Broadbeach's award-winner does New York luxe better than New York.
Broadbeach's award-winner does New York luxe better than New York.
If we asked you to name your favourite Gold Coast restaurant (we’re asking), we fully expect a chorus line of enthusiastic voices chanting Social Eating House for the win. But, did you know that this local multi-award-winning supernova has recently reemerged as an even more sublime version of its former self? Undergoing a super sleek renovation, just when you thought it had reached the pinnacle of perfection, whoomp here it is…. Social Eating House + Bar 2.0!
Still serving up Modern Australian and International cuisine like a boss, husband-and-wife restaurateur warriors Matthew Jefferson (also Executive Chef) and Dayna Cooper decided to do something special for their business baby’s tenth anniversary this December.
And what better way than to revamp the Social space and brand to pave the way for another decade at the top of the foody game. Describing it as New York luxury but approachable, it’s relaxed fine dining executed with finesse and impeccable attention to detail, thanks to the expertise of Arch Interiors, CSF Shopfitting and brand architects, Here Agency. With kitchen and bar dining options and indoor / outdoor seating for 140 people (a must with its enviable location in the heart of Broadbeach’s Oracle precinct), it also houses a private dining room for soirees and functions.
Winner for three consecutive years of the People’s Choice ‘Chef of the Year’ Award, Matthew Jefferson and esteemed Head Chef Youngkyu “YK” Reu, continue to lead and nurture their ‘family’ of five-star hospitality heroes. Just like the OG Social Eating House, expect share plates so amazing that you won’t want to actually share them. The Wagyu rump cap 7+ with smoked celeriac, burnt onion, kale and native pepper jus is one of the standout starters and yes, you just had an ‘aha’ moment re. the whole no sharing comment.
Another fave from the small plate selection is Roast Quail with pumpkin puree, savoy cabbage and venere rice and omg, back up the van already because we didn’t mention Charcuterie. This is downright blasphemy because, CHARCUTERIE! Served with accompaniments and baguette, we recommend the Jamon Iberico de cabo 50g and as always, you’re welcome.
Level up the experience with one of the extensive award-winning wines, and/or (we’re going with ‘and’) Social’s signature cocktails. Now normally we only profile one, but this is possibly the most experimental and exciting curation of cocktails we’ve seen, so we’re upping the ante. The Beet It with Botanist Gin, yuzunshu, beetroot and ginger, yuzu, lime and sesame oil spoke to us, as did the El Troppo with Bacardi, pineapple, lychee, allow, green tea, lime and tapioca pearls. And if you’re really feeling something unique, go with the Uni-corn; Mezcal, Herradura Reposado tequila, creamed corn, lime and smoked Orgeat. Yep, our minds are blown too.
Finally, we must insist you do right by your stomach and leave room for something sweet, like the Lemon Chiboust, white chocolate ice-cream and brown butter crumbs. Or ask the super-knowledgeable staff for their recommendations because they are so genuinely passionate, friendly and eager to share their foody intel and love of all things Social.
So happy (early) anniversary Social Eating House and thank YOU for having a milestone birthday – because we are the ones who get to celebrate your new New York swagger.
Where: 136-138, 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
When: 12pm – 3.30pm daily for lunch. 5pm – midnight daily for dinner.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Social Eating House + Bar has long been a ‘casual fine dining’ Gold Coast favourite. With an impressive international tapas/shared plate style menu that includes the likes of Grilled Miso Quail, or even Lightly Smoked and Grilled Ocean Trout, it’s no wonder they’re a winner of not just one but two Hats from The Australian Good Food Guide. Freshly appointed Head Chef, YK, joined the team just a little over a month ago and has since hit the ground running. We had the pleasure to get to know him a bit more, and find out that he is a Chef passionate about making people happy, seeing them come together and enjoy the food he has prepared.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
Not very long! I have only been on the Gold Coast for just over a month.
What do you love most about living here?
The ocean. Wherever I go, I am so close to the beach. Plus the Gold Coast has some pretty friendly people!
Tell us about your chef journey thus far.
