Little Truffle may be closing…but will wow with an exciting new look in 2023
Little Truffle may be closing…but will wow with an exciting new look in 2023
Trigger warning; we have good news and bad news for fine dining fans but fear not friends, because the good trumps the bad one-hunji-fold.
Local eats icon, the esteemed Little Truffle Dining Room & Bar is shutting up shop on Saturday 5th of November, and yes that’s the sound of the entire Gold Coast weeping. This may leave us feeling saltier than a pack of Samboy chips, however it’s a classic case of ‘short term pain, long term GAIN’ (shouty capitals intended). The closure is only temporary and just like that, the sun has re-emerged from behind the dark clouds. Not only that but when those famous timber doors reopen, our beloved Little Truffle will have a whole new lease on life. That’s right, it’s reno time and we have every confidence that award-winning Chef and Restaurateur Daniel Ridgeway and wife Ruggie have something AH-MA-ZING in store (more caps lock and senseless hyphens for impact).
The Ridgeways have planned the extensive makeover to coincide with Light Rail works in their zone, and well played sir and ma’am, well played. Little Truffle 2.0 entails a complete redesign of the floor plan to include a larger private dining room and a dedicated bar area. We’ll cheers to that (with a very fancy glass of bubbles of course) because we have big feels for anyone who turns lemons into limoncello.
Founder Daniel is describing the redesign as “refined but approachable”, the perfect union for a venue with more accolades than you can poke a chef’s knife at. Complete with an extensive new menu featuring some crowd faves, plus more contemporary Aussie dishes with a hint of Euro goodness, we’re more excited than Big Kev on a 2001 informercial. And speaking of iconic dishes, book yourself in for a final hurrah at LT1.0 with the likes of Fried Zucchini Flowers, the signature Beef Tartare and the Berry Souffle making a reappearance during the final month of trade. Oh and if you have a reservation or a voucher don’t fret, because you’ll have the option to use it at a sister venue, extend the expiration date by 12 months, or receive a full refund.
If you’re simply not going to cope without your Little Truffle fix, pop along to Ridgeway Group’s newly opened art-deco-inspired beachside restaurant, Palm Beach Ave (PBA). Long-standing Little Truffle Manager, Josh Webber, and the entire kitchen team will be heading down to continue working alongside Daniel, adding a selection of Little Truffle bangers to the PBA menu. Think Bug and Prawn Tortellini and the signature White Chocolate Vanilla Panna Cotta, as well as an expanded (and more posh) vino offering from the Little Truffle cellar.
So when you’re experiencing PTS from the temporary closure of your favourite restaurant, remember every cloud has a silver lining….and this one will elevate the already illustrious Little Truffle to the epitome of unforgettable fine dining.
Where: 2444 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: Reopening 2023
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Honey, I’m Rome! The new Sofia’s has arrived.
It’s no secret that The Oasis Shopping Centre houses some stellar eateries, and leading the pack is the new look Coastal European stunner, Sofia’s Restaurant & Bar. Now a hop, skip and a jump up the road from its original spot, it’s bigger and more beautiful than ever. Everything about this luxe Mediterranean people pleaser is perfectly executed, from the on-fleek new fit-out, to the carefully curated menu championing simple, delicious food. In fact, even the plates were imported from Italy, handmade and hand painted to order and yeah, this makes our Ikea plates at home look like the poor cousins that they are.
Owner Henry Hunt has stayed true to his euro chic roots, keeping just the right amount of refined Mediterranean feels mixed with a very fresh and current aesthetic. Engaging Bridgette Ford for the interior design and Shopfit & Co. to manage the build, the result is everything we’d hoped for…and more.
The duck egg blue, white and gold ‘Sofia’s’ entry station still stands loud and proud out front of the undercover dining area, flanked by two beautiful fringed umbrellas in the same colour palette. There are marble tables with coastal wood and white hued chairs leading into the showstopping inside, boasting elegant booths, more tables and chairs, and THAT BAR. Yes, it deserves upper case. The benchtop surface is a stunning juxtaposition of grey, black and white terrazzo triangle slabs, set alongside equally lush peach, black and white triangle slabs. Adorning the bar back and restaurant wall, you’ll see statement wide archway shelves housing an iconic selection of spirits and srsly, arches get us every.single.time. Add a healthy dose of overhanging greenery and capacity for 100 people and voila, it’s the perfect destination for your next lunch, dinner, or private function.
Chef Dan Paulman cooks up handmade pastas, woodfired bread (#CarbsOnCarbs), fresh seafood, and beautiful sharing plates galore. To get into the nitty gritty, let’s go with a starter of Sofia’s famous house-made bread with extra virgin olive oil, oregano and salt, and perhaps a Baked Eggplant stuffed with mascarpone and parmesan. But wait, we just spotted the long list of cheese and salumi varieties to share and we’re so grabbing a Gorgonzola and a Truffle Salami #idie.
