Fresh fast food at its finest!
Fresh fast food at its finest!
Just when you think Burleigh couldn’t possibly get any better, boom – it does! How is this happening you ask? Let’s dish… After 6 long years of planning and preparation, we’re excited to announce that FISHBOWL is a-comin to town! And no, we’re not referring to the obscenely large drinks we shared every Saturday night in Melba’s circa 2001, we’re talking about Sydney’s freshest fast-food and sustainability supernova.
Opening their flagship GC store on Saturday 6th August, the delicious Japanese-inspired bowls of glorious goodness will be right at home amongst our healthy life loving, PE Nation wearing Burleigh community! To celebrate, they’re giving away free bowls to the first 100 customers, followed by $10 bowls for the rest of the day, and we’re so totally lining up Boxing-Day-sales-style for this.
With a mission to change the face of fast food, the FISHBOWL phenomenon is built around a customisable base and extras and who doesn’t love an element of DIY. To maximise nutrition, the menu is centred on veggies, alongside ethically and sustainably sourced seafood, meat or vegan options made fresh every day. The chefs carefully break down and prepare the nosh with minimal intervention and maximum love, right down to the dressings. Using a carefully selected range of local and Japanese ingredients free from any artificial flavour enhancers and refined sugars, the proof is in the pudding…or the bowl….that the result is a true blue (or green) taste sensation!
Where possible, these guys even grow produce on their own farms, and any kitchen waste is sent back to these farms to use as nutrient-rich compost for new produce. What begins with a beautiful a-la-natural and green friendly product, is complemented by design-driven spaces, curated music, bold personalities and cultural diversity, and why didn’t we think of this trailblazing concept?!
Speaking of, who the heck did cook this up? In 2016 whilst at Uni, three savvy young blokes Nathan Dalah, Nic Pestalozzi and Casper Ettelson decided that a healthy, sustainably sourced alternative to fast food could have legs….and well played Sirs, well played. Having self-funded their growth from 1-30 locations in the past six years making FISHBOWL Australia’s fastest growing quick service restaurant, it’s safe to say they’re scratched a nation-wide itch.
Now down to the nitty-gritty – what should you eat and bonus, you can watch the chefs whip up your edible masterpiece in the open kitchen. Well if 10,000 Aussies a week are ordering their signature The O.G., this sounds like a pretty good place to start. It’s packed with salmon sashimi, kale, savoy, beets, shallots, edamame, red onion, roasted sesame dressing, seaweed salad, tobiko and crispy shallots. Or if a warm bowl is more to your liking, how about Beef Brisket with 12-hour braised beef, kale, savoy, carrots, radish, shallots, edamame, lemon olive oil and shoyu dressing, wasabi peas, and wasabi mayo drizzle? Then, add your base like brown rice, sushi rice or soba noodles (to name a few), any extra protein (we’re picking tofu and perhaps some meru miso eggplant), and a trusty Kombucha to wash it all down. Yep, we feel totes Burleigh-esk right now.
So get behind this positive culture change towards food and head to check out the launch on Saturday. As if you need more motivation, in addition to the free bowls there will also be free FELLR seltzers, merch giveaways, live music, and drinks served by local operators Giddy Citizen, Xpressed and Good Happy. We’re calling it now – FISHBOWL is set to become our new Burleigh BFF.
Where: 2 James Street, Burleigh Heads
When: Opening Saturday 6th August
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Okey dokey, give us some Poké!
The only thing we love more than a fish bowl (RIP Melba’s) is a poké bowl. And, unlike the former, poké bowls don’t make us do dumb stuff like text our ex at 2am, or bust out the Macarena amongst people who weren’t even born when it was a banga. Bursting with flavour, fun to eat and full of healthy ingredients, what’s not to love about this native Hawaiian cuisine turned worldwide taste sensation?!
Coz we can’t get enough, here is a list of some of the best poké bowls on the Gold Coast from North to South, so you can up your ‘gram game!
