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15 Cupid endorsed spots to woo your Valentine

Romance is coming in hot on the GC!

Valentine's Day (image via unsplash)

If it’s romance you want, it’s romance you’ll get here on the GC this Valentine’s Day. Hubba hubba!

We’ve compiled a list of what’s on and where, so that you can dial up the love-o-meter and treat yo’self and yo’partner to a Valentine’s Day (or night) experience to remember.

*Please note that unless indicated otherwise, all Valentine’s Day specials mentioned take place on Wednesday 14th of February.

JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa
Citrique
Treat your valentine (and yo’self, lbh) to a decadent five-course degustation dinner date, curated by Executive Chef Paul Smart and team of culinary experts. Accompanied by a glass of Laurent Perrier Champagne, tantalise your taste buds with Kingfish and ponzu pearls, Poached Lobster and caviar, Lobster fricassee, Roasted snow fish with beurre blanc sauce and salmon pearls, Wagyu flank steak and a decadent Chocolate mousse and praline dessert to finish. Prices start at $149 per person (level up with a $59 wine pairing). Find out more here.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Valentine's Day at Citrique, JW Marriott (image supplied)
Valentine's Day at Citrique, JW Marriott (image supplied)

Oasis Shopping Centre
Roosevelt Lounge
Love is in the air at Roosevelt Lounge, and the eternal romantics are busting out all the stops – with an indulgent, four-course menu and optional wine pairing upgrade to really woo your boo, whilst the sounds of love ballads fill the air courtesy of live tunes by Teagan Mills. All wrapped up in the kind of sultry, speakeasy ambience that makes you want to cosy up and play footsies under the table like a couple’a loved up youngun’s.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Sofia’s Restaurant and Bar
If whispering sweet nothings over wine and woodfired pizza is your love language, then look no further than Sofia’s Restaurant & Bar this V-day. If there’s one thing the Europeans know how to do it’s romance, and Sofia’s has it in spades. A sophisticated, Euro-style gem lurking right in the heart of Broadbeach bedecked with crisp white tablecloths and dripping in trailing greenery – we suggest letting them take the lead with an expertly-crafted cocktail and curated, four-course menu experience for $110pp. Find out more here.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

Sofia’s Restaurant & Bar, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Sofia’s Restaurant & Bar, Broadbeach (image supplied)

The Star Gold Coast
The Star Gold Coast’s stellar array of eateries are channelling their inner Cupid to sprinkle your V-day with every type of decadence imaginable. From curated, tasting menu encounters backdropped by a twinkling GC skyline, romantic Italian-style feasting to feeding your lover chocolate-dipped fruits from the chocolate fountain at Harvest Buffet. Seriously?! Surely these options have been plucked straight from the pages of a romance novel.
Go here for all the salacious deets on The Star’s Valentine’s Day food offerings.

Valentine's Day at The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Valentine's Day at The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

Azure Spa & Fitness
Azure invites you and your beloved to connect and unwind with a a 45 minute Retreatment Botanic Relaxation Massage and a 45 minute Retreatment Botanic Express Nourishing Facial. Enjoy a glass of champagne post-treatment and a complimentary gift. $260 and available throughout February.

Love in Luxury
Indulge in a luxury stay at The Star Grand Hotel and The Darling, including a daily $50 dining credit, daily breakfast per guest, and a late check out until 12:00pm. You’re guaranteed 20% off the Best Available rate, leaving more in the kitty for extra cocktails. The offer is valid until 31st May 2024.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Skypoint Observation Deck (image supplied)
Skypoint Observation Deck (image supplied)

Skypoint
Want to make your significant other’s heart skip a beat? Devouring a five-course degustation at the Gold Coast’s highest dining destination oughta do it (and if it doesn’t, we’re all out of ideas, just quietly). You’ll both be on cloud nine with an evening of live entertainment, wining and dining your way through flowing drinks, Beetroot and Ink gin cured trout and Ruby filled dark chocolate tart. Sorry, Casanovas – the Gold Package has sold out but never fear, the Silver Package is still available! At $134 per person it is the perfect place to romance your ride or die and soak up one of the best views on the Coast.
Where: SkyPoint Observation Deck, Level 77, Q1, Surfers Paradise

