On your marg, get set, GO!
On your marg, get set, GO!
It’s one of life’s greatest pleasures; eating Mexican and drinking margis – sounds a bit corny but we stand by it. So it’s pretty darn lucky the Gold Coast is spoilt for choice when it comes to Mexican meals, mmm there’s a little Mariachi band playing in our head just thinking about it.
And if you don’t like Mexican then this is guac-ward, because we’ve done the heavy lifting – aka eating – so you can pick your taco joint of choice and put your taco where your mouth is. Come on, don’t be salty – unless you’re a margarita of course.
So here’s our round up of the Coast’s best spots to get your Mexican fix, but before you go don’t forget the rules – first we fiesta, then we siesta. We’ll be there faster than you can say “extra guac, please”.
Street Taco Bar & Taqueria brings bold, flavour-packed Mexican eats to Paradise Point, and locals are absolutely here for it. Blending authentic flavours with a laidback coastal vibe, this colourful spot serves up all the classics with serious heart. On the menu, think punchy tacos, loaded nachos, slow-cooked meats and churros worth saving room for, all made fresh and gluten-free without missing a beat. The margaritas are flowing, the energy is warm and welcoming, and it’s the kind of place you’ll find yourself coming back to on repeat.
Where: Shop 5, 46 The Esplanade, Paradise Point
With shops across the country, we’re lucky to have ourselves one of these spicy little dens of Mexican magic here on the Goldy. Slip in and slip on a sombrero and let the endless fantastic food and de-lish cocktails flow. Overlooking one of the Gold Coast’s best known beaches – Surfers Paradise – it’s big on size, vibes and margs… No really, the margs are giant and nothing gets us going like a cocktail as big as our sombrero.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Kicking around since 1995, The Aztec Broadbeach…along with The Aztec Coolangatta…is a hit with the whole fam, boasting a fun-loving mixture of cosy booths, ultra-modern furnishings, neon lights and an epic fluoro bar. A colourful and upbeat venue, you’re spoilt for choice with all the Mexican goodies you’d hope to find and half price lunches Friday through Sunday in case you needed any more convincing.
Where: The Aria Building, Shop 11/17 Albert Avenue, Broadbeach & 152 Griffith Street (Twin Towns end), Coolangatta
We briefly considered gatekeeping Costa Taco to keep those highly coveted tables to ourselves, but a list of epic Mexican eats without it just wouldn’t sit right. Especially now they’ve expanded with a Broadbeach outpost and their biggest venue yet in Burleigh. Serving up seriously authentic Mexican fare, the menu is short, sharp and all about doing a few things exceptionally well, with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Now, stop reading and order the fish tacos.
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach and 1136 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Grab your (fully clothed) amigos and head on down to Cancun – okay fine, Broadbeach – because Nude Amigos might be cheeky in name, but its flavours are seriously bold. The space is light, breezy and effortlessly chic, basically calling your name for a long, leisurely sip of one of the exotic (read: very fancy) tequilas lining the bar.
And the good times don’t stop there – Nude Amigos has spread the fiesta across three locations, with venues in Broadbeach, Coolangatta and Kingscliff, so you’re never too far from a margarita moment.
Where: Lot 1, 70 Surf Parade, Broadbeach, The Strand Shopping Centre, Coolangatta and 60 Marine Parade, Kingscliff
Eats institution Bonita Bonita, along with little sister Bon Bon (pouring mezcals and tequilas for your pre or post-dinner festivities), is a long-standing fave for good reason. The dimly lit, moody and ornate interiors set the scene for an intimate dining experience, while the menu delivers every single time. Once a dinner-only darling, the Mexican gods have answered our prayers, with lunch now firmly in the mix alongside their iconic evening service. Settle in for seriously mouth-watering eats, the grilled corn is a must, and the cocktails? Just as iconic.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Always buzzing, Mexicali brings those laidback Cali meets Mexico vibes we just can’t quit. If you’re rolling deep, do yourself a favour and lock in a banquet so you can spend less time deciding and more time focused on the margaritas. Sunset sips on the balcony are a non-negotiable, and don’t even think about leaving without a cheeky snap under the ever-changing lightbox message on the stairs.
