The newest swoon-worthy watering hole on the Gold Coast, find out why 'Getting loose at the Moose' should be at the top of your to-do list.
The newest swoon-worthy watering hole on the Gold Coast, find out why 'Getting loose at the Moose' should be at the top of your to-do list.
That’s the invitation of Broadbeach’s newest swoon-worthy watering hole and diner, The Loose Moose whiskey bar and restaurant. The brainchild of Patrick Gennari (owner of both Koi and Glass Dining & Lounge Bars), The Loose Moose is centrally located under the Oasis, next to Hatch & Co. and offers a seriously sophisticated setting, in contrast to its kooky moniker.
Inside Gold Coast recently popped in for a bite and we absolutely loved it – mounted moose head and all! Here’s five reasons why we think you’ll love it too!
The Loose Moose has splashed out on some seriously impressive digs. In fact, it could be the most well executed, themed fit out we’ve seen on the coast in a while. Channelling antique steampunk in spades, you’ll want to examine every charming nook and selfie-inducing cranny of this venue.
It’s the little details that make the difference here – the walls are adorned with bespoke copper pipe lighting, cool clocks and vintage photos. Cabinets showcase beautifully preserved, near century-old antiques, while needle gauges in front of the kitchen give you that ‘olde worlde, engine room vibe’, putting you in mind of a time when trains were powered by steam and the moonshine was fierce.
Seating for 140 patrons comes in a perfect mix of robust leather booths and swanky bar stools. There’s even a nifty crank-turn communal table that can be lowered for group dining, or raised for evening cocktails and tapas.
The statement (and sure to become legendary) taxidermy moose head behind the bar is a decor focal point, but it’s the radiant lighting that steals the show. The ceiling radiates orange light behind giant fans and coal orange metal barrels bathe the restaurant in what feels like a fireside glow.
The venue’s only a week old, but you’d never know. The Loose Moose runs like it’s been there for years, with speedy service offered by well turned out staff, who wear a mix of suspenders, hats, fringe skirts, and sparkle headbands.
We spoke with Manager, Adam, who says he hopes The Loose Moose will develop into a bar akin to ‘Cheers’, where patrons and staff are on a first name basis and feel like The Loose Moose is their second home.
Not too an ambitious of a goal, especially when you have a dedicated whiskey cabinet, where patrons’ personal bottles are safely locked up and proudly on display behind the host stand. When their respective owners’ pop in for a drink, the barkeep supplies glasses, rocks and accoutrements for you and your guests.
Finally, electroswing tunes finish off 1920s vibe, putting you in the mood for a suitably stiff drink.
Bar manager, Billie Jean ‘The Whisky Queen’ has done her homework when it comes to stocking the bar. The brick walls are lined with 130 whiskeys, 30 rums, 20 gins, 60 bottled beers, plus a large selection of vodka, cognac, tequila, wine and 15 beers on tap. Phew!
The cocktails resulting from all this exotic liquor are outstanding. For example, rather than a plain ole’ Old Fashioned (Mad Men fans will be more than familiar with this cocktail), why not try a new twist on the old favourite, with a date, apricot, or fig version?
That’s The Loose Moose’s promise, so if you’ve been craving Buffalo Wings or some other naughty North American indulgence, go crazy and keep a relatively clear conscience, or stick with your diet and enjoy something equally delicious, yet light, like their range of tapas or gourmet salads.
All the traditional American favourites are here, served with a grandiose flourish. Like their Captain America Dawg; a huge double smoked brockwurst with jack cheese, pickle mayo, ketchup, mustard, and tangy slaw. The Jalapeño Poppers are a must-try too, as is the Mac and Cheese with smoked cheese and chorizo, the range of chargrilled burgers and melt in your mouth smoked ribs.
Head Chef Michael Dragosevic told us he thinks the Volcanic Ass Burner wings are the hottest on the Coast. If you disagree, be sure to let him know. He has an arsenal of Carolina Reaper Chilli’s (the hottest chilli in the world), and is happy to make your serve ‘hotter than hell’, if that’s what blow your hair back.
