The newest Tommy is open!
The newest Tommy is open!
NOW TOMMY’S TACO BAR
Proving that good genes run in the family, Tommy’s Italian has a little sister and we’re calling it now – it’ll reach Carb-dashian status. Set to secure a sizeable slice of the Currumbin Italian food scene when it opens this Friday 21st October, Little Tommy’s is a real pizza work. Just 500m down the road from its super popular sibling, it’s the more approachable, relaxed and uncomplicated one, kinda like Khloe K and why do we feel like we’re going down a slippery slope here…
Owners Tom Torchut and Ronnie Tarabay have done it again, this time in the form of a takeaway geared Italian pizzeria, with the option to sit in and enjoy an obligatory beachside bev. Nestled on the corner of Duringan Street and Thrower Drive, it will deliver the ultimate casual pizza experience and we can never have too many of these. No need to make a booking, just roll on in and yep, you’ll most likely roll on out too #FoodComaIncoming. We’re talking handpicked favourites from Tommy’s Italian, plus epic new bites designed especially for the nook to make us chant “carbs are friend not foe”.
Featuring indoor bar seating and outdoor seating, there’s space for 40 people to kick back and savour the flavours. Sink a drink from the carefully selected wines and lovingly created cocktails which bonus, boast minimal intervention. But more on those later because we need to talk about the fit out which was masterfully executed by Arch Interiors and Element Shopfitting. Adopting a colour scheme in sync with Tommy’s Italian, think deck chairs, red and white gingham style (not to be confused with Gangnam style coz, just, no) checked table clothes, and an eye-catching red tiled façade.
The menu has us swooning and we’re down for the Fried Smoked Mozzarella to start because fried cheese is our utopia. For mains, it’s gotta be a pizza, seeing as we haven’t had a slice since last Thursday and seven days without makes one weak. Let’s go with the Margarita and stop press, for once we’re not talking about the drinkable variety. When done Tommy-style, the simplistic goodness of the fior di latte, San Marzano and basil is impossible to beat. If we’re feeling pasta inclined (we are) we think the Pappardelle will do nicely, with lamb ragu, pappardelle, red wine, parsley and pecorino. We know we probs shouldn’t but bugger it, let’s finish with Tommy’s Original Tiramisu because there’s nothing wrong with eating your body weight, right?!? (there is).
Moving on to the refreshments, there’s lo-fi wines, local craft beers, and our forever friend, premium cocktails made from locally sourced hand pressed fruit juices. In particular, have a go of the signature cocktail offering, Little Red. Imagine lamington vodka (It’s.A.Thing), raspberry prosecco syrup and a squeeze of lime juice, garnished with a chocolate raspberry powder so it’s matchy matchy with the décor. Spesh.
So regardless of how you slice it, Little Tommy’s is destined to please many-a-palette and fill the big shoes of big bro up the street. Crust us.
Where: 140 Duringan Street, Currumbin
When: 5pm – late, Thursday – Monday. Closed Tuesday & Wednesday.
Images by Brittany Kreskas.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Tommy's Italian has stolen a pizza our heart.
If big fresh flavours of Italy combined with unsurpassed views of our enigmatic ocean are the type of thing you long for, then might we suggest you take a trip down to Currumbin beach and take in the newly opened Tommy’s Italian!
For those with a keen eye, you will notice that this ode to Italian cuisine has taken over the 1920s heritage building where the once-loved Beach Shack Cafe once was. But where one thing finishes, another often begins, and the extensive refurbishment incorporating hues of deep green and earthy tones reshape this venue to take the space to another level altogether.
Behind any tremendous new opening, there are naturally some correspondingly impressive figures. Hospo young gun Tom Torchut first cut his teeth at Gemelli Italian, and then at Brisbane’s Eleven Rooftop Bar (now Maya) and Brisbane’s short-lived – but utterly brilliant – Arc Dining. Joining him in this particular venture is the former owner of Burleigh Heads’ Fish House, Ronnie Tarabay: together, the two men are hospitality forces to be reckoned with, and from what is going on inside these four walls at Tommy’s, you will begin to understand why.
With such an incredible stretch of beach right out the front, this is a fresh Italian Trattoria with a view we can get behind.