Where: Level 1, 2223 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach
Who said the beachside burbs should be having all the fun? Not us, so if you’ve been having a siesta on our humble Hinterland’s worst kept secret and Gold Coast institution, Hotel Panchos, then this is the sign you need to get on out to Mudgeeraba so they can guac your world. With splashes of colour from wall to wall plus enchiladas, margs and tinnies at the ready you’re set for a spec-taco-lar feed.
Where: 581 Springbrook Road, Mudgeeraba
If you haven’t been to Hail Mary, have you even done Burleigh? Tucked down a James Street laneway, this pink-hued gem is easy to miss – but trust, it’s worth finding. She’s not just a pretty face either, dishing up some of the freshest, most flavour-packed Mexican going around. Swing by for lunch or dinner and you’ll quickly see why it’s a local fave.
Where: 6/26 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Frida Sol is one of those institutions that locals quietly rave about. Looking out over the Gold Coast Highway, it opens into a vibey little taqueria serving up fresh, modern Mexican. Order the prawn tacos, they’re a crowd fave for a reason, or dive into the loaded nachos piled high with all the good stuff. It’s also a winner for families thanks to a top-notch kids menu.
When: 1176 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
This vibrant spot has well and truly settled into its Mexican era, serving up a punchy, flavour-packed menu alongside a laidback, come-as-you-are vibe. Expect all the good stuff done right, think crispy fish tacos, slow-cooked pork numbers and quesabirria that’ll have you planning your next visit mid-bite. The bar is stacked with tequila and mezcal, the margaritas go hard, and Taco Tuesday is your weekly excuse sorted.
Where: 140 Duringan Street, Currumbin
Fresh, flavour-packed dishes with a cheeky hit of oriental flair (go on, try saying that after a margarita or two) are the name of the game at Agave Rosa. It’s vibrant, a little bit funky and seriously welcoming, with a menu that fuses two absolute fave cuisines in all the right ways. And because no Mexican spot worth its salt skimps on the good stuff, the cocktails and margaritas here absolutely go off.
Where: Shop 2/74 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski and Belinda Symons
Every taco deal on the GC, all wrapped up in one list.
Forget hump day, the real midweek mood is a taco in one hand and change left in your pocket. On Tuesdays (and Thursdays… and Fridays) the GC’s got cheap and cheerful taco deals that’ll have you saying más, por favor.
Whether you’re a taco devotee or just here for the money-saving steals, we’re here to ensure no midweek meal deal flies under your radar again! And today, it’s all about the soft and hard shell beauties that we all know and love, tacos!
Wrangle your crew, loosen your waistband, and let’s taco ‘bout where to find the best midweek Mexican on the GC.
Taco Tuesday means $6 tacos all day — and yes, you can absolutely make that your whole personality. Crafty’s Sports Bar has the whole family covered with eats, drinks and vibes that #NailIt every time.
Where: Harbour Town Shopping Centre, 147 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters
Every Tuesday from 5:30 pm, score $7 Chicken & Veggie Tacos, $10 Birria Tacos, or $8.50 Pork Belly & Fish Tacos. The vibe is set with a DJ and sombreros. Book a table to secure your spot; walk-ins are also welcome.
Where: Broadwater Parklands, 10/11 Gold Coast Hwy, Southport
Tuesdays are a full-blown fiesta at El Camino Cantina- get three tacos plus an icy-cold drink of your choice for only $35 per person. Not just that, they’re also crankin’ tunes and handing out cheeky spray-on tattoos! Don’t be anywhere else.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Sing it with us; tacos, tequila and tunes! Grab ’em for $5 each or $30 for unlimited tacos!! All you need now is a salty marg. From 6 pm till late.
Where: 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Every Tuesday from 5 pm, Bonita Bonita serves up a crowd-pleaser- $6 Classic Tacos and $20 jugs of Sangria. Dine in only.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
All Tacos, $6 each, at Burleigh’s best Mexican. Every Tuesday.
Where: 26 James St, Burleigh Heads
$6 Tacos + $15 Frozen Margaritas + the best of views in Burleigh = a damn good time. Three different taco flavours to choose from, including a vegetarian option. From 4–9 pm, every Tuesday.
Where: 3a/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
Pair $6 classic tacos with $20 Sangria jugs, and you have yourself a party. Every Tuesday from 5 pm- get the gang together. Dine-ins only.
Where: 1176 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Tuesdays continue to be irresistible and budget-friendly at Tommy’s Taco Bar (sister venue to Tommy’s Pizza), with $5 tacos available across their menu.
