Hands up if you also grew up with the not-so-humble Moreton Bay bug making its strictly annual cameo among the usual Chrissy day spread suspects (one that we were actually happy to see, unlike the trifle #blerg). The proliferation of bug rolls on menus the Coast over – and the resulting ability to wrap our mitts around these pint-sized parcels of seafood-stuffed deliciousness any old time we please – will never be lost on us. Unlike our willpower whenever we’re in their presence, which is demonstrably #MIA.

If you needed proof this little roll of the moment is not going anywhere, we’ve rustled up an entire list’s worth of places get your boujee bug boi fix without even breaking a sweat. And before you @ us, we do know that bugs & lobsters are not the same, but we’ve included both here because #delish.

Oh and if you’re not a seafood fan, check out our alternate list here instead: 10 ways to be sad #justsquidding #moreforus. But sea-riously, maybe this one’s not the list for you…

Here are 11 places to get your bug (and lobster) roll fix on the GC.

Rick Shores
The home of one of, if not the – OG bug rolls, we will forever be indebted to the culinary masterminds at Rick Shores for our introduction, and resulting obsession with the now ubiquitous shellfish slider. The famous Rick Shores Bug Roll has remained a staunch cult favourite that the entire GC (and beyond) has been going cray-sea for ever since.

Their signature combo of golden Beer-battered Moreton Bay bug, sandwiched between slabs of buttery milk bun and topped with Sriracha Mayonnaise and gem lettuce is undoubtedly the one to beat, with the secret lying in the boujee #bugonbug method whereby chopped bug is also incorporated into the mayo for extra sweetness down right deliciousness.
Where: 3/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

kōst
We’re yet to meet anyone who hasn’t been absolutely smitten with one of the GC’s most notable newcomers, kōst. This sprawling stunner of a super-venue has been setting hearts ablaze ever since they sauntered onto Broady’s eat scene, along with literally anything they can throw on their signature charcoal wood-fire grill. It should come as a surprise to absolutely no one that the most boujee sando of the moment, the bay lobster roll, gem lettuce and kōst signature sauce makes an appearance on the kōst menu right alongside their swanky seafood towers and roving champagne and caviar trolleys. Pro tip, you HAVE to add the chilli sauce for a next level spicy experience.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach

Cooly Breeze
Amalfi coast vibing Cooly Breeze is somewhat of a hidden southern gem, boasting both the Coast’s only fine dining rooftop views of the Tweed River surrounds and a pretty claw-some seafood selection, thanks to those Mediterranean roots.

Their answer to this beloved boujee sando is of course served with that same signature Mediterranean twist, with the Moreton Bay Bug, avocado, finger lime, fresh jalapeño, watermelon radish all served on a pillowy bed of focaccia. Our tastebuds are so bready.
Where: level 13/122 Griffith St, Coolangatta

Squiseato
Hitting the shops just went #nextlevel, with David Jones at PAC Fair welcoming its flagship gourmet eatery Squiseato last month – and with it, an entirely new meaning to our never-fail retail therapy mantra: #treatyoself.

A play on the Italian word meaning exquisite, it’s exactly how you’d imagine a DJ’s take on eats would go down. This full service new kid on the block is unapologetically flaunting their appreciation for the finer things in life, serving up Champagne, premium wine, hand-rolled pasta, freshly shucked oysters – and you guessed it – their signature sandwich, the Lobster Brioche Roll. The ultimate way to toast your next bargain hunting expedition.
Where: Pacific Fair, 4 Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach Waters

Bugz & Co
A local catering duo with one delicious specialty: cheeseburgers! Kiddinggg, its gourmet bug rolls, obviously – and some mighty fried ones at that. If the infiltration of these juicy little morsels into our local street food scene isn’t indication the cult sando has o-fish-ally #madeit, we don’t know what is.

Keep your eyes peeled for a whole lot of gourmet goodness to-go being cooked up by the Bugz & Co crew at your local fetes and markets – you can even lock them in for private soirees. Bug rolls that come to us?! How good.
Where: Local fetes, markets & private events.

Mare/Pool Club at La Luna
With the level of luxe La Luna is dishing up daily, it’s absolutely no surprise there’s also a cameo from our beloved bug roll gracing it’s menu. The swanky, euro-chic vibes are immaculate, as is the Crispy tempura Moreton Bay bug in a milk bun, bug mayo, sweet + sour sauce.

