Top honours for your faves.
Top honours for your faves.
Look we’re all partial to a good hat but if you’re a chef, a hat is all that and a bag of chips. Each year, the Australian Good Food Guide awards hats to the crème de la crème in the restaurant world. And while some of our neighbouring cities may have once side‑eyed the Gold Coast’s dining scene, it’s official: the tables have turned, and the GC is strutting its stuff.
This year, a whopping 25 of our favourite local eateries snagged at least one hat, and we’re practically bursting with pride! The AGFG rates each restaurant out of 20, and although nobody’s hit that elusive perfect score just yet, there’s plenty of brilliance on display.
In a twist everyone saw coming, Broadbeach cleaned up with seven venues receiving hats. The newly revamped Mamasan charmed its way to a score of 13, while Social Eating House and Bar (13) matched it with its masterful blend of modern Australian favourites.
The Oracle Boulevard scene was further flaunted by BLOWFISH Ocean Grill + Bar (12) and kōst (13), each offering their own distinct flavour explosions for diners.
Of course, several of The Star Gold Coast’s restaurants collected gongs. Japanese sensation Kiyomi scored a sophisticated 14, while the sleek Modern Australian fine‑dining gem Nineteen at the Star earned 13.
Rounding out Broady’s winners, long‑standing steak haven Moo Moo The Wine Bar and Grill received a solid 13, keeping carnivores grinning from ear to ear.
Travel south to Mermaid Beach and you’ll find boutique dining superstar The North Room boasting an impressive 15, a testament to its thoughtful, modern dishes executed with technical precision. Beloved Little Truffle Dining Room & Bar earned 14, and esteemed Japanese haunt Etsu Izakaya scored 13, continuing its legacy of refined flavours.
Slick Latin American newcomer Norté, with its vibrant, fiesta‑inspired energy and bold Mexican flavours, made its debut with a 12. Euro-inspired Juju (13) and The Oxley’s stalwart fave Lars(12), rounded out Nobby’s award recipients.
Robina’s Eddy + Wolff represented with a well-earned 12. It just goes to show that the ‘burbs can cook up a winner too, not just the Insta-set-favoured pockets.
Speaking of, Mudgeeraba’s intimate Japanese (and under-the-radar superstar) Anekawa, earned itself a 13, while Bundall’s Mediterranean‑meets‑local gem Bar Leo Food & Wine debuted with a solid 12.
Burleigh wasn’t left behind either. Rick Shores scored 13 for its delectable contemporary pan-Asian offerings. The Gold Coast highway strip represented with Vietnamese pin-up boy Jimmy Wah’s(13).
Daniel Ridgeway’s Palm Beach offering Madame V was shown some love with 13, while Kirra’s beachfront Billy Chow (12) made its debut, earning recognition for its playful pan‑Asian menu.
Let’s journey back to the central neck of the woods, starting with Surfers Paradise’s Modern Australian superstar Palette located at HOTA, Home of the Arts, topping the list with a stellar 16. This Modern Australian standout blends bold flavours with innovative techniques, earning its spot among Queensland’s finest.
The JW Marriott Gold Coast’s seafood superstar Citrique earned a 14, while the QT’s Japanese phenomenon Yamagen scored 13 and The Langham’s Cantonese gem T’ang Court scored 12.
Over in Main Beach, La Luna Dining scored 12 with its modern Australian waterfront charm.
Anyone who still says we’re lacking in the quality eats department here on the Goldie, now is the time to concede defeat because this list of local victories confirms what we already knew – our foodie scene has officially become a force to be reckoned with and there’s plenty more to come…
Words by Belinda Symons
Because food is the way to everybody’s heart. And Tier 1 friends list.
Friends, they’re the family we choose and worth their weight in gold. But LBR, don’t we all kinda fancy ourselves as the group authority on where to go for the best nosh, vibe and cocktail list? Well stick with us kids, we’ve got this!
Here are our tried and tested (on repeat) recommendations to elevate you to Queen Bee status. XOXO.
If you’re out to impress, Norté is basically your cheat code. From the team behind Rick Shores and Southside, this luxe rooftop restaurant and bar (aka Sueño) brings Latin American flair with serious flavour and even more serious design credentials. Think mango-drenched raw scallops, wagyu tostadas and a Peruvian-style potato dish stuffed with tender kangaroo tail – yep, they’re doing things a little differently here. The vibe is high-end without the fuss, the mains are made for sharing, and the drinks list is a mezcal-lover’s dream.