Twilight Poolside, QT Gold Coast (image supplied)
Twilight Poolside, QT Gold Coast (image supplied)

QT GOLD COAST
Bazaar
February 14 sees the return of the ‘Lover’s Feast’ at Bazaar Marketplace, serving up a lust-worthy twist on its decadent buffet experience. Get your aphrodisiac fix with oodles of Sydney rock oysters, trawler-fresh seafood, slow-roasted meats, tossed salads, with some love-themed sweet treats and a flowing chocolate fountain. There’s also acoustic tunes, a love potion on arrival and even personalised chocolate love notes, from $109 per person, (with optional beverage package upgrade).

Twilight Cabana Dinner Under The Stars
LBH, Valentine’s Day in a cabana under the stars is romance 101. Spoil your QTie (get it?!) and cosy up with dinner for two à la luxury poolside cabana – including a glass of Moët & Chandon Ice Impérial Champagne on arrival, followed by savouring three delicious courses under the stars. Dream date alert! $320 for one cabana per couple.

High Tea, QT Gold Coast (image supplied)
High Tea, QT Gold Coast (image supplied)

Fixx Café
Grab your lover or skip the clichés and round up your squad for a Galentine’s get-together. $75 per person including coffee or tea, or $95 per person served with a glass of Perrier-Jouët Champagne or really splurge with a bottomless spritz package for $109 per person.

Yamagen
Romance is hot on the menu at Yamagen with an extravagant 8-course menu curated by Executive Chef, Adam Lane. Think Sashimi Tacos, House-Made Wagyu Gyozas, Kushiyaki lamb cutlets, Wagyu Beef Sirloin ms6+… ’nuff said. $125 per person.

Get A Room
The thought of an evening of fanciful feasting with your heart-throb got you feeling some kind of way? Oh, GET A ROOM, already! No, we mean literally ‘Get a room’, the month-long Valentine’s celebration at QT. Just spend the night in Feb and you go in the draw to win – not just your loved one’s affections, but the contents of the whole dang room… right down to the designer bed and fluffy robes. So, why not upgrade that dinner date to a pampery, poolside staycay.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Valentine’s Day at Videre Restaurant (image supplied)
Valentine’s Day at Videre Restaurant (image supplied)

Videre
For one wonderful (or should we say wine-derful) and whirlwind evening only, RACV Royal Pines pop-up restaurant, Videre, will open its doors in the name of love. The Valentine’s exclusive event, brings a set menu of Mumm Champagne dressed Oysters & Pearls and Confit Ocean Trout to the unique, sweeping vantage of Royal Pines’ 21st floor, with wine pairings and specialty cocktails also available. Nothing but the best for you, babe.
Where: RACV Royal Pines, Ross Street, Benowa

Mercure Gold Coast Resort
Mercure Resort is throwing a luxurious and love-themed feast for the occasion, with a delightful 3-course menu, served within the lush surrounds and intimate ambience of The Green – for a very respectable $75 per person. Share in some creamy, Prawn Linguini (Lady and the Tramp style, of course) or mouth-watering Beef Tenderloin served with Potato gratin, followed by a Dessert Tasting Platter – a guaranteed way to win the complete adoration of any sweet lovers.
Where: 64 Palm Meadows Drive, Carrara

The Fireplace, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort (image supplied)
The Fireplace, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort (image supplied)

The Fireplace
Craving a rom-com vibing Valentine’s spent canoodling by the fire, but, y’know – in a Southern hemisphere friendly way? Enchant your valentine with an exquisite culinary showcase at The Fireplace, Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove. For $149pp, toast to your true love with a welcome glass of Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne, and delight in a degustation style evening featuring The Fireplace’s finest – such as Citrus cured kingfish and melt-in-your-mouth beef served three ways, surrounded by charred figs, roasted fennel, grilled zucchini and lemon myrtle jus. Be still, our beating hearts.
Where: Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove

eforea spa
Indulge in the language of love this February at eforea spa Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences. Choose a romantic couples’ escape or indulge in solo pampering with personalised spa packages. As an extra touch of luxury, relish a complimentary glass of sparkling wine post-treatment. Save 10-15% off couples and singles packages.
Where: Level 2, Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences, 6 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise

