Limlay brings street Thai to Burleigh.
Limlay brings street Thai to Burleigh.
If you’re craving a hot new Thai spot, satay no more because Limlay Thai is here (well they will be come Friday 21st June). Since it’s a tad inconvenient to pop over to Thailand for a quick feed they figured they’d bring true Thai, Gold Coast style to Burleigh.
The brains behind Nahm Talay in Surfers and Valyn Thai in Isle of Capri have brought our favourite flavours down south so the rest of us can get in on the action. It’s about darn Thai-m!
Nestled among Burleigh’s best and busiest restaurants you’ll find Limlay Thai on the Gold Coast Highway taking pride of place where Suzy BBQ once called home. You’ll find loads of variety on the menu as you would expect if you’re familiar with their sister restaurants. Think Thai refined street food – blending traditional flavours with a contemporary flair.
Limlay means by the sea, a perfect fit for this locale. It’s beachside dining at its best. The clean, modern interiors shine with pops of print and colour, so you can get comfy while you wait for the good time to start rolling. And by good times, we mean cocktails, of which there are loads.
Think colourful concoctions with a side of theatre, like the Lychee Martini hidden among a haze of smoke as it’s served. Gin lovers, you’ll want to get your hands on the Crystal Pink – the ultimate combo of gin, white rum, ruby Tuesday press juice, lime, strawberry and passionfruit with a pink sugar stick on top. It manages to taste even better than it looks.
Now let’s talk starters. Did you really go to a Thai restaurant if you didn’t get Chicken Satay Sticks? Not in our books tbh, but we’ll forgive you because if chicken isn’t your vibe you’ll want to give the BBQ Pork or Beef Skewers a try. Think succulent marinated meats perfectly seasoned Thai style.
For seafood lovers, the Prawns with Chilli Lime Dressing pack a punch with their mix of prawns, cabbage, chilli, garlic, lime, coriander, and mint. It’s just as flavourful as it is colourful #winwin. Or go large with the Whole Barramundi with Thai ‘Three Flavour’ Sauce and thank us later.
Now winter is here which means we’re craving classic curries and delish soups, because nothing warms the stomach and the soul like a big bowl of Tom Yum or a Hot Pot.
It’s a bold claim but we believe Limlay has some of the best-tasting curries in all of the Gold Coast (there – we said it) on the menu. It’s time to get better acquainted with traditional Thai and crowd favourites like the BBQ Chicken Yellow Curry which combines red onion, watermelon and coriander for a seriously fresh flavour combo that we bet you’ve not tasted before.
Whether you’re all about venturing out of your comfort zone or sticking to the classics like a Red Duck Curry or hearty Lamb Shank Massaman the menu is packed with rich and rare flavours we can’t get enough of.
Freshen up your palate with a side of Limlay’s signature salads like the Thai Som Tum with green pawpaw, chilli, garlic, snake beans, tomatoes and peanuts doing all the talking. The ultimate combo to break up the rich Thai flavours, so you can keep going back for seconds… or thirds… or fourths. No judgement here.
No meal is complete without a cheeky side of dessert and what better excuse than to get a taste of Thailand with Mango Sticky Rice or their signature Toast with Creamy Pandan Coconut? Sounds simple but trust us, the flavours are anything but.
In a curry? We mean, hurry… Limlay Thai’s grab-and-go menu has you covered with quick bites like Pork Skewers and crunchy Calamari to keep the hunger at bay while you go about your day.
Where: 1/1730 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
When: Open daily for lunch and dinner
Monday – Thursday from 11:30am – 3pm and 5pm – 9:30pm
Friday from 11:30am – 3pm and 5pm – 11:30pm
Saturday from 11am – 4pm and 5pm – 11:30pm
Sunday from 11am – 4pm and 5pm – 9pm
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski
Venue Images by Mathilde Bouby
Valyn Thai makes its grand entrance.
Today we bring extremely good tidings for fans of Thai fare (everyone, we assume), – as we welcome Valyn Thai into the fold – an elevated, south east Asian eats noshery, that also shares some hefty Hemsworth-style sibling notoriety.
