Cooly's new kid on the block.
Cooly's new kid on the block.
Pizza and puns are, without a doubt, two of the best things ever created. Oh and also wine and GUESS WHAT, you can get all of those things at Cooly’s new kid on the block.
In a move that quite frankly has skyrocketed Coolangatta into coolest suburb on the Coast status, Francie’s Pizzeria is bringing over 15 pizza flavours, their own range of wine and a whole lot of soul to the south and we are stoked (and also very full).
The intimate space has all your favourite things, a glossy white brick feature wall, a neon sign, perfectly placed greenery and vintage-style photographs depicting some of the coolest characters in entertainment history. You might even catch a glimpse of owners Claudia and Tony’s model-esque parents and grandparents.
The pair have dubbed their style of eats Neo-nepolitana which we’re pretty sure translates to super delicious and also aesthetically pleasing. All attempts at humour aside, the pair have done their research (tough gig). Prior to opening Tony travelled from New York to Philadelphia to gather ideas and inspiration including paying a visit to Pizzeria Blanco, who are apparently the cult leaders of the pizza world. Hence, the venue being a north American style of pizzeria.
On his travels Tony learnt that the sky’s the limit when it comes to creating big, bold flavours and thus friends, that’s exactly what he did.
Here’s your favourite part: the names of the pizzas are puns and what could be better in the world honestly.
The Pears Brosnan is made with pear, Gorgonzola, speck, thyme and fior de latte. The Fennel Countdown is house made fennel sausage, red onions, parmigano reggiano, tomato and a garlic crumb. The Kale Me Maybe is Tuscan kale, roasted chilli, buttered mushroom, garlic and aged cheddar. Too good.
Get this, there’s also an entirely vegan menu with seven pies, plus entrees and seriously, be still my heart.
Claudia and Tony make their own sourdough, lemonade, sweet tea and hummus (you’ll want to bath in it) and they’ve created something completely unique and perfectly befitting of Cooly’s super chill vibes.
Get it gang.
LOCATION: 102 Griffith St, Coolangatta
HOURS: Wednesday to Monday 11am until 2pm and 5pm to 9.30pm
Words and photos by Kirra Smith.
Lettuce enlighten you.
The Gold Coast restaurant scene has been quick to catch up to the increasing number of people jumping on board the vegetable train. Thankfully these days, we need not venture far to find our plant-based fix, with a plethora of veg-vibing establishments all vying for our affections.
As the masters of mind-blowingly good meat-free eats, these veritable veggie experts are in a legendary legume of their own.
Cardamom Pod
While we may be guilty of throwing the word ‘institution’ around a little liberally at times, Cardamom Pod (and it’s crew of certifiable whole-food wizards) is a name known the coast over as a haven for plant-based folk and those craving nourishing nosh.
While we sadly bid adieu to the original Broadbeach location (and then a fond ‘hola’ to Nude Amigos in the same spot – coincidentally also offering a considered assortment of vibrant vego options) – thankfully the name lives on through the second Pod residing at Brickworks Ferry Road. Get your fill of creative and colourful all-day eats such as the Buddah Bowl, Blinged Out Avo Benny, and if we really must choose – the French Toast *never* fails. There’s a reason this place has been around for years, go discover it for yourself.
Where: 3/3 Brolga Avenue, Southport
Blendlove
The delightful folk at Blendlove believe nothing is worth eating, if it hasn’t been created with love and let it be known that everything they create there, is worth eating. Co-founders Riki-Lee and Sharlene pride themselves on serving the tastiest, freshest and healthiest plant-based food on the Gold Coast. They whip up their treats in-house without the use of refined sugars, artificial colours or preservatives. Plus, keeping us plied with our daily Blackboard coffee fix earns them a bunch of extra brownie points in our books (guilt-free, sugar-free ones, of course).
Where: 253 Ferry Road, Southport
Falafels
Mermaid’s middle-eastern eatery, Falafels, has since expanded from its initial exclusively meat-free menu, but its primarily plant-based roots remain (as do the legendary falafels we know and love, praise be chickpea).
