketball half-court, skate ramps, outdoor table tennis, and three kilometres of walking and cycle paths. If you want a BBQ with no risk of boredom, Bim’bimba Park is a sure thang.
Where: Gainsborough Drive, Pimpama

Paradise Point Parklands
Anyone on the north side knows it well. It has something for everyone and selling points galore, with amazing views of the Broadwater topping the list. In addition to the sweet BBQ and picnic facilities, the epic playground areas are first class making it a family fave. Extending all the way along the esplanade, enjoy a scoot or a stroll along the picturesque walkway hugging the shoreline. Bliss.
Where: The Esplanade, Paradise Point

Hollindale Park
Home to the Main Beach Pavilion, Hollindale Park boasts beautiful grassy areas and lots of shade for long lunches – BBQ style! Right by the ocean, the sea breezes scream summer, and the views never fail to woo a crowd. With barbecues, picnic tables, picnic shelters and gazebo’s, there’s plenty of real estate, and the playground areas will keep the ankle biters entertained #happywifekidshappylife.
Where: MacArthur Parade, Main Beach

Broadwater Parklands
This spectacular precinct occupying three kilometres of vast natural beauty and exquisite Broadwater views has it all. There are busier areas if you’re after a Barbie with a vibe, or more private spots for intimate barbie feels. Pack your togs and take a dip in the netted swimming area, and let the kids rip on the jumping pillow, in the playgrounds, rockpools, and the interactive GC Aqua Park. It’s a ten out of ten.
Where: Marine Parade, Southport

Cascade Gardens
If chilled leafy BBQs by the river are your jam, Cascade Gardens nails the brief. With multiple BBQ and picnic areas, it’s a beautiful spot for a low-key, uber-relaxed barbie. Take a nature walk to burn off some snags and coleslaw, and let the mini-me’s run free in the playground. It’s also home to the Rotary Kokoda Memorial Wall and the Queensland Korean War Memorial to add a little history #lestweforget.
Where: Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

Kurrawa Pratten Park
Want a beachside BBQ spot with a side of large grassy areas to kick the footy? Same, and Kurrawa Pratten Park was born for this. It boasts a fully fenced playground promoting interactive play, pedal-powered monorail and G.I.A.N.T slides. Take a dip in the ocean before moving your posse over the road for a post barbie beverage at one of Broady’s many watering holes.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach

Evandale Park, HOTA
HOTA, how we love thee. In addition to culture in spades, you bring us Evandale Park. With plenty of BBQ and picnic tables with stunning Nerang River views, you’re sure to find a spot surrounded by beautiful towering greenery and a gated playground. There’s even an enclosed swimming, perfect for those balmy summer barbies. Hot tip: Go on a Sunday AM for some pre-BBQ fun at the HOTA Markets.
Where: Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise

Mick Schamburg Park
Offering spectacular views from the north to the south, this ever-popular BBQ spot set atop Miami Headland is a showstopper. There are barbecues and picnic tables for your spread, and a playground next door for the kiddos to burn off some energy (yassss!). It’s ideal for catching up with your mates over a snag or ten, and reminding us how lucky we are to live in such a stellar part of the world.
Where: Kelly Avenue, Miami

Queen Elizabeth Park
Sandwiched between the foreshore of Greenmount Beach and Coolangatta’s retail and dining precinct, Queen Elizabeth Park is a local fave. There are lots of BBQs scattered throughout, with large green spaces, beautiful beach, and playground areas for the littlies. The infamous Greenmount Headland serves as a stunning backdrop, and don’t forget to pack the cricket set, skateboard and footy to up the fun factor.
Where: Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Laguna Park
A GC BBQ spot list would not be complete without this one. Kids legit go cray for the iconic pirate ship, slides, rockers, and pedal-powered monorail, all enclosed in a fully fenced area easily visible from the BBQ areas. Always choccas, Laguna Park overlooks a lake, and you can even bring your pooch to romp in the off-leash exercise area. Time your barbie with live music in the park…and happy days!
Where: Laguna Avenue, Palm Beach

Winders Park
If you fancy a pre or post BBQ kayak or stand-up paddle, Winders is a water sports fan’s utopia. Set alongside Currumbin Creek, take your pick from the many shaded picnic tables and barbie spots and let the kids run amok in the little playgrounds. There’s even a boat ramp in the park, so feel free to BYO vessel to lunch #boatsboatsboats.
Where:  Duringan Street, Currumbin

Words by Bianca Trathen.