If you’ve ever made it to the old country and sat portside with a Negroni in the Cinque Terra or gazed out over a bowl of pasta at the cliffs of the Amalfi, you’ll agree that this cuisine and spectacular views were made for one another. And we’re pleased to report that although we may not be in the Mediterranean, you won’t give it another thought.
Should you be lucky enough to bag yourself a table upstairs, and in particular a place on the balcony amongst the red and white striped cushions, then prepare your eyes for a sublime feast of incredible scenery punctuated by some of the most drool-worthy eats we’ve seen to date.
The menu gives a respectful nod to Italian classics by working in excellent local produce. And we must say, these guys really nail everything.
In the mornings, you can wander off the beach and enjoy takeaway Single O Speciality coffee, baked treats and a Bacon and Egg Roll like no other; we’re talking thick-cut Mortadella ham, fried egg and mozzarella. When in Rome, right?
Or perhaps stop by for lunch or dinner, as this is where the real magic happens.
Set out like a traditional Italian menu, you have a few different options, yet the antipasti are a winning place to start. Prepare your tastebuds for the wonders ahead with a Heirloom Tomato Salad with a tangy Balsamic and basil dressing or perhaps their Grilled XL King Prawns.
After this, you’re spoilt for choice with an array of tempting seafood and meat options across delectable handmade pastas and pizzas – the latter displaying imaginative toppings and the former vying for your attention with dishes like the Duck Ragu Pappardelle with red wine, parsley and parmigiano. Or is the Italian Sausage Rigatoni with broccoli rabe and pecorino calling you?
For a taste of the sea, we think the big pizza winners are going to be either the Vongole with a mussel base, clams, fermented chilli and preserved lemon or the Gamberi with a zucchini base, fior di latte, garlic prawn, parsley and lemon zest.
Regardless, this is one menu where choosing what you’ll have is going to leave you feeling ever so perplexed ‑ #sorrynotsorry.
If making decisions is not your thing (same), there are two banquet set menus available for a minimum of 4 people priced at either $65 or $95 per person, which will ensure you won’t encounter food envy on another table.
Rounding off this seaside eatery’s whole casual and breezy demeanour is naturally a great selection of drinks. The cocktail offering is something to behold with separate headings for spritzes, jugs, signatures, mocktails, and not forgetting the classics. And beside a worldly and diverse range of quality wines on offer, the chance of you pairing amazing food with equally impressive drinks are at an all-time high.
Casual dining meets impeccably tasting food, underpinned by breathtaking vistas and some of the most attentive service around. Do yourself a favour and head on down to Currumbin for a slice of la dolce vita!
When: Monday – Sunday: Coffee window: 6am – 12pm (takeaway only)
Wednesday – Sunday: Lunch: 11:30am – 3pm & Dinner: 4pm – 10pm
Where: 818 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
They’ve stolen a pizza our hearts!
A food that needs zero introduction – pizza is Italy’s gift to the world that just keeps on giving (to our happiness levels and waistlines, mainly). From office parties to cozy date nights, this god-tier culinary creation is the celebratory cornerstone of gatherings everywhere. We can think of no occasion that isn’t improved by the addition of this beloved Italian staple…. and if there is, we don’t wanna know about it.
A dish steeped in tradition; pizza is divisive as it is delicious. Team crispy, or team chewy and chonky, deep dish style? Then there’s the question of the toppings – to olive, or not to olive? – and don’t even get us started on pineapple!
Heck, even trying to narrow down which of our fine establishments serve the best slice is a controversial endeavour. Which is why we’ve compiled this trusty guide to all the most legit GC pizza joints in whom pizza-loving locals eternally crust.
Here are 19 of the best, from north to south, so you can dig in without delay (okay maybe just a little delay, molten hot cheese is no joking matter).
Ready to take a tour of Italy’s most famous cities all under one roof? Italia Moto brings each region to life on a pizza! Head to the Italian countryside with Bruno Pancetta – San Marino with truffle cream base, marinated potato, pancetta and parmesan. Or go coastal with Giovanni Gamberi – Sicily featuring pesto base, mozzarella, cherry tomato, marinated prawns in garlic, lemon and chilli. End your Italian escape with a scoop of gelato, and that’s amore!
