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This good-looking rooster makes a glorious return

Pretty Handsome is back and more dashing than ever.

Fish Tacos at Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Fish Tacos at Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Coffee by day, cheap cocktails by night – the blessed concept that is the humble neighbourhood cafe/bar must be protected at all costs. It’s a sentiment father and son duo Hardi and Declan Ellaz are very much on board with, delivering a Hail Mary for fans of Burleigh’s much-loved hole-in-the-wall. Pretty Handsome is back in the game, baby!

Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Reinstating the faithful cheap eats and feel-good vibes purveyor on Burleigh’s block, the cosy corner site we know and love is well and truly back in action and flaunting some fresh new moves. Focusing on delicious eats, great coffee and ‘1998 bar prices’, Christine Ave’s resident good-looking rooster is turning on the charm like never before.

Iced coffees at Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Iced coffees at Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Taking over the spot in January this year, Hardi and Declan were determined to get the corner site up to spec and churning out the Espresso Martinis as soon as practicable. The spruced up venue features a reimagined after-dark offering as well as ‘several renovated seating areas, with more to come’. Now boasting an all-new rooftop area and after-work drinks friendly trading hours, our first taste of PH 2.0 is only the beginning of what’s in store.

Burgers at Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Burgers at Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

With a background in opening and managing large catering projects and cafes, including The Oak Cafe in Mudgeeraba, Street Food Cartel in Varsity Lakes and Burleigh Brewing, the move was a no-brainer for this handy hospo duo. Like most, they were saddened to see the space shut its doors late last year. ‘Pretty Handsome has always been an iconic community hub’, says Declan, adding ‘When we found out that Pretty Handsome had closed we decided to step up’.

Rooftop seating at Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Rooftop seating at Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

In addition to a revitalised assortment of international street-foods and breakfast items, the space is soon set to be flaunting some fresh Melbourne laneway vibes. In cahoots with the tireless, local art and cultural champions from Surface Festival, the crew are working to reveal a rear alley facelift and extra seating in the coming months. Until then, punters can ‘make do’ with daily barista-made brews, cheap cocktails and crowd-fave signature dishes such as The Philly, which is lauded as ‘one of the best’ by their fans.

Fish Tacos and beer at Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Fish Tacos and beer at Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

The objective for the father and son duo was of course delivering delicious eats and great coffee every single day, while ‘keeping that same community spirit and creating a space where locals and newcomers can feel at home’.

And at home we are! With chic, monochrome awnings framing the facade, locals can again pop by for their casual chews and daily caffeine (and espresso martini) needs. Pumping out coffee with Wilde by Seven Miles beans, the pair are huge sticklers for pouring a good brew. ‘Each shot of our coffee is carefully measured and extracted by our trained baristas to ensure a consistently delicious coffee every time’ says Declan.

Coffee at Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Coffee at Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Meanwhile, the eats menu offers an enticing mix of all-day grab-and-go goodies, with lunch or brekkie selections for those who have more time to stay and soak up some good vibes. Start your day with bites like Breakfast Tacos and The Reuben Benny, with options like Burgers and Open Chicken Gyros to fuel your midday hankerings.

Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Pretty Handsome, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Once the weekend rolls around, tuck into Falafel Plates, BBQ Pork Ribs and Fish Tacos made with mole and house made salsa. With a tantalising array of cheap eats to get around every Friday and Saturday evening. No shiitake – you can put away a house cocktail and four cheese Arancini Plate for less than a lobster! Talk about starting your weekend right.

Where: 18 Christine Ave, Burleigh Heads
When: Monday–Tuesday 5am – 1pm
Wednesday–Thursday 5am – 2pm
Friday 5am–8pm
Saturday 6am – 2pm and 4pm – 8pm
Sunday 6am – 12pm

Words by Kellie Leader
Images by Mathilde Bouby

Go wild for Miami’s new espresso bar

Whyld thing, you make our hearts sing.

Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Coffee at Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

If caffeine is your love language, you’ll be extra peppy to learn of a brand new brick-and-mortar espresso bar for Whyld Coffee Roasters. Promising ‘genuine connection fuelled by bloody good coffee’, expertly extracted brews are just the beginning for this up-and-coming bean slinging crew.

