Snuggle up with one of Glass' new winter warmer cocktails.
Snuggle up with one of Glass' new winter warmer cocktails.
Situated along the waters edge at Marina Mirage, Glass Dining & Lounge Bar has created the ultimate relaxed yet opulent atmosphere for its diners.
As you enter past the impressive glass wine rack display, you will be blown away by the stunning uninterrupted marina views. Floor to ceiling glass windows separate a luxurious indoor dining experience from the more relaxed deck dining.
Before grabbing a table we recommend starting your night with an espresso martini (best in town in my opinion) from the illuminated onyx bar and making yourself cozy amongst the soft caramel leather booths in the lounge. As you sip your cocktail, pick your dream yacht from the dozens waiting within dreamy gaze.
When it comes to dining, all of the dishes have been refined to have a unique identity and boldness. Glass Executive Chef Benjamin Armstrong has mastered his craft in kitchens across the world, at one point even being the head chef at a three Michelin star restaurant in France (ooh lá lá). For Glass, he has created a sophisticated and modern Australian menu utilising on the finest seasonal ingredients.
We tried one of their most popular dishes, the Thai style crispy pressed pork with sticky palm sugar, chilli & ginger caramel and infused with kaffir lime leaf and coriander and were pleased with the balance of rich and delicate flavours.
New to their menu is the pan-roasted barramundi. Served wrapped in grape vine leaves with a salad of shaved fennel then topped with purple potato chips and finished with a side of creamy fish fumé veloute. Impressed by it’s creamy and crunchy qualities, it’s a dish we will most definitely be back for (date night)!
This winter Glass has introduced a ‘Winter Warmers’ cocktail menu. With a mix of cocktails like mulled wine that will literally warm you, and a few others that will ‘warm the soul’, cozying up in the lounge is more tempting than ever! Glass Dining & Lounge Bar is also home to one of the tastiest whisky cocktails on the Coast, the Maple Old Fashioned. It’s so tasty we bet it will have you wishing for winter weather all year long!
74 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
By Marleigh Kelly
Good coffee, great food and city vibes.
Our sweet, sweet So-Po. There’s something we just love about Southport, maybe it’s the fact that they’ve got bulk bars and restaurants so hunger never has to enter our vocabulary again. Or maybe it’s how you can get a coffee hit and hit of golf done in half a day and then soak up those Broadwater views for the rest of it – shall we go on?
All we know is that there are so many goodies in this CBD gem we couldn’t list them all or you’d be here all day and we know you’re all about less reading and more doing! (same). Here’s our round-up of local approved must-do’s!
The retailers in Southport get that you’re busy – it is the CBD after all – so time is of the essence and efficiency is the word over here. Brickworks Ferry Rd has everything from the Standard Market Co to get those dinner essentials or to make the perfect charcuterie boards, to Cardamom Pod, bring those ‘gram-worthy acai bowls and a brunch menu that will have you coming back for more.
Upping the ante with a little bit of everything, Queen Street Village is just off the Smith St Motorway, so you can pop in for the essentials from gourmet grocer Jones & Co IGA. No time to meal prep? Grab some Asian eats at Wu Kong with peckish plates to keep you going, or a classic pub feed from The Queen’s Arms for your parmy fix. When all that eating has got you zonked, get your caffeine hit at Sens Coffee and pop into DENDY to catch the latest flicks and a moment of peace and quiet.
Now, did we hear you say retail therapy? Enter: Australia Fair. With the big names in fashion all in one spot, along with our biggest vice Kmart, on the store list, say goodbye to your savings, but hello to a fresh new look. Once you’ve shopped till you dropped, it’s time to start your Tour-de-Food at Australia Fair Metro, think pho, dumplings and desserts by the dozen.
No man is left behind at Made With Love who delivers on 100% vegan cakes, pies and pastries– because you know what they say, a doughnut a day keeps the doctor away…or something like that. And why should our vegans not be part of the action?!
Keeping the Euro-bakery vibes rolling is 5B2F Ciabatta, the Southport spin-off from the cult-fave Chirn Park bakehouse, slinging everything from flaky croissants and glossy danishes to ciabatta sandwiches stuffed with all the good things (hello truffle ham and cheese toastie). It’s a grab-and-go carb paradise where sourdough, dreamy pastries and show-stopping cakes are baked fresh daily – basically your daily bread, but make it boujee.
Coffee addicts, Southport’s got you covered with experiences like SupermarCat Cat Café, which – you guessed it – comes with a side of kitty cuddles with your caffeine fix, it’s so good we won’t judge if you start purring along with your furry friends.
For the more traditional café vibe, Humble Café might be humble by name, but they’re big on variety from classic cold drips to matcha espresso.
Joining the caffeine crew, but with a twist, is Yellow & Butter. Tucked neatly inside Cloud 9 Car Wash, they’ve officially upgraded your car washing experience with a side of brunch. Our advice is to start with the cheesecake!
Cheek Café serves up wholesome bites, knockout coffee and top-tier banter, all wrapped in a peachy-pink, personality-packed space. While Broadwater Café is a local fave for its stellar brews and arguably the most scenic sip spot in Southport. Coffee with a side of waterfront wow.
