A beer garden is our type of garden.
A beer garden is our type of garden.
Finding places to kick back in an outdoor space with live music can sometimes be a little mission here on the Gold Coast. You either have amazing open-air spaces and no music or great live music but indoors. Finding the two combined should be a welcome find then; throw in some great food and tasty drinks, and you should be onto a winner, right?
Well, low and behold, since opening last week, Spec in Miami appears to be ticking all of those boxes!
The new venue has taken over the space that was once home to the vegan-friendly and whitewashed Love Child Collective just south of Nobbys Beach on the Gold Coast Highway. We won’t lie; we were sad to see The LC close its doors some time back. However, this story has a happy ending. With Love Child Kitchen & Bar moving itself further up into Mermaid Beach and Spec setting up shop, we have the best of both worlds.
If the darker feel and décor are anything to go by for Spec, it promises a more mature and mixed offering than its predecessor. With a big emphasis on delivering what all great Gold Coast venues should: beautiful spaces with excellent service and captivating menu items.
Perhaps the most eye-catching part of Spec is its rather sizeable and vibrant mural depicting an excited/upset bear (open to interpretation) from local creative designer/muralist Kiel Tillman. Seriously, what this guy can do makes us totally in awe of the true talent artists have. What’s the inspiration behind a bear, you might wonder? We’re told, one of the owners is a full-time special forces soldier who spends much time stationed overseas in a unit nicknamed ‘The Bears,” hence the name. Spec also stands for specifications, which are integral in bringing cocktails to life and getting flavoursome recipes together. Without them, your tastebuds would be at a loss!
Spec’s overall vibe is industrial with a slice of refinery and a sprinkling of masculine charm. Inside there are some leather couches that just beg to be slipped into whilst sipping one of their S.O.B. cocktails, a tequila inspired old fashioned-esque short drink. High tables offer the perfect opportunity to catch up over locally made beers and lose track of time. Whilst copious outdoor space — front and back — means basking in the afternoon sun with French Rosé and grazing on a dynamic menu is a welcomed opportunity.
Food-wise the menu has a slight leaning towards Mexican with delicious Tacos of the pork, beef and fish variety and other associated spicy fresh flavours. You’ll also see a nod to European favourites with a Sweet Sicilian Bruschetta, Baked Brie, Patatas Bravas and Pea & Feta Arancini Balls.
Open every morning from 7am as a coffee bar, lunch and dinner kicks off from Wednesday through to Sunday. On the horizon, Spec plans to hold open-air movie nights by a projector in their back garden space as well as regular live music. In doing so, they plan to capture some of the crowd that migrates between Nobbys Beach and Miami. And with a pending application for a 2am liquor license, this could become a new favourite late-night hangout for those who like to stay up past their bedtime. You might just have to reschedule that sunrise jog, we’re afraid.
Where: 2176 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
When: Coffee Bar 7 days 7am – 11am | Kitchen & Bar Wed-Sun 11am – late
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
Get in loser, we’re going shopping (and eating, and brewery-hopping, and sight seeing, and exploring street art, and… you get the idea)
Now you might be wondering why we’re throwing around random movie quotes to kick off this list (in our defence there is a Mean Girls line for *every* occasion) – but if suburbs were Mean Girls characters, Miami would for sure be the one to utter this iconic line. Miami has it all, and it knows it. Take one glance at just some of the epic spots we’ve lined up and you’ll soon see why all the other suburbs wish they could be this cool.
It used to be that Granddads were good for stealing our noses and sneaking us butter candy, but in Miami, Granddad Jacks is good for plying us the finest locally distilled spirits, gin making classes, distillery tours and of course and just an all-round cool haunt to sit back with a top notch bevvy and let our mullets run free. These masterful wizards didn’t amass a whopping haul of awards by getting distracted by anything other than distilling, so it’s BYO food too (and surely that means more to spend on the good stuff!). Make sure you try the 65 Miles Gin, recently crowned the Hottest Aussie Gin for a third year in a row!
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami
It would be shell-fish of us not to include Miami Fish Market, as much as we would love to keep this absolute pearl a secret. They hook the Gold Coast up with responsibly sourced, premium seafood from Australia and New Zealand (unlike heading home empty-handed from your holy grail fishing spot). Take some of their freshest and finest home to enjoy, or pull up a stool in their courtyard oyster and sashimi bar for a shuck-tastic time. Now offering a full (fancy-pants) fish and chips menu. Potato scallops and caviar, anyone?
