Plant babies and hand-poked tattoos under one roof!
Plant babies and hand-poked tattoos under one roof!
Ahhhh The Space Miami – where have you been all our lives?! A stunning, inspirational co-creating ‘canvas’ forming the foundation for two brilliant and beautiful minds to house their passions. A loving abode to The Plant Shed (you had us at PLANT!) and ink sorceress Hocus Pokeus Tatts, are there two things more quintessentially Gold Coast and this is a rhetorical question.
This gorgeous self-renovated and styled space that is a hop, skip and jump from Miami Marketta is the brainchild of the lovely Lewis Barker (team plant) and Zoey Fahey (team tatt). Wanting to give their business babies a place to thrive, they drew inspo from their own home which must be pretty spesh, coz you’re immediately intoxicated by the greeny goodness, warmth and homely feels.
What’s the backstory you ask? Lewis created The Plant Shed firstly because he couldn’t fit anymore plants in their home (same) and wanted to share his love for foliage with one and all. He’s also an advocate for making plants more affordable (SAME), and set out to fill a gap in the market for on-trend greenery at a reasonable price point. Oh and let us tell you, he DA MAN when it comes to plant intel, and the bible of all things green-thumb. His passion for plants goes beyond the sale, as he wants you to understand what makes your plant children sing.
“Why does my Peace Lilly hate me?” He’ll know. “Am I fiddling too much with my fiddle?” He’ll know that too. In fact, this plant angel will even nurse your plants back to health. Not all heroes wear capes, people!
Now let’s talk about the lady with a smile for days – Zoey. She’s a handpoke, machine-free tattoo artist (cool much) who set out to create a space where clients would feel welcome, relaxed and like they were walking into their home. In other words, a complete departure from the stereotypical intimidating tattoo studio. And…success, coz we’re sure we just entered her lounge room complete with two ah-mazing green armchairs which We.Need.
A master of her craft, we have complete confidence that she will a) nail the creative brief, b) help us create a truly unique and individual tattoo with soul, and c) make it an experience to remember – for all the right reasons.
But that’s not all. Not only are Lewis and Zoey using this space for their own creative pursuits, but they want everyone to share in its greenspirational goodness. We’re all invited to stop in for an injection of motivation to help grow (no pun intended) our business ideas and make our dreams flourish. Seriously, how cool is that. Oh and if you’re not already sold, they’re planning “paint, plant and sip nights” and ohmygawd we’re not coping.
So next time you’re in Miami, do yourself a favour and pop in to say hi, just look for the hanging disco ball plant (and yes you can buy one of those too!). Chances are you’ll leave with more plants, an appointment for a tatt (soz mum) and a new you-beaut concept to launch that business….and we just described the perfect day out.
Where: Shop 7, 43 Hillcrest Pde, Miami (right near Miami Marketta!)
When: The Plant Shed – Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 5pm to 8pm. Sunday 8am to 11am & Hocus Pokeus Tatts – By appointment only
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Epic eats, arty streets, and beachside treats.
Get in loser, we’re going shopping (and eating, and brewery-hopping, and sight seeing, and exploring street art, and… you get the idea)
Now you might be wondering why we’re throwing around random movie quotes to kick off this list (in our defence there is a Mean Girls line for *every* occasion) – but if suburbs were Mean Girls characters, Miami would for sure be the one to utter this iconic line. Miami has it all, and it knows it. Take one glance at just some of the epic spots we’ve lined up and you’ll soon see why all the other suburbs wish they could be this cool.
It used to be that Granddads were good for stealing our noses and sneaking us butter candy, but in Miami, Granddad Jacks is good for plying us the finest locally distilled spirits, gin making classes, distillery tours and of course and just an all-round cool haunt to sit back with a top notch bevvy and let our mullets run free. These masterful wizards didn’t amass a whopping haul of awards by getting distracted by anything other than distilling, so it’s BYO food too (and surely that means more to spend on the good stuff!). Make sure you try the 65 Miles Gin, recently crowned the Hottest Aussie Gin for a third year in a row!