Where: The Oxley Atrium, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach
Srsly, the mere mention of The Langham will have your mates nodding in approval. The bougee T’ang Court honours its Michelin-star sister restaurants specialising in fine Cantonese dining. Reflecting the timelessness of the Tang Dynasty, China’s golden age, score extra points for the epic cultural nod. The authentic Cantonese dishes are complemented by the high-end, contemporary fit-out. In the words of Nike, just do it.
Where: The Langham Gold Coast, 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Dripping in coastal-styled furnishings and high-quality on-fleek accents, COAST is the restaurant with the most! This spectacular $2.5 million-dollar venue adorning the first floor of the brand-new Ocean by Meriton is all about fine modern Australian shared cuisine, and breathtaking uninterrupted views of the big blue. Sink a margi with your gang at the 14m marble bar, a second one outside on the stunning terrace, and the next (several) with your designer dinner in the main dining room.
Where: Ocean by Meriton, 86 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Occupying arguably the most iconic turf on the Coast, Siblings packs wow-factor for days. This modern Aussie brunch and dinner hot spot at Kirra Beach Pavilions is dripping with 1950s Miami beach vibes from pillar to post. Beautifully styled with a colour palette and décor celebrating its glorious surroundings, a meal here should be on every Gold Coaster’s to do list. The food is on-point and there are 52 signature cocktails to enjoy with your chums. Nuff said.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
When The Australian Good Food Guide awards you 14 points and two chef’s hats, you’ve officially arrived. With accolades like this, your fancy friends will be all over it like Pro Hart on a Stainmaster commercial. Situated in the stunning HOTA Gallery, Palette takes inspiration from artworks on display and major exhibitions to show just how naturally art and food blends. Fresh ingredients sourced locally where possible create a showstopping modern Australian menu guaranteed to woo.
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Steak night just got a glow-up. Lars Bar & Grill is bringing woodfired flair and coastal cool to Nobby Beach, dishing out the kind of smoky, sizzling goodness that’ll have your friends drooling before they even sit down. From the team behind The Oxley 1823 (and with hospitality royalty Lars Kollrepp at the helm), this spot nails the fine-diner-meets-grill-house vibe. With over ten epic cuts of steak, next-level sides, and a wine list that means business, Lars is where you go when you want to eat like a king but feel like you’re still at the beach.
Where: 2217 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
There just aren’t enough stars for this Burleigh blockbuster. Another modern Australian restaurant to dine for, it is fine dining at its, well, finest. The work of passionate husband and wife team Alex and Karla Munoz Labart, Labart offers a seasonal, share-style menu made with only the best produce and a sustainable wine list to match. The earthy, refined and understated interior creates a warm and welcoming ambience, providing the perfect setting for an intimate meal with friends.
Where: 8 West Street, Burleigh Heads
Focusing on fresh, locally sourced produce with the intention to share, soz but we don’t want to #TooGood. At one with the ocean, the infamous Rick Shores overlooks beautiful Burleigh and serves up some of the very best eats in town. With awards up the wazoo, it’s a sure thing when you want to impress. Speaking of, insist your mates order the Fried Moreton Bay Bug Roll and don’t be surprised when they weep tears of joy. Wash them down with a few of Rick’s cocktails and this is not the time to volunteer for DD duty. Happy days.
Where: 43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If your peeps are fangirling/fanboying over perfectly cooked, juicy steaks of the highest quality (paired with the tastiest sides to level up the yum factor), look no further than Glenelg Public House in Mermaid Beach. The vibe of the low-lit space is relaxed and welcoming, encouraging you and your crew to settle in – with a glass of red in hand of course – for the long haul. May we recommend the banquet for a well-rounded, standing-ovation-worthy nosh-up. You’re welcome.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Let’s be real – if you’re trying to wow your mates, Haven is your ultimate flex. Perched up high at the ridiculously chic Mondrian Gold Coast, this beach club-meets-restaurant is pure coastal cool with a side of “how is this even real?” Think elevated seafood, sultry sunsets, and spicy margaritas that go way too well with DJs and wood-fired scallop pies. Executive Chef Aaron Teece is plating up flavour bombs that champion fresh Aussie produce – from juicy Ballina king prawns to wagyu sirloin you’ll be dreaming about for days. Luxe, laidback, and definitely not your average dinner spot.
Where: Level 3, 3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Words by Bianca Trathen
When dining amongst strangers won't cut it.
Been wanting to get the gang together for the ultimate dinner party but the six-seater dining table you’ve got at home isn’t cutting it? Allow us to introduce the private dining room. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking to host the family, your besties or work colleagues, the private dining experience is the ultimate for high impact and low effort so you can outsource the wining and dining.