This small but mighty neighbourhood noshery specialises in fresh and flavour-packed portable bites with a mediterranean focus – all plied with secret-recipe sauces, dips and house pickled veg. The famous hand-crafted falafels have a rep as the best you can get your mitts (and mouth) around on the Coast. Available any which way you like – Plate, Pocket or Salad – aka stuffed in a pillow of pita, or perhaps piled atop a throne of veg, tahini and hummus (or not, for the #hummushaters… we’re told they’re out there… #blasphemy).
A trip to Falafels will give you allll the feel-good feels (namely satisfaction).
Where: Shop 2c/1 Lakeview Blvd, Mermaid Waters
Temple of Spices
Ahhh, vego curry, how we love thee. A wholesome, hearty, hug in a bowl – and for many of us, the gateway dish to discovering that meat-free can be mind-blowingly good, yes? Mermaid’s resident spice slingers, Temple of Spices has quite the rep for treating local diners to incredible Indian eats – including a dedicated menu of main-character vibing veg/vegan dishes to tempt anyone and tantalise every tum. Quell those cravings and chow down on chutneys, coconut rice and your choice of protein swimming in creamy, spice-laden curry – your tastebuds will be happy as Lassi. And for anyone considering skipping the Vego butter? That gets a big yeah, naan from us.
Looking to bolster your meat-free meal with an all-out feast? Spice up your night and split one of the plant-based banquet packs with your Dahl-ing (thank us later).
Where: 2468 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Tian Ran Vegetarian
Meaning nature in English, Tian Ran provides the purest of vegetarian and vegan Asian cuisine. Their meals are free from meat, dairy, alcohol, garlic, onions and MSG and they also offer a gluten-free menu. The team are passionate about providing quality food and make their meat substitutes with soy, wheat, yam, seaweed and mushrooms. Serving wholesome helpings of healthful eats made with love, that in no way compromise on flavour or satisfaction – and impressively so, considering the restricted ingredient repertoire. Don’t believe us? Just check their reviews #amustvisit.
Where: 2468 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
The Milkman’s Daughter
The funkiest little vegetarian joint around is Mermaid’s The Milkman’s Daughter, tucked away on Alfred St and serving up some of the very best (and most stacked vego food). The interior is as cool as they come filled with cascading greenery and terrariums built into tables, you’ll be Insta-snapping up a storm. The entirely vegetarian menu is made up of both all day breakfast and lunch options and my word, will you be hard up to make a choice.
The Farmers Breakfast is a perennial fave among frequents – but you ‘batter’ believe the loaded Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, piled with vanilla turmeric custard, granola, walnuts, passionfruit, berries, pistachios, lemon zest has to be one of the most bonkers brunches going (in the best of ways).
Where: 2/43 Alfred Street, Mermaid Beach
Dalas Kitchen
To the uninitiated, the Dalas Kitchen specialty of salads, sodas and sweets seems to strike the balance of naughty and nice eats – but as it turns out, its just nice.. and nicer – with the latter comprising of sparkling water topped homemade soda syrups and raw sweets.. so get amongst it guilt-free, y’all.
One of adulthoods greatest tastebud revelations remains that salad can be both nourishing and oh-so-satisfying (for those of us who grew up knowing ‘salad’ as sad iceberg and token tomato slices slapped on your plate, anyway). Dalas Kitchen is of course, serving up the former – Nobby’s wholesome eats dispensary delivers our daily veg-vibing, summery side-dish and salad fix, all 100% ready to tuck right in. Because sometimes we need a star salad without that whole cleaning-every-pot-and-pan-we’ve-ever-owned song and dance, right? #exhausting. So go on, grab some of that goodness to-go and get in that daily 2&5 in the most soul satisfying of ways.
Where: 2247 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach and Pavilions, Fifth Avenue, Palm Beach
Greenhouse Canteen
A crew that’s especially keen on their greens, delivering crafted plates of plant focused, whole food eats that are also downright delicious. Their foodie philosophy of ‘sometimes naughty, mostly nice’ – is an approach we can wholeheartedly support, especially since they also happen to serve a killer marg #ourkryptonite (and also something we get around with gusto).