As the neon sign by the kitchen says, all menu items are available for takeaway too, so if eating loaded fries on the couch is your thing, you can totally do it. Hooray!
Fancy a breakfast hotdog or red velvet pancakes to get your day off to a tasty start? Your wish is The Loose Moose’s command! It’s open from 7am till late, 7 days a week, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. This is a win-win-win in our book – we love a place you know will be open basically any time you need to chow down.
“Let’s get loose at ‘The Moose!’” is bound to be the phrase on every Gold Coaster’s lips soon. We called it here first! Be it for eggs, or a late night whiskey, The Loose Moose is definitely a place you need to check out.
Hours: 7 days. 7am till Late for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (All items also available for take away)
Location: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Phone: (07) 561 323 56
Website: http://www.theloosemoose.com.au
Copy: Camilla Jones
Photography: Marleigh Kelly
If you love to wine, dine and shop you’ll love Broadbeach. If you prefer to surf, laze in the sun or strut along beachfront esplanades, you’ll also love Broadbeach. From cult-followed cafes to shiny new eats, boujee bars and shopping boutiques, this burb’s an A-grade entertainer that shines bright in the eyes of locals and visitors alike.
There are many reasons locals – and Gold Coasters far and wide – love a bit of Broady, but here are 15 to get you started.
The Star Gold Coast
If ever there was a reason to call up the babysitter, it’s for a session at The Star. Here, you’re greeted with live music and a melange of premium food options- you won’t need to go anywhere else. Start with a few bevvies at the Atrium Bar before choosing your cuisine for the night. Will it be the fresh Garden Kitchen & Bar or the award-winning Cantonese at Uncle Su’s? Why not taste Tokyo right on the Gold Coast at Kiyomi, authentic Italian eats at Cucina Vivo or the ultimate buffet experience at Harvest Buffet? Or maybe you’re looking for the chic rooftop bar at Nineteen at The Star or a sneaky drink at the new look Veladora?
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant
If you’re after a tried and tested, long-standing comedy cabaret, good ‘ole Dracs has been serving up frights, food and frivolity since we were all ankle-biters. Most people are sold when they hear there’s a ghost train alone, let alone the actual show, which changes every so often, so there’s always a reason to go back! Enjoy a quality 3-course dinner and a menu of magical and mystical cocktails and shots!
Where: Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach
Social Eating House + Bar
If you consider yourself a gastronome, then this Oracle Blvd darling is for you. Social serves modern Australian flavours in a casual meets fine dining setting. For this, they’ve secured more hats than a Milliner’s workshop and have just won 3 glasses at the 2024 Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards. This comes as no surprise with Executive Chef Matthew Jefferson in charge. With a recently refreshed menu (promised to please even the most refined palates), you’ll experience a carefully curated range of bar snacks, charcuterie, and small and large share plates featuring the finest Australian ingredients and paired to perfection.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
Blues on Broadbeach
Unlike our other listings, this one’s not here 24/7. However, it’s that much of a Broady icon that it would be criminal not to throw it a mention. As the name suggests, it brings us world-class blues music and jazz from locals and famous acts alike, performing across multiple venues over four unforgettable days. And it’s free. When does that ever happen?!
Where: Various Broadbeach venues
Elk Espresso
This place has never met an empty table; it’s constantly bulging at the seams with raving fans. Of course, we are one of such fans. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the beach, the coffee is all-time, the menus are seasonal and heavenly, and they do a Boozy Bottomless Brunch. And sold!
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
The Oasis
It’s an everyday escape for locals, and one of our top shopping centres on the coast (for good reason). The Oasis is home to stunning fashion boutiques, and the number of fabulous eateries at hand is impressive in of itself. In addition to the ones we highlight in this article, we’re talking Mario’s, Madison’s Café and Patisserie, Spice Kitchen and Bar, and The Broadbeach Tavern, to name just a few. It’s a #OneStopShop.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Broadbeach Bowls Club
Ahhh, good old lawn bowls. The game that never fails to deliver a good time. If you’re looking for the best way to spend a chill arvo on the GC, it’s with a game of barefoot bowls, brew in hand at Broadbeach Bowls Club. When you’re finished, they have a full bistro menu waiting with big portions of all your go-to pub-grub meals. They also have a canape package perfect for a laid-back birthday or celebration.