Our pick: Bruno Pancetta Pizza
Where: 104 Helensvale Rd, Helensvale
You know where there’s BYO, there’s good times ahead. Papa Rolly’s is your go-to neighbourhood spot, bringing together all the home-style, beloved dishes from their family of eateries (you know em Gemelli). Pair your favourite bottle with a woodfired pizza or a hearty pasta. Hell yeah!
Our pick: Bella Donna pizza
Where: 124 Pappas Way, Carrara
True to its name, Fire Baby brings heat and flavour in equal measure. Think hot-out-of-the-oven pizza washed down with an Inferno Mezcal Margarita! This Southport hotspot serves up woodfired pizzas, share plates, and cocktails in a seriously sleek space. It’s the kind of spot that quickly becomes your go-to, weeknights and weekends alike.
Our pick: Quattro Formaggi pizza
Where: 8-10 Welch Street, Southport
Rossa brings authentic Italian to Southport with blistered crust, doughy bases and fresh, flavourful toppings. Simple, rustic, and utterly delicious, it’s a place where the pizza does all the talking. Grab a glass of red, take a seat, and let the laid-back Italian atmosphere wash over you. For purists and casual diners alike, Rossa hits all the marks.
Our pick: Pepperoni Pizza (best seller)
Where: 59 Meron Street, Southport
Situated right next to the pristine beach, La Calabrese at Ocean is all about traditional Italian ingredients with a modern twist. The pizzas in particular are food-gasmic, and if you don’t concur, then soz but #weir-dough. Anything but your average pizza, a process called ‘biga’ is used to make the dough, and honestly, the ‘yeast’ we can do is divulge why this technique is so special. How about a fior di latte, Italian sausage, ham, mild salami, and oregano? Drool.
Our pick: Arca Salumi Pizza
Where: Where: Level 1, 84 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
If simple Italian flavours done exceptionally well toot your horn, then make a date with The Star Gold Coast’s Cucina Vivo. Chef Fabio has gained quite the cult following, affectionately known as the best Pizzaiolo Chef outside of Italy. This man is the master of the woodfire oven, and the ever-popular venue’s secret weapon. Date night sorted!
Our pick: Fabio’s Pizza
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Lobby Level, Broadbeach
If you haven’t been to Gemelli in Broadbeach, are you even a true Gold Coaster? Rustic yet stylish, with handcrafted pizzas, house-made pasta, and a buzzing atmosphere, Gemelli nails Italian food with a modern twist. Authentic, flavour-packed, and full of heart, this is the kind of place Nonna would happily approve of.
Our pick: Patate Pizza
Where: 2/2685 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Double Zero is certified Neapolitan pizza heaven (fun fact: they were the first Neapolitan pizzeria in QLD). Think gorgeous woodfired pizza with leopard-spotted crust, cooked for just 90 seconds! Award-winning, authentic, and endlessly satisfying- this is where true pizza lovers go to geek out.
Our pick: Crudo Pizza
Where: 2/2715 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Two essentials in one place: award-winning pizza and gelato. Every woodfired dough pillow (aka, pizza) is bursting with flavour and fresh toppings, no matter which you choose. Then, you gotta finish strong with creamy house-made gelato. Or, you could finish stronger again with a Tartufo Di Pizzo (half hazelnut, half chocolate gelato, and filled with melted chocolate!). You don’t need to convince us.
Our pick: Al Salame Pizza and Nocciola gelato (2 scoops is a must)
Where: East Tower The Phoenician Building, Shop 10/104 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Sapori is a little slice of authentic Italy with a welcoming, cosy atmosphere and pizzas that showcase perfectly fermented, woodfired bases. The interior is just adorable, the toppings are generous, the wine list is solid, and the staff are friendly as they come. Needless to say, it’s a top choice for casual dinners or celebratory nights out. Sapori feels like that neighbour who always knows exactly how to make pizza perfect.
