The Fruit Shop Burleigh now has a Tugun sibling.
The Fruit Shop Burleigh now has a Tugun sibling.
If Tugun needed another reason to feel cocky about its beachside brilliance, The Fruit Shop has just delivered it on a silver (or should we say stainless steel) platter. The iconic Burleigh-born juice and acai bar has officially opened its second location, and locals are already going bananas for it. Fresh, fun, and bursting with Gold Coast energy, it’s basically sunshine in business form.
The Fruit Shop’s backstory is as wholesome and sweet as a punnet of strawberries. The business first sprouted in Burleigh Heads back in the 1970s, eventually blossoming into the beloved juice bar locals know today.
Owner Ashlee Rana-Smith grew up in the business, watching her parents run the iconic Burleigh spot while juggling four kids and a whole lot of fruit. Fast forward to 2023, and Ashlee and her partner Bailey Haigh – both in their very early twenties – took a massive leap of faith and bought the family business outright. Now, they’ve taken an even bigger bite by opening a second location in Tugun, proving the family legacy is still very much ripe and thriving.
Ashlee and Bailey are the definition of a power duo. She’s been juicing since she could walk, and he was once a plumber with zero hospitality experience, which honestly deserves a round of applause. Together, they’ve created a space that feels like the Gold Coast distilled into a cup – sunny, healthy, community-driven, and just the right amount of extra.
The Tugun location was a no-brainer. Close to the beach, surrounded by locals who love a good health kick, and perfectly positioned to become part of the suburb’s daily rhythm. The Fruit Shop is also the only spot on the Coast serving real fruit juices and real acai with no additives, no nasties, and no weird ingredients you need a science degree to pronounce. Just fresh, honest goodness that tastes like summer all-year-round.
Their signature drinks? Iconic juices topped with fresh fruit – a visual masterpiece that begs to be on the gram. And the freshness isn’t just a vibe, it’s literal. Bailey heads to the fruit market every Tuesday to hand-pick the best produce he can find. No shortcuts, no compromises, no “they’ll do” mentality. Only the best of the best makes the cut.
Inside, the atmosphere is relaxed, colourful, and community focused. The Fruit Shop isn’t just about serving juices – it’s about bringing people together. Whether you’re grabbing a post-swim acai, fuelling up before a surf, or bribing your kids with a smoothie so they’ll stop asking for hot chips, this bright, beach‑adjacent beauty fits seamlessly into everyday life.
In a nutshell (fun fact: most nuts are botanically fruits), The Fruit Shop keeps things simple – good fruit, good people, good energy. Tugun locals now have a new spot to call their own, and the Gold Coast gets another delicious slice of a family legacy that’s been decades in the making.
Fresh, fun, and full of flavour, The Fruit Shop Tugun is bricks and mortar proof that fruit-fuelled concepts will always be the pick of the crop.
Where: 4/467 Golden Four Drive, Tugun
When: 6am – 2pm, Monday to Sunday
Words by Bianca Trathen
Images by Liam McDonald
Status: living the ‘cream, 365 days a year.
Ah, ice cream, you dreamy, heaven-sent creation, you. A treat that transcends all ages, there’s no denying it is one of – if not *the* – most iconic summer foods going. And here on the GC, our (usually) balmy climate is more suited than most to indulge in (several) scoops of creamy, churned ice cream or gelato goodness any old time we please…
Which is just as well, with all of the fabulous Gelaterias and frozen dessert purveyors gracing our city. It’s a near full-time job trying to keep tabs on them all… and, side note – new dream profession unlocked.
Let’s dig in (y’know, with one of those adorably tiny, and mildly impractical ice cream spoons) to some of the best spots to cool off with a cup, cone, or even a fully-loaded sundae –stacked, sprinkled, and swirled within an inch of its life. Who’s hungry?!
Artisanal gelato slinger Rosé Gelateria dons its telltale blush accents across two lush GC locations – Tedder Ave and Sanctuary Cove – which, in itself, is a pretty decent clue as to the boujee, boutique style approach at these pretty-in-pink creameries. Besides a delicious assortment of crafted ice creams, they pour some fantastic coffee, including an iced coffee with vanilla bean gelato and vanilla syrup that’ll knock your socks and/or crocks off (hopefully not ‘and’, though). The signature Rose flavour, which comes sprinkled with petals, is a treat for the peepers and the palette. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a prettier gelato fix on the Coast!
Where: Shop 39a, Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove and Shop 6/19-21 Tedder Ave, Main Beach
As the name suggests, Italia Moto Pizza & Gelato isn’t just about serving incredible Italian savouries; it’s also about serving scoopfuls of creamy gelato. Take it in a cup, in a cone, or take it home! Take it plain, or take it with ‘tune-ups.’ AKA, indulgent sauces and crunchy toppings like M&M’s, Oreos and sprinkles. And don’t even get us started on their affogatos– did someone say heaven?