Poké California
With a philosophy like “Love Yourself” and a commitment to serving up healthy poké-a-plenty with only the freshest local ingredients, who could resist this resident and tourist fave. Never short of customers, do yourself a favour and try the Pork Katsu Poke Bowl with fried pork katsu, rice, mixed salad, cucumber, sweet onion, carrot, cabbage, edamame, sweet corn and your choice of toppings and sauces.
Where: Southport Central Apartments, 56 Scarborough Street, Southport & Circle on Cavill, 9 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Finn Poké
Born and bred in Byron, Finn Poké are masters at putting their own spin on the humble Poké bowl. Creating super healthy, get-in-ma-belly style meals, they are as focussed on sustainability as they are flavour. The Okinawa Beef Bowl is a Finn specialty, with premium wagyu brisket on rice, caramelised and marinated onion, pickled ginger, Okinawa special sauce and red pepper blend.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach & 1/11 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Aloha Bar & Dining
The fact that it’s hidden makes us love it even more! This tropical tiki bar serves up the yum factor with Hawaiian nosh, including some fierce Poké Bowls! Once you’ve sampled their insane cocktails, the Szechuan chicken with crispy onion an Asian slaw Poke Bowl will be just what you need to give you that hearty fix to kick on all night long!
Where: 18 Main Place, Broadbeach
Okazu Sushi Bar
Okay so while Poké Bowls may be Hawaiian, they are rich in ingredients associated with Japan and therefore make a welcome appearance on many Japanese menus. Okazu has a spread of drool-worthy bowls to choose from, but we can’t go past the original Poke Bowl with tuna, salmon, edamame, brown rice, cabbage, ginger, crispy shallots, wakame, chilli, soy sauce, cucumber and sesame mayo. Bliss!
Where: 2223 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Poké Poké
Specialists in fresh, fruity, fun vibes and all the delicious and healthy tropical delights you can poké a stick at, Poké Poké offers up generous and tasty poké bowls, decadent roti wraps and next level super smoothies! Our pick is the Snap Her Up with mouth-watering cooked coconut snapper, brown rice, carrot, edamame, cucumber salsa, radish, mesclun, fresh chilli crispy shallots and sesame. Drooling!
Where: Mermaid Beach Village, 2375 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Bowl & Blend Co
Ex Sydneysider and award-winning restaurateur Kim Udomdej brings us high-quality, organic, ethically sourced eats in her cute tropical boho space, Bowl & Blend. It’s difficult to pick a frontrunner, but we’re giving a shout out to The Salty Squid Poké Bowl because we always say hells yes to anything involving squid, and get some pork on your fork with the popular Miss Piggy Poké Bowl.
Where: 70 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
HiPoke
HiPoke brings an authentic blend of tropical culture and fresh food built for active lifestyles…and we’re fans! Their mission is to provide a wholesome, fast-food alternative that makes both your bod and the community sing amen! We’re obsessed with the signature Marinated Tofu Bowl with quinoa, marinated tofu, wakame, cherry tomato, enoki mushroom, spring onion, purple cabbage, pickled ginger, ponzu sauce and crispy shallot.
Where: Kirra Village, 18/48 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta
Niche & Co
Giving the 4224 folk the good vibe infused healthy feed they need, Niche & Co is a 2021 Travellers Choice Award winner and an absolute must see (or taste!). The Roast Turmeric Cauliflower and House Spiced Tofu Poké Bowl will knock your nickers off with roast cauli, turmeric tzatziki, spiced tofu, pickled onion, kim chi, seasonal greens, sweet radish, avocado, spiced cucumber, sesame carrot and crispy shallots.
Where: 449 Golden Four Drive, Tugun
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Bug rolls, the beloved hill and local brews.
Oh, Burleigh, you little beauty, what’s not to love, right? Since the dawn of time (or the dawn of the GC at least), Burleigh has been one of the most-loved suburbs amongst a slew of strong contenders.
Sure, the beach is beautiful (that Hill is iconic for a reason) and James Street boasts all the best eats and acai bowls galore, but it’s more than that. Burleigh has a soul of its own born of cruisy, barefoot, salty sea breeze vibes you simply won’t find anywhere else. Gushing aside, we’ve found the best of Burleigh so you don’t have to.
