The new Mermaid Beach tapas house is literally a (super cute) house.
The new Mermaid Beach tapas house is literally a (super cute) house.
If Spanish and Mediterranean style tapas, irresistible cocktails, and the coolest / cosiest little venue you ever did see sounds like your cup of tea, we have THE place (and also, that rhymed *pats self on back). Reinventing the space where Som Tam Gai once lived is Mermaid Beach’s newest eats and sips addition D’ La Rosa – and it’s a total V-to-the-I-to-the-BE. Staged in a funky glowed-up abode, it’s filled with welcoming feels and all.the.things that make you want to physically move in. And srsly, is this an option coz if it is, please redirect our snail mail here.
Holding its soft opening at the very end of March, D’ La Rosa is the new darling of 4218. The creation of a talented trio hailing from different backgrounds and nationalities, these clever cookies set out to show the GC that you don’t need to visit a five-star luxury restaurant/hotel for quality service, food and drinks #amen.
We have Parham (Hamidian), the hospitality guy, with a decade of experience working in five-star hotels both here and OS. Then there’s Shawn (Maftounian), the marketing guy, a business gun who knows how to connect with people, and Alenka (Tomse), one of the venue’s two chefs and the creative designer. Alenka also hails from the family of one of Slovenia’s best meat and wine producers, and this adds street cred for days. Last but not least, we have Antoni Servera (the second chef), who was the co-owner and head chef of a successful restaurant in Ses Salines, Spain. Fantástico!
After months of research and ideas sharing, fast forward to present day and ta-da – D’ La Rosa is born. Describing their passionate and effervescent team as the venue’s ‘mojo’, the mantra here is happy staff, happy…. well, everything-else and #TrueDat.
Meaning “from a rose”, the restaurant’s name is as lovely as the staff, the nosh, and the fit out, which is a juxtaposition of all three owners’ ideas. Think breeze bricks, festoon and fairy lights, olive trees, moody lighting inside, some funky wall art, and beautiful happy roses on tables #RosesAreRed…AndYellowAndPinkAnd… It offers both indoor and outdoor dining for 45 people, making it the perfect spot for a private ‘do.
The location was chosen because of the strong sense of community, location next to the beach and highway, plus it’s a ‘burb of choice for the GC-dwelling Latino and Spanish contingent. And let’s not forget the obvious; the Mermaid Beach vibe is, well, a vibe.
Now let’s unpack the main event – food and booze and this little pocket rocket does not disappoint. The signature dish is the out-of-this-world Snapper and Mango Taco with mango salsa, pickled onion and coriander. Also, we feel the urge to mention the Halloumi Taco coz Halloumi just does things to us. With red salsa, pico de gallo, white cabbage, guacamole and coriander, we’ll take two thanks.
There is also a Tapas Board, Cheese Board, Nachos or grab a quick bite like the Corn Cobs. Or howzabout some Tapas, and our vote goes to the Chimichurri Steak. Featuring a grilled sirloin topped with zesty herb sauce beside toasted bread, this is totally our kinda iron and protein fix.
Meanwhile, it’s cocktail-o-clock (isn’t it always) and the signature Cinderella Man is calling our name. Described as the underdog of all martinis, it’s available in two unexpected flavours; watermelon and white chocolate. Or perhaps we’ll order a Mermaid Beach, the D’ La Rosa take on the lethal long island ice tea and as the saying goes, when in Mermaid….. Otherwise, grab yourself a wine, beer, mocktail or soft drink and soak up the fun and friendly atmosphere.
Open every day including weekends, gather your family and friends, don your rosa coloured glasses and create beautiful memories at the charming D’ La Rosa.
Where: 2375 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: 5.30pm – late Monday to Thursday, 1pm – late Friday to Saturday
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Images by Belinda Symons.
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
Buy the ticket and take the ride to Marilyn’s
PERMANENTLY CLOSED
The definition of cool according to the Inside Gold Coast edition of the Oxford English Dictionary is livin it large circa 1970, cocktail in hand (always), somewhere swanky in Las Vegas. Well friends, now we can do exactly that – sans the long-haul flight and time machine. Introducing Marilyn’s Diner & Bar, a high-end watering hole and American style burger bar, transporting us back to the hedonistic 70s with precision and panache.
Every aspect of this beautifully executed establishment is designed to immerse you in the glitz and glamour of the era. At the same time, it also pays tribute to one of literature’s most iconic tales of excess and adventure, Hunter S Thompson’s ‘Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas’. With nods to the classic book from pillar to post, Marilyn’s atmosphere is truly unique and captivating. From the specially crafted cocktails served in funky retro glassware, to the eclectic music selection and lively atmosphere, this place is #trending. It’s nostalgic but sophisticated, contemporary yet classic, refined but embraces the quintessential party girl. Simply put, Marilyn’s is unapologetically Marilyn’s.
Opening earlier in the year, the intimate venue boasts 50 seats across two areas including an outdoor “al fresco” lounge area. The bar child of long-term mates Alex Marks, Rupert Critchley, Brad Morgan, and Johnny Rogers, it’s a very welcome addition to the Broadbeach eats and sips scene. Alex (who also dons the Head Chef hat) is a chef, whisky specialist and award-winning cocktail bartender. He has cooked in some of London’s most loved restaurants, plus his impressive resume boasts stints at Melbourne’s Eau De Vie and a brief spell at Rick Shores.