Where: 169 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
kōst Bar & Grill
Just over a year old, yet kōst has already wriggled its way onto our hot list… sneaky bugger. Just kidding, they’re here for a reason, and credit is due! The contemporary style bar and grill is perfect for sophisticated sips, flame-grilled eats and boujee’ bar snacks’, all within a relaxed-luxury setting. Champagne with a side of caviar, anyone?
Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
No Name Lane
Well, if it isn’t No Name Lane making a name for themselves as Blake Lively’s favourite coffee. In her exact words “”the best coffee of her life”. We can attest to this, alongside the cafe’s cult local following. Not only are they adored for their cuppa, but their all-day breakfasts and gourmet lunches also go down a treat so if you haven’t been, remedy this immediately.
Where: 16 Charles Ave, Broadbeach
Kurrawa Surf Club
Ocean views don’t come any better than this. With legit THE most prime location, Kurrawa Surf Club has everything you’d want from a Surf Club…and more. With awesome regular members specials and fresh ingredients, there’s no such thing as a bad meal here. They host a trivia night and live music, and of course there’s the obligatory gaming lounge for those who like a flutter.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach
CHA CHA Japanese Restaurant
Gold Coasters have been CHA CHA bound for an authentic Japanese nosh-up which won’t break the bank for years, and that’s not about to change any time soon. The banquet menu is divine and every visit you’ll experience the same level of scrumptiousness. But the soy on the dim sum…it’s BYO and it’s hard to find an already affordable yet high-quality restaurant offering our 3 favourite letters. Score.
Where: 2705 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Pacific Fair
This list wouldn’t be complete without mention of THE queen. Pacific Fair (aka Pac Fair) is any Gold Coasters first point of call when a new ensemble or therapy (retail or other) is required. It has every retailer you could possibly wish for, fabulous food options and indisputably the most gorgeous fit-out you’ve ever seen. Nothing rivals it.
Where: Gold Coast Hwy and Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach
Costa Taco
You bet we did a happy dance when news broke that our fav taqueria from Palm Beach had opened a third location in Broady (the second was Byron). For us, and many (most) Gold Coasters, it was a love at first bite. Costa Taco stole our taste buds with their authentic, flavour-filled eats and there was no turning back. And why would we? You would have to be coco to say no no to coconut margaritas?
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
The Lamb Shop
In a pita shell, you’re getting bangin bar snacks and succulent souvlaki- what’s not to love? After a long day on Broadbeach beach (presumably), when you’re feeling sun-kissed and salt wrapped, is there anything better than biting into a tangy lamb-filled pita wrap to replenish exerted energy? No! The Lamb Shop’s entire menu is prepared in-house daily, using only fresh local produce, premium cuts and authentic grilling techniques. That’s why we love em!
Where: 1 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
The Beach Hotel Broadbeach
There’s no better place to snag a seat and sink a beer (or a Golden Hour Sour) on a Saturday arvy than at the brand new The Beach Hotel in Broadbeach. The airy spaces and indoor-outdoor flow let the sea breeze carry through the beer garden into the public bar. The vibe is set to ‘summer chill’, eats are delish, sips are refreshing and every corner is designed for the perfect gathering with your pals. After some spirited fun, head inside Cora, a restaurant within The Beach Hotel, where fine dining and a laid-back atmosphere come together to deliver palate-pleasing Mediterranean-inspired bites and crisp, cool drinks. Don’t mind if we do.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
A world of old-school New York glamour awaits with the opening of Roosevelt Lounge in Broadbeach this week.
The space is the epitome of decadence and an entirely unique concept for the Gold Coast’s blossoming bar scene. Entering through a velvet curtain, you’ll find yourself in a breathtakingly seductive space that will certainly place all your senses on high alert.