Joining esteemed local eateries, Nahm Thai, Nahm Talay Thai and Chong Co – and by association earning itself immediate, unequivocal fave status.
And yeah, you better believe we will very valiantly valyn-teer ourselves as taste-testing tributes for this mouthwatering occasion.
If you’re yet to treat yourself to the next level contemporary Thai experience owners Pattaree (Pat) Jiranuchaiwattana and Vitchaya (Alex) Hasitawet have long been dishing up on the Coast – we implore you to remedy this immediately.
For anyone else struggling to keep up, Valyn’s addition to the proliferating portfolio now makes six in the duo’s famed restaurant fam – an impressive, yet unsurprising development to those familiar with the trademark fare.
Arguably, there are few cuisines that instantaneously transport us to the shores of its heartland than that of Thailand’s zesty and fragrant fare. Pat and Alex take this experience to a whole new level, dishing up fresh and vibrant dishes as easy on the eyes are they are on the tastebuds.
The masterful drinks menu is also known for delivering its fair share of visual theatrics – artfully crafted cocktails arriving smouldering, finished with clouds of floss, bubbles balanced precariously atop a common sight. And locals (us included) can’t seem to get enough.
Valyn Thai will again treat us to that signature, immersive dining experience – featuring dishes such as Spanner crab stuffed dumplings swimming in yellow curry, Kaffir lime sauce laden crispy pork belly, Wagyu tataki and Shitake and taro spring rolls, with an extensive takeaway array available to quell those ‘curry and chill’ cravings (or perhaps Ponzu oysters for a memorable date night in, eh?).
The new kid on Isle of Capri’s block will be in good company, with Valyn joining the ranks among Capri on Via Roma’s waterside luxury leisure precinct. The team well and truly delivers on their promise of an elegant and refined space that blends sophistication with warmth.. and really, we’d expect nothing less.
The lofty, light-filled interior is framed by floor-to-wall windows, with hanging greenery and chandeliers to really show off those spacious, soaring ceilings – and hey, if you’ve got it, flaunt it.
The menu, meanwhile, will showcase with many of the flavour-forward faves we’ve grown very fond of. Expect unique signature dishes like Miang Kham Betel Leaf Wraps and Asian-Style Kingfish Ceviche, complemented with a mix of Thai staples such as Tom Yum Soup, Pad Thai and Slow-Cooked Beef Cheek Massaman Curry.
To drink – though it feels futile attempt to recommend one of the meticulously mixed libations over another (kind of feels like picking a favourite child, tbh) – we have at times been especially partial to a Never Ever (straight to the jug, thanks).
A pretty-in-pink, petal topped elixir that could well have been created by cupid himself – made with Triple Juniper Gin, Elderflower Gin, Cointreau, Lime Juice, Syrup, Tonic, Pomegranate Tea.
It’s official, we’re already smitten. It’s probably too soon to ask them to be our valyn-thai, right?
Where: 2G01, 15 Via Roma, Surfers Paradise
When: Monday–Thursday 10:30 am–3:30 pm, 5–9 pm, Friday–Saturday 10 am–3:30 pm, 5–10 pm
Words by Kellie Leader.
Bug rolls, the beloved hill and local brews.
Oh, Burleigh, you little beauty, what’s not to love, right? Since the dawn of time (or the dawn of the GC at least), Burleigh has been one of the most-loved suburbs amongst a slew of strong contenders.
Sure, the beach is beautiful (that Hill is iconic for a reason) and James Street boasts all the best eats and acai bowls galore, but it’s more than that. Burleigh has a soul of its own born of cruisy, barefoot, salty sea breeze vibes you simply won’t find anywhere else. Gushing aside, we’ve found the best of Burleigh so you don’t have to.
Here’s our guide to the best eats, bars, shopping spots and places to visit so you can see why the locals love it and you should too (or else). We always say, when in Burleigh, do as the locals do.