Where: 104 Helensvale Rd, Helensvale
The concept of a friendly neighbourhood noshery specialising in snacks is one we can wholeheartedly get behind, and Shiro Gelato & Snack has your cravings covered with a Japanese take on all things to nibble, slurp, and lick. If it’s the lickable variety you’ve got your heart set on, house-made gelato flavours like Matcha Pistachio, Double Rich Mango and Choco Banana are all a common sight here. Take it to the next level and make it a Mochi-wrapped gelato scoop – served perfectly encased in the gelatinous Japanese dessert.
Where: 50 Nerang St, Southport
We’ve been living the ‘cream’ ever since Gelato Messina returned to our shores, and they’ve been slinging their famed flavours out of Surfers’ slick Paradise Centre precinct ever since. The Messina name is one known for taking this gelato business seriously… everything from the dulce de leche to the gelato base – and even the chocolate – is made from scratch, down to their very own dairy farm to keep them plied with the creamiest jersey milk. There’s a reason that their… *checks notes* – literally every flavour – is what ice-cream dreams are made of.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2A Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Cup, cone, or even sundaes – no matter your preferred method of consumption, Broadbeach’s The Gelato Shop has got you covered when it comes to all things chilled, sweet and creamy. The legendairy lineup of award-winning flavours includes the likes of Chunky Chocolate Cheesecake and Snickers gelato, a slew of fruit-based sorbets and decadent vegan options like Coffee Crunch or Peanut Butter. For an all-out indulgence, there’s locally made Warm Cookies & Gelato, Waffles and an array of fully stacked Sundaes.
Where: 97 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Not only do they serve a slice worth doughing over, but scoops of gelato. Melt-in-your-mouth (it won’t last long enough to melt in your cone) authentic Italiana gelati. Savour it plain and simple with a one or two-scoop cone, or take it on a freshly baked Sicilian brioche bun or a pizza?! What could be better? We’ll tell ya! It’s their Rumming dessert pizza, made with zuppa inglese gelato (rum/custard), white chocolate glaze, and chocolate dust. Mamma mia, che buono!
Where: East Tower The Phoenician Building, Shop 10/104 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Started from Roma, now they’re here! Thanks, Drake. But yes, My Gelato did come all the way from Rome, Italy, to bring us, mere mortals, authentic gelato made with the freshest ingredients – all resulting in flavours that are both classic and innovative. Think Raffaello (just like the Ferrero balls) and Paciugo made with caramelised hazelnut and Nutella. Or, how does Latte Di Rosa (Rose Milk) or Honecomb sound? Pretty darn good if you ask us.
Where: 12w/1 Oracle Bvd, Broadbeach
A spot that’s a stickler for tradition, La Macelleria is kitted out with all the best Italian gelato-making gear. You can watch on as the crew whips up their artisanal, chilled confections daily… *drooling intensifies*. Wrap your lips around stalwart flavours like Bacio and Pistacio, gelato shakes and out-of-this-world cup sundaes – for those who love their desserts layered with pure indulgence. One taste, and your love for this place will be un-cone-ditional.
Where: 90 Markeri Street, Mermaid Waters
Every scoop of Gelato Gemelli’s creamy creations is made from scratch with imported equipment straight from Bologna, the heartland of gelato-making. No shortcuts, no pre-mixes – just proper Italian gelato crafted with love and precision. The signature scoop? The Pisellino – a heavenly blend of pistachio cream and white chocolate that’s worth melting for. Cones or cups aren’t your only choice here; you can also have your fave flavour served in their famous brioche gelato sandwich. Just stop – we may pass out from sheer excitement.
Where: 2/2217 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach ‘The Oxley’
A true family-run gelateria, Al Bacio Gelato Naturale is headed by husband-and-wife duo Craig and Rebecca Heininger, alongside their daughter, Jaime. Since opening in late 2025, they’ve been serving scoops of authentic, 100% natural Italian gelato to Burleigh locals (and visitors), and we cannot be more thankful. The signature Al Bacio, meaning “as good as a kiss” in Italian, is a rich chocolate-hazelnut scoop made with homemade hazelnut paste from Piemonte, Italy. Then, for those who like to gulp down their gelato, you can order your favourite flavour in thick shake form. Can we get a hell yeah?
Where: 7/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Here’s the scoop… if you’re in and around Burleigh and find yourself in the mood for gelato, sorbet, or ice-cream shakes – do not pass go – head directly to Scoop Gelati.