Whyld Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Founded by Rachel-May Follan, an all-round coffee fanatic and barista of some 16 years, Whyld Coffee Roasters has been bounding along on the local coffee scene channelling the strength of a triple espresso since 2021. Bursting with the exact type of enthusiasm that only someone with an unfettered supply of the finest beans can possess, owner Rachel-May’s passion for all things coffee and community is palpable.

Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Rachel-May Follan, Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Dropping their most exciting project to date (in our totally un-biased opinion *sips coffee*) – the made-with-love micro roastery has officially set down roots in Miami with a brand spanking new espresso bar and roasting facility. From humble backyard beginnings roasting 100g batches at a time, these days the tireless Whyld crew powers a handful of cafes and coffee vans across the coast with their roasted onsite selection of imported and locally-grown beans.

Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Coffee and croissant at Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Flaunting a soul-soothing shade of forest green as far as the eye can see, Hillcrest Parade’s latest are supplying the smoothest of brews to get us glowing from Wednesday – Sunday, in addition to a tasty selection of grab-and-go goodies courtesy of Burleigh Baker.

Coffees at Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Coffees at Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

For those that remember Miami’s I Like Ramen days, Whyld’s smooth specialty brews will need no introductions – after a stint dutifully slinging caffeine fixes every weekend out of the pop-up window where Holliday Coffee now resides. During this fateful time Rachel-May ‘fell in love with the community of Miami’.

Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

As someone who’s dedicated her whole working life to slinging lattes and soy caps, Rachel-May had always been keen to delve deeper into her craft and learn the ins-and-outs of where the cup comes from. Talk about living and breathing the bean life! With a little help from some local legends at Burleigh’s Profile Coffee Colab in 2021, Rachel-May embarked on the rollercoaster of learning to roast coffee. And bean’s yer uncle, Whyld was born not long after!

These days, the micro roastery’s small but mighty team consists of Rachel-May and her partner, Tiago Sperb, and who could forget ‘Big Shaz’, the trusty 12kg Probat coffee roaster.

Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Big Shaz at Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Requiring all hands on deck to pull off, the crew has taken great pains to pour good vibes into their brick-and-mortar milestone. Equal parts eclectic and energising, the result is a charming and sun-drenched spot to swing by for your daily fix, with a rag tag assortment of repurposed milk crate and vintage thrones on which to perch with your morning cup of Joe.

If this sounds suspiciously like your new #happyplace, we have an inkling that might just be by design. “It’s real connections and liquid gold that keep our souls happy” Rachel-May muses, which gets a #HardAgree from our haplessly-addicted selves.

Coffees at Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Coffees at Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

“How often do you meet someone at a cafe? Or say ‘let’s go get a coffee?’ It’s the biggest connector we have”, she adds.

Sounds like a great excuse for one more cup to us!

Where: 8/43 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
When: 6am–1:30pm, Wednesday–Sunday
Website: www.thatswhyld.com.au
Instagram: @thats_whyld_coffee

Words by Kellie Leader
Images by Mathilde Bouby

Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Seating at Whyld Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar, Miami (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

10 of Burleigh’s best breakfast spots

They’re bacon us hungry!

Tarte Bakery & Cafe, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
Tarte Bakery & Cafe, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

Breakfast and Burleigh go together like all of our favourite things. Bread and butter, eggs and bacon, macaroni and cheese, gin and tonic… you get this gist. And as you can probably tell, we’re partial to a good old breakfast.

What’s not to love about breakfast? And even more, what’s not to love about Burleigh? You’ve got sun, sand, surf and a boat load of egg-cellent spots to fill up and fuel up to get the day going. It is the most important meal of the day after all.

We took it upon ourselves to do the hard task of eating our way around one of our fave beachside suburbs to determine who exactly has the best brekky’s on offer and it did not disappoint. Here’s our pick of 10 of the best breakfast eats in Burleigh. Just don’t scramble to get to them all at once!