Our pick: Marg on Steroids Pizza
Where: Santa Cruz Village, 60 Santa Cruz Blvd, Clear Island Waters
They’ve built a loyal following so devoted, you’d think they were running a pizza cult (a cult we would happily be a part of)- fans happily trek across town just for their Franc Jnr’s fix. Famous for their thick Detroit-style slices, this spot oozes old-school charm. Walking in feels like stepping into a ’90s pizzeria where everything is unapologetically classic- retro vibes with bold flavours.
Our pick: White Boy Rick (that sesame crust lives in our dreams)
Where: Shop 2/32 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach and 2/102 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Where do we even begin with Lenny Pizzeria & Bar? Let’s just say, their 72-hour fermented dough hits different—light, chewy, and full of flavour that’ll have you questioning every other slice you’ve ever had.
No matter how you slice it, the addition is a total score for Railway Street’s dining scene, with sensational woodfired delights like fermented chilli-kissed Prawn and Calamari Pizza served with confit garlic, parsley and lemon. You know the drill: two, four, six, eight…
Our pick: Fancy 4 Cheese
Where: 58 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
Here’s a factoid for you – in Italy, the term “bar” stands for more of a watering-hole-meets-cafe hybrid; combining coffee, cocktails, sweet snacks like pastries and quintessential savoury Italian fare… so basically, all the best things. Unintentional micro geography lesson aside, this concept is exactly what owner Riccardo ‘Ricky’ Proserpio set about recreating at Crispy – and now you know this place is fantastic for several reasons, including a top-tier traditional pizza selection. To name just one, the long-standing fave, Margherita, which also comes in a 1/2 metre in size. You won’t be disappointed.
Our pick: Diavola Pizza
Where: 4/1840 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
There’s no denying that Burleigh stalwart, Justin Lane, is the king of pizza. It’s come a long way from its humble beginnings, growing from a wee little pizzeria into a heaving multi-level restaurant, bar and event space. The perfect spot for a casual slice and catch up with your crew (so we assume the cocktails are implied). Pick your cutest stretchy pants, you’re bound to run into at least 35 people that you know. And that’s just on a Monday.
Our pick: Justin’s BBQ Smokehouse
Where: 2/10 James St, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Pizza is the laid-back, old-school hero locals love. Big, cheesy slices that hit the spot every time, casual service, and a relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for takeaway to the beach or a simple night in. Stone-baked with local ingredients = seriously good pizza.
Our pick: Hawaiian (simple is just best, sometimes)
Where: 7/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Laid-back, intimate, and perfect at sundown – T’amero brings delicious pizza without the fuss, a lil fancy, and all the flavour. The vibe is welcoming, the pizza is consistently excellent, and the whole experience feels just a little special. Vino, crispy slices and sunset- yes please!
Our pick: Rustic Pizza
Where: 6 Treeview Dr, Burleigh Waters
You’ve seen it. We’ve all seen it. The sprawling, modern industrial stunner fronting Palmy’s main drag is a total traffic-stopper, and we’re pleased to confirm that its contents are as epic as the outside. And when it comes to amazing nosh across the board, Balboa Italian sure isn’t pulling any punches. In particular, the pizzas are #goals #IYKYK – and if you don’t – we would suggest remedying this immediately. Take your pick between the selection of red and white sauce bases, or try them all because carbs, shmarbs.
Our pick: Number 1 or Vegan Lovers
Where: 1069 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
A cosy and super cute spot where Mediterranean and Moroccan vibes collide; Toro’s does pizza with panache. With peach tones for days (#swoon) – the spread at Palmy’s cosy slice slinging haven is quintessentially Italian, but with a healthy dose of tasty modern takes to keep us on our toes. The super relaxed yet chic vibe is just our type, and the pizzas will delight even the most discerning pizza connoisseur. There’s even dessert pizza if that’s your jam… (well, Nutella, technically speaking). Yep, she’s a winner on all fronts.
Our pick: Peri Chicken Pizza
Where: 7/2 Eighth Ave, Palm Beach
One minute, we’re passing through Currumbin minding our own business, and the next, our mouths immediately commence watering at the mere sight of Tommy’s telltale red and white umbrellas adorning the promenade. And that’s before we’ve even caught wind of the freshly-flamed bites bubbling away within! In only a few short years, this two-storey cutie has become a fixture along the suburb’s seaside strip; serving up multi-million dollar ocean views and mighty fine pizzas to match (and cocktails… because nothing says happiness like a slice of Italy in one hand and a margi in the other). Who can resist? Certainly not us.