Whether you’re luxuriating poolside in one of the sun drenched La Luna cabanas, or sidling up for the full winning and dining experience at Mare Restaurant – one thing’s for sure, when you’re surrounded by yachts, superb sips and noshing on bug rolls, life is good.
Where: La Luna Beach Club, Marina Mirage, 74 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

Blue House
Bumbles cafe was not pulling any punches when they delivered their stunner of an offshoot The Blue House earlier this year. With a grown-up new spot for eats and sips sitting pretty by the picturesque Budds Beach promenade, the new venue delivers a delicious hit of #dopaminedecor right along with a knockout bug roll.

If you really want to seas the day, pair one of the classic Bug rolls made with little gem lettuce and sriracha sauce, with one of those blue-tiful house cocktails as the sun sinks low (rain, hail or shine all works tho tbh).
Where: 19-23 River Drive, Budds Beach, Surfers Paradise

Joe’s Deli
If by now you’re wondering if the limit of seafood laden sliders exists (it doesn’t), the professional sanga slingers at Joe’s Deli are here to throw their unique blend of American diner style, Italian inspired eats into the mix for your culinary consideration.

The Joe’s crew are renowned for their ability to put together a next level sandwich, and the Lobbie Roll delivers on that promise (and then some), made with Lobster, Crab, Kewpie Mayo, Shredded Iceberg Lettuce, Chives, Black Caviar and Lemon. So much yes.
Where: Pacific Fair, 4 Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach Waters

Ms Margot’s
Nestled just off the bustling Orchid Ave strip, Ms Margot’s is certainly no stranger to all things luxe with a name like Hilton Surfers Paradise behind (and atop) her. Settle in for a spot of people watching, fave cocktail in hand with the swanky sandwich of the hour and let the good times roll.

Ms Margot’s dishes up a generous baguette roll loaded with a tempura style battered Moreton Bay Bug burger, gem lettuce, avocado and bread and butter pickles, all drizzled in chipotle mayo for a little extra smokey goodness.
Where: 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Tarte Beach House
Never one to do anything by halves (unless it’s literally to cut one of those stacked signature NY Bagels in two), when our beloved Tarte takes on the lobster roll, of course it was never going to be anything other than next level.

The Tarte Beach House offering includes real deal Southern rock lobster, loaded in hot butter, celery, chives and lettuce all wrapped up in the most perfect of packages – a toasted housemade brioche. If you need us, we’ll be scoffing these buttery bug boi’s creek side allll summer long.
Where: 1/4 Thrower Drive, Currumbin

FINEPRINTCO Art Bar
We all know they serve up delicious cocktails (thanks Rumtin) alongside the art, but did you know FINEPRINTCO Art Bar also dishes up epic bug rolls? Well, technically they’re bug brioche, but all you really need to know is they’re the goods. With Moreton Bay Bug, Lemongrass, Kaffir Lime Leaf and Sesame we’ve now given you the perfect excuse to drop into Brickworks. Just don’t blame us if you accidentally walk out with a Slim Aarons too.
Where: Brickworks, Shop 302, 107 Ferry Road, Southport

Words by Kellie Leader.

Ahh, the blessed ritual of brunch. Leisurely feasts of eggs every which way you can imagine, sticky, syrup-drenched French toast stacks, and smoked salmon for days – what’s not to love? Plus, it gives us the excuse to sleep in, and our taste buds are rewarded pretty handsomely for the trouble.

Couple it with a little concept known as bottomless cocktails, and life doesn’t get much better. So universally beloved is the sip-happy cousin of this mid-morning rendezvous, we’ve rustled up an entire list of the best places on the GC to get your boozy brunch-fest fix (say that five times fast after two hours of free-flowing mimosas).

From north to south, gather your mates, don your stretchy pants and jump on the brunch bandwagon!