I have been studying cooking since I was 15 years old. I graduated Kimpo University (a culinary art association) and went to the Army Service for 2 years as a Chef. Once I finished my duty of service I moved to the USA, and held an Internship for a year at The Ritz Carlton Hotel in Naples, Florida. After this, I moved back to my home country where I started to work at the Banyan Tree Hotel. It was there that I was fortunate enough to meet some great Chefs. Not long after I returned, I began to think of moving to Australia because there are lots of different fresh produce and cooking techniques that intrigued me. From there, I explored and looked into the opportunity of graduating from Le Cordon Bleu in Sydney. The next thing I know, I was working at Quay Restaurant, then Bennelong and then moved to Aubergine Restaurant in Canberra. I worked for Ben (Aubergine Restaurant Owner & Chef) for five years and learnt a lot of cooking techniques and how to ‘respect’ all ingredients. It wasn’t until my wife and I were on a Gold Coast holiday that we realised that we had fallen in love with the Gold Coast and wanted to call it our home.
What’s your proudest chef moment?
When my service has been smooth and everyone is happy.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Jeffo (Matt Jefferson)
What’s your favourite dish to cook at home?
Korean instant noodle
Tell us about what changes you are bringing to Social Eating House + Bar.
I am currently working on implementing some recipe books for the restaurant. Further to this I am trying to implement a super organized kitchen where chefs can work smart and efficiently.
What else is in the works for you in 2021?
I am having a baby, so very much looking forward to adding to my family.
Tell us your favourites on the Coast…
Café for breakfast: I am new here so I haven’t been everywhere but I have been to Bam Bam Bakehouse, Mermaid Beach
Coffee spot: no name lane, Broadbeach
Restaurant for dinner: Has to be Social Eating House + Bar, Broadbeach
Bar or pub for a drink: Again, has to be Social Eating House + Bar, Broadbeach
How does your weekend usually look? I usually spend my time at home with my wife, and lately we have been getting ready for our new baby.
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
The Groundwater Country Music Festival is up us and our beloved Broadbeach is set to be one hectic hive of activity.
As you’d well know, dancing up a storm makes you hungry and thus, here we have a list of 8 beaut restaurants in the main Broadbeach precinct.
Harajuku Gyoza
A Japanese beer stadium and gyoza bar with plenty of good vibes. Choose from lots of gyoza varieties or a bigger meal if you’re extra hungry. Or both. Harajuku Gyoza is perfect for a quick tasty meal on the go with plenty of people watching opps.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre Mall, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
Elk Espresso
Home of some of the most epic, Insta-worthy breakfasts on the Gold Coast, Elk Espresso is a must visit. The Breakfast Gnocchi is where it’s at.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre Mall, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
Mamasan Kitchen and Bar
It’s modern Asian dining offering Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Japanese, and Thai dishes with a modern twist and it’s all absolutely delicious. As are the cocktails.
Where: The Oracle, Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
Bavarian Bier Café
Mmm bier. This German gem is always a good time and with traditional food and quite the array of biers, you best pop it on your list.
Where: The Oracle, Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
Nahm Kitchen & Bar
The newest eatery on the scene is Nahm Kitchen & Bar at the Oasis Shopping Centre. Serving up some of the tastiest Thai food we’ve ever experienced, the crew is all about authentic eats with an Aussie twist. They’re contemporary, flavourful and paired perfectly with the venues carefully curated wine list. We absolutely loved the Three Flavours Crispy Fish with Barramundi fillets, lychee, pineapple, three flavours chilli sauce and coriander. YUM.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Broadbeach
The Loose Moose
This speak easy style establishment is a whiskey bar slash eatery offering some of the tastiest southern eats around. The Loose Moose does tasty hot dogs, buffalo wings, loaded fries, it’s all good.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre Mall, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
Rivea Italian
Having recently relocated to Surf Pde, Rivea Italian is already a firm favourite. They’ve got all your authentic Italian needs covered. It’s absolutely incredible food from some of the best in the biz.
Where: 89 Surf Pde, Broadbeach
Social Eating House + Bar
Absolutely next-level eats, Social Eating House is one of the best there is. It’s casual fine dining with share plates the name of the game. They’re all taste sensations.
Where: The Oracle, Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
Kurrawa Surf Club
With 180-degree ocean views and a huge menu filled with all the old faithfuls, the brand new Kurrawa Surf Club is a must-visit. There’s very cold beer there too.
Where: Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
Words by Kirra Smith