Our pick: Caprina Pizza
Where: 818 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Get a slice of Franc Jrs.
Children of the 90’s, pay attention! Now this may be a bit controversial, but cast your memories back to a time when you’d go to a restaurant to actually….wait for it….eat. When there were no selfies, obligatory food porn shots, fake smiles or Insta pouts in sight. When posing was something strictly reserved for Dolly and Girlfriend cover girls, and oh how we loved the Taylor sisters…
Well, we know a crew who are bringing back the simplicity, authenticity and good times of the non-pretentious 90’s dining vibe, and this is the most refreshing thing we’ve heard all year! We’re talking a gimmick-free traditional pizzeria, brimming with warm family vibes and darn good food. Soz (but not soz) influencers, Franc Jrs Famous Pizzeria in Coolangatta is all about real food for real people….and we’re as excited as we were when the pilot of Dawson’s Creek aired #PaceyForeva.
If the name Franc Jnr sounds kinda familiar, that’s because it is. This Cooly game-changer is a reinvention of the insanely popular Francie’s (which will also make a comeback, but more on that shortly).
To refresh your memories, this place saw peeps arriving before open-o-clock still sitting at around 60th on the night’s waitlist. Whilst this was obviously a great problem to have, it made owners Anthony and Claudia Pattinson revaluate. Anthony had an idea to pivot and create a space solely focussed on what’s important (i.e., NOT the Insta-friendly factor), and how they could help define kids’ concept of the original pizza experience; homely, honest, humble and of course, delish. Being fellow kiddos of the 90s, Jimmy Young and Carlos Lara were on board, and an old-school NY-meets-classic-Italian vibe started to take shape. Kinda like a 1950’s Manhattan pizzeria, but in 1996, open in 2022. Capiche?
Increasing oven capacity by three, Franc Jrs is ready for the inevitable onslaught of Detroit-style Sicilian pan pizza lovers. Expect the same mind-blowing flavours and incredibly light airy pizza al la Francie’s style, but more travel-friendly (a win for takeaway fans) and with a little more crisp factor. For those who fancy dining in or street side, there is seating for 50+ bods but with a much more relaxed vibe than in its past life.
Accepting walk-ins only, you’ll be immediately transported way back when, with red leather studded booths hugging ruddy wooden tables. The dark moody wood booth bases and backsplash with old-school etch detail are straight outta yesteryear, as are the brass framed paintings, leadlight lamps, and red and white checked tables.
Owner Anthony also wears the Head Chef hat and we all know we can expect nothing but the best from this pizza maestro. If you order one thing and one thing only (you won’t) then it HAS to be the authentic Sicilian Square Detroit Style Pizza. Believe us, it is phe-NOM-inal and we’re pretty sure there’s nothing else like it outside of Sicily and the States.
The Classic 13 Inch Pies definitely classify as ‘Things That Make You Go Mmmm’, and the Eggplant Parmigiana will do things to your tastebuds that have not been done before.
Healthy folk, if you want to inject some greenery, then the Fancy Greens Salad will make you feel mildly less guilty for jamming so many carbs down your gullet.
Feel free to grab a beer or wine (you don’t have to ask us twice), and to keep the cocktail drinkers happy (us), there are a key few must-haves. Do yourself a favour and order an old-school Hard Arnold Palmers, a Frozen Limoncello and naturally, the boozey version of a big hug, a Margarita – Franc Jnr style!
Before we sign off, we teased earlier that Francies will be back…and only just up the street! Set to be a more refined sibling to the loud and proud Franc Jrs, there’ll be more focus on the process with fine wines, first-class small plates and records a-spinning. Date nights come at me.
So if you’re a pizza fanatic who appreciates a traditional no-frills, bells or whistles kinda vibe, and/or you’re simply a 90s kid looking to relive their local pizzeria experience, Franc Jrs is the only name you ‘knead’ to know.
Where: 2/102 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
When: Opening early September between 4pm – 9pm Wednesday – Saturday (and then lunch 6 days a week)
Words by Bianca Trathen.
