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Put the new Broadbeach LGBTQIA+ bar on your gaydar

Chameleon Lounge Bar is for everyone!

Just in Kase & Dune Martini, Chameleon Lounge Bar (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Just in Kase & Dune Martini, Chameleon Lounge Bar (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

When it comes to diversity on the Coast, we are all for it. Times they are a-changin’ they say — or was that Bob Dylan?…anyway, it’s great to see our fair city adapt and move with the times. One part of that movement is undoubtedly the acknowledgement and openness to the LGBTQIA+ community. For some time, there hasn’t been an officially recognised LGBTQIA+ venue on the Gold Coast — till now. And we have to say, we’re proud to announce the arrival of Broadbeach’s Chameleon Lounge Bar and Restaurant.

Overall, the venue welcomes everyone – the way they are. Which is true to the Chameleon name.

Broadbeach’s Surf Parade is already a hive of drinks, entertainment, great food, and all up a generally good time. Appropriate then that Chameleon finds itself pride of place here after taking over the old site of what used to be Molly Malones.

The venue has an easy-going outside porch area that catches afternoon light, but once inside, you’ll be met with an array of seating options depending on how you want to mingle. High tables, ample cushioned backless seating, armchairs, booths: the choice is yours. Amongst the vibrant colouring, you’ll spot green flowering feature walls and in a little secluded area by the bar, a pool table for when you feel like getting competitive.

Chameleon Lounge Bar exterior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Chameleon Lounge Bar exterior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

The lineup of acts, music, and daily specials is particularly mind-blowing. There are a plethora of things going on and so many daily specials we cannot possibly mention them all here! For example, you might want to get over your Monday blues by experiencing Monday Madness Minute To Win It games with food and drink specials or perhaps their Drag Queen Trivia on Tuesday’s. Perhaps you deserve a hump day treat, so their $1 wings and live music should do the trick. And when Friday rolls around, come and enjoy their open mic Drag Queen performances and live DJ set. The pinnacle of the offering is their weekly Saturday night production shows showing at 9pm, 10pm, and 11pm featuring a wealth of Gold Coast Drag Queen talent!

Apart from enough entertainment and drinks specials to lure you in, the venue also operates as a fully-fledged restaurant and has all of the tasty bites and eats such as nachos, spring rolls, sliders and for the more refined tastebuds, even antipasti boards and oysters. Swing by on the weekend and enjoy an afternoon of grazing their menu whilst sipping several of the Chameleon signature cocktails or the classic strawberry daiquiris, frozen margaritas and pina coladas to keep you cool this summer.

Chameleon Lounge Bar interior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Chameleon Lounge Bar interior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Ohh and sneaky tip, (if you keep your eyes peeled), you’ll see the colour of the lighting in the venue change. Why is that worth noting you may ask? Well, it represents the colour of certain cocktails and therefore tells you they are now at a reduced price: make sure you get to the bar before they change!

Fun, down to earth and welcoming of those who want to socialise without any barriers, Chameleon Lounge Bar brings a dash of diversity to the Gold Coast scene.

When: Mon-Thurs 5pm-10pm, Fri 5pm-1am, Sat noon-1am and Sun noon-late.
Where: 1/19 Albert Avenue, Broadbeach

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

15 reasons locals love Broadbeach

Exterior of The Star Gold Coast at sunset with Broadbeach in the background (image supplied)
Exterior of The Star Gold Coast at sunset with Broadbeach in the background (image supplied)

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, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Dracula's, Broadbeach (image supplied)

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

Social Eating House + Bar kitchen (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Social Eating House + Bar kitchen (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

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

Elk Espresso, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Elk Espresso, Broadbeach (image supplied)

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, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
O’Connor Beef T-Bone, kōst Bar & Grill, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

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

Pancakes at No Name Lane, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Pancakes at No Name Lane, Broadbeach (image supplied)

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, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Pacific Fair, Broadbeach (image supplied)

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

Costa Taco, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Quesabirrias, Costa Taco, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

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 Beach Hotel Broadbeach (image supplied)
The Beach Hotel Broadbeach (image supplied)

13 Gold Coast spots for after work drinks

Cocktails at The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Cocktails at The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Thirsty after a long day of emails, meetings, and pretending to be productive? Don’t worry, we’ve got your post-5pm plans sorted. Whether you’re into cocktails that slay, craft beers that cheer, or wines that simply whine down your day, the Gold Coast is brimming with top-notch spots to sip, swirl and savour.

From rooftop vibes to secret hideaways, this list of 13 go-to venues will have you raising a glass to good times and even better company. So, ditch the desk and clock out early – your first round is calling and it’s got happy hours (yes, plural) written all over it!