Where: 1/54 Paradise Ave, Miami
The Coast’s OG street food night markets that put Miami on the map as a must-visit destination for foodies and live music lovers alike. The first venue of it’s kind to Miami and perhaps even the Coast, Marketta quickly grew to establish itself as a mainstay among the GC scene, bringing good vibes, live music and great food galore via the eclectic creative and cultural hotspot for over ten years now. Our beloved market brings us all our favourite tastes of the world as well as that same buzzing atmosphere that’s favoured by families especially, for rounding up their rowdy broods for an easy night out that everyone can enjoy.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Pde, Miami
We have a grand idea for ya! Why not take those freshly shucked oysters to-go and hit the picturesque Pizzey Park for a bougie picnic? It’s one of the biggest parks on the coast, a local icon, and a hub for sports, clubs, recreation, and fun times for all ages. There’s an aquatic centre, playgrounds galore, a wheely epic skate park, the Gold Coast’s first and Australia’s largest asphalt pump track and, let’s not forget, the off-leash dog area for our four-legged BFFs. In fact, paw out of five dogs agree that Pizzey is the best park for zoomies on the GC.
Where: 80 Pacific Ave, Miami
One of Miami’s most recent (and appreciated) additions is Bar Monte. This Italian eatery is so good it’s saving us a trip to Rome. They’re bringing the classic trattoria to us, with a modern twist, by blending international influences with fresh, local ingredients. The result is a menu as bold as it is delizioso.
The space is stylish yet inviting, striking the perfect balance between high-end sophistication and relaxed coastal charm. Pasta lovers will swoon over the Rigatoni, Vodka Sauce, Nduja and Stracciatella, and don’t even get us started on the wine list; curated by world-renowned sommelier Andrea Martinisi.
Where: No.3 Mountain View Ave, Miami
It’s no secret us Gold Coasters are quite partial to doing what we can to our put our best #lewks forward, and over the last few years the streets of Miami have also been undergoing somewhat of a glow up themselves (and #spoileralert – there’s no filler to be found here folks). The suburb is at the heart of a thriving GC art and cultural boom, with a bunch of incredible artists transforming the local laneways into a destination in and of themselves. There’s even the Art Roll website dedicated to mapping out the best routes for your own self-led street art tour.
And the event that started the movement, Surface Festival returns at the end of June, set to transform the local footpaths, fence lines, laneways and walls with some art-mazing fresh new works to admire and we’re here. for. it.
Where: Check the Art Roll website for locations
Okay, now it just feels like Miami is showing off and 501 (no kidding) Google reviews can’t be wrong. At first glance those deceptively colourful trademark stairs might look all sunshine and rainbows, but one thing’s for sure – conquer that climb and you will be rewarded with one of the best vantages on the coast. With stunning views of the coastline from Surfers right down to Burleigh, there’s only one thing left to say: How’s. the. serenity. (and maybe a hearty dose of *heavy breathing* depending on how many times you decide to take on those stairs #cardi-no thanks)
Where: At the south end of Miami (you can’t miss it)
If you love a good smash burger (and let’s be real, who doesn’t?), Broken Hearts Burger Club in Miami is calling your name. Born from one guy’s lockdown obsession with nailing the perfect LA-style burger, this cult-favourite joint keeps things simple – and seriously delicious. Choose between a classic or fancy burger, stack it up with one, two, or three patties, and let the molten cheese and house-made pickles do the talking. Throw in some loaded fries, a thick shake, and that retro diner aesthetic, and you’ve got yourself a one-way ticket to burger heaven. #sorrynotsorry
Where: 1934 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
Move over, high-rise hotels – motels of the Gold Coast are getting a makeover, and boy, are they impressing. Exhibit A- The Shores Miami. Nestled just 200 metres from Miami Beach, this 1970s Gold Coast gem has recently undergone a multi-million dollar transformation, blending retro vibes with modern comfort to create its perfect nostalgic charm.
Inside, find bright, modern rooms, orange sun lounges with overhead striped cabanas, a gorgeous pool, lush greenery, and soothing pastel colours. Outside; endless adventure, starting with this list! Staycation, anyone?