Clifford's Grill & Lounge, voco Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Clifford's Grill & Lounge, voco Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

voco
Craving some relaxed romance with your honey, this Valentine’s? Make a (dinner) date with Clifford’s Grill and Lounge, because love is in the air, baby! Opt to leave the choice in expert hands of Clifford’s cupid crew – cooking up an unforgettable, three-course feast, plus a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine for just $89pp. Or, see where your cravings take you (straight to the dessert menu, LBH) with la carte menu also available on the night. For extra cute-points, finish it off with a moonlit saunter by the Surfer’s beachfront.. but hey, take our love advice at your peril.
Where: 31 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise

Sofitel Room81
Let there be a thousand blossoms bloom, as far as Sofitel Broadbeach’s resident French darling, Room81 is concerned this La Saint Valentin.  Sweep your ma chérie’s and chéri’s off their feet with a swoon-worthy, degustation dinner-date rendezvous – city of love style. Featuring five sumptuous courses of romantic French fare, including escargot, sabayon and spatchcock, whilst savouring a crisp bottle of Minuty M Rosé together. Not to mention, there’s also the luxuriously-appointed Superior Ocean View Rooms and Suites right upstairs, if after all that you’re in the mood… to make a night of it.
Where: 81 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Valentine's Day Dinner at Room 81, Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach (image supplied)
Valentine's Day Dinner at Room 81, Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach (image supplied)

The Imperial Hotel
Imperial Hotel (formerly Palazzo Versace, in case it’s been a while between rendezvous) has put together the pièce de résistance of staycay’s to share with your sweetheart. For the month of Feb, soak up some R&R in complete luxury, with complimentary welcome cocktails in the hotel bar (to kick start you into mini-holiday mode) combined with a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine and decadent chocolates, buffet breakfast – and copious amounts of lagoon pool lazing – for you and your boo daily. They really have thought of everything – including an exotic, lychee-spiked Bath Bliss experience (and accompanying lychee martinis) to be enjoyed in the couples spa. Oooh-la-la.
Where: 94 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach

Soak Bathhouse
Come one, come all, for a heaven-sent celebration of love and luxury at Soak Bathhouse this Valentine’s. For a day where romance and relaxation intertwine, both locations in Mermaid Beach and West End will be dialling up the ambience with soothing live tune serenades (we’re imaging angels softly strumming harps) romantic decor, and candle-lit surrounds to bask in. Along with serenity on steroids, Soak Bathhouse is all about that equal opportunity indulgence – with a range of amenities and packages so everyone from the lovebirds to those flying solo can partake in a spot of self-care… so, assemble the Galentines, y’all.
Where: Shop 20, 2532/2540 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

Soak Bathhouse, Mermaid Beach (image supplied)
Soak Bathhouse, Mermaid Beach (image supplied)

Dracula’s
If you’re looking for a saucy and scintillating way to spend your V-day with bae, why not shake things up with an extra spicy, Valentine’s edition of cabaret at Draculas. A night out that’s already known for its racy and raucous ways, the kinky Drac’s crew will no doubt be descending into all-out debauchery – promising an evening that will make hearts stop and panties drop, plus a complimentary G-string rose… to do with what you will *blushing intensifies*
Where: 1 Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach

Elements of Byron
When it comes to Valentine’s, there’s nothing like spending a few satisfying hours with your one-and-only, luxuriating in course after course of mind-blowing morsels to dial the romance-o-meter up to max. And one recreation haven that’s no stranger to those adjectives, Elements of Byron is throwing an exquisite nine-course degustation dinner for the pinnacle of Valentine’s Day decadence. From $195, savour Carpaccio, Ceviche, Spring Vegetable Gnocchi with your significant other, and share in some Raspberry, Macadamia & White Chocolate and choc-dipped Strawberries to finish.
Where: 144 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay

Elements of Byron (image supplied)
Elements of Byron (image supplied)

Love bites: delectable Valentine’s day feasts await!