In their ever-tasty eight year tenure, they’ve amassed an army of loyal local fans (both vegans and meat eaters alike) that would follow them *almost* anywhere for their flavour-filled fare. Which is lucky, since they recently relocated little further south, making the move from Miami to Talle… and yeah, we can manage that – anything for our Cauliflower Wings (and coconut marg, lbh) fix.
Where: 268 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Tallebudgera
Govindas
It’s a vegetarian institution on the Coast and if you haven’t been there, you haven’t lived. With everything from Creamy potato bake, saucy layers of veg-laden Lasagne to an array of salads and desserts, there’s always something tasty to try and a line up of people waiting to get in on the goodness. Eat in or takeaway and definitely don’t forget to indulge in the lemon, mint and ginger refresher, it’ll make your day.
Where: 20 James Street, Burleigh Heads and 72 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Psst – specifically seeking eateries sans animal products entirely? Check out our lineup of the best vegan GC restaurants here.
Words by Kellie Leader.
Now serving up the vegan goods in Cooly.
If there’s one thing that’s certain in life, it is that vegetables are very good for you and also, you can never eat too many (unlike say, Tim Tams).
The gals at Greenhouse Canteen know this better than anyone, which is why a second (technically third but more on that later) vegan eatery recently opened in everyone’s favourite southern suburb, Coolangatta.
The Cooly Canteen is as beautiful as you’d expect with rustic wooden dining settings placed amongst a vintage white-walled backdrop. Hanging plants and strings of fairy lights are suspended from the peaked glass ceiling, allowing guests to star gaze and devour gourmet goodies all at once. Bunches of native greenery are strung throughout and the signature, hand-scrawled “it’s cool to be kind” sign sets the scene on the front deck.
The latest venue was opened by long-time Greenhouse Canteen customer and equally passionate, plant-based advocate Jenny Madigan as a franchise of the original space and, of course, it is perfectly befitting of the brand.
The food is to die for (except you won’t die because, veggies) and there are cocktails and desserts and good vibes and catch ya later hard-earned cash.
Choose from small or large eats or a combination of both and for the love of God don’t go past the Eggplant Parmigiana made with baked eggplant, Napoli, basil pesto, almond feta and crispy kale. Also the Buffalo Cauliflower Wings which are besan (gram flower) battered florets with ranch dressing and house-made tomato relish are too tasty to not eat every single day.
Owners of the Miami venue (Charlie and Natalie) were met with rave reviews when they first opened in Kirra and when that venue closed, they made the (blessed) move to Miami.
From there it’s been the Greenhouse gang taking over the world. Hallelujah.
BRB, moving to Cooly.
LOCATION: 1/140 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
HOURS: from 5pm until late Tuesday to Sunday
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
They’ve stolen a pizza our hearts!
A food that needs zero introduction – pizza is Italy’s gift to the world that just keeps on giving (to our happiness levels and waistlines, mainly). From office parties to cozy date nights, this god-tier culinary creation is the celebratory cornerstone of gatherings everywhere. We can think of no occasion that isn’t improved by the addition of this beloved Italian staple…. and if there is, we don’t wanna know about it.
A dish steeped in tradition; pizza is divisive as it is delicious. Team crispy, or team chewy and chonky, deep dish style? Then there’s the question of the toppings – to olive, or not to olive? – and don’t even get us started on pineapple!
Heck, even trying to narrow down which of our fine establishments serve the best slice is a controversial endeavour. Which is why we’ve compiled this trusty guide to all the most legit GC pizza joints in whom pizza-loving locals eternally crust.
Here are 19 of the best, from north to south, so you can dig in without delay (okay maybe just a little delay, molten hot cheese is no joking matter).
Ready to take a tour of Italy’s most famous cities all under one roof? Italia Moto brings each region to life on a pizza! Head to the Italian countryside with Bruno Pancetta – San Marino with truffle cream base, marinated potato, pancetta and parmesan. Or go coastal with Giovanni Gamberi – Sicily featuring pesto base, mozzarella, cherry tomato, marinated prawns in garlic, lemon and chilli. End your Italian escape with a scoop of gelato, and that’s amore!