Here’s our guide to the best eats, bars, shopping spots and places to visit so you can see why the locals love it and you should too (or else). We always say, when in Burleigh, do as the locals do.
Perched three floors high, within the stunning new Mondrian Gold Coast, is Haven. What is the Haven, you ask? It’s a nothing-short-of-exceptional beach club, spanning a refined yet relaxed dining room, private cabanas, a full-service pool club and a sunset bar. Whether you’re brunching in your bikini or toasting at twilight, Haven is where it’s at. As the sun sets, the evening comes alive with a soundtrack of DJs, curated playlists and live performances.
Where: Level 3/3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Literally opening out onto the sand at Burleigh Beach, Rick Shores is loved not just by locals but globally for its stunning sunset views and those tiny little taste sensations, otherwise known as Bug Rolls. If you’ve never tasted one, you’ve been wasting your life (seriously). Make a booking RIGHT NOW and order like 5. Wash them down with one of Rick’s signature cocktails, and you’re a bona fide Burleigh-ite.
Where: Shop 3, Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If you’re looking for fancy food but with the relaxed vibe that’s quintessentially Burleigh, look no further. The stunning space offers incredible Vietnamese dishes inspired by trips to Vietnam, tasting some of the very best street food in the world every single day. Sounds epic! It’s a refined style of dining paired with mouthwatering cocktails and a sleek, pared-back vibe. Jimmy Wahs is one of the Gold Coast’s most impressive eateries, and we are big fans.
Where: 1724 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
The fine dining venue has become part of the fabric of Burleigh’s bustling heart, but it’s also become one of the Gold Coast’s premier dining destinations. Tucked away on West Street, the five-star, seasonal-produce-led restaurant is an absolute must-visit. Trust us, your dining experience here won’t be easily forgotten. The produce is sustainable, and the wine list features some of the most stunning natural wines in the world. The service is impeccable too, but in a fun, not-too-formal way. We LOVE.
Where: 2A/8 West Street, Burleigh Heads
Après Surf is your friendly neighbourhood bar in Burleigh. If a crisp beer, indulgent pub-style eats, and DJ beats sound like your pint of lager, this place is for you. It’s plain ol good vibes from 5pm daily (except Tuesdays) with DJs every weekend! Head there on a Thursday for $1 dumplings and free stand-up comedy from 8pm! Doesn’t get much better than that, and Burleigh locals know it.
Where: 1/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
They started off as a taco-slinging hole-in-the-wall in Palm Beach in 2021, instantly becoming a cult favourite. Now, they’ve levelled things up with a move to Burleigh. Think bigger and better space, with the same beloved laid-back Aussie beach culture, and big Mexican flavours we all know and love. The new location invites you to settle in, sip a marg (or three) and let the good vibes take you to Mexico. Batanga, anyone?
Where: 1718 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Looking for a Burleigh locals’ guide to the best fish and chips in town? Look no further. And this place doesn’t just stop at fish and chips (even though we wouldn’t recommend going past them). They also serve fresh poke bowls and vibrant superfood bowls, plus a range of Bali-inspired dishes that reel in people from all over; they’re that good. Think flavour-packed Gado-Gado, nasi goreng and Bali satay chicken sticks. Wash it down with a premium cocktail and watch Burleigh come to life (this place is in a prime people-watching locale).
Where: 1716 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
A true family-run gelateria, Al Bacio Gelato Naturale is run by husband-and-wife duo Craig and Rebecca Heininger, alongside their daughter, Jaime. Since opening in late 2025, they’ve been serving scoops of authentic, 100% natural Italian gelato to Burleigh locals (and visitors), and we cannot be more thankful. The signature Al Bacio, meaning “as good as a kiss” in Italian, is a rich chocolate-hazelnut scoop made with homemade hazelnut paste from Piemonte, Italy. Then, for those who like to gulp down their gelato, you can order your favourite flavour in thick shake form. Can we get a hell yeah?
Where: 7/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
As you cruise down the GC Highway, the striking red and white umbrellas and festoon lights grab your attention and give you a whiff of what awaits inside. Crispy Italian is where to head when you’ve got a hankering for wood-fired pizza done insanely well. You’ll get a fun, laid-back vibe and a menu stacked with la pasta, la pizza, woodfired gnocchi and desserts impossible to resist. Did someone say Aperol spritz? Oh yeah, that was us.