Perched three floors high, within the stunning new Mondrian Gold Coast, is Haven. What is the Haven, you ask? It’s a nothing-short-of-exceptional beach club, spanning a refined yet relaxed dining room, private cabanas, a full-service pool club and a sunset bar. Whether you’re brunching in your bikini or toasting at twilight, Haven is where it’s at. As the sun sets, the evening comes alive with a soundtrack of DJs, curated playlists and live performances.
Where: Level 3/3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Literally opening out onto the sand at Burleigh Beach, Rick Shores is loved not just by locals but globally for its stunning sunset views and those tiny little taste sensations, otherwise known as Bug Rolls. If you’ve never tasted one, you’ve been wasting your life (seriously). Make a booking RIGHT NOW and order like 5. Wash them down with one of Rick’s signature cocktails, and you’re a bona fide Burleigh-ite.
Where: Shop 3, Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If you’re looking for fancy food but with the relaxed vibe that’s quintessentially Burleigh, look no further. The stunning space offers incredible Vietnamese dishes inspired by trips to Vietnam, tasting some of the very best street food in the world every single day. Sounds epic! It’s a refined style of dining paired with mouthwatering cocktails and a sleek, pared-back vibe. Jimmy Wahs is one of the Gold Coast’s most impressive eateries, and we are big fans.
Where: 1724 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
The fine dining venue has become part of the fabric of Burleigh’s bustling heart, but it’s also become one of the Gold Coast’s premier dining destinations. Tucked away on West Street, the five-star, seasonal-produce-led restaurant is an absolute must-visit. Trust us, your dining experience here won’t be easily forgotten. The produce is sustainable, and the wine list features some of the most stunning natural wines in the world. The service is impeccable too, but in a fun, not-too-formal way. We LOVE.
Where: 2A/8 West Street, Burleigh Heads
Après Surf is your friendly neighbourhood bar in Burleigh. If a crisp beer, indulgent pub-style eats, and DJ beats sound like your pint of lager, this place is for you. It’s plain ol good vibes from 5pm daily (except Tuesdays) with DJs every weekend! Head there on a Thursday for $1 dumplings and free stand-up comedy from 8pm! Doesn’t get much better than that, and Burleigh locals know it.
Where: 1/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
They started off as a taco-slinging hole-in-the-wall in Palm Beach in 2021, instantly becoming a cult favourite. Now, they’ve levelled things up with a move to Burleigh. Think bigger and better space, with the same beloved laid-back Aussie beach culture, and big Mexican flavours we all know and love. The new location invites you to settle in, sip a marg (or three) and let the good vibes take you to Mexico. Batanga, anyone?
Where: 1718 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Looking for a Burleigh locals’ guide to the best fish and chips in town? Look no further. And this place doesn’t just stop at fish and chips (even though we wouldn’t recommend going past them). They also serve fresh poke bowls and vibrant superfood bowls, plus a range of Bali-inspired dishes that reel in people from all over; they’re that good. Think flavour-packed Gado-Gado, nasi goreng and Bali satay chicken sticks. Wash it down with a premium cocktail and watch Burleigh come to life (this place is in a prime people-watching locale).
Where: 1716 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
A true family-run gelateria, Al Bacio Gelato Naturale is run by husband-and-wife duo Craig and Rebecca Heininger, alongside their daughter, Jaime. Since opening in late 2025, they’ve been serving scoops of authentic, 100% natural Italian gelato to Burleigh locals (and visitors), and we cannot be more thankful. The signature Al Bacio, meaning “as good as a kiss” in Italian, is a rich chocolate-hazelnut scoop made with homemade hazelnut paste from Piemonte, Italy. Then, for those who like to gulp down their gelato, you can order your favourite flavour in thick shake form. Can we get a hell yeah?
Where: 7/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
As you cruise down the GC Highway, the striking red and white umbrellas and festoon lights grab your attention and give you a whiff of what awaits inside. Crispy Italian is where to head when you’ve got a hankering for wood-fired pizza done insanely well. You’ll get a fun, laid-back vibe and a menu stacked with la pasta, la pizza, woodfired gnocchi and desserts impossible to resist. Did someone say Aperol spritz? Oh yeah, that was us.