The attention to detail is immaculate, as you’ve come to expect from owner Patrik Gennari (of Glass Dining & Lounge Bar, Koi Dining and Lounge Bar and The Loose Moose fame). A copper pressed ceiling, sizeable silver mirror, a bookcase laden with leather-bound books even Ron Burgundy would envy. Black and white photographs of the one and only Marilyn Monroe and crystal-laden light fixtures also feature in the perfectly appointed room.
The wooden bar is luxuriously extravagant, made with rich mahogany and stocked with premium beverages the likes of which you may have never seen before. The vibe is similarly fitting, sophisticated and aimed at the well-heeled 30 plus crowd.
The cocktail list is a theatre-themed extravanaganza of molecular mixology (try saying that five times fast) and the dining experience equally lavish.
Think antipasto boards laden with the highest quality spreads, small and medium share plates with options like Yakitori Pork Belly with caramelised wasabi apple puree, yuzu sesame and watermelon radish (!) and savoury smoked salmon-filled cones.
The food is truly sensational and washed down with an icy cold glass of Dom Pérignon, what could be classier.
Highly recommended for a night out with girlfriends who love getting dressed up for a night of dancing in the most sophisticated of settings – fringed frocks highly recommended.
Be warned, there’s a strict dress code, collared shirts for the fellas and no visible tattoos.
LOCATION: Next to The Loose Moose, 75 Surf Pde, Broadbeach
HOURS: From 5pm until late
Words by Kirra Smith
It’s almost a rite of passage of our youth, sloshing (stumbling) around in muddy fields for days on end, the never ending festival queues and lost mates. So what do you do when your love of live music remains but the mere thought of that sentence makes you feel like a nap, and your mud tolerance left right around the same time the bottle-o stopped asking you for ID? Well, *drumroll pls* because our beloved Blues on Broadbeach, is swooning and crooning its way back to us for its 23rd year!
One of Australia’s largest free music events, this year the beachside fest that never misses a beat will transform Broadbeach from Thursday 16th May until Sunday 19th. And after striking a chord among music lovers for some two decades now, this GC institution sure knows a thing or tune about showing us a blue-dy good time!
Set to take the stage over four funk-filled days, this year’s line up is jam-packed with International headline acts including the smouldering musical stylings of American folk-rock icon, Melissa Etheridge, Ana Popovic, and blues-rock collab Samantha Fish and Jesse Dayton.
With gigs going down across 16 of Broady’s finest venues and stages, we’ve taken the liberty of compiling the ultimate guide to the best spots at which to grab bevvy and bite while you soak up the best of the ‘Fest.
Kurrawa Park Stage
The Oasis Shopping Centre bars and restaurants
If you’re revelling in or around the Kurrawa beachfront and find yourself in need of a refuel, The Oasis Shopping Centre is going to be your jam for all things delish and refreshing. Though it may be the most convenient pit stop to the Kurrawa Park Stage, you’re certainly not compromising on choice or caliber when it comes to dining options. If you need a pre, mid or post-festival feed or bevvy – the likes of Elk Espresso, Mario’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria, Sofia’s Restaurant & Bar and Grand Dynasty are all up to the task!
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Victoria Park Stage
Nude Amigos
Perched right by all the Victoria Park stage action, this Mexican eatery and margarita bar is the perfect venue to sit back with a cocktail, treat the tastebuds and drink in those live tunes. Fresh, local produce takes centre stage for the entire lineup of enticing eats – in the form of next-level authentic Mexican fare. The menu ranges from bites that will perfectly pair with any of the signature margi’s, to a full blown banquet option – top it off with the toe-tapping sounds of some world-class acts and you’re in for a wine-derful time.
Where: Lot 1, 70 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Federation Park Stage
Unicorn Seafood Restaurant
If all that festival-going has you craving some Greek eats and hospitality, Unicorn Seafood Restaurant can and should be your o-fish-al port of call this Blues on Broadbeach weekend. Located down the Surf Parade end nearest the Federation Park Stage, this seafoodie Mediterranean gem has got you sorted with a satisfying all-day menu – including a seafood platter to die for, and sea-riously why wouldn’t you?! Surrounded by blue and white hues and ocean murals, grab yourself a cocktail or five and settle in for the long-haul.