If you prefer your coffee topped with cold foam, or paired with a sweet treat on the side (hello, Dubai Mochi Cookie) Milestone should be at the top of your hit list.
You already know we’re partial to a cold beverage to round out the day, but if you’re after a side of live music with that, then Vinnies Dive is the only place to get your fix and an ice-cold brew all in one.
Just across the tram line, nothing says Southport more than a cocktail (or 5) on Mr PP’s rooftop, perched above Nerang Street so you can people watch till your heart’s content. Keeping the rooftop vibes going strong, Aviary Rooftop at Southport Sharks have an epic cocktail menu that talks a big game, and luckily for us, it doesn’t just live up to expectations – it’s even better.
Also at Southport Sharks, Kaktus Bar is your go-to for a vibrant cocktail. Yep, this place delivers a thirst-quenching margarita as you’ve never tasted. One of those (or a few), paired with live music and a lineup of tacos, and you have yourself a fiesta!
Carafe Wine is an eco-conscious space offering top-notch wine from all the most renowned vino regions and zero-waste practices, plus a unique menu of sharing boards.
Hello foodies, thought we forgot about you? We could never! Kicking us off is the Japanese eatery, KatsuCo which churns out iterations of its namesake dish – traditionally coated in crunchy panko crumb and slathered in curry sauce.
For those on-the-go looking for the ultimate grab-and-go, Shiro Gelato & Snack knows what’s up with a selection of Japanese market eats like housemade Onigiri to get you fueled up and ready to tackle the day and gelato to finish because there’s always room for a sweetie treatie.
River House brings waterfront dining to the table with relaxed Broadwater views and a modern menu that works just as well for long lunches as it does for sunset dinners.
A bit of a two-in-one is Fire Baby & Ember. Upstairs, Fire Baby serves up comfort by the slice; wood-fired pizzas crafted from premium ingredients. Downstairs, Ember is where you can get flame-licked steaks and charcoal-grilled seafood.
Since we’re on a food journey around the world, you’ll be happy to know that Southport is pretty much THE place to get your Korean BBQ fix – yep, we found and 6 smokin’ hot Korean BBQ spots on the GC and would you believe 5 of them call our humble CBD home. Yep, Southport officially has a license to grill.
So, you’ve got your coffee fix and tum full- now you’re looking to get at one with nature? Obviously, your next stop has to be Broadwater Parklands. It doesn’t matter if you’re just there for a hot girl walk or trying to find a way to keep your tribe occupied, the shared pathway makes it the ultimate for everyone, whether you’re in your running era or just keen to take in the Broadwater views while you bike and play.
Fancy a bit more adventure, we hear you say? We got you. Tee off for a full day of fun at Southport Golf Club so you can let your inner Tiger Woods run wild on the green. If land has got you feeling like a fish out of water, then pop on over to the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre for a mermaid moment with things like group fitness classes – hello aqua aerobics – as well as Olympic-length swimming pools for the pros and splash pads for the little tackers.
If you’re keen to try something a little different, the Gold Coast Indoor Shooting Centre and The Shooting Centre both deliver a high-adrenaline experience with a strong focus on safety and guidance, making them approachable for first-timers and seasoned shooters alike.
If switching off and resetting is more your vibe, Vikasati Bathhouse is Southport’s answer to full-body bliss, offering hot and cold pools, saunas and spa-style experiences designed to melt stress away without ever leaving the city.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
The newest swoon-worthy watering hole on the Gold Coast, find out why 'Getting loose at the Moose' should be at the top of your to-do list.
That’s the invitation of Broadbeach’s newest swoon-worthy watering hole and diner, The Loose Moose whiskey bar and restaurant. The brainchild of Patrick Gennari (owner of both Koi and Glass Dining & Lounge Bars), The Loose Moose is centrally located under the Oasis, next to Hatch & Co. and offers a seriously sophisticated setting, in contrast to its kooky moniker.
Inside Gold Coast recently popped in for a bite and we absolutely loved it – mounted moose head and all! Here’s five reasons why we think you’ll love it too!
The Loose Moose has splashed out on some seriously impressive digs. In fact, it could be the most well executed, themed fit out we’ve seen on the coast in a while. Channelling antique steampunk in spades, you’ll want to examine every charming nook and selfie-inducing cranny of this venue.
It’s the little details that make the difference here – the walls are adorned with bespoke copper pipe lighting, cool clocks and vintage photos. Cabinets showcase beautifully preserved, near century-old antiques, while needle gauges in front of the kitchen give you that ‘olde worlde, engine room vibe’, putting you in mind of a time when trains were powered by steam and the moonshine was fierce.
Seating for 140 patrons comes in a perfect mix of robust leather booths and swanky bar stools. There’s even a nifty crank-turn communal table that can be lowered for group dining, or raised for evening cocktails and tapas.