Breakfast spread at Commune, Burleigh (image supplied)
Breakfast spread at Commune, Burleigh (image supplied)

Commune
Back to where it all began, Commune has stood the test of time when it comes to bringing the breakfast goods and if you’ve been, you’ll know why. Recently taken over by the Blackboard crew, the menu is brimming with classics and new flavours. Their Eggs Florentine stacked on one of the best potato rosti’s going around is an all-time pick of ours. They’ve got acai bowls on tap along with their fan-fave chorizo burrito – it’s an IYKYK situation.
Where: 1844 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Palm Springs Cafe (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

Palm Springs
You’ve no doubt seen this Palm Springs inspired brekky haunt taking pride of place on the Gold Coast Highway. It’s hard to miss the slice of California desert in the heart of Burleigh. Take it from us, the food is as fabulous as the space is gorgeous. Their Breakfast Tacos are an obvious front-runner for our favourite breakfast pick. We adore the Chicken & Waffles with southern fried chicken, chipotle mayo and maple syrup for a delicious taste of the US.
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

 

Bullseye Bang, Double smoked streaky bacon, free range fried eggs, avocado, rocket and house chilli sambal on a NY Everything Bagel, Tarte Bakery, Burleigh (image supplied)
Bullseye Bang, Double smoked streaky bacon, free range fried eggs, avocado, rocket and house chilli sambal on a NY Everything Bagel, Tarte Bakery, Burleigh (image supplied)

Tarte Bakery
It’s the spot that almost doesn’t need an introduction because if you haven’t been to the Euro-inspired café then where have you been?! They’ve been reinventing the breakfast game with dishes like their loaded bagels (hello Bullseye Bang) and their iconic Tomato Soup – if you’ve seen it, you’ll get it. If you’re more about a liquid breakfast then the Parisian Hot Chocolate is a no brainer, or the Breakfast Mary if you like a bit of a kick. We’re also pretty sure it’s illegal to leave without one of their baked goods. Get the strawberry muffin top and thank us later.
Where: 1748 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

LOCAL, Burleigh (image supplied)
LOCAL, Burleigh (image supplied)

Local
Right in the heart of Burleigh you’ll find this spot that’s become a firm favourite among locals – that’s right, it’s not just in the name. It’s big, it’s busy and it serves up a mean breakfast – which is obviously a prerequisite on a breakfast list. Local is our go-to for those tried and tested brekky must-haves, think French Toast for the sweet tooth and Chilli Scramble (because what’s not to love). No acai bowl? No problem because they’ve done one better – the Acai Panna Cotta with coconut sorbet is the freshest twist on a GC staple but we’re into it.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Social Brew, Burleigh (image supplied)
Social Brew, Burleigh (image supplied)

Social Brew
James Street has long been the heart of Burleigh when it comes to all things food, fashion and fun and tucked away in the Big B Arcade is Social Brew. A bustling melting pot of Gold Coasters, from brekky dates to catch ups with friends and people working over a bite to eat, the people watching is almost as good as the food. Stay for a good time and a long time if that’s your vibe, with breakfast turning into lunch on the reg. The Truffle Mushroom Bruschetta and Nasi ‘Brew’eng are must-try’s for a reason.
Where: 34-36 James Street, Burleigh Heads

People dining at Paddock Bakery (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)
People dining at Paddock Bakery (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)

Paddock Bakery
Remember when Paddock Bakery changed the game with their epic sweet treats and loaded donuts? How could we ever forget, we’re grateful for it pretty much every day. But they’re so much more than just baked goods, tucked away in their little weatherboard haven is a bakehouse so as you can imagine – they’re big on bread and their menu shows. The best part? After you’ve filled up on food, you can take home some of their bakehouse goods – whether it’s an Almost Croissant Cookie or their signature Sourdough.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads

Bacon Cheeseburger, Two Yolks (image supplied)
Bacon Cheeseburger, Two Yolks (image supplied)

Two Yolks
If anyone knows a thing or two about eggs, it’s these guys – some may even call them eggs-perts. And what’s breakfast without eggs? As far as we’re concerned, even breakfast time is burger time so you bet we were pumped when we saw the menu loaded with things like the Triple B (Big Brekky Burger) and the Two Yolks Grande Burrito filled with scrambled eggs (naturally), tater tots, guac, bacon, halloumi and chipotle aioli. The unsung hero of their brekky menu is the Tater Tots aka potato gems though, get the morsels of crispy goodness as a side or you’ll have fomo later.
Where: 13 Connor Street, Burleigh Heads