Where: 4/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Local is one of those venues that just gets it. Equal parts polished and laidback, this Burleigh favourite nails the brief from morning through to late arvo and beyond, making it the kind of place you pop into “just for one” and somehow leave with a full camera roll and a new core memory. With multiple spaces to suit every vibe, from the fairy light–lit beer garden and fully stacked tinnie bar to plush indoor booths and a main bar made for game days, Local is built for long hangs, big feeds and even bigger catch-ups. The menu covers all bases (classic pub grub, elevated plates and a few fancy moments for good measure) and the atmosphere is always buzzing.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
There’s a good reason this gem is heaving at all hours: the home of the iconic muffin top (IYKYK) and some of the best coffee in town. It’s not just locals who love it – you’ll find Gold Coasters and beyond flocking here for a taste of the goods. Come for a coffee and to get around their huge menu with something for everyone – literally, it’s impossible to not love something. Plus, we’re pretty sure it’s mandatory to leave with a pastry in tow – go on, you deserve it.
Where: 1748 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Locals know the only thing loose in this (top) paddock is scrumptious, buttery baked goods. Since opening its charmingly renovated doors in 2014, Paddock has been the ultimate spot for brunch, lunch and sweet treats that keep us coming back daily. With lush gardens, a cottage, loft, rooftop and barn to hide away in, the menu is just as endless as the spots to enjoy it – perfect for indulgence, people-watching, or a little bit of both.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
A local newbie that’s already earned its rightful place on this list (which is saying something). Start with a coffee- because there’s no other way, and theirs is superb- before diving deep into their menu full of hearty but totally healthy eats. Think Shakshuka Scramble with charred eggplant, peppers, tomato chilli salsa & charred bread. Chef’s hot tip: add brisket. Or, indulge yourself in a croque monsieur made with ham and gruyere, fried eggs, cheese sauce, green pea chef salad and parmesan that will blow your beret off. Everything here is made fresh, seasonal, and irresistible.
Where: 4 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
Serving Southern California vibes (think cactus, umbrellas, pastel greens) all day long, alongside morning margaritas (you read correctly), epic eats and epic coffee. If you didnt catch on, Palm Springs does things a little differently, and Burleigh locals love them for it. They said, ” We will give you avocado smash and serve you one better”. Better in the form of a morning marg with breakfast tacos. It may sound rogue, but don’t tell us it isn’t exactly what you’ve been waiting for. Ideal hangover feed, perfect weekend brunch. Thank us later.
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
This small but mighty wine bar has one of the largest selections of boutique wines (we mean, it is in the name) with some seriously epic eats to accompany. We can’t go past the cheeseburger – seriously, don’t sleep on this – and if you don’t know where to start on what to sip, the expert team always nail the reccos. Pop a Pet Nat on your must-try for something a little bubbly, or if you’re more of a red drinker, their signature chilled reds are the ultimate for a hot summer’s day.
Where: 12 James Street, Burleigh Heads
It’s the good time, slightly fancy Australiana bar of your dreams, and it is perfectly at home in Burleigh Heads. Rosella’s is a local haunt that’s been a firm favourite since its opening. With both a drinks and a food menu made entirely of Australian produce, we are in heaven. They’ve got cocktails inspired by Fantales, Blinky Bill and Bondi Beach, all the very best Aussie beers and some of the tastiest eats to pair. It’s refined, beautifully decked out and created by a couple of absolute legends. Love.
Where: 6/1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
This fam-and-friends-run distillery from husband-and-wife duo Justin and Lana Bell is serving up elevated cocktails designed specifically for sipping (and swooning), paired with snacky plates that absolutely understood the assignment. The space is a moody, deep-green, tropical-tiki dream and the drinks are bespoke and downright dangerous in the best way. Oh, and they’re big on collabs too, teaming up with like-minded legends to keep things fresh and fun, so consider this your official cue to keep a very close eye out for their next one. It’s intimate, it’s stylish, it’s packed with heart (and gin), and it’s proof that when you mix great spirits with great people, magic happens.