Where: 4/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Local is one of those venues that just gets it. Equal parts polished and laidback, this Burleigh favourite nails the brief from morning through to late arvo and beyond, making it the kind of place you pop into “just for one” and somehow leave with a full camera roll and a new core memory. With multiple spaces to suit every vibe, from the fairy light–lit beer garden and fully stacked tinnie bar to plush indoor booths and a main bar made for game days, Local is built for long hangs, big feeds and even bigger catch-ups. The menu covers all bases (classic pub grub, elevated plates and a few fancy moments for good measure) and the atmosphere is always buzzing.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
There’s a good reason this gem is heaving at all hours: the home of the iconic muffin top (IYKYK) and some of the best coffee in town. It’s not just locals who love it – you’ll find Gold Coasters and beyond flocking here for a taste of the goods. Come for a coffee and to get around their huge menu with something for everyone – literally, it’s impossible to not love something. Plus, we’re pretty sure it’s mandatory to leave with a pastry in tow – go on, you deserve it.
Where: 1748 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Locals know the only thing loose in this (top) paddock is scrumptious, buttery baked goods. Since opening its charmingly renovated doors in 2014, Paddock has been the ultimate spot for brunch, lunch and sweet treats that keep us coming back daily. With lush gardens, a cottage, loft, rooftop and barn to hide away in, the menu is just as endless as the spots to enjoy it – perfect for indulgence, people-watching, or a little bit of both.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
A local newbie that’s already earned its rightful place on this list (which is saying something). Start with a coffee- because there’s no other way, and theirs is superb- before diving deep into their menu full of hearty but totally healthy eats. Think Shakshuka Scramble with charred eggplant, peppers, tomato chilli salsa & charred bread. Chef’s hot tip: add brisket. Or, indulge yourself in a croque monsieur made with ham and gruyere, fried eggs, cheese sauce, green pea chef salad and parmesan that will blow your beret off. Everything here is made fresh, seasonal, and irresistible.
Where: 4 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
Serving Southern California vibes (think cactus, umbrellas, pastel greens) all day long, alongside morning margaritas (you read correctly), epic eats and epic coffee. If you didnt catch on, Palm Springs does things a little differently, and Burleigh locals love them for it. They said, ” We will give you avocado smash and serve you one better”. Better in the form of a morning marg with breakfast tacos. It may sound rogue, but don’t tell us it isn’t exactly what you’ve been waiting for. Ideal hangover feed, perfect weekend brunch. Thank us later.
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
This small but mighty wine bar has one of the largest selections of boutique wines (we mean, it is in the name) with some seriously epic eats to accompany. We can’t go past the cheeseburger – seriously, don’t sleep on this – and if you don’t know where to start on what to sip, the expert team always nail the reccos. Pop a Pet Nat on your must-try for something a little bubbly, or if you’re more of a red drinker, their signature chilled reds are the ultimate for a hot summer’s day.
Where: 12 James Street, Burleigh Heads
It’s the good time, slightly fancy Australiana bar of your dreams, and it is perfectly at home in Burleigh Heads. Rosella’s is a local haunt that’s been a firm favourite since its opening. With both a drinks and a food menu made entirely of Australian produce, we are in heaven. They’ve got cocktails inspired by Fantales, Blinky Bill and Bondi Beach, all the very best Aussie beers and some of the tastiest eats to pair. It’s refined, beautifully decked out and created by a couple of absolute legends. Love.
Where: 6/1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
This fam-and-friends-run distillery from husband-and-wife duo Justin and Lana Bell is serving up elevated cocktails designed specifically for sipping (and swooning), paired with snacky plates that absolutely understood the assignment. The space is a moody, deep-green, tropical-tiki dream and the drinks are bespoke and downright dangerous in the best way. Oh, and they’re big on collabs too, teaming up with like-minded legends to keep things fresh and fun, so consider this your official cue to keep a very close eye out for their next one. It’s intimate, it’s stylish, it’s packed with heart (and gin), and it’s proof that when you mix great spirits with great people, magic happens.