Pretty Handsome
They’re baaaack and they’re better than ever, if we do say so ourselves. With a schmick fresh look and their ripper original menu – plus some new additions of course – Pretty Handsome has been a sight for sore eyes and we’re just pretty darn happy that we’ve got their Breaky Wrap Combo back. Seriously, what’s not to love about a wrap and a coffee combo for $12.50 – we’re in a cost of living crisis, people!
Where: 18 Christine Avenue, Burleigh Heads

Big Breakfast, bacon, eggs your way, hash browns, sausages, steak, mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes and sourdough toast with house made boston baked beans and house made tomato relish, Plantation House Cafe, Burleigh (image supplied)
Big Breakfast, bacon, eggs your way, hash browns, sausages, steak, mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes and sourdough toast with house made boston baked beans and house made tomato relish, Plantation House Cafe, Burleigh (image supplied)

Plantation House Cafe
This pretty little spot is all about great breakfast and gorgeous interiors, with fresh clean interiors, a lush green wall and of course, a hot pink neon it’s giving Instagrammable and we love it. The team at Plantation are big fans of a sweet breakfast moment and you will be too with Pancakes served with poached pear, salted caramel, crumble and ice cream – we’re drooling just thinking about it. If savoury is more of your flavour then try the Fritter Stack, we promise it won’t disappoint.
Where: 1/43 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Burleigh Heads

Parlour Coffee
It might not be in the centre of the Burleigh hustle and bustle but does that mean we love Parlour Coffee any less? Absolutely not. In fact, that’s one of the things we love about it most. Seasonal menu. Tick. Epic coffee. Tick. Space to soak up the sunshine (with SPF obviously). Tick. Dog friendly. Tick. It’s got everything we look for in a brekky spot and more. Treat yo’self with the Benny Croissant and if that’s not enough indulgence, try a twist on your usual coffee with their Tiramisu Latte.
Where: 34 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Burleigh Heads

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski

26 reasons locals love Burleigh Heads

Bug rolls, the beloved hill and local brews.

Burleigh Hill (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)
Burleigh Hill (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)

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.

Haven, Burleigh (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Haven, Burleigh (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Fine Dining
Haven

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

Rick Shores

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

Red Curry, Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Red Curry, Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Jimmy Wahs

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

Restaurant Labart

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 

Restaurant Labart by Andy Macpherson Studio (image supplied)
Restaurant Labart by Andy Macpherson Studio (image supplied)
Casuals Eats
Apres Surf

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

Costa Taco

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

Costa Taco, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Costa Taco, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Red Hot Cod

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

Al Bacio Gelato

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

Al Bacio Gelato Naturale, Burleigh (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Al Bacio Gelato Naturale, Burleigh (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Crispy Italian

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

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

Tarte Bakery & Cafe, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
Tarte Bakery & Cafe, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
Coffee Hangs
Tarte Bakery & Cafe

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

Paddock Bakery

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

Mohr Cafe and Deli, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Mohr Cafe and Deli, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Mohr

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

Palm Springs

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

Palm Springs Cafe (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
Palm Springs Cafe (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
Something To Drink
Paloma Wine Bar

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

Rosella’s

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

Familiar Spirits Distillery, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Familiar Spirits Distillery, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Familiar Spirits

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

Burleigh Pavilion

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

Burleigh Pavilion (image supplied)
Burleigh Pavilion (image supplied)
Burleigh Brewing Co.

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

Malibu Racquet Club

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

Malibu Racquet Club, Bureigh Heads (image supplied)
Malibu Racquet Club, Bureigh Heads (image supplied)
Something To Do
Ciel Spa

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

Burleigh Hill

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

Picnic on Burleigh Hill (image supplied by Destination Gold Coast)
Picnic on Burleigh Hill (image supplied by Destination Gold Coast)
Burleigh National Park

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

Burleigh Bowls Club

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

Burleigh Bowls Club (image supplied)
Burleigh Bowls Club (image supplied)
Shop With Us
James Street

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

Burleigh Farmers Markets

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

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