The statement (and sure to become legendary) taxidermy moose head behind the bar is a decor focal point, but it’s the radiant lighting that steals the show. The ceiling radiates orange light behind giant fans and coal orange metal barrels bathe the restaurant in what feels like a fireside glow.
The venue’s only a week old, but you’d never know. The Loose Moose runs like it’s been there for years, with speedy service offered by well turned out staff, who wear a mix of suspenders, hats, fringe skirts, and sparkle headbands.
We spoke with Manager, Adam, who says he hopes The Loose Moose will develop into a bar akin to ‘Cheers’, where patrons and staff are on a first name basis and feel like The Loose Moose is their second home.
Not too an ambitious of a goal, especially when you have a dedicated whiskey cabinet, where patrons’ personal bottles are safely locked up and proudly on display behind the host stand. When their respective owners’ pop in for a drink, the barkeep supplies glasses, rocks and accoutrements for you and your guests.
Finally, electroswing tunes finish off 1920s vibe, putting you in the mood for a suitably stiff drink.
Bar manager, Billie Jean ‘The Whisky Queen’ has done her homework when it comes to stocking the bar. The brick walls are lined with 130 whiskeys, 30 rums, 20 gins, 60 bottled beers, plus a large selection of vodka, cognac, tequila, wine and 15 beers on tap. Phew!
The cocktails resulting from all this exotic liquor are outstanding. For example, rather than a plain ole’ Old Fashioned (Mad Men fans will be more than familiar with this cocktail), why not try a new twist on the old favourite, with a date, apricot, or fig version?
That’s The Loose Moose’s promise, so if you’ve been craving Buffalo Wings or some other naughty North American indulgence, go crazy and keep a relatively clear conscience, or stick with your diet and enjoy something equally delicious, yet light, like their range of tapas or gourmet salads.
All the traditional American favourites are here, served with a grandiose flourish. Like their Captain America Dawg; a huge double smoked brockwurst with jack cheese, pickle mayo, ketchup, mustard, and tangy slaw. The Jalapeño Poppers are a must-try too, as is the Mac and Cheese with smoked cheese and chorizo, the range of chargrilled burgers and melt in your mouth smoked ribs.
Head Chef Michael Dragosevic told us he thinks the Volcanic Ass Burner wings are the hottest on the Coast. If you disagree, be sure to let him know. He has an arsenal of Carolina Reaper Chilli’s (the hottest chilli in the world), and is happy to make your serve ‘hotter than hell’, if that’s what blow your hair back.
As the neon sign by the kitchen says, all menu items are available for takeaway too, so if eating loaded fries on the couch is your thing, you can totally do it. Hooray!
Fancy a breakfast hotdog or red velvet pancakes to get your day off to a tasty start? Your wish is The Loose Moose’s command! It’s open from 7am till late, 7 days a week, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. This is a win-win-win in our book – we love a place you know will be open basically any time you need to chow down.
“Let’s get loose at ‘The Moose!’” is bound to be the phrase on every Gold Coaster’s lips soon. We called it here first! Be it for eggs, or a late night whiskey, The Loose Moose is definitely a place you need to check out.
Hours: 7 days. 7am till Late for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (All items also available for take away)
Location: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Phone: (07) 561 323 56
Website: http://www.theloosemoose.com.au
Copy: Camilla Jones
Photography: Marleigh Kelly
A new bar bringing old school sophistication.
A world of old-school New York glamour awaits with the opening of Roosevelt Lounge in Broadbeach this week.
The space is the epitome of decadence and an entirely unique concept for the Gold Coast’s blossoming bar scene. Entering through a velvet curtain, you’ll find yourself in a breathtakingly seductive space that will certainly place all your senses on high alert.
The attention to detail is immaculate, as you’ve come to expect from owner Patrik Gennari (of Glass Dining & Lounge Bar, Koi Dining and Lounge Bar and The Loose Moose fame). A copper pressed ceiling, sizeable silver mirror, a bookcase laden with leather-bound books even Ron Burgundy would envy. Black and white photographs of the one and only Marilyn Monroe and crystal-laden light fixtures also feature in the perfectly appointed room.
The wooden bar is luxuriously extravagant, made with rich mahogany and stocked with premium beverages the likes of which you may have never seen before. The vibe is similarly fitting, sophisticated and aimed at the well-heeled 30 plus crowd.
The cocktail list is a theatre-themed extravanaganza of molecular mixology (try saying that five times fast) and the dining experience equally lavish.
Think antipasto boards laden with the highest quality spreads, small and medium share plates with options like Yakitori Pork Belly with caramelised wasabi apple puree, yuzu sesame and watermelon radish (!) and savoury smoked salmon-filled cones.
The food is truly sensational and washed down with an icy cold glass of Dom Pérignon, what could be classier.
Highly recommended for a night out with girlfriends who love getting dressed up for a night of dancing in the most sophisticated of settings – fringed frocks highly recommended.
Be warned, there’s a strict dress code, collared shirts for the fellas and no visible tattoos.
LOCATION: Next to The Loose Moose, 75 Surf Pde, Broadbeach
HOURS: From 5pm until late
Words by Kirra Smith