Where: 1/9 Calabro Way, Burleigh Heads
If Burleigh had a local hall of fame, Burleigh Pavilion would be its MVP. This beachfront institution sits right above the sand at Burleigh Heads, serving up panoramic ocean views, sunset vibes and reliably good times from arvo cocktails to dinner dates and everything in between. Within its sprawling space you’ve got casual beach-bar energy, breezy terraces and The Tropic, the coastal-meets-Mediterranean restaurant where you can settle in for a sun-soaked lunch or a long, leisurely dinner with views literally stretching to the horizon. Whether you’re here for the drinks, the eats, the views, or just to feel like you’re living your best summer life year-round, Burleigh Pavilion is basically Burleigh’s living room with a better wine list.
Where: 3a/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If there’s one thing Burleigh deserves (the big legend), it’s a brewery, and Burleigh Brewing Co. certainly delivers. since opening in 2006, Burleigh Brewing Co. has produced a lineup of delicious drops – all perfectly Burleigh. Get a sixer for Netflix and chill, or head into the brewery from Friday to Sunday afternoons to get amongst it.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads
This place is the ideal setting for a lil cocktail and antipasti moment. A wine with your significant other, cocktail hour with the gals, or dare we say, a quick shot to kick off an epic night. Alongside wines, beers, margs and cocktails, they serve ‘a quality shot’ for those who value efficiency or are known to be fashionable-late and need to catch up, as they say. That’s definitely not us…Okay, it’s totally us.
Where: 1740 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Hidden inside the opulent Mondrian hotel, Ciel Spa is the city’s first bio-wellness spa blending high-tech treatments with high-touch luxury. Forget cucumber slices and pan pipe music, here you’re getting a serious glow-up down to a cellular level. From zero-gravity dry float sessions and Himalayan salt rooms to LED facials and cosmetic doctor appointments, they have it all. It’s a bit of a treat-yo-self moment.
Where: Level 2/3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Well, hasn’t this simple little piece of Mother Nature become an icon? No matter the day of the week (but particularly Sunday arvos), “the hill” as it’s affectionately known, is packed with picnic rugs, ball games and groups of revellers basking in the sunshine. Looking out over the ocean and with the city in the distance, it’s the perfect spot for a late afternoon lemonade or early morning coffee date with the crew. Order some of your fav takeaway from James Street, and perch up on a picnic blanket to soak up the scenery. Better yet, sunset.
Where: The south end of The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads
If you’re feeling energetic, take a stroll around Burleigh Hill to Talle Creek for some Insta-worthy rainforest scenery. Or if you’re game, head up the vertical trail for a hill climb that’s rewarded with an epic view. Yes, some sweat may be involved, but it’s all in the good spirit of exploration. Cool down after with a swim at Burleigh Beach or Talle Creek, wherever you end up.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
A relaxing little beachside club loved by young and old alike, Burleigh Bowls has been around since 1937 and is certainly a prime piece of real estate these days. Barefoot Bowls rolls on from 12–5pm every Sunday, and it’s a measly $10 per person, including coaching and bowls (AKA ball whipper snappers). Get down and support your local while sipping on a schooner.
Where: Connor Street, Burleigh Heads
If you’re in need of some retail therapy, then James Street is the only place you need to go. The range of shopping has everything you need, whether you’re looking for some new additions to your home from Maison & Maison or to update your wardrobe at Emte, you’re guaranteed to leave suitably more stylish. If you’re looking for the perfect piece of art to dress your walls at work or home, Art Yarramunua is our pick for their incredible collection of expertly curated indigenous art.
Where: James Street, Burleigh Heads
Everyone’s favourite Saturday morning market adventure. Get up early, grab your basket and set out in search of fruit, veggies and of course, your first coffee of the weekend. These days, the farmers market also boasts locally made clothing and homewares, flowers, meat and seafood and delicious breaky and lunch options. Happy days! Open every Saturday from 7am–12 ‘rain, hail or shine’.