Winey Cow

Suppose you consider yourself a brunch connoisseur. In that case, Main Beach’s resident egg-slinging specialist, Winey Cow, is a must-try for several reasons. Reason numero uno, is that they live and breathe this brekkie business. After all, the much-lauded namesake Melbourne location has the boasting rights to accolades like Café of the Year and Best Breakfast Restaurant. And when you’re in the mood to take the Chilli Scramble Croissant up a notch, they also throw a particularly spectacular bottomless brunch any ‘ole day of the week. For $55 per person, you can grab a main with endless mimosas for an hour, with Cranberry & Lime and Pineapple, Passionfruit & Lime options if you wanna switch it up from the Classic OJ. And ‘wine’ not, we say?
Where: 5/11 Woodroffe Ave, Main Beach

La Calabrese

Breathtaking views and bottomless vino? Of course. La Calabrese’s Dine & Sip Italiano brunch serves up a three-course Italian feast alongside two hours of drinks with two dreamy packages to choose from. The $79 Wine Lover Pack offers self-serve bubbles, wine, and Peroni, while the $99 Cocktail Lover Pack brings the fun with Margs, Mimosas and Aperol Spritz. Menu-wise, it’s all about calamari, burrata, bolognese, woodfired pizza and sweet scoops of gelati. We really don’t know what to say except, bellissimo!
Where: Level 1, Meriton Surfers Paradise, 86 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise 

COAST

COAST’s rooftop terrace is home to one of the most stylish weekend sessions in town. Their $99pp Long Lunch runs Friday to Sunday from 12–3pm and brings together chilled cocktails (think spritz, daiquiris, Coast lager and rosé) and share plates like Pork Tostadas and Chicken Satay. Classy, yet an absolute vibe- just how we like it.
Where: Level 1, Ocean by Meriton, 86 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise 

Hyde Paradiso

It’s the ultimate beachside brunch overlooking the ocean, and yeah, we had you at beachside. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 12-2pm, tuck into an all-out, four-course feast of Mediterranean-inspired mixed tapas, including delightful bites like Eggs Benny Hash made with truffle honey hollandaise. But ‘bottomless’ we promised, and bottomless ye shall receive – here you can pick your poison with two-hour sip packages such as Aperol Spritz, Bellini Spritz & Limoncello Spritz, Chandon Brut & Chandon Rosé, or perhaps the Veuve Clicquot upgrade will be more your speed. A minimum of 2 people is required.
Where: Peppers Soul, Level 2/8 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

Lulu Rooftop

Up for a rooftop rendezvous? Lulu Rooftop in Surfers is doing Sunday justice with their Bottomless Brunch package. For $79pp, indulge in a spread of colourful share plates (Popcorn Chicken Tacos, anyone?) and 2 hours of drinks- we’re talking spritz, wine and ever-changing froze flavours. Yes, you heard right- there’s a whole section dedicated to Bottomless Froze. We’ll be there from 1pm, and not a minute later.
Where: Level 2, 4 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

The Island Gold Coast

The Island says Saturday afternoons are for gathering, grazing, and good times. Who are we to disagree? And yes, technically speaking, this one is classified as a ‘lavishly long lunch’ – but when it comes with two hours of tantalising eats, arrival mimosa and cocktail and spritz carafes – does anyone really mind? Spend your Saturday nibbling your way through Charcuterie and share-style bites of Karaage Chicken, Lamb kofta and Woodfired pizzas, alternated with jugs of Passionfruit and Vanilla Mojito, Watermelon Margarita Spritz and Mimosa. $79 per person, two sittings (from 11:30am or 1:30pm) available.
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Elk Espresso

Broady gem Elk is another superb spot popping the cork on bottomless brunch daily. And bonus, it’s walk-ins only – so grab the gang, rock up from 10am and purchase any dish to partake in sixty whole minutes of mimosa action! And nope, we sure as heck ain’t driving. Pick your fave between the Classic, Strawberry lime and Tropical mimosa varieties, then ‘sip’ back and marvel as your flute magically refills itself. You certainly don’t have to tell us twice! $49 per head.
Where: Oasis Shopping Centre (opposite the beach), Broadbeach

Luna’s

Kick off your weekend with a bang (and a bellini) at Luna’s in Broadbeach, where the bottomless brunch vibes are flowing just as freely as the drinks. Every Saturday and Sunday from 10am, this chic Italian spot at The Oasis dishes up a 2-hour bottomless package with free-flowing cocktails, beer and wine, plus delicious brunch bites to match. From spicy scrambled eggs to buttery almond croissants, Luna’s brings la dolce vita to your morning plans, all served with a side of Broadbeach buzz and espresso perfection.
Where: Shop G0.71b The Oasis, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

Nineteen at The Star

They call it ‘Spritz Saturdays’ at Nineteen, and it’s every bit as glam as you’d expect. From 4–7pm, sip fancy spritzes (Strawberry, Elderflower & Mint, Aperol) while slurping oysters and nibbling on cheese plates, charcuterie and garlic fries on the luxe rooftop terrace. At $89pp, this high-end soiree is a must for anyone who likes their brunch with a side of skyline views. Minimum two people, bookings essential.
Where: 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach

Cora

You haven’t really done a bougie brunch until you’ve bottomless’d at Cora. Their $89pp Saturday sessions are a three-course Mediterranean-style share lunch served with 2 hours of cocktails, mocktails, beer and wine– not to mention a live DJ spinning as you sip. The kicker? Every week brings a new signature cocktail lineup: Malfy Gin, Aperol and Chandon Garden Spritz, Absolut Vodka, Olmeca Altos Tequila… it’s a rotating roster of boozy fun. Enjoy the people’s favourite, Peach Burrata, Gold Band Snapper and Wild King Prawns! Bookings for two or more required.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Sunnyboy

Bottomless mimosas by the beach- say less! Sunnyboy’s breezy Mermaid Beach location means you can roll straight from the sand to your seat, where $49 scores you a meal of your choice plus one gloriously boozy hour of bottomless mimosas. No bookings are needed- just arrive between 10am and 1pm, round up the gang (because we know that more is merrier), and tuck into a seasonally rotating menu of brunchy faves. Chorizo Truffle Scramble? Yes, please. Fig & Mascarpone Hotcakes? Don’t mind if we do.
Where: 168 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach

Monsieur Chow

Formerly Ally Chow and still every bit as iconic, Monsieur Chow dishes up Asian fusion done right, and their two brunch options do not disappoint. For $89 per person, the Bottomless Chow Out features the Chef’s choice banquet with two hours of bottomless Thai basil caprioskas, prosecco and Noosa lager on tap. Or, go for the Bottomless Margarita Lunch Banquet, and yes, this has us written all over it. For $109, enjoy the same offerings mentioned above; only substitute bottomless caprioskas for bottomless margis!
Where: 3/2215 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

The Tropic

One of the GC’s very favourite ocean-view venues, The Tropic offers a solid ten bottomless brunch and absolutely nobody is surprised to hear this. Taking place exclusively on the terrace on the last Saturday of every month, not only will you be privy to multi-million-dollar views and DJ beats but also a delicious Mediterranean-inspired menu. Think Fig and Persian Feta, Steamed Barramundi, Puffed Spiced Bread, Mixed Berry Panna Cotta and more, but no need cuz we’re already #sold. Veuve, Rosé and Bellini Cocktail packages are available from $59 per person (ya kidding). Don’t mind if we do!
Where: 3b/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

Las Palmas

Latin flair meets bottomless bubbles at Las Palmas’ $79pp weekend brunch. Every Saturday and Sunday, dive into 2 hours of sangria, rosé, tap beer and more, or upgrade for $20 and make it Margarita Time with Tommy’s Margs. Food-wise, expect chips and guac, crispy squid, tacos and more, with the option to elevate with grilled corn and slow-cooked beef short rib. Pro tip: upgrade it all. Life’s short. Live large.
Where: Level 1, 1097 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Refinery Coffee

Why wait for the weekend? Refinery Coffee reckons any day is a good day to bust out the boozy OJ for this beloved mid-morning ritual, and we wholeheartedly agree. Available from 10am daily, gather your celebratory crew and report to Currumbins light-filled converted warehouse for the Bottomless Brunch option. Here, you can tuck into your pick from the all-day eats menu, such as the Turkish Style Poached Eggs or Eggs Benny, while throwing back Classic & Watermelon mimosas for 1.5 blissful hours. The only caveat is that your whole crew must be partaking (is that even a question), with a non-alc option also available. For just $62 pp, we’ll say bottoms up!
Where: 37 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Waters

Billy Chow

Pan Asian coastal dining, bottomless rosé and Sunday banquets? Say less. Billy Chow brings you Bottomless Blush Sundays- a curated chef’s banquet accompanied by free-flowing Maison AIX Rosé and sparkling rosé in the dreamy beachside setting of Kirra. This is the kind of Sunday sesh worth putting pants on for. $125 per person.
Where: 76 Musgrave St, Coolangatta

Kefi Café

Boozy brunch, but make it a random Tuesday. Kefi Café is dishing up 90 minutes of bottomless mimosas – classic, pineapple or sunrise – for $60pp every day (like, Monday-Sunday) from 10am. Pair your fizz with a main like the lemon-curd loaded Hotcake or their beet-hummus-and-harissa-nut topped Avo Toast, and soak up all the feel-good Gold Coast vibes. Bottomless brunch before noon? We approve.
Where: Corner of Griffith & McDonald Street, Coolangatta

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

Feeling hungry? Science proves that you might in fact be thirsty and what better remedy exists than the holy grail of liquid love, the margarita. This rings especially true on International Margarita Day on Saturday 22nd February which, side note, may just be the greatest day ever created.