The Island Rooftop
Why settle for a regular drink when you can take it sky-high? The Island Rooftop is the epitome of Gold Coast chill with balmy breezes, a beachy fit-out, and good vibes on tap. Perfect for knocking back a cocktail (or three) after work, this lush oasis has everything you need: tasty bites, live beats, and even a dancefloor if the mood strikes (which we know it always does).
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Justin Lane (image supplied)
Justin Lane (image supplied)

Justin Lane Rooftop
When it comes to rooftop revelry, Justin Lane takes the cake (or should we say, the pizza). Perched in beautiful Burleigh, this spot is all about good times, great views, and even better carbs. Sip on your fave cocktails while soaking in ocean vistas and the cheerful chirps of Burleigh’s famous Rainbow Lorikeets. Whether you’re toasting the day or diving into their legendary pizza and pasta, Justin Lane is a slice of after-work heaven.
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Garden Kitchen & Bar
Why settle for one vibe when you can have all the vibes! At Garden Kitchen & Bar, you can sip and snack indoors surrounded by lush greenery or take it outside to the lawn, where the sunset and evening stars put on one helluva show. Perfect for unwinding after work, this gem (amongst many gems) at The Star Gold Coast has been a GC institution for many a moon for good reason.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

The Lawn, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
The Lawn, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

Granddad Jacks
Looking for a distillery that’s equal parts charm and chill and has received over 100 international awards? Granddad Jack’s has you covered with their top-shelf gin, whisky, and unbeatable vibes. This family-run hotspot is where expertly crafted cocktails meet weekend tunes and good company. Pull up a chair, swap stories with the friendly crew, and sip your way through some of the Gold Coast’s finest spirits.
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami

Burleigh Brewing Co.
If craft beer is your love language, Burleigh Brewing Co. speaks fluently. This local fave serves up an impressive range of brews, from crisp lagers to bold ales, all best enjoyed in their sprawling outdoor space. With regular events, live entertainment, and a welcoming vibe, it’s the ultimate spot to kick back after work. Round up the crew, claim a big table, and let the schooner stacks do the talking.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Brewing Co. (image supplied)
Burleigh Brewing Co. (image supplied)

Rosella’s
Rosella’s is the ultimate blend of laid-back vibes and top-notch drinks where every hour feels like happy hour. With its charming interior, lush outdoor space, and a menu that’ll have your tastebuds singing like a, well, Rosella, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a long day in the office or on the tools. Down a cocktail, share a craft beer with friends and line your belly with delicious bites. You’ll be tweeting about it for days.
Where: 1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Pavilion (image supplied)
Burleigh Pavilion (image supplied)

Burleigh Pavilion
If you’re channelling a picture-perfect post-work drink with a side of stunning views, it’s Burleigh Pav for the win. With the ocean as your backdrop, sip cocktails at the Beach Bar while nibbling on delicious bites, or head over to The Tropic for a more indulgent feast paired with Prosecco and good vibes. Unwind, catch the sunset and the latest goss, check out the eye candy, and let your work woes float away.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

View from The Exhibitionist Bar, HOTA (image supplied)
View from The Exhibitionist Bar, HOTA (image supplied)

Exhibitionist Bar
Vibing a post-work drink with a dash of culture and a splash of style? Look no further than the Exhibitionist Bar at HOTA. Set in the heart of Bundall’s much-loved arts precinct, this chic spot serves up a fine selection of cocktails, wines, and brews, all paired with jaw-dropping views. Whether you’re toasting the end of your workday or enjoying some live music, it’s the perfect place to drink in the atmosphere – literally and figuratively!
Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise

Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Interior of Roji Cat, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Roji Cat
On the hunt for a meow-vellous Japanese-inspired after-work drink spot? Roji Cat in Miami sees you. We’re talking 12 brews on tap, a sake bar boasting 24 varieties, and the signature Japanese Rice Lager. The vibrant, neon-lit vibe, complete with a karaoke room and electric darts, sets the perfect stage for post-work fun. Pair your drinks with delicious street food and you’ve got yourself a night to remember.
Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami

Local
Ah Local – it’s quite literally the local’s local and the perf after-work hangout. With a lush beer garden, 10 taps of craft beer, and a menu that serves everything from brekkie to late-night bites, it’s the ultimate spot to shake (or sip) off your workday hangover. Sip a Local Anaesthetic cocktail, devour a Prawn Roll, and soak in the coastal-chic vibes. Whether it’s drinks, snacks, or a feast, this Burleigh based beer-lover’s paradise is the shiz.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Local, Burleigh (image supplied)
Local, Burleigh (image supplied)

Lulu Rooftop Bar
Rooftop? Tick. Cocktails for dayz? Tick. Killer atmosphere and a touch of Miami flair? Tickety tick tick! Lulu Rooftop & Bar in Surfers Paradise is your new after-work haven. With boozy frosé (#ded), a DIY candy station (more #ded), and a menu that will make your taste buds dance, Lulu’s got it all. Pair all of that with stunning views and live tunes, and you’ve got the perfect spot to sip, snack, and party the night away!
Where: Level 2/4 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Bridges
Calling all northerners! For a bev (or many-a-bev) to bid farewell to your weekday, the gang at Bridges never disappoint. This funky little pizza and tapas bar is always packed with bums on seats and is the first port of call for locals craving a cocktail and hand-made pizza. Good luck popping in for a quiet drink coz you can betcha bottom dollar you’ll run into at least five people you know – another reason why we love it.
Where: 36 The Esplanade, Paradise Point