Our pick: Bruno Pancetta Pizza
Where: 104 Helensvale Rd, Helensvale
You know where there’s BYO, there’s good times ahead. Papa Rolly’s is your go-to neighbourhood spot, bringing together all the home-style, beloved dishes from their family of eateries (you know em Gemelli). Pair your favourite bottle with a woodfired pizza or a hearty pasta. Hell yeah!
Our pick: Bella Donna pizza
Where: 124 Pappas Way, Carrara
True to its name, Fire Baby brings heat and flavour in equal measure. Think hot-out-of-the-oven pizza washed down with an Inferno Mezcal Margarita! This Southport hotspot serves up woodfired pizzas, share plates, and cocktails in a seriously sleek space. It’s the kind of spot that quickly becomes your go-to, weeknights and weekends alike.
Our pick: Quattro Formaggi pizza
Where: 8-10 Welch Street, Southport
Rossa brings authentic Italian to Southport with blistered crust, doughy bases and fresh, flavourful toppings. Simple, rustic, and utterly delicious, it’s a place where the pizza does all the talking. Grab a glass of red, take a seat, and let the laid-back Italian atmosphere wash over you. For purists and casual diners alike, Rossa hits all the marks.
Our pick: Pepperoni Pizza (best seller)
Where: 59 Meron Street, Southport
Situated right next to the pristine beach, La Calabrese at Ocean is all about traditional Italian ingredients with a modern twist. The pizzas in particular are food-gasmic, and if you don’t concur, then soz but #weir-dough. Anything but your average pizza, a process called ‘biga’ is used to make the dough, and honestly, the ‘yeast’ we can do is divulge why this technique is so special. How about a fior di latte, Italian sausage, ham, mild salami, and oregano? Drool.
Our pick: Arca Salumi Pizza
Where: Where: Level 1, 84 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
If simple Italian flavours done exceptionally well toot your horn, then make a date with The Star Gold Coast’s Cucina Vivo. Chef Fabio has gained quite the cult following, affectionately known as the best Pizzaiolo Chef outside of Italy. This man is the master of the woodfire oven, and the ever-popular venue’s secret weapon. Date night sorted!
Our pick: Fabio’s Pizza
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Lobby Level, Broadbeach
If you haven’t been to Gemelli in Broadbeach, are you even a true Gold Coaster? Rustic yet stylish, with handcrafted pizzas, house-made pasta, and a buzzing atmosphere, Gemelli nails Italian food with a modern twist. Authentic, flavour-packed, and full of heart, this is the kind of place Nonna would happily approve of.
Our pick: Patate Pizza
Where: 2/2685 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Double Zero is certified Neapolitan pizza heaven (fun fact: they were the first Neapolitan pizzeria in QLD). Think gorgeous woodfired pizza with leopard-spotted crust, cooked for just 90 seconds! Award-winning, authentic, and endlessly satisfying- this is where true pizza lovers go to geek out.
Our pick: Crudo Pizza
Where: 2/2715 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Two essentials in one place: award-winning pizza and gelato. Every woodfired dough pillow (aka, pizza) is bursting with flavour and fresh toppings, no matter which you choose. Then, you gotta finish strong with creamy house-made gelato. Or, you could finish stronger again with a Tartufo Di Pizzo (half hazelnut, half chocolate gelato, and filled with melted chocolate!). You don’t need to convince us.
Our pick: Al Salame Pizza and Nocciola gelato (2 scoops is a must)
Where: East Tower The Phoenician Building, Shop 10/104 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Sapori is a little slice of authentic Italy with a welcoming, cosy atmosphere and pizzas that showcase perfectly fermented, woodfired bases. The interior is just adorable, the toppings are generous, the wine list is solid, and the staff are friendly as they come. Needless to say, it’s a top choice for casual dinners or celebratory nights out. Sapori feels like that neighbour who always knows exactly how to make pizza perfect.
Our pick: Marg on Steroids Pizza
Where: Santa Cruz Village, 60 Santa Cruz Blvd, Clear Island Waters
They’ve built a loyal following so devoted, you’d think they were running a pizza cult (a cult we would happily be a part of)- fans happily trek across town just for their Franc Jnr’s fix. Famous for their thick Detroit-style slices, this spot oozes old-school charm. Walking in feels like stepping into a ’90s pizzeria where everything is unapologetically classic- retro vibes with bold flavours.