Valentine's Day at The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Valentine's Day at The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

If you’re trying to woo the human of your dreams or earn big-time brownie points, let The Star Gold Coast play cupid this Valentine’s Day. Give the servo roses and Quality Street choccies a miss, and trade up to a dining experience they’ll never forget. With tastes to satisfy any palette, everyone is leaving with a full belly, and a fuller heart.

Cucina Vivo
Italians wrote the book on romance so head to the Pegasus of Italian restaurants, Cucina Vivo, and steal a pizza of their heart! The five-star authentic goodness will have you saying arrivederci to hunger as you explore the sumptuous a la carte menu. Come and spaghe- me!

Pizza at Cucina Vivo, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Pizza at Cucina Vivo, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

Feast on mouth-watering options like Buffalo Mozzarella and fella’s – the way to a woman’s heart is definitely via cheese (you’re welcome). Heat things up with the Spicy Wagyu Spaghetti, adorned with herb and garlic meatballs, or share a Gamberetto Pizza topped with Mooloolaba prawns and zucchini pesto but really don’t – keep it all for yourself. Being the John Aikens of food, we recommend ending the evening on a sweet note with the decadent Chocolate Cannoli. Coz calories don’t count on V Day.

Valentine's Day dessert at Cucina Vivo, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Valentine's Day dessert at Cucina Vivo, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

Kiyomi
Wasa-bae? Kiyomi is calling, promising a top-notch romantic evening with a side of decadence and intimacy. Let the world-class chefs guide your Valentine’s Day culinary journey with a set menu for $165 per person, complete with optional wine and sake pairings (#YesAndYes). Or, if you know what you want what you really really want, then the infamous a la carte menu is perf for all the ‘ramen-tics’ out there.

At Kiyomi, lovey-dovey dining isn’t confined to the 14th as throughout February, you can indulge in the special Kuro Mori dessert featuring Dark Chocolate, Roku Gin, Davidson Plum, and Umiboshe. It’s official – this is the place to sweep your ‘soymate’ off their feet.

Valentine's Day dessert at Kiyomi, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Valentine's Day Kuro Mori dessert at Kiyomi, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

Uncle Su
Bao chicka wow wow! If the object of your affection yearns for Cantonese flavours and the freshest live seafood, Uncle Su (AKA Uncle Luuurve) will make them sweet (not sour) on you. How about twice the romance with a double date and a specialty banquet menu starting from $78 per person (minimum of 4 people). Or, dive into the ever-popular a la carte menu with simply irresistible options like Snow Crab, Mud Crab, Australian Lobster, and Abalone.

Uncle Su, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Uncle Su, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

Garden Kitchen & Bar
For a night that blends relaxation with refinement let Garden Kitchen & Bar be the heartwarming backdrop for your Valentine’s celebration. As the perfect conclusion to your night, we wholeheartedly endorse the irresistible Ice Cream Sandwich, adding an extra layer of sweetness to the enchanting experience. Because, let’s be honest, an ice cream sandwich is always a good idea. Cheers to love and delightful desserts!

Chocolate Fountain, Harvest Buffet, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Chocolate Fountain, Harvest Buffet, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

Harvest Buffet
Buffet buffs, listen up! Turn your Valentine’s Day into a family affair at Harvest Buffet. Indulge in a lavish spread of fresh seafood, including oysters, prawns, crab, and mussels, accompanied by an unbeatable roast carvery. And for the grand finale, immerse yourself in a dessert wonderland with a flowing Chocolate Fountain because it’s just not V-Day without a flowing chocolate fountain!

All you need this Valentine’s Day is love….and The Star Gold Coast. For more information or to book, click here.

Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: Wednesday 14th February. Various times depending on restaurant.

Words by Bianca Trathen.

STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST

The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be 18 years or over to enter the casino. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT. Gambling Helpline 1800 858 858

15 spots to snap up sweet treats on the Gold Coast

Quad Choc Cookie, Custard Canteen (image supplied)
Quad Choc Cookie, Custard Canteen (image supplied)

Are you the kind of person who skips right to the desserts page of a menu? Yep, well, you’re not alone. Taking tactical consideration of what sweet things can and will follow is a clever move by anyone’s standard. Luckily we are spoilt for choice with sweet treats and desserts on the Gold Coast.

Why not seek to fix that sweet craving you have? Here’s our list of the best places on the Gold Coast to grab a dessert, worthy of that extra time on the treadmill!

Tarte Bakery & Tarte Beach House
As if all self-control didn’t already tank at the mere sound of the word Tarte, our reigning pastry queen Chloe Watts went all out earlier this year to bestow upon us a knockout second site – Tarte Beach House #havemercy #we’reweak. The chic sister venue bringing Tarte’s trademark goodies to the banks of Currumbin’s picture-perfect creek, and in the process, blowing the bar previously set by our OG dessert darling out of the water.

We’d stop at ‘muffin’ to get our hands on the signature Crueller, or a Raspberry, Strawberry & White Chocolate Muffin Top, or.. okay basically everything they’re churning out. Which begs the question, can one ever have too much Tarte? We think no.
Where: 2 West Street, Burleigh Heads and 2 Thrower Dr, Currumbin

Tarte Bakery and Cafe (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
Tarte Bakery and Cafe (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

Oh My, Waffle
Make no mistake about it, if you find yourself in and around Burleigh Heads and are hit with a hankering for something sweet, head directly to Oh My, Waffle to have your mind (and calorie intake, lbh) blown –#ohsoworthit.

Prepare those ravenous, post-surf appetites to meet their match at the sight of some seriously loaded waffles and thick shakes. Though word to the wise – you may need to waddle home afterwards.
Where: Shop 6 / 1837 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Oh My, Waffle (image supplied)
Oh My, Waffle (image supplied)

My French Pastries
Husband and wife duo, Jen & Antonio Marchesi are the French maestros behind some mighty salivating goodies at this Robina bakery, and what these folks don’t know about sweet and crunchy European desserts frankly isn’t worth knowing!

Don’t delay. Head along for the shiniest looking caramel eclairs and the flakiest known pain au chocolats this side of the equator — Bon appétit!
Where: Shop 5/361 Robina Parkway, Robina

My French Pastries (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
My French Pastries (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

Custard Canteen
Is a breakfast dessert a thing? If it’s not, we’re officially calling it. And if you find yourself down by the ever-majestic Tallebudgera Creek dipping in its crystal clear waters, we suggest you hot foot it right away to Custard Canteen.

Get into some great coffee — and a bacon & egg burger to end all burgers — before rounding things off with one of their ooze-tastic cookies or the flakiest of Portugese Tarts. YUM!
Where: 1525 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Portugese Tarts, Custard Canteen (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
Portugese Tarts, Custard Canteen (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

Bam Bam Bakehouse
Inventive, indulgent, and darn tasty in every department: Bam Bam Bakehouse is the goods — period. The line of sweets and desserts are nothing short of mesmerising (even attracting the likes of Margot Robbie and Matt Preston).

With so many mouthwatering morsels on offer, attempting to choose only a couple of them is a challenging feat (as is not allowing ourselves to immediately to scarf down the lot).
Where: 2519 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Bam Bam Bakehouse (Image supplied)
Bam Bam Bakehouse (Image supplied)

D Point Ten
Bringing an exclusively sweets-based offering to the GC’s sea of swole and shredded rigs surely required a seismic leap of faith, but any sceptics are now eating humble pie thanks to D Point Ten’s growing donut empire.