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami
It would be shell-fish of us not to include Miami Fish Market, as much as we would love to keep this absolute pearl a secret. They hook the Gold Coast up with responsibly sourced, premium seafood from Australia and New Zealand (unlike heading home empty-handed from your holy grail fishing spot). Take some of their freshest and finest home to enjoy, or pull up a stool in their courtyard oyster and sashimi bar for a shuck-tastic time. Now offering a full (fancy-pants) fish and chips menu. Potato scallops and caviar, anyone?
Where: 1/54 Paradise Ave, Miami
The Coast’s OG street food night markets that put Miami on the map as a must-visit destination for foodies and live music lovers alike. The first venue of it’s kind to Miami and perhaps even the Coast, Marketta quickly grew to establish itself as a mainstay among the GC scene, bringing good vibes, live music and great food galore via the eclectic creative and cultural hotspot for over ten years now. Our beloved market brings us all our favourite tastes of the world as well as that same buzzing atmosphere that’s favoured by families especially, for rounding up their rowdy broods for an easy night out that everyone can enjoy.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Pde, Miami
We have a grand idea for ya! Why not take those freshly shucked oysters to-go and hit the picturesque Pizzey Park for a bougie picnic? It’s one of the biggest parks on the coast, a local icon, and a hub for sports, clubs, recreation, and fun times for all ages. There’s an aquatic centre, playgrounds galore, a wheely epic skate park, the Gold Coast’s first and Australia’s largest asphalt pump track and, let’s not forget, the off-leash dog area for our four-legged BFFs. In fact, paw out of five dogs agree that Pizzey is the best park for zoomies on the GC.
Where: 80 Pacific Ave, Miami
One of Miami’s most recent (and appreciated) additions is Bar Monte. This Italian eatery is so good it’s saving us a trip to Rome. They’re bringing the classic trattoria to us, with a modern twist, by blending international influences with fresh, local ingredients. The result is a menu as bold as it is delizioso.
The space is stylish yet inviting, striking the perfect balance between high-end sophistication and relaxed coastal charm. Pasta lovers will swoon over the Rigatoni, Vodka Sauce, Nduja and Stracciatella, and don’t even get us started on the wine list; curated by world-renowned sommelier Andrea Martinisi.
Where: No.3 Mountain View Ave, Miami
It’s no secret us Gold Coasters are quite partial to doing what we can to our put our best #lewks forward, and over the last few years the streets of Miami have also been undergoing somewhat of a glow up themselves (and #spoileralert – there’s no filler to be found here folks). The suburb is at the heart of a thriving GC art and cultural boom, with a bunch of incredible artists transforming the local laneways into a destination in and of themselves. There’s even the Art Roll website dedicated to mapping out the best routes for your own self-led street art tour.
And the event that started the movement, Surface Festival returns at the end of June, set to transform the local footpaths, fence lines, laneways and walls with some art-mazing fresh new works to admire and we’re here. for. it.
Where: Check the Art Roll website for locations
Okay, now it just feels like Miami is showing off and 501 (no kidding) Google reviews can’t be wrong. At first glance those deceptively colourful trademark stairs might look all sunshine and rainbows, but one thing’s for sure – conquer that climb and you will be rewarded with one of the best vantages on the coast. With stunning views of the coastline from Surfers right down to Burleigh, there’s only one thing left to say: How’s. the. serenity. (and maybe a hearty dose of *heavy breathing* depending on how many times you decide to take on those stairs #cardi-no thanks)
Where: At the south end of Miami (you can’t miss it)
If you love a good smash burger (and let’s be real, who doesn’t?), Broken Hearts Burger Club in Miami is calling your name. Born from one guy’s lockdown obsession with nailing the perfect LA-style burger, this cult-favourite joint keeps things simple – and seriously delicious. Choose between a classic or fancy burger, stack it up with one, two, or three patties, and let the molten cheese and house-made pickles do the talking. Throw in some loaded fries, a thick shake, and that retro diner aesthetic, and you’ve got yourself a one-way ticket to burger heaven. #sorrynotsorry
Where: 1934 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
Move over, high-rise hotels – motels of the Gold Coast are getting a makeover, and boy, are they impressing. Exhibit A- The Shores Miami. Nestled just 200 metres from Miami Beach, this 1970s Gold Coast gem has recently undergone a multi-million dollar transformation, blending retro vibes with modern comfort to create its perfect nostalgic charm.
