Blessing of the Sun? More like blessing of the tastebuds!
Blessing of the Sun? More like blessing of the tastebuds!
They might call themselves Blessing of the Sun but we’re going to go ahead and call it for what it is… a blessing of the tastebuds.
Ever since these legends quietly popped up in Mermaid recently this humble little eatery has been dishing up delicious plates that have locals (and us) coming back again and again.
In the space that formerly housed Lovechild, the intimate restaurant immediately gives that warm and cosy feel so you’re right at home as soon as you step through the doors. And while the setting is small in size it’s big on flavour.
Step into the pink-hued haven and you’ll feel right at home as you get up close and personal with a table for two – perfect for date night. If you’re all about getting among the action then the bar seats are calling your name. Our personal fave for seeing your feed of choice come to life while you kick back and sip on a specialty cocktails (or two) – go on, you’ve earned it.
Brought to life by owner and head chef Kohta Iwamoto, each dish brilliantly shows his passion and vibrance for great food and an even better experience. With a commitment to fresh and locally sourced produce, the menu rotates with the seasons showcasing the best of allll the flavours.
The menu was curated with sharing in mind – sharing is caring after all – with everything from small to large plates so you can have a taste of everything. The selections are considered and intentional, so you’re not fighting your way through pages of food, because option anxiety is a thing people and we feel it.
Taking inspiration from a range of cuisines for an otherworldly dining experience with heroes like the house citrus cured smoked salmon with capers, white onion, dill and crème fraiche (the ultimate combo when it comes to salmony goodness) giving a taste of what’s to come. *Spoiler* it keeps getting better.
Obviously, you’ll want to go all out with the Asian meets Italian collab we didn’t even know we needed in the form of Japanese curry arancini with carrot ginger puree and pecorino. Trust us, they taste even more epic than they sound.
Got mushroom left for something bigger? Hope so because carb loading is on the menu with the seasonal mushroom gnocchi with truffle cream and pecorino.
Of course, no menu is complete without a local craft beer and Blessing of the Sun understood the assignment. A selection of Black Hops Beers grace the menu, because all that eating has surely left you parched.
Old Fashioned by name but certainly not by nature, the classic cocktails deliver for when you just need something familiar. Craving a little adventure? The Montenegro Amaro & Coffee Sour is the hero if you fancy a kick with your sour. Leave the vodka Red Bull to the pubs we say.
Or if you’re more about summer in a glass then the Tropic Caipirinha with flavours like pineapple, ginger and lime are giving vacay vibes and who doesn’t need a bit of that.
Where: Shop1A-3, 2375 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: Wednesday-Sunday 5pm-late
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski
The Raspberry Room is as fine as its fine line tattoos!
Hold onto your hats (and sleeves) Gold Coasters, because there’s a new tattoo studio in town – and she’s ink-redible. Allow us to introduce The Raspberry Room, a fine line tattoo and speakeasy-meets-hotel-lobby inspired haven, which launched on 19th May. Nestled in the former TØKOH spot and rubbing shoulders with Cantina, Glenelg, and Bonita Bonita, bonus incoming; you can eat, ink, and drink all in the same pocket (side note – be sensible with the latter combo. Rewatch The Hangover Part II for reference).
The Raspberry Room isn’t just a place to get a tattoo; it’s a full-blown epic ink-sperience. The waiting room channels New York lobby vibes, with sophisticated surroundings complete with a secret bookcase door. Slide through this literary façade and you’ll find yourself in the heart of the studio where the real magic happens and srsly, who doesn’t love a secret bookshelf door? The studio is a delightful blend of the founders’ favourite bars and hotels, all wrapped up in a colour palette straight outta of Wes Anderson’s classic, ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’.
Speaking of, let’s meet The Raspberry Room ink-stigators; Coco Loberg and partner Gareth Fletcher. Crafting a space that’s equal parts schmick and clandestine, they certainly didn’t need(le) any creative direction executing their unique vision.
If Coco’s name sounds familiar, it’s because she’s somewhat of a local legend here on the Coast. An accomplished tattooist, artist, photographer, and writer, her resume even includes inking the likes of G Flip. Plus, she’s teamed up with our fave choc brand Toblerone to create custom temporary tattoos inspired by Aussie quirks. Sweet, right?
Coco’s journey has been as colorful and eclectic as her art. Born on the GC and raised abroad, her parents were also creatives so it was pretty much written in the stars that she would carve out her own artistic path. Partner Gareth shares his lady love’s passion for the arts, and together they’ve poured their hearts and souls into creating the already iconic, The Raspberry Room.
Bringing their studio masterpiece to life – DIY style – was a true labour of love, complete with marathon 3am finishes and 6am starts….and nights spent snoozing on the floor. #TheBlockTattooStudioEdition. A destination exuding a refined artsy aura, this place isn’t just about tattoos – it’s also a chess lover’s dream. That’s right, they’ve got a chess club so you can checkmate and check out your new ink all at once!
Truly one of a kind, Coco and Gareth are beyond excited to bring The Raspberry Room to our ‘hood. Whether you’re a tattoo veteran or a first timer, they provide an experience that’s as memorable as the ink on your skin.
So if you’re ready to add a little raspberry-flavoured ink to your life, your next piece of art is just a secret bookcase away.
Where: 2/2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: 11am – 8pm, Tuesday to Saturday. Closed Sunday & Monday
Words by Bianca Trathen
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