Where: 140 Duringan St, Currumbin
The alliteration we love most: Taco & Tequila Tuesdays. That’s two tacos for $12 and tequila treats. Every Tuesday from 5pm.
Where: 4 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Hit that downhill slope into the weekend with $6 tacos from 5 pm every Thursday! Choose from five mouthwatering options: braised mushroom, Philly cheesesteak, pulled pork, grilled fish, and salt & pepper squid. Book now!
Where: 52 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Usually two for twenty, just $5 each every Thursday from 5 pm! That’s 50% off!
Where: The Aria, Building shop 11/17 Albert Ave, Broadbeach
Head over to Panchos in Mudgeeraba for authentic Mexican classic tacos for $7 every Thursday. Eat your heart out.
Where: 581 Gold Coast Springbrook Rd, Mudgeeraba
Don’t miss the Mexicali $6 taco special every Thursday – this place is infamous for its generous portions and creative fillings. Don’t miss it!
Where: Level 1/2223 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach
Get some mid-week tropical holiday vibes with a side of $7 tacos and happy hour from 4pm!
Where: Upstairs, 1097 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
$5 tacos all day long, baby! That’s right – you could be scoring a serious work-break special from 12 pm.
Where: Shop 2/74 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta
Lola’s is treating us not once, but twice a week! Come from 4-6pm on Fridays for $7 tacos, or for the all-you-can-eat taco feast every Thursday for just $25 pp! Just over the border- that’s a trip worth taking!
Where: 1 Barclay Dr, Casuarina
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Costa Taco spices up Broadbeach.
It’s the news we’ve all been waiting for, much-loved Palm Beach Mexican eatery Costa Taco has opened a third space in Broadbeach and we couldn’t be happier.
Brothers Nick and Matt Stanley started their foray into the local foodie scene at Currumbin Community Markets in 2020 before moving into Palmy and (probably) not enjoying a single second of sleep since. We Gold Coasters very quickly fell in love with the laidback venue serving up authentic, flavour-filled eats the likes of which you don’t often see outside of Mexico.
The pair set out with the idea of creating a menu filled with real Mexican dishes that aren’t adapted to suit Aussie palates and the result has been an outstanding success. So much so they have now expanded to Byron Bay and most recently of course, the little house on the corner of Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Highway in Broadbeach.
As was the case in Palm Beach, Costa Taco has introduced a space where the energy of Mexico fuses with the Aussie beach culture perfectly. The fitout is relaxed and filled with colour offering both indoor and outdoor seating that is both welcoming and the kind of spot that gives that roll-in-off-the-beach vibe.
The dishes boast locally sourced ingredients, of the very best quality that come together in traditional recipes, and it is without a doubt, some of the most exceptional Mexican food you’ll ever sample. The actual menu comes complete with a map on the back, marking the exact locations the dishes originate.
Let’s begin with the tacos. The Beer Battered Local Snapper Taco alights from Baja, the coastal peninsula almost entirely surrounded by the ocean. The Snapper is caught locally on the Coast, battered with Mexican beer and served with a cashew salsa made with European-style flavours. The Guerrero Chicken Taco is a product of the Guerrero region and that little beauty is marinated in citruses, sour grape juice and three types of chillies and comes with Costa’s secret sauce, Pico de Gallo and Cashew Salsa Verde.
The Specials menu is one of our favourite sections (also the Marg section) and there are so many must-try’s here. The Chilaquiles are Mexi-style wet nachos and are the kind you’ll find if you visit Mexico City. Salsa made with green tomatoes and a ricotta-style cheese is poured over the top to allow for a varied texture and the flavour is tangy and so very tasty.
The Quesabirrias is traditionally a Mexican hangover cure in the Guadalajara region, and we’d likely induce a hangover just to eat it every day. Made up of two cheesy Birria (stewed meat) tacos that are grilled until they’re crispy and served with Costa Tacos’ famous dipping sauce, these are one (of many) dishes you will order again and again.
Our third highlight is the Ceviche Tostadas. In case you’ve never had the pleasure, ceviche is fish cooked in lime juice and in this case, served on crispy tostadas with fresh tomato, cucumber, onion, chilli and avocado. They hail from the Sinaloa region of Mexico, found on the Coast.
To drink there are both local and Mexican beers, Mexican soft drinks and of course, Margaritas – chilli, coconut and a special guy you should absolutely order several of.