Inside, find bright, modern rooms, orange sun lounges with overhead striped cabanas, a gorgeous pool, lush greenery, and soothing pastel colours. Outside; endless adventure, starting with this list! Staycation, anyone?
Where: 2016 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
There will always be room on the Gold Coast and in our hearts for another coffee roastery (get rid of the servos; we just need coffee). However, by no means is Whyld ‘just another’ coffee bar, channelling the strength of a triple espresso since 2021. That’s what we’re talking about! They promise ‘genuine connection fuelled by bloody good coffee’ and serve it up in a warehouse space/micro-roastery cuter than your grandma’s knitted blankets. Take your organic specialty coffee to go, or take a seat on one of their vintage couches and soak up the good vibes (the recommended take).
Where: 8/43 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
You can’t beat having a neighbourhood bakery (a carb-load close to home), particularly a European-inspired one. An ideal day on a plate for us would look like a warm, buttery fruit Danish for breakfast (washed down with a mighty good coffee), a ham, cheese and pickle baguette sandwich for lunch, followed by a basket full of buttery, flaky pastries for dessert. No veggie in sight! He he.
Where: Shop 5/1934 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
Japanese beer + Japanese street eats = heaven. Therefore, heaven can be found in Miami at the suburbs’ very own Japanese beer bar, Roji Cat. Here, you’ll be transported (at Shinkansen speed) to the neon-lit districts of Tokyo and Osaka, with an interior decorated to resemble their authentic alleyways, down to the signage and lanterns.
What else will you find? Twelve Japanese brews on tap and twenty-four types of sake, for starters! Then there’s the nosh, a curation of elevated Japanese street food that’ll have you sighing ‘oishii’, with every bite. Think Robata Skewers, sweet and spicy Roji Cat Karaage, Gyoza, Sashimi, Miso Corn (love you) and burgers including a Bug Burger with a tempura Moreton Bay Bug, spicy Japanese coleslaw and Kewpie mayo. We’ll take all of that, thank you so much.
Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami
It’s almost time to pack away the budgie smugglers and slip into something a little more cosy as we edge closer to the cooler months. Enter UGG Since 1974 – churning out wearable warm hugs for your feet since, well, 1974. Don’t be feeling sheepish if you didn’t know they’ve expanded their range to include a huge selection of colours, styles and options to customise including monogramming (cute!), as well as paw-dorable pet accessories (even cuter!) With factory tours running right out of Miami, the only thing better than supporting locals is treating your tootsies to a cloud-nine experience in the process.
Where: 23 Christine Ave, Miami
Have you worked up a thirst reading this list? Thankfully, we’ve saved everyone’s favourite brewery (yep, we called it) for last- Precinct Brewing Co. Step through their doors and you’ll be welcomed into one sleek space; all white with high ceilings, wooden beams, a couple more murals and some massive brew kettles in the background of it all. You can see why people say it’s the place to beer! Don’t forget to grab one of the tasty pizzas coming from the onsite kitchen, too…
Where: 17 Christine Ave, Miami
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Fill your life with greenery.
Everybody loves plants. There’s something comforting about being surrounded by them in your home, plus they look so very pretty and you can never have too many #crazyplanylady.
Whether it be the Fiddle Leaf Fig, the Monstera or the Chinese Money Plant there’s always a trendy new ‘it’ plant we need to add to our growing indoor nurseries. Please tell us we’re not the only ones?