We’ve scoured the city for the best private dining spaces at some of the city’s top-tier restaurants so that you can sit back and relax (without prying eyes) for a fab meal that you and your guests won’t forget in a hurry. And even better, no dishes to clean up – consider us sold.
If you’re after an intimate dining experience with serious wow factor, One Eighty’s private dining room is where you want to be. Seating just eight guests, this exclusive hideaway is perfect for special occasions, offering a front-row seat to the magic of omakase. With Chef Akihiro Kitade curating each course, expect a seamless journey of sashimi, yakitori and indulgent bites like wagyu sukiyaki and the 180 Original Eye Fillet Sandwich. Pair it all with a pour from their legendary Japanese whisky collection, and you’ve got a night to remember—no passport required.
Where: 180 Marine Parade, Labrador
Elegant and refined, Glass is many people’s go-to place for delicious bites in Main Beach. And it’s relatively easy to see why, with sumptuous seafood and exquisite meat dishes, the incredible view of million-dollar yachts across the Broadwater is merely the cherry on top. Their private space sits up to 10 guests and is prime champagne and oyster territory!
Where: 74 Seaworld Drive & Marina Mirage Waterfront, Main Beach
If you haven’t been to Misono then where have you been, honestly? While you’re probably familiar with the uber entertaining teppanyaki experience, you might not know they’ve got an adults only private dining space. If the sound of an elevated teppanyaki experience, even more theatrics and paired sake sounds like your vibe then say no more – this Gold Coast institution is here to deliver.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, Level 3/158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
Bumbles Café offers a selection of intimate private dining spaces perfect for those looking to enjoy a discreet and memorable experience away from the hustle and bustle. Nestled in a quiet, leafy corner of Budds Beach, Surfers Paradise, this charming café is renowned for its homely ambiance and exceptional hospitality. With several private dining rooms, including the stylish Blue House – complete with a bar and French bistro flair – guests can enjoy a serene breakfast, lunch, dinner, or event, just as celebrities and dignitaries often do, without drawing attention. Whether for a small gathering or a grander affair, Bumbles provides the perfect setting.
Where: 19-23 River Drive, Budds Beach, Surfers Paradise
Yamagen’s Kanpai Room offers a semi-private enclave that combines the excitement of a chef-led omakase menu with the elegance of a whisky or wine pairing. Designed to mimic the energy of a Tokyo restaurant, this space allows guests to enjoy the flavours of izakaya dining while still being immersed in the lively atmosphere of the venue. With space for 10 to 16 guests, the Kanpai Room offers a memorable evening of flavour and flair.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
How does an exclusive dining room with an ocean view in the heart of bustling Surfers Paradise sound? The private dining room at Coast Beach Bar & Kitchen is a decadent space completely separated situated alongside the outdoor dining area. The intimate space features a stunning sandstone dining table with 12 luxurious velvet chairs to keep your guests in the upmost comfort. Endless ocean views from the elevated position teamed with exceptional food and drinks, make this venue a topnotch pick!
Where: Ocean by Meriton, Level 1, 86 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
When it comes to superb views of our spectacular skyline and unadulterated servings of all things delicious, Edgewater Dining is very high up on the list — if not at the very top. Great seasonal Australian produce meets with a twist of traditional Italian style cooking, and the colossal drinks list is truly something to marvel at. Book in for a function/event to their private dining room for an exclusive setting (with an adjacent private balcony) and see what all the fuss is about.
Where: Shop 3 G7, Capri on Via Roma, Surfers Paradise
If boujee is the brief, the Gold Coast’s crown jewel – The Langham – is here to deliver. Bringing to the party not just one, but two, private dining rooms they’ve got something to suit both your vibe and your size. Akoya’s private dining space seats up to 16 so you can spread out as you tuck into their iconic buffet, with seafood the star of the show along with global flavours, even your fussy friends will be satisfied. If Cantonese and fine dining is more your vibe, then T’ang Court’s private dining space is the place to be for you and nine of your nearest and dearest. It’s won an AGFG Chef Hat for good reason, so if you didn’t already trust us – trust that.
Where: The Langham, 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
If you’re looking to wine, dine and celebrate in style, Vida Seafood’s private dining room is where it’s at. Tucked in the corner of the venue, this sleek little hideaway is all warm wood panelling and floor-to-ceiling wine displays, because let’s be honest, the best parties happen with a bottle (or three). The long dining table is made for lingering, and there’s even a flat-screen TV for when the occasion calls for a presentation or a celebratory slideshow. Need more space? Vida’s got you. They can host up to 40 for a sit-down feast or 80 for a cocktail-style soirée, bringing all the Mediterranean magic with just the right amount of exclusivity.