Here’s our roundup of THE places to sip THE drink famous for making us go weak at the knees (quite literally….).

Franc Jrs
This joint can do no wrong. Delivering more than just a carb coma with their iconic mouthwatering pizzas, this cult fave also whips up a mean – and strong – frozen margi. And believe you me, nothing says happiness like a ten-outta-ten pizza washed down with an icy take on ‘Me-hi-co’s’ national treasure. No frills here but that’s part of the charm and bonus, you can sink one on the footpath while you’re waiting for your takeaway.
Our pick: Frozen margarita
Where: Shop 2/32 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach

Cooly Breeze
The fare here is *chef’s kiss* but let’s talk the business; their epic cocktail selection, particularly their signature sip which just happens to be a margarita #obvi. If you’re not already acquainted with Cooly Breeze Rooftop and Bar, it’s time to be. Sitting (very) pretty on the 13th floor, it’s the Coast’s only fine dining rooftop restaurant with spectacular views to the southern coastline and the Tweed River surrounds. Bliss!
Our pick: Cooly Breeze Margi – tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime juice and homemade pineapple jalapeno syrup
Where: Level 13 of Beachcomber International Resort, 122 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

Siblings
With some of the most exotic and creative margi’s we’ve ever seen (and, umm, sunk), rita-lovers unite at Siblings. Their expansive cocktail menu is the real McCoy, but in our humble opinion, the ‘Margarita Obsession’ section is pure Pegasus-material. Combined with the heritage-listed beachfront location, 1950’s Miami beach vibe fit-out, and a menu to dine for, marg our words – just go.
Our pick: Sex in an Hour – blueberry infused Olmeca Altos Plata, 100% agave tequila, Joseph Cartron Watermelon liqueur, fresh watermelon juice, a touch of Philippe De Bourgogne Crème de Cassis & Fiorente Elderflower liqueur, fresh lime juice, Herradura agave nectar, pink Himalayan salt, & sugar rim
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra

Veladora
This senorita needs a margarita (and we have the shirt to prove it, shout out to Sabbi Clothing) and where better than Veladora at The Star, Gold Coast. This Mezcal-inspired speakeasy bar with an extensive range of signature cocktails, Mexican beers, and unique snacks, serves up THE OG margi to beat all margis. Bonus incoming; there’s live music on Fridays and Latin-inspired beats on Saturdays. Salud (on repeat).
Our pick: The Margarita! Herradura Plata, orange liqueur & fresh lime juice
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Kirra Beach House
Margi’s land different here so don’t walk, run. With immersive panoramic views of Kirra Beach, a Mediterranean-style grazing menu, and an exceptional selection of world-class cocktails perfection mode is activated.
Our pick: Kirra Beach House Tommy’s Margarita – tequila, agave, fresh lime, & coastal salt
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Tommy’s Taco Bar
The crew behind Tommy’s Italian have gone full Mexi-mode with Tommy’s Taco Bar, bringing bold flavours and good vibes to Currumbin. With top-notch tacos, a killer drinks list, and a laid-back, vibrant atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to sip, snack, and settle in for a fiesta.
Our pick: Cilantro Margi, coriander infused Arette Blanco, chilli, agave and lime
Where: 140 Duringan Street, Currumbin

JuJu
Level up your nights at JuJu, the hotspot in Nobby Beach that brings upscale dining and a European-inspired after-party vibe. JuJu is all about keeping the energy high, even after dinner. Expect playful decor, delicious dishes like Pollo Ballotina and a 1kg wagyu tomahawk (yep, named after the one and only Tom Tate), plus cocktails that will have you partying like you’re in Mykonos. So whether you’re here for the food or the late-night fun, JuJu is your new fave spot for both.
Our pick: Jalapeno Kiss,1800 tequila, triple sec, jalapeno, cucumber and fresh lime juice.
Where: 2235 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Costa Taco
Bringing the bold flavours of Mexico straight to the GC, Costa Taco is all about authentic eats made with top-notch local ingredients. What started as a humble market stall is now a three-location sensation, with their newest spot in Broadbeach dishing up next-level tacos, tostadas, and chilaquiles. The laidback, beachy vibe makes it the perfect spot to roll in, grab a bite, and pretend you’re in Baja.
Our pick: Try the ever-changing Margarita Special.
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach, 1136 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach and 20 Jonson St, Byron Bay