Where: 2016 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
There will always be room on the Gold Coast and in our hearts for another coffee roastery (get rid of the servos; we just need coffee). However, by no means is Whyld ‘just another’ coffee bar, channelling the strength of a triple espresso since 2021. That’s what we’re talking about! They promise ‘genuine connection fuelled by bloody good coffee’ and serve it up in a warehouse space/micro-roastery cuter than your grandma’s knitted blankets. Take your organic specialty coffee to go, or take a seat on one of their vintage couches and soak up the good vibes (the recommended take).
Where: 8/43 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
You can’t beat having a neighbourhood bakery (a carb-load close to home), particularly a European-inspired one. An ideal day on a plate for us would look like a warm, buttery fruit Danish for breakfast (washed down with a mighty good coffee), a ham, cheese and pickle baguette sandwich for lunch, followed by a basket full of buttery, flaky pastries for dessert. No veggie in sight! He he.
Where: Shop 5/1934 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
Japanese beer + Japanese street eats = heaven. Therefore, heaven can be found in Miami at the suburbs’ very own Japanese beer bar, Roji Cat. Here, you’ll be transported (at Shinkansen speed) to the neon-lit districts of Tokyo and Osaka, with an interior decorated to resemble their authentic alleyways, down to the signage and lanterns.
What else will you find? Twelve Japanese brews on tap and twenty-four types of sake, for starters! Then there’s the nosh, a curation of elevated Japanese street food that’ll have you sighing ‘oishii’, with every bite. Think Robata Skewers, sweet and spicy Roji Cat Karaage, Gyoza, Sashimi, Miso Corn (love you) and burgers including a Bug Burger with a tempura Moreton Bay Bug, spicy Japanese coleslaw and Kewpie mayo. We’ll take all of that, thank you so much.
Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami
It’s almost time to pack away the budgie smugglers and slip into something a little more cosy as we edge closer to the cooler months. Enter UGG Since 1974 – churning out wearable warm hugs for your feet since, well, 1974. Don’t be feeling sheepish if you didn’t know they’ve expanded their range to include a huge selection of colours, styles and options to customise including monogramming (cute!), as well as paw-dorable pet accessories (even cuter!) With factory tours running right out of Miami, the only thing better than supporting locals is treating your tootsies to a cloud-nine experience in the process.
Where: 23 Christine Ave, Miami
Have you worked up a thirst reading this list? Thankfully, we’ve saved everyone’s favourite brewery (yep, we called it) for last- Precinct Brewing Co. Step through their doors and you’ll be welcomed into one sleek space; all white with high ceilings, wooden beams, a couple more murals and some massive brew kettles in the background of it all. You can see why people say it’s the place to beer! Don’t forget to grab one of the tasty pizzas coming from the onsite kitchen, too…
Where: 17 Christine Ave, Miami
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
If you, like us, have been waiting with baited breath for the unveiling of Miami’s elusive new eatery, we’ve got good news.
The Henchman on, you guessed it, Henchman Ave in Miami opened their doors this week and it’s the gift that will keep on giving for quite some time.
The Henchman is the white double storey building you can glimpse from the Gold Coast Highway, strung with fairy lights and a sweet little picket fence. Taking the place of a former Balinese furniture store that gets a nod in the form of a huge golden Buddha statue watching over the sizeable outdoor area.
And what an outdoor area it is. Hammocks, wooden picnic-style tables, more delightful fairy lights and plenty of greenery make up the covered space and it’s the perfect spot for an early morning (organic) Byron Bay Coffee Co. brew or, a brew of the frosty alcoholic variety in the coming weeks.
That’s right Gold Coasters, The Henchman is set to be the outdoor beer garden we’ve been waiting our whole lives for (dramatic) and yes, we may have done a happy dance.
There’ll also be a little indoor bar section on the bottom floor and upstairs, a stunning naturally lit space for functions and private parties. It’s got a pool table too.
If, for some strange reason, those little treats didn’t make you excited, here’s a few more little things that might. Through a little gate at the back of the space, a beach is being created complete with actual sand, a beach bar, cabanas and the promise of an actual (shipping container-style) pool for all your swimming and sipping needs. HOW GOOD. Stay tuned for updates.
Menu-wise, for now, The Henchman will be serving up a little sampling menu of breakfast slash lunch items with more tasty eats on the way.