Moving on to the main event and the signature dish, Sofia’s Cacio e Peppe with linguine, cream, cracked pepper, sea salt, served at the table in our 40kg Parmesan wheel aged for 2.5yrs is a must! It serves two so bring your love, your besty, or just a really big appetite and decimate the lot. This will go nicely with a Heirloom Tomato Salad with fresh basil, truffle and balsamic reduction and whaddaya know, that’s on the menu too! If you’d prefer something for the grill, may we draw your attention to the Fish of the Day served with saffron broth, clams and muscles, with a side of Shoestring Fries garnished simply with oregano and sea salt. That’s amore alright.
Now let’s talk cocktails and thank God we hear you all say. They do a sensational Spicy Margarita and avid Inside Gold Coast readers will know we’re rather partial to one of these so when we say it’s good, it’s fricken good. Sofia’s make theirs with bird’s eye chilli infused Olmeca Altos tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime juice, passionfruit puree and house made syrup and trust us, catch an Uber *orders several more*.
Speaking of Ubers, the epic mile-long wine list is another reason to resign from DD duty. They stock over 200 labels of wine and despite being mildly overwhelming for the indecisive, even the fussiest grape juice drinker will be on cloud wine.
So there you have it. The new Sofia’s certainly gets our tick of approval, and we look forward to saying “salute” (on repeat) at THAT.BAR too many times over the coming months.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
When: 12pm – 3pm & 5pm – 10:30pm, Monday to Sunday
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Images by Brittany Kreskas.
And why you will too!
Some might call it the heart of the Gold Coast. Mermaid locals will call it the only suburb worth visiting. While we aren’t ones to pick favourite children – I mean, suburbs – Mermaid Beach is definitely up there with the best of the best.
And when you’ve got these spots right on your doorstep, we can kind of understand why. So come with us and explore what locals love so much about our beachside beauty, Mermaid Beach.
She’s one of the Gold Coast’s finest, boasting 4.8 stars on Google and a 2025 AGFG Award to add to an already impressive list of accolades. The food is every bit as refined as the name suggests, crafted by genius minds. A reservation here means settling in for modern Australian dining at its best, served in an intimate, quietly sophisticated room. Fine food lovers, rejoice!
Where: 2444 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Fool us once, shame on you. Fool us twice, shame on us. But take that up to Six-Tricks? Now you’re talking. The Six-Tricks Distilling Co. is an appreciated presence in the GC and Mermaid distillery scene- a carnival of cocktails. It’s our favourite local haunt to settle in and sip on some spirits with their menu of seriously spirited flavour combos. Sip back, relax and soak up the great booze and good vibes all day long.
Where: 3 Brightlands Court, Mermaid Waters
The North Room is one of our favourite spots, not just in Mermaid, but the whole Coast, for that signature, relaxed, fine-dining feel. An intimate restaurant serving up some absolutely stunning contemporary dishes that you’ll want to wrap your mouth around ASAP. Bookings are essential; open for dinner on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays. Huge fans of this place.
Where: 1/2527 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Filling the gelato-shaped hole in our hearts (and stomachs), La Macelleria has been a very welcome addition to Mermaid Beach. Don’t just listen to us waffle on about it, we’ve given you the scoop now taste it for yourself. Made onsite at La Macelleria, you can watch your gelato churn, baby, churn before they dish up your flavour of choice – which is obviously pistachio, right? It’s legen-dairy.
Where: 90 Markeri Street, Mermaid Waters
Welcome to the Gold Coast’s official brunch destination. There’s a lot to be said about infusing a space with tropical, feel-good vibes, and Little Mermaid has done precisely that. Decked out with plenty of greenery, a laidback beachy feel, and tons of space for all your friends, this is the place to be. Open for breakfast and lunch the vibe is always pumping, so it’s our go-to when you’re looking for a guaranteed good time. We can’t go past the classic beachy fit-out. You know it’s good when the venue lasts the test of time like these guys have.
Where: 2557 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Have we every mentioned how Gold Coast surf clubs have the best views in town? Mermaid’s is no exception, with uninterrupted ocean views, delicious meals that will fill you right up, and of course, a sweet selection of drinks to sip on. It’s an amazing spot to watch the sun go down with the crew and always provides a quality atmosphere with a buzz of people – bonus if you manage to go home with a cheeky meat tray in tow.
Where: 172 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach
Never before has a plant nursery gained such a cult-like following as this gorgeous warehouse. It’s the Gold Coast’s go-to for a hint of (green) retail therapy, drawing plant lovers and photographers in droves due to its ‘gramworthy aesthetics and bespoke greenery. Fusing in a mix of uber chic homewares, pots for said plants and more to make the ultimate gift for you or a loved one, there’s something for all – no green thumb required. The stunning space also hosts workshops and yoga classes amongst the leafy greens, but if that’s not your jam, just become a plant parent!