Where: Phoenician Resort, 24-26 Queensland Avenue, Broadbeach
Surf Parade Stage
Vida Broadbeach
If you’re frolicking in the vicinity of the Surf Parade Stage and feeling a little famished – our suggestion is to head to Vida Broadbeach without delay. Don’t let the fresh face fool you, this dapper debutant has all the makings of a star – serving elevated seafood, Mediterranean flavours and crafted sips, plus some show-stopping good looks to boot. If festivities fuelled by Crab Bruschetta and Truffle oil fries are wrong, we don’t want to be right.
Where: 95 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Oracle Boulevard Stage
kōst Bar & Grill
This contemporary bar & grill concept, boasting one of the city’s only charcoal wood-fire grills, has redefined the way we meet and eat in Broadbeach. Luring us in with the hypnotising aroma of flame-grilled food and an equally enticing facade kōst Bar & Grill has a front row seat to all the action on Oracle Boulevard.
Treat yourself to everything from boujee ‘bar snacks’ like coal roasted potato, labne, smoked roe, through to the roll of the moment, bay lobster roll, gem lettuce, kōst signature sauce, and the premium Australian wood-fired lobster where 24 hours notice is required #worththewait.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
Den Devine Stage
It’s Broadbeach’s 365 home of jazz and blues – so it’s only fair that Den Devine should get its own dedicated Blues on Broady stage! Serving up an eclectic variety of homely, Mediterranean foods along with your favourite beers, wines and spirits, its old school, moody but pumping jazz bar vibes are a winner with blues and jazz enthusiasts. Even if you don’t drink whisky, trust us – you’ll start!
Where: 12/15 Victoria Ave, Broadbeach
The Broadbeach Mall Piano Bar
Harajuku Gyoza
Gyoza load of all the festival action, then hop on over to Broady’s very own beer stadium and dumpling bar, Harajuku Gyoza to top up the tank. It’s dinner and a show x2, since you also get to watch the chefs prep goodies through the kitchen’s open glass windows. There’s also an array of Japanese-inspired cocktails and craft beer on tap – aaah, that should put the pep back in our step after all those questionable dance moves (… just us?).
Where: 2/26 Victoria Ave, Broadbeach
The Loose Moose Stage
We’re a sucker for a North American-style bar and restaurant and it’s safe to say we’re not the only ones! The Loose Moose is THE spot for a couple of drinks and a bite to eat, and the perf spot to listen to tunes bellowing from their very own stage – some might say it’s a real Blues on Broady ‘moose-t do’! A tap house with a prohibition themed twist, the vibes here are always immaculate – one of the best if you’re looking to grab a well-deserved drink after bopping away all day/night long.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
The Broadbeach Tavern Stage
A stalwart watering hole for locals to meet up for a chinwag, a bite and some brewskis – The Broadbeach also gets the honours of being one of the official music hubs for the festival, as is good and proper! Pull up a pew either in the Family Bistro, Sports Bar or our vote, the large outdoor deck to soak up both the music and the Autumn GC rays. It’s also just over the road from Kurrawa Park Stage so you get the best of both worlds.
Where: Oasis Shopping Centre, Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach
The Lucky Squire Stage
Beer and jazz are a match made in heaven, so this joint was born to stage (literally) some Blues on Broady bangers. In case you haven’t put two and two together, The Lucky Squire brings to life the story of Australia’s first brewer, the rogue swindler James Squire. Celebrating quality craft beers and modern pub grub across two epic levels, it’s a must-visit on your festival rounds.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
Fat Freddy’s – Beach Bar & Diner Stage
Who doesn’t crave burgers, fries and all things American diner-style after drinking, scat singing and dancing up a storm? Another venue boasting bragging rights to its own stage, you’ll not only get front-row seats to a bunch of cool acts, but also a feast of drool-worthy classics. It’s one big par-tay here so you can imagine the levelled-up vibes when you add Blues on Broadbeach into the mix.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Words by Bianca Trathen & Kellie Leader