Fine by us. The Nanananana Jaffle is the goods with gooey Nutella, freshly chopped banana and Byron Bay Coffee cream. Oh and it’s not any old jaffle, it’s made with puff pastry and you simply won’t understand how good it is until you sample it.
The Italian Stallion is all your dreams come true with slow cooked grassfed mince, mushrooms, garlic, free range bacon, cherry tomatoes, Napoli sauce and filled with mozzarella cheese.
Batman’s Bircher Bowl is a lighter option; it’s got a mix of activated superfoods including almonds, chia, hempseeds, banana, goji berries and the like (there’s way more) plus organic coconut yoghurt and fresh mint.
There’s also a fresh, colourful salad of the day and it can be vegan friendly or with added meat if you so wish.
Once the bar is up and running it’ll be late night snacks for everyone (our favourite) including share plate style dishes of the charcuterie board variety and the love of your life, chicken wings. There’s more of course but everybody needs a few surprises in life.
To sum up, if you’re a fan of breezy outdoor spaces, brews of both the caffeine and alcoholic varieties and guaranteed good vibes, The Henchman is for you. And us.
Let the party begin.
LOCATION: 6/8 Henchman Ave, Miami
HOURS: 4.30am until 4pm
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
Wednesday is usually not the day associated with cool events, but it is now!
Tucked away on a Miami side street is Miami Marketta.
Known as the Gold Coast’s weekend spot for tasty street food, fun cocktails, boutique shopping and a live band, the Miami Marketta is all around awesome, but a seemingly little known fact is that Miami Marketta is not just for the weekenders! You can experience Marketta’s awesomeness 4 nights a week!
I’m a big fan of the Miami Marketta and have done some serious eating there more than a handful of times over past weekends, but I had my maiden voyage to a Wednesday Marketta last week. Imma tell you about it…
Firstly, parking was a breeze! A sign for good things to come. As I made my way to the entrance it started to drizzle. As a former weekend Marketta-er I was a bit bummed because Ithought that would mean standing in the rain to wait for my food. – NOT ON A WEDNESDAY!
Wednesday is tapas night at Miami Marketta and they host a smaller selection of vendors, which means that they all fit under the twinkly lit steel canopy.
On weekends long rows of communal tables occupy the space under the shelter of the canopy pushing the vendors outside. During the week the tables are turned to stand alone making for a more intimate setting amongst friends, and creating covered space for the vendors to set up. (Keep that in mind for rainy days)
Now, just because Wednesdays do not boast the same number of vendors as the weekends do, it does not mean there is any shortage of flavour or options. One of my favourite things about Miami Marketta whether it be a weekday or weekend is that it’s ethnically ambiguous. In a few short steps, you can go from smelling the frying corn chips at the Mexican stand, to the mouth-watering meat being grilled for the Mediterranean salads and kebabs. The smell of a wood fired oven filled with Italian pizzas mixes with the sweet scents of Belgian waffles and it’s a glorious overload making it nearly impossible to choose just one thing. –But on Wednesday you don’t have to, nor should you! All dishes start at $6 so the tasting and sharing is easy and inexpensive!
In front of flamingo wallpaper is a liquor bar specialising in hand crafted cocktails and beside that was the coffee and sweets bar. The coffee bar wasn’t that popular in the late evening, but the cocktail bar was pumping. Drinks served in glass jars were adorned with funky fun straws and tasted like sweet sweet love. If you were in the mood to keep your drinks simple, they had a nice selection of beer and wine.
And just because the coffee bar wasn’t popping at night, doesn’t mean you should skip out on it. Marketta Cafe is open Tuesday – Saturday starting at 6am to fill all your early morning coffee needs!
The Marketta celebrates the arts and always has something nice going on to feed your soul and not just your mouth.
Wednesdays there is a DJ spinning relaxed beats and this particular Wednesday there was a local designer putting on a fashion show. The mix of two was such a treat. Not your usual Wednesday night dinner entertainment 🙂
Boutique shops sold mostly homewares and clothes. art. -All very cool pieces I might add!
The grill smoke trapped by the rain swirled against the ceiling, models strutted in casually elegant clothes, the DJ spun smooth tempos, the food was tasty and cheap, and the patrons were delightfully hip and laid back.
Successful Wednesday night.
Miami Marketta is open
Wed 5p-10p
Fri 5p-11p
Sat 4p-11p