These days, their dough-licious conquest of the Coast spans across three official outlets – Pacific Fair, Varsity Lakes and Hope Island – with northern residents now also able to get their hands on the seductive looking donuts at sando sister venue, Janus Deli.

The delectable flavour rotation includes the likes of Golden Gaytime, Ferrero, and S’mores, all of which keep us wanting more. Whip out a box of these bad boys at your next gathering, and watch how fast you become everyone’s bestest bud.
Where:  Hope IslandVarsity Lakes, Molendinar and Pacific FairBroadbeach Waters

The Caramilk Doughnut, D Point 10, Varsity Lakes (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
The Caramilk Doughnut, D Point 10, Varsity Lakes (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

Paddock Bakery
One of the Gold Coast’s game-changing cafes, the level of baked and sweet goods that these guys consistently punch out is utterly jaw-dropping.

If you haven’t treated yourself to several (hundred) coffee dates at one of the cutest mini-Queenslander’s gracing the GC… welcome, you must be new here?! To remedy this immediately, we suggest you get together some of your nearest and dearest and get in on some brunch action before you launch a full-scale attack on the cracker assortment of sweets.

Be sure to try the crowd-fave Biscoff Cheesecake Doughnut or their whopping 1kg Giant Cookie! (Remember, Mum says sharing is caring.)
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads

White Choc & Caramilk cookies, Paddock Bakery (image supplied)
White Choc & Caramilk cookies, Paddock Bakery (image supplied)

Franquette
If you live in or around Tamborine, and haven’t yet wrapped your mitts (and tastebuds) around some Franquette… frankly, it’s time to re-evaluate your priorities (unless you’re gluten-free, obvi, in which case, commiserations).

Under the expert eye of master baker Jérôme Favier, Franquette (pronounced Fraen-ket) assuages hinterland hankerings with authentic French-style sweets, rolls and scrolls, and of course, the ever-crescent croissant.

They’ve teamed up with the Tamborine Mountain Gelato Co. gang to bring us ‘The Gelaffin’… a freshly baked cruffin loaded with small-batch gelato – aka the most glorious ice cream sandwich you’ve ever laid eyes upon. Officially our new favourite franken-food obsession for summer. Brain freeze (and bulk satisfaction) incoming.
Where: 1/159 Long Rd, Tamborine Mountain 

The Gelaffin by Franquette and Tamborine Mountain Gelato Co. (image supplied)
The Gelaffin by Franquette and Tamborine Mountain Gelato Co. (image supplied)

Basque
We’ve been giddy over Basque since the gorg new specialty bakehouse-cum-sippery sauntered into Chirn Park earlier this year, bearing mind-blowingly good cheesecake and French champagne. Umm, did we just become best friends?! Two of our very favourite modes of celebration under one chic roof – consider us, and our ‘coffee and cake catch up’ standards, spoiled forevermore.

Owners Laura and Zach Guertin devised the dreamy concept in answer to the age-old conundrum, ‘what should I bring?’ – and yeah, we can attest, one taste of Laura’s incredible creations and you’ll forget alll about the box of Favourites.

Luckily for the lot of us, we need not wait for a special occasion to partake in their signature Spanish Cheesecake and Champagne selection, with both available by the slice, and glass – any old time you please to cheese.
Where: 33b Musgrave Avenue, Chirn Park

Cheesecake at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Cheesecake at Basque, Chirn Park (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

My Favourite Baker
The very aptly named My Favourite Baker is one beloved among locals as a lifeline for incredible, last-minute cakes (that look and taste anything but).

The GC’s everyday cake heroes ‘crumb’ through with the (baked) goods – delivering same day turnaround on their delectable range of cakes and cupcakes almost every day of the year. Saving our bacon bakin’ from all kinds of sticky, special occasion situations, ‘logistical oversights’ and baking fails – with rave reviews, might we add. Phew! *backs slowly away from the packet mix*

Forgotten occasion? What forgotten occasion?