The hand-crafted, small-batch recipes include refreshing revelations like ANZAC Biscuit, Caramel Biscotto and Apple Crumble, all made fresh on-site. Got an ice cream connoisseur in your life? Their frozen cakes are a treat for the eyes and the taste buds – perfect for every occasion, or ‘just because’ works too.
Where: 23 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Picture the scene: you find yourself in the southern end of town (wandering off of one of those world-class beaches, no doubt), when you’re hit with a hankering – not quite hunger – but you could most definitely eat. The answer is Burleigh Gelato! Don’t let the name fool you; they are not exclusive to Burleigh – they’re also in Palm Beach. Let us tell you, the array of flavours is enough to earn the affection of even the frostiest-at-heart. The cookie-inspired creations, such as M&M Cookie Dough or Biscoff gelato, are enough on their own to get dessert fans swooning. They’re also handily available on major home delivery apps and open late – perfect for those late-night sugar cravings.
Where: 9 Connor Street, Burleigh Heads and 3/10 Palm Beach Ave, Palm Beach
Palm Beach’s turquoise sensation, Tango Gelato, serves up sweet scoops daily out of its Pavilions Shopping Centre location (also in Kingscliff if you’re ever stranded across the border). The icy creations include inventive combos like Ginger & Dark Chocolate, Strawberry Cookies & Cream and Blackberry Sorbet – so if you think you’ve ‘been there, licked that’ when it comes to ice cream flavours, we’d suggest you pay them a visit to have your mind blown immediately. They also offer delivery, so if you’re lucky enough to live nearby, you can always opt to have the ‘mind blown’ come to you (in your jim-jams, obvi).
Where: 1102 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach and Unit 4/78–80 Marine Parade, Kingscliff
Elly’s is about one thing: really good gelato. Full stop. The kind you plan your beach day around. The kind that turns “just one scoop” into “okay, maybe two.” The storefront will charm your pants off, while flavours like Salted Caramel and Kinder Surprise deliver creamy comfort with every lick. If you prefer something a little more classic, the Peppermint Chocolate Chip and Bubblegum (yes, bubblegum, and yes, it slaps) are absolute crowd pleasers.
Where: 778 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Bringing Kiwi-style real fruit ice cream to Tugun, Chilly Bin (aka, an esky) is famous for its soft-serve-meets-smoothie hybrid made with frozen fruit blended on the spot with silky ice cream. First, you pick an ice-cream flavour for your base. Next, you choose your fruity flair. Finally, you add house-made cacao maple choc chips for that delicious crunch, and you’ve got yourself summer in a cup, or waffle cone. Consider us sold!
Where: 478 Golden Four Drive, Tugun
What do you get if you take a devoted Italian and send them to study for a diploma at the Gelato University of Carpigiani in Italy? You get Davide, the owner of Ottimo, of course! Promising superior gelato and coffee – rest assured, whatever flavour you settle on taking from this premium iced-goods purveyor is going to be the goods – it’s all made fresh and on-site daily, after all. Stroll in after an afternoon on the beach and let him and his friendly staff scoop you happy. And their signature ‘Sicily’ flavour, made with Mandarin Custard with Pistachio and Almond Caramel, sure does just that.
Where: Shop 18/52 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
There is a multitude of tasty reasons to stop by Luna’s Deli – but their desserts are number one on that list. Alongside buttery in-house pastries, they serve small-batch gelato, best enjoyed on a fresh-baked choc chip cookie topped with chocolate sauce– that’s our professional recommendation. However, each scoop is just as good on its own, whether in a cup or a cone, and one scoop is never enough.
Where: Shop 7/120 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Serving only the most authentic Italian gelato, the rainforest-studded surrounds of Tamborine’s mountainside community are the only reminder that you are, in fact, not strolling the streets of Sicily whilst sampling your delicious scoop of choice. At Tamborine Gelato, the iced goods are served old school – hidden behind the lids of a traditional Pozzetti gelato cabinet in the name of freshness. Seasonal, house-made flavours are rejigged every couple of days, with the chance to catch creamy creations like Tiramisu, Choc Mint Cookie and Honey and Rhubarb.
Where: Shop 4/15–17 Main St, Tamborine Mountain
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Good Day Coffee gets a fresh pour with Willy’s Beans.
Sure, there’s plenty of cafes on the coast that serve good coffee these days, but there’s few that actually make your day. Good Day Coffee has long been the go-to for good times in Tugun, and now, thanks to Willy’s Beans founder Jayson Mathiou, this much-loved local is percolating smoother brews and better vibes than ever before.
Before coffee, Jayson Mathiou’s career had him travelling the world as a physiotherapist working with elite athletes. But no matter how far work took him, his first stop when coming home to the Gold Coast was always Good Day in Tugun for a coffee and the iconic avocado on toast.