Where: 42-44 Cronulla Ave, Mermaid Beach
Did someone say R&R? The team at Soak Bathhouse has it down to an art, bringing the ultimate oasis of recovery and tranquillity right in the heart of bustling Mermaid Beach. With magnesium pools, massage rooms, traditional and infrared saunas, a steam room spa and a cold plunge pool if you’re brave. Pop in for an hour or stay for the day and really treat yourself – you’ve earned it.
Where: 2532 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Serving up premium steak and boutique wine (among other delicious things), The Glenelg Public House is an absolute must-visit in Mermaid Beach and just generally on the Gold Coast. If for some reason you’re not into steak (it’s okay, we won’t tell anyone), everything on the menu is top-notch and they have a selection of some of the best seafood and sides we’ve ever sampled. If you’re partial to a solid serving of cheese then you must try to raclette with pear, fig relish and hazelnuts. Keen to try something a little different? The roast bone marrow with onion jam, mustard and toast is next level. Just. Trust. Us.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Mexican eats at their absolute finest can be found at Bonita Bonita. One of the longest-standing taco joints on the Coast, it’s a favourite amongst the locals, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, should that be your thing. To answer your question, yes, they do have Taco Tuesdays, complete with $6 tacos and $20 jugs of sangria! Right next door is Bon Bon Bar, so head in there for a cheeky margi before sampling all of the epic eats on offer. Our marg of choice? Well, the Mezcal Margarita, of course.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Marked by yellow striped umbrellas, splashes of colour and plenty of smiling faces, Sunnyboy is the sibling of Broady’s Elk Espresso- a Gold Coast institution since 2011. From 7am daily, you can tuck into breaky, brunch and lunch classics that are seriously elevated. Like, too good to eat (but wayyy too good not to), Insta-worthy dishes that will blow your mind and taste buds. Then, for those weekends (or weekdays- no judgement here) that cause breaky with a side of bubbles, there’s Bottomless Boozy Brunches. Just take one look at their Insta, and you will be messaging the group chat to lock in a date.
Where: 168 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach
First, we were blessed with Rafiki By The Sea- a long-standing neighbourhood favourite serving flavoursome food, stellar coffee and unmatchable vibes. Then came Rafiki By The Park, thanks to the screaming success of the seaside original. That’s right, Gold Coasters… we’ve been blessed with two Rafikis, and honestly, we deserve it.
Both venues serve slurp-worthy smoothies, icy matcha, cheeky (and famous) toasties, house-made yoghurt cups piled with seasonal fruit and crunchy granola, and their cult-status African Avo Toast. Add in strong coffee, super-friendly staff, and a rotating roaster of smiling doggos, and you’ve got two of Mermaid’s most beloved local hangouts.
Where: By The Sea, 172 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach. By The Park, 90 Markeri Street, Mermaid Waters
Bam Bam has long held elite bakery status in Mermaid Beach (and the rest of Australia), and once you’ve had one of their pastries, you get it. The place smells ridiculous, in a butter-meets-sugar way, and the pastry cabinet makes you lose all inhibition with zero regrets. There are loaded muffins, crispy cruffins, savoury and sweet croissants, melted-in-the-middle cookies, and so much more! They also cover scrambled eggs, sandwiches, acai bowls- even poke bowls and nasi goreng! They do it all, and they do so damn well! Needless to say, it’s a staple for locals, a weekend ritual for many, and a must-visit for anyone serious about baked goods.
Where: 2519 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
The Raspberry Room isn’t just a place to get a fine-line tattoo; it’s a speakeasy-meets-hotel-lobby-inspired haven. The waiting room channels New York lobby vibes, and the studio blends the founders’ favourite bars and hotels, all wrapped up in a colour palette straight outta Wes Anderson’s classic, ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’. It’s the perfect place to pop your tattoo cherry, or collect more!
Where: 2/2460 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Etsu is one of those hidden-in-plain-sight spots- seriously, you’d walk straight past if you didn’t know what you were looking for, but that’s half the fun! Inside, it’s moody, intimate and buzzing in that way only great Japanese venues seem to pull off. The food is consistently excellent, from the sashimi to the small plates to the more playful specials. The drinks list is stacked with good sake and Japanese whisky, and the staff know their stuff without being over-the-top about it. It’s a favourite for celebrations, date nights or any time you want dinner to feel like an occasion without being overly fancy. Don’t go past the aburi salmon maki roll with avocado, seared salmon, spicy mayo, teriyaki and red tobiko.
Where: 2440 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Ritual is the calm in the chaos – the place locals escape to when they need to breathe, stretch or just reset after a big week. The studio is warm and welcoming, with pilates that burn and yoga that soothes. There’s a real community feel here which is always a standout feature. Whether you’re into slow, grounding sessions or you want something a bit stronger, the timetable covers it. They also have locations in Palm Beach and Robina!
Where: 2431 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