Where: Burleigh Heads State School, Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Nahm Talay Thai opens at the Paradise Centre
Do you like your Thai served with a side of oceanside luxury? And your dishes presented with high-end WOW-worthy details, feeding your eyes and stomach with spectacular flare and flavour? We’re even talking liquid nitrogen in some dishes, as well as bubble smoke on cocktails and no, this is not an immunity challenge on Masterchef, but what you can expect at Nahm Talay Thai in Surfers Paradise, opening Friday 9th September.
Situated in the newly renovated Paradise Centre, Nahm Talay Thai is the latest offering from Pattaree (Pat) Jiranuchaiwattana and Vitchaya (Alex) Hasitawet. This duo know a thing or two about executing traditional Thai and Asian dishes in style, with a five-restaurant strong portfolio in Queensland, including Chong Co Thai at Pacific Fair. Add talented chefs Metira (May) Wongtom and Nitis (Kai) Shombunsode into the mix, as well as a stunning DBI Design interior, the final product is a total vibe.
Offering indoor/outdoor dining, a beachfront balcony (perfect for events may we add), plus booth and couch seating, the venue accommodates 120 guests. Picture luxurious accents blended with a high quality, modern beach aesthetic to complement the multi-million-dollar views. Cool grey hues and whites are warmed up with a sandy colour palette creating an oasis-like feel. There are contrasting textures throughout, a unique roof design, beautifully designed bar, and eye-catching golden metallic wave artwork.
Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner until midnight EVERYDAY, let’s start with the AM timeslot and oooh, the Soft Shell Crab Egg Lava definitely caught our eye. Featuring a croissant with salmon caviar, tobiko sauce, vine cherry tomato, and parmesan, LBR – we were born to eat caviar for breakfast. There is also a wide range of other brekky crowd favourites, but with an exciting Nahm Talay Thai twist. Pair your meal with a darn good coffee or refreshing (and super pretty) cold pressed juice and yep, you’ve started the day right.
If you’re more of a lunch or dinner person, the menu is once again off-the-Richter good. Order a serve of Crispy Pork Bao to start, with steamed bao, crispy pork belly, cucumber, coriander, spring onion, long red chilli, peanut and sesame oil. Then, it’s signature dish-o-clock and besides happy hour, this is our favourite time of the day.
Tuck into the Lamb Shank Massaman Curry with slow cooked lamb shank, mild curry, potato and cashew nuts, or the Barramundi Fillet steamed with lime sauce. Or, if you’d rather make friends with salad, you can’t beat the mouth-watering flavours of the Wagyu Salad. We’re talking Wagyu MBD 9+, Thai herbs, tomato, cucumber, rice power, chilli powder, house dressing and pear.
And for dessert, may we recommend the Cream Brulée, with egg, cream, pandan, sugar, coconut, vanilla ice cream and chocolate crumble. Drool.
Now let’s get down to business – cocktails of course. Pat and Alex certainly don’t do anything by halves and their jaw-dropping drinks menu is a testament to this.
Don’t miss the opportunity to sample a Bubble Smoke Lychee Martini and you had us at bubble smoke. With vodka, orange liqueur, lime juice, cranberry juice and lychee syrup and bubble smoke top, the yum-factor is only rivalled by the presentation.
Laying off the harder stuff because you’re in detox mode? Same (not really) and good news, the Mocktails are as delish and insta-worthy as their boozy cousins. We’re ordering the Mint Lychee Frappe with lychee, lychee syrup and mint.
Also, a quick shout out to the Jellyfish Shots because these things are quite possibly the coolest thing we’ve seen, and yes we’re back to alcohol #oldhabitsdiehard.
This brings us to the pointy end and the hardest decision yet. Should you go for breakfast, lunch or dinner (no more complaints about not being able to find a restaurant for a late-night feed, finally a venue open till midnight!) and our advice is a unanimous “all of the above”.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
When: Friday 9th September, open 7am – midnight, Monday – Sunday.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY NAHM TALAY THAI RESTAURANT AND BAR