International Beer Day – don’t mind if we do

Fan of a frothy? Us too. And it turns out it’s not just us, the beverage that really does need no introduction officially has its own day of honour – well overdue if you ask us. On Friday 4^th August we’ll be cracking open a coldy to celebrate International Beer Day, and in honour we’ve penned a list of the top breweries that the Gold Coast has to offer.

So ‘hop’ on down to one this weekend. And next weekend. And the one after…

Fortitude Brewing Co
Froth fanatics, Fortitude Brewing Company sees you! This hinterland spot has 15 taps, each pouring something different from the range of Fortitude and Noisy Minor beers – all brewed on site! Visitors can nom their way through a variety of made-to-order pizzas whilst sinking a tasting paddle…or two, or… Enjoy the venue’s rugged exteriors and soft-hearted interiors and on weekends, soak up the beats from talented muso’s.
Beer to sip: Fortitude Pacer — the perfect session pale ale.
Where: 165 Long Road, Eagle Heights

Laughing Lizard Brewery
The good times keep on keeping on at Laughing Lizard with over 150 different beers! The best part, however, is that none contain any nasty chemicals or preservatives (yay, no hangover…well, that’s our story and we’re sticking to it…), and there’s even a gluten-free option #CeliacsRejoice! Here you’ll find a micro-brewery, beer and spirits shop, and every party planner’s besty – a keg hire service!
Beer to sip: You can’t go wrong with the Skini – light bodied, low carb, but full flavour.
Where: 27 Sinclair Street, Arundel

Hound & Stag
Who said the north side wasn’t the place to be? Guarantee you’ll have a ‘beery’ good time at one of the newest breweries on the block, the old barn-style joint is the largest taproom on the Northern GC with 28 beer taps and an epic kitchen serving up Modern Australian food daily.
Beer to sip: Struggling to pick the perfect pint from the huge range on offer? You can’t go wrong with the award-winning Red Baron for a spritzy and refreshing brew.
Where: 13 Wrights Place, Arundel

SOPO Brewing Co
A hidden gem on the beer scene here on the Gold Coast, we reckon SOPO Brewing Co is one of the suburbs best kept secrets. They’ve got house brews as well as monthly releases to keep those tastebuds on their toes, with the microbrewery delivering a tasty range of craft beers, lagers and ciders exclusive to the venue.
Beer to sip: When in SOPO one must drink the SOPO IPA of course!
Where: 146 Scarborough St, Southport

Madocke Beer Brewing Company
The ultimate Belgian beer experience awaits at Ashmore’s Madocke! Starting their commercial brewery in a tiny garage, proud owners Jimmy and Annelies are a bona fide local success story! Enjoy the complex flavours and richness of their brewskis at free Thursday trivia nights, and pair your pitcher with some belly laughs at live comedy night every Friday. Skohl!
Beer to sip: The creamy and refreshing White IPA Celebration is the perfect night starter – see you on the d floor.
Where: 286 Southport Nerang Road, Ashmore

BOB’s Beer
Beers near the beachfront – you’d be hard-pressed to find a better way to spend your International Beer Day, wouldn’t you? Whether you’re a local or playing tourist, BOB’s Beer is one of the best joints in Surfers for a cheeky brew, with a seriously swanky fit-out with high ceilings and most importantly those glistening copper pipes delivering that expertly brewed amber nectar straight to our glasses.
Beer to sip: The Surfers XPA of course – a deliciously easy drinking pale ale brewed entirely out of local malt, perfect!
Where: 10/2 Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise

The Lucky Squire
In case you haven’t put two and two together, this brewhouse brings to life the story of Australia’s first brewer, the rogue swindler James Squire (cue ‘aha’ moment). Celebrating quality craft beers and modern pub grub, the custom-designed full-functioning microbrewery pumps out small, exclusive batch brews, and it’s a cracking spot to round up your crew for an arvo sesh.
Beer to sip: Check out their limited-release small batch brews rotating the taps. Our current fave is Chivalry – because of course it’s not dead.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach

Lost Palms Brewing
This pink and mint icon is a short stroll from the hot spots in Nobby’s and a ‘hop’, skip and a jump from Miami Marketta. Pull up a pew outside, sink some unique and refreshing brews, and make sure you grab some sweet snaps for your socials. Roll up for $1 Wings on Thursday nights and live music on Sunday arvo’s, and see why this wicked brewery is a must-visit!
Beer to sip: Lost Palms Talle Daze Hazy Pale — one of their core range beers, named after the local Tallebudgera Creek.
Where: 11 Oak Avenue, Miami

Precinct Brewing
Bursting onto the Miami arts precinct scene with a rapacious welcome, Precinct Brewing now has solid status as the place to grab a freshly made beer, pull up a stool and forget all of life’s woes. They make matters much more bearable with the tastiest of pizzas, stand-up comedy, and some captivating, limited releases like their recent Big If True, Hazy IPA — yummy!
Beer to sip: Check out their weekly Friday releases for exclusive flavours!
Where: 17 Christine Avenue, Miami

SOBAH
If you love a social brew but you don’t love the idea of a potential hangover, then Australia’s first non-alcoholic brewery – SOBAH – is going to be for you. Tucked away in Burleigh, the brewery and café will have their range of full-flavour brews on offer, bringing that real craft beer flavour you know and love without the sore head. We’ll have more of the inside scoop for you when the brewhouse opens Monday 7th August.
Beer to sip: The Pepperberry IPA or Davidson Plum GF Ale are our regulars, celebrating the best of our native Australian ingredients.
Where: Unit 1, 314 Burleigh Connection Road, Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Brewing Co.
With gold medals for days from the World Beer Championships, you know you’re in for a good ale here! Famous for their paddle boards, relaxed atmosphere, big smiles and super friendly service, it’s the perfect way to spend a lazy Sunday arvo (or Friyay / Saturday sesh). There’s even awesome live music to set the mood while you quench your thirst. Cheers!
Beer to sip: Burleigh Brewing Burleigh Bighead — No carb, no-fuss big flavoured thirst quencher.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads

Black Hops HQ & Black Hops II
The runaway success of the original Black Hops in Burleigh spurred the creation of its spacious and upscale sibling, Black Hops II in Biggera Waters. Both serve up 16 beers on tap and have popular food trucks on site to feed hungry punters. So whether you’re north or southside, round up your mates, the fam and even your pooch for some award-winning amber ales.
Beer to sip: Black Hops Send It Session Ale — light, fruity, and not too strong
Where: 15 Gardenia Grove, Burleigh Heads and 671 Pine Ridge Road, Biggera Waters

Aardvark & Arrow Brewery
This Varsity based microbrewery may produce ‘petite’ batches, but their list of return customers is anything but small! Consistently producing and supplying chemical and preservative free beer and cider that exceeds expectations, the boutique beers here are on point. The staff are uber friendly and knowledgeable and the prices will blow ya mind (in a good way).
Beer to sip: For something fresh, opt for the GC Crisp – a seriously refreshing light coloured, crisp beer perfect for a brewery sesh.
Where: 13 John Duncan Court, Varsity Lakes

Balter Brewing Company
Another one with awards up the wazoo, the newly renovated Balter never disappoints. Its line-up of founders includes some seriously famous sporting legends, and it just oozes chillax and cool in equal measure. Whether it’s from the tap or can, there’s a variety of styles to get your tastebuds singing. Kick back in the new beer garden and enjoy live beats with your brew, along with food truck goodness.
Beer to sip: Balter XPA — Balter’s most awarded beer can be yours fresh from the production line.
Where: 14 Traders Way, Currumbin

4 Pines Coolangatta
Another beachfront favourite of ours, but this time nestled on the Cooly shoreline is 4 Pines Coolangatta. The relaxed Southern Gold Coast vibe makes this little brew spot the perfect place stop in for a session. With six taps of their finest beers and 2 Keller door taps pumping out fresh flavours, as well as a dedicated Doggos of 4 Pines polaroid wall, it’s loved by locals for a reason.
Beer to sip: Nothing says 4 Pines like their Pacific Ale – fresh, fruity and floral, it’s impossible not to love.
Where: The Strand, 28/72 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Words by Bianca Trathen & Jacqueline Bojanowski.