Rupert has a background in cinematography and film making (cool much?!) specialising in filming food and wine. He’s also owned a cafe/ bar in the Austrian alps (again, cool much… quite literally) and worked at one of Sydney’s top rum bars, The Lobo. The gents found themselves in the right place at the right time meeting with local businessmen (and old friends) Johnny Rogers and Brad Morgan, and the rest as they say is history.
Championing the modern and contemporary styling with era-appropriate swagger was a breeze for Rupert, who worked tirelessly with Alex to design and build the majority of the venue. As luck would have it, the boys have a team of mates who conveniently have the specific trades they needed and note to self; must befriend more tradies.
To keep us coming back time and time again, there’s an ever-changing menu featuring the American-style smash burgers and other delicious delights. The staple offering is the Cheese Burger with two smashed beef patties with American cheese, house pickled onion, seasoned tomato, iceberg lettuce, pickles and signature sauce, served on a toasted potato bun. We also find it difficult to pass up the Prawns & Corns consisting of whole fried Tiger Prawns with corn ribs in Mexican brown butter.
It’s always cocktail o-clock at Marilyn’s and the expertly curated and eclectic selection is #goals. Do yourself a favour and order the Watermelon Sugar with vodka, spiced watermelon, lime, and whey, and suddenly we can’t get Harry Styles out of our head. Then go with a Rupus Du Sol with vodka, hibiscus, strawberry, eucalyptus, coconut, and sherry, followed by the Centre Court with minted rum, sour lime, fresh kiwi, and mescal. If you’re still vertical, finish with the Bold Fashioned with Starward two-fold Aussie whisky, coffee, and caramel.
For those who appreciate the finer things in life, from fresh and crisp wines to delicious and delicate cocktails paired with quality eats, it’s Marilyn’s for the win. See you there.
Where: 10/90 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
When: 2pm – 11pm Tuesday to Sunday. Closed Mondays.
Instagram: @marilynsbargc
Website: marilynsbar.com.au
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Images by Brittany Kreskas.
Mermaid’s new cafe Chut & Co is set to become your new numero uno.
New cafes never cease to sizzle our bacon, especially those that are convenient, feel like home and above all, serve up incredible nosh. You know the kind – simple done right and whilst this sounds, well, simple enough to find, it can be like trying to locate your missing hoop earring on a packed Melba’s dance floor circa 2009 (in other words; bloody hard). Well we’ve discovered a place that delivers all of the above, with a super catchy name to boot. Chut & Co is bringing a fresh vibrant cafe to Mermaid Plaza, so you can pop in for a caffeine fix or feed before you drop your monthly salary on a week’s worth of groceries #2023Woes.
Chut & Co is the real deal. The brainchild of a humble carpenter passionate about coffee, Joey Vevjoda knows an opportunity when he sees it….and he saw it! One of this ex-Canberra local’s most brag-worthy moves was making Chut the champion of ONA coffee here on the GC. Also hailing from our country’s capital, ONA Coffee Roasters is one of the most recognised up and coming coffee carriers in Australia, and we have big love for his man for bringing it to our ‘hood.
In addition to cracking coffee, he’s enlisted Head Chef Fernando Giorgi to whip up some srsly mouth-watering café fare. Creating a masterfully curated breakfast and lunch menu, his 16 years’ experience and love for Mediterranean food is obvs when you peruse the meals on offer.
Speaking of, do yourself a favour and order the Pesto Joe with chicken, pesto, avo, tomato, cheese, spinach toasted on sourdough. We’re also partial to a Burrito with all.the.things, including bacon, a scrambled egg patty, avo, beans and corn salsa, crunchy slaw and cheese, served with hash sticks and spicy dipping sauce. Or for something sweet, the Choc-Chip or Blueberry Pancakes are guaranteed to please even the most discerning sweet tooth, both served with vanilla ice cream.
Pair your meal with your choice of coffee or other hot drink, smoothie (can’t beat the Classic Banana!), cold drink, milkshake, thickshake (swing us the Crème Brule any or every day of the week), and cold pressed juice. Our pick is the Lemon Glow with lemon, ginger, apple and spinach and we can confirm a swig of this will result in an all-round inner and outer glow-up #YouAreWhatYouDrink.
Another unique aspect of Chut is that the fit out was done entirely by Joey himself, who put his carpentry skills and other trade related prowess to darn good use! Picture a cool grey colour palette with pops of charcoal, white, and plenty of on-trend drapey greenery goodness #PlantsAreLyf. There are arches (yay!), polished concrete floors, funky brown leather chairs, rustic wood tables, and moody white pendant lights highlighting the textured render on the walls. It feels modern yet like you’re right at home and we’d be happy to move in here, mostly coz we’ve always fancied the idea of having a private chef #goals.
So if service with a smile, great tasting coffee and top-notch quality food, all conveniently located in Mermaid Plaza, check out Chut & Co. And PS if you’re wondering (we were) what Chut actually means, it’s Czech (Joey’s heritage) for taste….which is precisely what it delivers.
Where: Mermaid Plaza, 2400 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: 5.30am – 2pm Monday to Friday & 6am – 1pm Saturday & Sunday.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Images by Brittany Kreskas.