It’s no surprise to those of you who have sampled Costa Taco previously that the Broadbeach venue is perfection in the form of traditional Mexican-eats but if you haven’t yet, do yourself a favour and head down immediately. It’s an eating experience you won’t soon forget.
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
When: 12pm to 9pm daily
16 places to meet your BFF’s: Marg & Rita
Feeling hungry? Science proves that you might in fact be thirsty and what better remedy exists than the holy grail of liquid love, the margarita. This rings especially true on International Margarita Day on Sunday 22nd February which, side note, may just be the greatest day ever created.
Here’s our roundup of THE places to sip THE drink famous for making us go weak at the knees (quite literally….). We’re mixing things up and listing them South to North.
With some of the most exotic and creative margi’s we’ve ever seen (and, umm, sunk), rita-lovers unite at Siblings. Their expansive cocktail menu is the real McCoy, but in our humble opinion, the ‘Margarita Obsession’ section is pure Pegasus-material. Combined with the heritage-listed beachfront location, 1950’s Miami beach vibe fit-out, and a menu to dine for, marg our words – just go.
Getting hot in here – Olmeca Altos Plata 100% agave tequila, Wild Turkey American Honey Sting, fresh chilli, dash of Tabasco, fresh lime juice, Pink Himalayan salt rim.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra
Margi’s land different here so don’t walk, run. With immersive panoramic views of Kirra Beach, a Mediterranean-style grazing menu, and an exceptional selection of world-class cocktails perfection mode is activated.
Our pick: Kirra Beach House Coconut Margarita – tequila, agave, fresh lime, & coastal salt.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
The crew behind Tommy’s Italian have gone full Mexi-mode with Tommy’s Taco Bar, bringing bold flavours and good vibes to Currumbin. With top-notch tacos, a killer drinks list, and a laid-back, vibrant atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to sip, snack, and settle in for a fiesta.
Our pick: Cilantro Margi, coriander infused Arette Blanco, chilli, agave and lime.
Where: 140 Duringan Street, Currumbin
Bringing the bold flavours of Mexico straight to the GC, Costa Taco is all about authentic eats made with top-notch local ingredients. What started as a humble market stall is now a three-location sensation, with their newest (and largest) spot in Burleigh dishing up next-level tacos, tostadas, and chilaquiles. The laidback, beachy vibe makes it the perfect spot to roll in, grab a bite, and pretend you’re in Baja.
Our pick: Try the ever-changing Margarita Special.
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach, 1718 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh and 20 Jonson St, Byron Bay
Burleigh Heads’ Malibu Racquet Club is all about chic summer energy, think sunset sips, breezy outdoor seating, and booths that make you want to linger. Their margarita menu is a tropical playground with flavours like coconut, chilli, chilli coconut, watermelon, tommys, passionfruit and classic. Whether you’re kicking back pre-dinner or chasing the last rays of the day, this is your go-to for a double-parked margarita moment.
Our pick: Cherry Margarita.
Where: 1740 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Palm Springs Burleigh is a Southern Californian-inspired café, eats and drinks heaven on earth. With All.The.Things you’d expect from somewhere with Palm Springs in the name, you’ll find arches, cacti, Slim Aarons, plenty of green, mint and white hues and of course, M.A.R.G.I.S! A tried and tested Burleigh fave, extra points awarded for the get-in-my-belly-good nosh.
Our pick: Chilli Margarita – chilli infused 1800 silver tequila, Cointreau & fresh lime juice.
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Tucked down a James Street laneway, this pink-hued gem is as good to look at as it is to eat at. Fresh, flavour-packed Mexican eats pair perfectly with a margarita (or three) while you soak up the coastal vibes. Daily lunch specials like two tacos plus a beer, wine, or soft drink for $20 basically make it a crime not to visit.
Our pick: Chilli Cucumber Margarita – chilli, cucumber, tequila, lime juice… a little spicy, a lot delicious
Where: 6/26 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Think Mexico City colour explosion meets laid-back hacienda vibes – that’s El Ranchero. The cocktail garden deck is perfect for anything from pre-show sips at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse to a long, lazy Friday sesh. Spanish Girl Food Co. is dishing up Mexican, Spanish, and tapas-style bites, while the bar keeps it spicy with bold cocktails and a margarita menu that’s all Beudi Agave goodness. Sunshine, cocktails, chatter… it’s basically a mini holiday on the GC.