Thankfully the Gold Coast is home to plenty of amazing spots to buy plants and because you probably (definitely) need a few more, here’s our pick of the bunch.
Greenfolk
This little Burleigh Heads beauty is tucked away and filled with the most magical array of plants there are. From cacti to succulents, all of the indoor plants and a stunning range of pots, this veritable urban jungle has absolutely everything you need. We want it all.
Where: 5/2 West St, Burleigh Heads, Burleigh Heads
Spectrum Plants
Found at Wongawallan and Coomera, Spectrum Plants is a wholesale, family-run nursery that sells everything from succulents, cacti and houseplants to trees. It’s open to the public and very popular, get in there to find some gems.
Where: 69 Currey Road, Wongawallan and 161 Kriedeman Road, Upper Coomera
Paul’s Plants
Found at Carrara Markets, Paul’s Plants are open seven days and stock a huge range of indoor and outdoor plants at epic prices. Pop in to pick up some goodies and have a cruise around the rest of the markets while you’re there.
Where: Cnr Manchester Road and Gooding Drive, Carrara
Instant Jungle Palms Nursery
Instant Jungle is a plant nursery based in Labrador with over two acres of palms, shrubs and exotic plants. They also specialise in water features, Bali huts, ceramic pots and statues. Wander up there for a magical experience.
Where: 111 Olsen Avenue, Labrador
Ross Evans Garden Centre
Found on a six acre site in Runaway Bay and established over 40 years ago, Ross Evans Garden Centre has it all. They grow over half of their own plants and import a huge range of pots and planters, so you can kit our your entire garden from the one spot. Quite relaxing to wander around in there too.
Where: 296 to 300 Oxley Drive, Runaway Bay
The Borrowed Nursery
Behind the lavender roller door Mermaid’s beloved nursery is absolutely packed with goodies, every type of plant you could want, beautiful pots, dried flowers, art and books, all the best things. You can hire plants for events and the space itself can be hired too. Big fans.
Where: 42-44 Cronulla Avenue, Mermaid Beach
Tree Select Australia
A wholesale palm tree farm with over 7 acres of feature trees and potted plants, Tree Select Australia is where it’s at if you’re in need of a few large-scale backyard palms. From residential to commercial, they’ve got you covered for everything you might need and there’s a variety of species to choose from.
Where: 2 Gerara Ct, Clagiraba
A plant-filled paradise opening soon in Burleigh Heads.
If you ask us (and also every single scientist), there can never be enough plants. As if it wasn’t enough that they create the oxygen we need to breathe, they’re also very pretty and make your house all cosy and natural looking.
With this in mind, we bring you exciting news. Burleigh’s favourite/only back alley, Justin Lane, is getting a new store filled with all the loveliest indoor plants imaginable, because of course it is.
Green Folk Botany Shop is said to be an urban jungle atelier (which is a fancy French word we had to look up, meaning workshop) stocked with lush foliage, plants, designer pots and hand crafted vessels. Who doesn’t love a good vessel?
It will be a modern boutique akin to the plant nurseries your mum used to drag you to as a kid except beautiful and with art and books and all our favourite things really.
Green Folk’s founder Emily Cloke is a Horticulturalist and Landscape Designer and if we ask nicely maybe she’ll come and transform our entire house into a jungle style scenario.
Her adventure began with creating a bespoke range of Kokedamas and handmade concrete pots filled with unusual succulents and interior plants before opening a collaborative pop up shop in Palm Beach.
Now, she is bringing the plants to the people and the people should not be sad about it.
Emily chose Burleigh for her venture because obviously Burleigh is epic but in her words, it’s the heart of the Gold Coast, and with a cool little community vibe unlike anything else around, we are pretty sure Green Folk is going to be a hit.
Green Folk Botany Shop is due to open mid April so you’ve got a bit of time to get your life in order before you blow all your money on indoor plants.
LOCATION: Justin Lane (next door to Lockwood Bar), Burleigh Heads
Words by Kirra Smith