Where: 1/9 Calabro Way, Burleigh Heads
If Burleigh had a local hall of fame, Burleigh Pavilion would be its MVP. This beachfront institution sits right above the sand at Burleigh Heads, serving up panoramic ocean views, sunset vibes and reliably good times from arvo cocktails to dinner dates and everything in between. Within its sprawling space you’ve got casual beach-bar energy, breezy terraces and The Tropic, the coastal-meets-Mediterranean restaurant where you can settle in for a sun-soaked lunch or a long, leisurely dinner with views literally stretching to the horizon. Whether you’re here for the drinks, the eats, the views, or just to feel like you’re living your best summer life year-round, Burleigh Pavilion is basically Burleigh’s living room with a better wine list.
Where: 3a/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If there’s one thing Burleigh deserves (the big legend), it’s a brewery, and Burleigh Brewing Co. certainly delivers. since opening in 2006, Burleigh Brewing Co. has produced a lineup of delicious drops – all perfectly Burleigh. Get a sixer for Netflix and chill, or head into the brewery from Friday to Sunday afternoons to get amongst it.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads
This place is the ideal setting for a lil cocktail and antipasti moment. A wine with your significant other, cocktail hour with the gals, or dare we say, a quick shot to kick off an epic night. Alongside wines, beers, margs and cocktails, they serve ‘a quality shot’ for those who value efficiency or are known to be fashionable-late and need to catch up, as they say. That’s definitely not us…Okay, it’s totally us.
Where: 1740 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Hidden inside the opulent Mondrian hotel, Ciel Spa is the city’s first bio-wellness spa blending high-tech treatments with high-touch luxury. Forget cucumber slices and pan pipe music, here you’re getting a serious glow-up down to a cellular level. From zero-gravity dry float sessions and Himalayan salt rooms to LED facials and cosmetic doctor appointments, they have it all. It’s a bit of a treat-yo-self moment.
Where: Level 2/3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Well, hasn’t this simple little piece of Mother Nature become an icon? No matter the day of the week (but particularly Sunday arvos), “the hill” as it’s affectionately known, is packed with picnic rugs, ball games and groups of revellers basking in the sunshine. Looking out over the ocean and with the city in the distance, it’s the perfect spot for a late afternoon lemonade or early morning coffee date with the crew. Order some of your fav takeaway from James Street, and perch up on a picnic blanket to soak up the scenery. Better yet, sunset.
Where: The south end of The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads
If you’re feeling energetic, take a stroll around Burleigh Hill to Talle Creek for some Insta-worthy rainforest scenery. Or if you’re game, head up the vertical trail for a hill climb that’s rewarded with an epic view. Yes, some sweat may be involved, but it’s all in the good spirit of exploration. Cool down after with a swim at Burleigh Beach or Talle Creek, wherever you end up.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
A relaxing little beachside club loved by young and old alike, Burleigh Bowls has been around since 1937 and is certainly a prime piece of real estate these days. Barefoot Bowls rolls on from 12–5pm every Sunday, and it’s a measly $10 per person, including coaching and bowls (AKA ball whipper snappers). Get down and support your local while sipping on a schooner.
Where: Connor Street, Burleigh Heads
If you’re in need of some retail therapy, then James Street is the only place you need to go. The range of shopping has everything you need, whether you’re looking for some new additions to your home from Maison & Maison or to update your wardrobe at Emte, you’re guaranteed to leave suitably more stylish. If you’re looking for the perfect piece of art to dress your walls at work or home, Art Yarramunua is our pick for their incredible collection of expertly curated indigenous art.
Where: James Street, Burleigh Heads
Everyone’s favourite Saturday morning market adventure. Get up early, grab your basket and set out in search of fruit, veggies and of course, your first coffee of the weekend. These days, the farmers market also boasts locally made clothing and homewares, flowers, meat and seafood and delicious breaky and lunch options. Happy days! Open every Saturday from 7am–12 ‘rain, hail or shine’.
Where: Burleigh Heads State School, Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