Only bulk brownie points to be found here (shhh.. it’ll be our little secret).
Where: 4/1 Inventory Ct, Arundel

My Favourite Baker (image supplied)
My Favourite Baker (image supplied)

Aux Fines Bouches
For devout pastry buffs (there’s an oxymoron in there somewhere – and hats off to anyone who manages to be buff, and a pastry enthusiast simultaneously) we do éclair, Aux Fines Bouches is the place to be.

This place is really not flaking around – run by decorated French pastry chef, Richard Le Deunff – locals in the know can’t get enough of the authentic, buttery baked-goods they’ve been doling out since 2019.

An unassuming space tucked away in Burleigh’s industrial outskirts, with a window where you can marvel at the culinary wizards whipping up the delectable works of art. Meticulously crafting tarts, cakes and custard-laden pastries Wednesday through Sunday, with a level of obsession matched only by that of our enthusiasm for consuming them.
Where: 2/43 Taree Street, Burleigh Heads

Aux Fines Bouches (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)
Aux Fines Bouches (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)

Cheeky Waffles
This naughty noshery has been getting sweet lovers hot under the collar since they burst onto Surfer’s nightlife strip, boasting a decadent and debaucherous range of genitalia-shaped desserts.. that also leave the sweet cravings totally satisfied.

The novelty (and priceless bants) of a choc-dipped coochie or pecker-shaped waffle might be too good to pass up, but don’t be tempted to write them off as a ‘one-time thing’. This place is the whole package, with the famously soft and fluffy waffles (described as ‘the best I’ve had’) the kind that keep lip-licking locals coming back for more.

Swing by and get yourself a ‘sugar daddy’ for happy endings all round.(in case you were wondering, no, we’ll never tire of writing about this place).
Where: 3189 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Sugar Daddy, Cheeky Waffles, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Sugar Daddy, Cheeky Waffles, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Madisons Cafe & Patisserie
A name that certainly needs no introduction among cake fans, alas no GC sweets list worth it’s salt sugar would dareth omit local mainstay, Madisons. The Broadbeach institution has long been hooking us up with our daily coffee and cake needs, with the sight of their specialty cakes becoming somewhat of a staple at our celebrations over the years.

The online ordering process is as dreamy as the buttercream (no phone call necessary, millennials rejoice) simply build your own from the options on offer – oh alright, make it a caramel mud + vanilla buttercream, since you asked (and smattering of gold dust, if you don’t mind.)
Where: Ground Floor, Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Charles Avenue, Broadbeach

Madison's, The Oasis (image supplied)
Madison's, The Oasis (image supplied)

Dipcro
All hail the buttery king-of-pastries, the mighty croissant (controversial? We think not). Chevron’s debutant sweet-snackery, Dipcro delivers our sweet fix in the form of artisan baked goods like Cinnamon Buns, Croissants, Mille Feuille and Palmiers.

The venue’s namesake and signature item (a play on the words ‘Dip’ and ‘Croissant’– à la, ‘Dipcro’), invites us to take the blessed croissant to a whole new level – served with an array of signature toppings & fillings for your dunking pleasure. Oh if we must.
Where: 55 Thomas Drive, Chevron Island,

Dipcro Pastry, Chevron Island (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Dipcro Pastry, Chevron Island (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Captains Candy
The childhood rite of passage that was letting loose on the local pick and mix may merely live on as a fond, yet distant (albeit a little more distant than we care to admit) mem these days, but luckily us locals can venture to Captains Candy to fulfil even our most obscure candy cravings. The willy wonka-vibing wonderland inconspicuously tucked away in Ashmore’s outlet precinct, fully loaded with floor-to-wall goodies (including a hefty selection of international faves for our expat friends).

You need not *only* leave with a sugar rush, you can also stock the pantry with slightly more responsible provisions such as hot sauces, pickles, seasonings and rubs while you’re at it.

Whatever lolly your heart desires, it’s almost guaranteed you’ll find it here (even some formerly erased icons.. shout out green frogs and spearmint leaves).

Responsible adults to chaperone our candy expeditions, apply within.
Where: 12 Central Park Avenue, Ashmore

Words by Kellie Leader.

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