It was during his time working abroad in Colombia that Jayson’s curiosity for coffee deepened. Immersed in the Colombian community and its rich coffee culture, he fell in love not just with the brew, but with the people and the stories behind it. The experience sparked a desire to bring a taste of that life back home to the Gold Coast.
That spark became Willy’s Beans, which launched in Burleigh last year and quickly grew into a specialty coffee operation. Drawing on the same mindset he once applied to elite sport, Jayson now channels his obsession with detail into coffee, overseeing everything from sourcing and roasting to quality control. Willy’s Beans works directly with a single family-owned farm in Colombia, ensuring every bean is handled with care.
So when the opportunity arose to acquire Good Day, it felt less like a business decision and more like a full-circle moment. Jayson didn’t want to replace the local spot, he wanted to keep the good vibes going, honouring the cafe that had welcomed him home for years.
The space itself has had a glow up, but don’t worry, it hasn’t lost its soul. The new fit-out (completed in seven days!) reflects the coastal community it serves, with indoor and outdoor seating for up to 60 people including a communal table in the centre. There’s a strong takeaway focus too for those grabbing a cup on the run.
Crucially, Good Day’s long-time head chef Mikey is still at the helm. The iconic avocado on toast with chilli flakes? Untouched. Unless you want to add goat’s fetta (of course you do).
The toasties are also a hit with Smoked Ham Toastie with ham, gruyere cheese, and onion jam, as well as the Roast Mushroom and Three Cheese Toastie.
For those who deem breakfast the most important meal of the day, you can build your own breaky plate with avo, egg, goat’s cheese, ham and/or bacon on sourdough or gf bread. Simple yet oh so satisfying.
Filter, cold brew and signature beverages sit alongside silky, milky coffees made just the way you like them, and yes, you can take away beans to fill your cup at home.
Where: 3/476 Gold Coast Hwy, Tugun
When: Daily, 5am–1pm
Words by Lisette Drew
The Chilly Bin brings Kiwi-style real fruit ice cream to Tugun.
We love our Kiwi mates, but there’s some lingo that gets lost in translation across the ditch. Jandals and togs we can work out easily enough, but the one southern Gold Coasters will be hearing a lot more of is the chilly bin.
For those who don’t know, a humble chilly bin is the Kiwi cousin of the Aussie Esky, and now one has parked up (literally!) in Tugun. It isn’t keeping beers cold, though, it’s dishing out New Zealand–style real fruit ice cream, and locals are already lining up for a lick.
Behind the fruity fun are South Island sweethearts Jackson Cox and Alexandra Pedersen. From corporate jobs in Sydney to selling ice cream in the sunshine state, these home cooks have truly churned magic from their childhood memories.
“Going to fruit orchards and getting ice creams is hands down our favourite way to enjoy ice cream. It just made sense to share it with Australia!”
After moving to the Gold Coast in early 2024, the pair gravitated to the southern beaches they adored. For months they hustled from their home on the GC to Brisbane markets every weekend, trying to convince early birds that 6am is, in fact, a perfectly acceptable time for ice cream.
They always knew, however, that the Gold Coast was the natural place for their dream, so when the opportunity arose, they snapped up a sunny corner straight away.
The Chilly Bin sits in an open space in Tugun’s shopping strip, a relaxed, family-friendly hangout with umbrellas for shade and games to play.
Yes, this chilly bin is a bit bigger than most because it’s actually a real horse float, one that was used to cart horses. In pure Kiwi DIY fashion, the couple gutted it, polished it up and turned it into the cutest ice-cream chariot this side of the Tasman.
Now to the scoop (pun very much intended).
Frozen fruit is blended on the spot with silky ice cream, creating a soft-serve-meets-smoothie-hybrid.
First, pick your base. Ice cream is made from scratch with whole ingredients and absolutely no preservatives. Milk, cream, egg yolks, vanilla beans or coconut milk and olive oil for a dairy-free dream, all whipped with raw local honey into a creamy, clean canvas ready to meet whatever fruit of the week makes the cut.
The next step is choosing your fruity flavour. Mixed berry and mango are cult favourites, while weekly specials like passionfruit will keep locals returning every week. You can pick up to three fruits to mix in, and the end result is edible art.
Add in house-made cacao maple choc chips and you’ve got yourself summer in a cup, or waffle cone.
So next time you’re craving a chill sesh, slap on your togs and jandals, then head to The Chilly Bin in Tugun to get your scoop on.
Where:478 Golden Four Drive, Tugun
When: Friday 2pm–5:30pm, Sat and Sun 12pm–5:30pm
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Belinda Symons