Moustache, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Moustache, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Moustache
Moustache at The Oxley 1823 is the Gold Coast’s newest hotspot for after-work drinks, and it’s making a serious stache-ing impression. This cozy, Euro-inspired spot serves up divine cocktails, artisanal espresso, and a wine list that’s been handpicked with serious finesse. Sip at a street-side table or nestled away in a vibey laneway and raise a glass to toast the end of your daily grind!
Where: 2217 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Words by Bianca Trathen

7 fierce places that put Drag Queens centrestage

Flamboyance at The Pink Flamingo
Flamboyance at The Pink Flamingo (image supplied)

Getting out and about for a few drinks with friends can at times be a bit same-ol’ same-ol’. And we don’t mean this in a negative way. But sometimes nights out can seem like reruns of our favourite shows — sure, they’re fun, but you know the plotline. Somebody will drink too much, somebody will kiss a stranger, and naturally, there will be one too many espresso martinis.

So how does one shake up the status quo a little? Drag Queens, of course!

And if you weren’t aware, a number of Gold Coast venues regularly host the most magnificent and fun-loving drag queens to mix up and add some jazz to any outing. Not just one for the ladies either; it’s been noted guys have just as much fun when it comes to the ensuing high kicks and frivolities. Have a read and find out where on the Gold Coast you can enjoy a night out with Drag Queens.

Miami Marketta
For the last nine years, this multi-faceted venue has been entertaining, feeding and bringing together locals in a way no other business has, and for this, it deserves a round of applause. When they’re not showcasing renowned national, and international music acts, you’ll find their doors open three nights a week with a massive variety of the Coast’s best street food as well as art and fashion. You’ll also come across their habitual sold-out ticketed Drag Bingo and one-off Drag Comedy evenings, which are not to be missed!
Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami

The Island Gold Coast Brunch with Bite
The Island Brunch with Bite (image supplied)

The Island
This iconic hotel has one of the Gold Coast’s largest open-air rooftops and is the place to be when the sun is shining, and you feel the need to quench that hard-earned thirst with some beautifully put together cocktails. Keep up to date with what’s on as they regularly host drag events with a difference, like their laugh-a-minute Brunch with Bite and fun-loving Hey Felicia Drag and Dine Musical. Did we mention there are drinks packages? — Yassss!
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

The Avenue
What is there not to like about this Surfers Paradise behemoth: they simply have it all. Regardless of what day of the week it is or what time even, The Avenue makes itself one of the best places to either come and relax or live it up — all underpinned by slurp-worthy drinks and the yummiest of food. More often than not, themed party nights are going down, with Thursday being the night for risqué jokes aplenty with Dragalicious.
Where: 3-15 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Dragalicious at The Avenue
Dragalicious at The Avenue (image supplied)

The Pink Flamingo
The Gold Coast’s premier cabaret performance and event venue, the list of hot-under-the-collar shows and eye-catching ladies/lads here is as long as your arm — and then some! You have some serious options when it comes to being entertained; however, if you feel the need for some flamboyant and over the top drag queen amusement, look no further than the Sunday stage show: Flamboyance. A sophisticated fusion of drag quuen cabaret and burlesque with an after-party that will keep you long into the night.
Where: Corner of 88 Surf Parade &, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach  

The Park Coomera
When it comes to finding family-friendly entertainment, great valued food and an overall great atmosphere, you’re hard pushed to look past The Park at Coomera. Yet when it comes to what’s on for big kids, there are plenty of options throughout the week to get you out the house — and away from the actual kids if need be. Take your pick between routine karaoke and unlimited bowling nights, but the star attraction has to be their monthly Drag Queen Bingo — the best way to laugh off a traumatic Monday at the office!
Where: Westfield Coomera, 103 Foxwell Road, Coomera 

Drag Queen Bingo Gold Coast (image supplied)
Drag Queen Bingo Gold Coast (image supplied)

Aviary Rooftop Bar
If there is a competitive streak in you, then we require your full attention. Drag Queen Bingo with Natasha St. James is your opportunity not only to win big (how does a $100 bar tab sound?) but also an opportunity to have an absolutely side-splitting evening as well. Ms St. James will take you through five rounds of number calling with two outrageous performances thrown in there along the way. If this doesn’t get you out of the house on a weekday night, nothing will!
Where: Mantra Southport Sharks, 5 Melia Court, Southport

Fat Freddy’s
Break the norm and spoil yourself with the most lavish and calorific Americana feast on the Gold Coast at Fat Freddy’s in Broadbeach. Once suitably fuelled up, make sure you stick around for their Drag Queen Trivia with their over the top and hilarious host, Mya-Carphone: expect naughty behaviour and outlandish jokes in abundance!
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach 

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

Photo by Alejandro Cartagena on Unsplash
Photo by Alejandro Cartagena on Unsplash
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