Bonita Bonita
As you’d expect from one of the most loved Mexi-venues around, Bonita Bonita’s margarita list is off the chain good. As is the chow and the vibe, hence why it continues to pull a sizeable crowd year after year. If you’re going to line your belly coz #tequila, go with the banquet and get the best of everything this GC fave has to offer.
Our pick: Tom-Yum Margarita – 1800 coconut tequila, fresh lime, habanero, lemon grass & ginger syrup, grapefruit juice, & a salt rim
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Palm Springs Burleigh
Palm Springs Burleigh is a Southern Californian-inspired café, eats and drinks heaven on earth. With All.The.Things you’d expect from somewhere with Palm Springs in the name, you’ll find arches, cacti, Slim Aarons, plenty of green, mint and white hues and of course, M.A.R.G.I.S! A tried and tested Burleigh fave, extra points awarded for the get-in-my-belly-good nosh.
Our pick: Chilli Margarita – chilli infused 1800 silver tequila, Cointreau & fresh lime juice
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Nude Amigos
With three locations serving up fresh, modern Mexican, Nude Amigos is all about bold flavours, quality ingredients, and margaritas that hit just right. Say adiós to basic Tex-Mex and hola to authentic eats, top-tier tequila, and vibes that’ll transport you straight to the beaches of Acapulco.
Our pick: Cool as a Cucumber – Patron tequila, Triple Sec, agave, house-made cucumber syrup, fresh squeezed lime & a sea salt rim
Where: Lot 1, 70 Surf Parade, Broadbeach, Shop 25/80 Marine Parade, Coolangatta and 60 Marine Parade, Kingscliff

Mexicali
It’s always margarita mania at Nobby’s Mexicali! Served on the rocks and made using fresh fruit and house infused tequilas, all margis are crafted using 100% Blue Agave tequila or mezcal, freshly squeezed lime juice, and agave syrup. Choose from classic, watermelon, strawberry, passionfruit, chilli, cucumber & jalapeno, mezcal, and coconut. And we’ll take the lot #thx.
Our pick: Passionfruit Margarita
Where: Level 1/2223 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach

El Camino Cantina
Big, bold, and brimming with tequila-fuelled fun, El Camino Cantina is serving up legendary margaritas with a side of Tex-Mex goodness. Their famous Rita Paddles let you sample four flavours in one go, or level up with a Cadillac Margarita for the ultimate upgrade. Pair it with tacos, wings, or sizzling fajitas, and you’ve got yourself one hell of a fiesta.
Our pick: Blueberry Margi
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Pablitos
Nested in Sanctuary Cove, you’ll find this intimate quintessential modern Mexican cantina with a slight Caribbean influence and srsly, what more could one ask for?! Think terracotta, venetian walls, exposed concrete, Virgin Mary statues, and a cactus at every turn. The house tequila is made with wild agave and they only use organic, freshly squeezed lime in all their cocktails…including their iconic ritas. Gimme gimme!
Our pick: Watermelon Margarita
Where: Sanctuary Cove, 39 Masthead Way, Hope Island

Exhibitionist Bar
We can tell you first-hand (far too many times over) that the resident Margi at Exhibitionist Bar (unpacked below) is one of the best. Sitting high atop the striking HOTA Gallery, this artsy watering hole delivers great flavours and explosions of tastes you won’t forget in a hurry…both in edible and drinkable varieties. Whether you want a light lunch with friends, a cocktail at sundown or a nightcap, this is where it’s at.
Our pick: House Hot Marg – Herradura Blanco tequila, marionette orange, lime & house made hot sauce
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, Top Level, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise

The Collective
Margarita Month has landed at The Collective, and it’s a tequila lover’s dream! Sip your way through their iconic marg menu plus three limited-edition flavours, from the refreshing Strawberry & Mint to the ultra-luxe Millionaire’s Margarita. Until Friday 28th February grab a Margarita Passport, collect stamps, and score some muy bueno prizes—because who knew tequila could be this rewarding?
Our pick: Mango & Chilli Margarita – Patrón Blanco, mango, chilli & lime
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Words by Bianca Trathen.