Our pick: White Boy Rick (that sesame crust lives in our dreams)
Where: Shop 2/32 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach and 2/102 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Where do we even begin with Lenny Pizzeria & Bar? Let’s just say, their 72-hour fermented dough hits different—light, chewy, and full of flavour that’ll have you questioning every other slice you’ve ever had.
No matter how you slice it, the addition is a total score for Railway Street’s dining scene, with sensational woodfired delights like fermented chilli-kissed Prawn and Calamari Pizza served with confit garlic, parsley and lemon. You know the drill: two, four, six, eight…
Our pick: Fancy 4 Cheese
Where: 58 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
Here’s a factoid for you – in Italy, the term “bar” stands for more of a watering-hole-meets-cafe hybrid; combining coffee, cocktails, sweet snacks like pastries and quintessential savoury Italian fare… so basically, all the best things. Unintentional micro geography lesson aside, this concept is exactly what owner Riccardo ‘Ricky’ Proserpio set about recreating at Crispy – and now you know this place is fantastic for several reasons, including a top-tier traditional pizza selection. To name just one, the long-standing fave, Margherita, which also comes in a 1/2 metre in size. You won’t be disappointed.
Our pick: Diavola Pizza
Where: 4/1840 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
There’s no denying that Burleigh stalwart, Justin Lane, is the king of pizza. It’s come a long way from its humble beginnings, growing from a wee little pizzeria into a heaving multi-level restaurant, bar and event space. The perfect spot for a casual slice and catch up with your crew (so we assume the cocktails are implied). Pick your cutest stretchy pants, you’re bound to run into at least 35 people that you know. And that’s just on a Monday.
Our pick: Justin’s BBQ Smokehouse
Where: 2/10 James St, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Pizza is the laid-back, old-school hero locals love. Big, cheesy slices that hit the spot every time, casual service, and a relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for takeaway to the beach or a simple night in. Stone-baked with local ingredients = seriously good pizza.
Our pick: Hawaiian (simple is just best, sometimes)
Where: 7/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Laid-back, intimate, and perfect at sundown – T’amero brings delicious pizza without the fuss, a lil fancy, and all the flavour. The vibe is welcoming, the pizza is consistently excellent, and the whole experience feels just a little special. Vino, crispy slices and sunset- yes please!
Our pick: Rustic Pizza
Where: 6 Treeview Dr, Burleigh Waters
You’ve seen it. We’ve all seen it. The sprawling, modern industrial stunner fronting Palmy’s main drag is a total traffic-stopper, and we’re pleased to confirm that its contents are as epic as the outside. And when it comes to amazing nosh across the board, Balboa Italian sure isn’t pulling any punches. In particular, the pizzas are #goals #IYKYK – and if you don’t – we would suggest remedying this immediately. Take your pick between the selection of red and white sauce bases, or try them all because carbs, shmarbs.
Our pick: Number 1 or Vegan Lovers
Where: 1069 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
A cosy and super cute spot where Mediterranean and Moroccan vibes collide; Toro’s does pizza with panache. With peach tones for days (#swoon) – the spread at Palmy’s cosy slice slinging haven is quintessentially Italian, but with a healthy dose of tasty modern takes to keep us on our toes. The super relaxed yet chic vibe is just our type, and the pizzas will delight even the most discerning pizza connoisseur. There’s even dessert pizza if that’s your jam… (well, Nutella, technically speaking). Yep, she’s a winner on all fronts.
Our pick: Peri Chicken Pizza
Where: 7/2 Eighth Ave, Palm Beach
One minute, we’re passing through Currumbin minding our own business, and the next, our mouths immediately commence watering at the mere sight of Tommy’s telltale red and white umbrellas adorning the promenade. And that’s before we’ve even caught wind of the freshly-flamed bites bubbling away within! In only a few short years, this two-storey cutie has become a fixture along the suburb’s seaside strip; serving up multi-million dollar ocean views and mighty fine pizzas to match (and cocktails… because nothing says happiness like a slice of Italy in one hand and a margi in the other). Who can resist? Certainly not us.
Our pick: Caprina Pizza
Where: 818 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