Our pick: Classic margarita – bold, boozy, and basically made for backyard vibes.
Where: Mo’s Desert Clubhouse, Burleigh Heads
This joint can do no wrong. Delivering more than just a carb coma with their iconic mouthwatering pizzas, this cult fave also whips up a mean – and strong – frozen margi. And believe you me, nothing says happiness like a ten-outta-ten pizza washed down with an icy take on ‘Me-hi-co’s’ national treasure. No frills here but that’s part of the charm and bonus, you can sink one on the footpath while you’re waiting for your takeaway.
Our pick: Frozen margarita
Where: Shop 2/32 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach
Sueño is a rooftop escape with fresh air, fresh flavours, and all the bright, vibrant energy you could ask for. The menu leans into shareable plates – ceviches, skewers, handmade tortillas – perfect for pairing with their signature spins on classic cocktails from across the Americas. Whether it’s an afternoon aperitif, a sundowner, or a long night under the stars, this is the spot to soak up the rooftop vibes.
Our pick: Lychee Margarita with Blanco tequila, lychee liqueur, lychee juice & lime.
Where: The Oxley Atrium, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach
It’s always margarita mania at Nobby’s Mexicali! Served on the rocks and made using fresh fruit and house infused tequilas, all margis are crafted using 100% Blue Agave tequila or mezcal, freshly squeezed lime juice, and agave syrup. Choose from classic, watermelon, strawberry, passionfruit, chilli, cucumber & jalapeno, mezcal, and coconut. And we’ll take the lot #thx.
Our pick: Passionfruit Margarita
Where: Level 1/2223 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach
As you’d expect from one of the most loved Mexi-venues around, Bonita Bonita’s margarita list is off the chain good. As is the chow and the vibe, hence why it continues to pull a sizeable crowd year after year. If you’re going to line your belly coz #tequila, go with the banquet and get the best of everything this GC fave has to offer.
Our pick: Tom-Yum Margarita – 1800 coconut tequila, fresh lime, habanero, lemon grass & ginger syrup, grapefruit juice, & a salt rim.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Level up your nights at JuJu, the hotspot in Nobby Beach that brings upscale dining and a European-inspired after-party vibe. JuJu is all about keeping the energy high, even after dinner. Expect playful decor, delicious dishes like Pollo Ballotina and a 1kg wagyu tomahawk (yep, named after the one and only Tom Tate), plus cocktails that will have you partying like you’re in Mykonos. So whether you’re here for the food or the late-night fun, JuJu is your new fave spot for both.
Our pick: Jalapeno Kiss, 1800 tequila, triple sec, jalapeno, cucumber and fresh lime juice.
Where: 2235 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
We can tell you first-hand (far too many times over) that the resident Margi at Exhibitionist Bar (unpacked below) is one of the best. Sitting high atop the striking HOTA Gallery, this artsy watering hole delivers great flavours and explosions of tastes you won’t forget in a hurry…both in edible and drinkable varieties. Whether you want a light lunch with friends, a cocktail at sundown or a nightcap, this is where it’s at.
Our pick: House Hot Marg – Herradura Blanco tequila, marionette orange, lime & house made hot sauce
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, Top Level, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise
Big, bold, and brimming with tequila-fuelled fun, El Camino Cantina is serving up legendary margaritas with a side of Tex-Mex goodness. Their famous Rita Paddles let you sample four flavours in one go, or level up with a Cadillac Margarita for the ultimate upgrade. Pair it with tacos, wings, or sizzling fajitas, and you’ve got yourself one hell of a fiesta.
Our pick: Blueberry Margi
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Nested in Sanctuary Cove, you’ll find this intimate quintessential modern Mexican cantina with a slight Caribbean influence and srsly, what more could one ask for?! Think terracotta, venetian walls, exposed concrete, Virgin Mary statues, and a cactus at every turn. The house tequila is made with wild agave and they only use organic, freshly squeezed lime in all their cocktails…including their iconic ritas. Gimme gimme!
Our pick: Watermelon & Mint Margarita, Tequila Blanco, house-made watermelon syrup, mint syrup and fresh organic lime juice.
Where: Sanctuary Cove, 39 Masthead Way, Hope Island
Words by Bianca Trathen