Where: 69-71 Surf Parade, Broadbeach (Aria Building)
The vibrant street hawker foods of Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpar are lovingly brought to the Gold Coast in deft fashion at Maggie Choo. Apart from amazing cocktails and a colourful atmosphere any time of the day and any day of the week, you can book yourself into their secluded dining space for a cosy meal with colleagues, family, even your running club if you must! There’s space for 14 people, and you have the choice of their Maggie Tease and Maggie Luxe banquets to tuck into.
Where: Shop 105/89 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
The newest venture from Steven & Autumn Adams has some dauntingly big shoes to fill. As you might have gleaned from its culinary lineage, this little sib is just little bit extra. The lofty, double-story venue which formerly housed The Bavarian, is wooing up to 150 diners at one time – complete with a lush 24 seat private dining room up on the upper floor.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
A contemporary bar and grill concept, boasting one of the city’s only charcoal wood-fire grills, this mammoth space redefined the way we meet and eat in Broadbeach. Along with seafood towers, roving champagne and caviar trolleys, and a purpose-built dry aged cool room that can be seen (drooled over) from Oracle Boulevard, our wining and dining game copped a serious upgrade. The luxurious space boasts an impressive 130-seat restaurant, in addition to private dining room, bar dining and outdoor pavilion spaces.
Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
It’s the home of casual fine dining and since its recent reno, the team at Social Eating House have created the most beautiful private sanctuary for small groups. The intimate dining space seats eight and is meticulously styled (no surprise there) so you can really immerse yourself in the Social experience. We’ll take any excuse to tuck into their puffed sesame rice cracker fish tartare or lamb empanada en masse without judgement.
Where: The Oracle, Shop 137/3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
If variety is the spice of life, The Star Gold Coast is serving up a full-flavoured feast with five private dining options to suit every occasion. Whether it’s a sun-drenched gathering at Garden Kitchen & Bar’s Conservatory (max 40 guests), an Italian feast at Cucina Vivo (max 20 guests), or an elevated fine dining affair at Nineteen at The Star (max 26 guests), there’s a space for every celebration. For those craving Cantonese cuisine, Uncle Su offers three private rooms (max 36 guests), while Kiyomi’s intimate space (max 16 guests) delivers an exclusive Japanese experience complete with Omakase menus. No matter your pick, The Star guarantees a memorable meal with a side of style.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Little Truffle has been treated to a grown-up glow-up to match its refined eats, combining moody Hollywood Glam elements with Jazz Bar vibes for an aesthetic that we’ve officially dubbed ‘Gold Coast Grandeur’. The suave space is about as opulent as our eateries on the GC get – bedecked with opulent baroque mirrors, chandeliers, luxe herringbone floors, strategically draped velvet curtains and two private dining rooms. The second of which remains shrouded in mystery, as a very exclusive vault-vibing space for 20 guests with its own private entry (in sad news for our star spotting ops).
Where: 2444 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
For those looking to dial up the exclusivity, JuJu offers a stunning 40-person private dining room that can be fully secluded for an ultra-exclusive gathering or partially opened to soak up the electric rooftop atmosphere. With plush seating, high and low tables for cocktail-sipping comfort, and a “naughty level” energy that keeps the party going, JUJU’s private space is where indulgence meets a touch of mischief.
Where: 2235 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When your crew deserves a feast fit for a K-drama finale, Hwaro92’s private dining space is where it’s at. Tucked inside this sleek, flame-fuelled Korean BBQ joint, the exclusive 12-seater room is perfect for sizzling celebrations, business banquets, or just a next-level feast with your favourite foodies. Expect premium cuts, smoky flavours, and all the classic sides—because every good meal needs kimchi. Grab your grill gang and get ready to turn up the heat.
Where: T5037/19 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina
Tarte Beach House’s private event space, “The Hideout,” offers a serene and stylish setting for intimate gatherings, with stunning views of Currumbin Creek through the lush canopy of a Moreton Bay Fig. Ideal for groups of 12-36, this coastal chic venue is perfect for everything from leisurely brunches to special celebrations like birthdays or baby showers. Choose from curated function packages featuring delightful offerings such as High Tea, brunch boards, or a family-style lunch, all complemented by refreshing drinks.
Where: 2 Thrower Dr, Currumbin
Cadillac Supper Club offers an intimate private dining experience perfect for small groups. Nestled within its moody, wood-paneled interiors, the private room accommodates up to 10 guests, providing an exclusive setting to enjoy the offerings of this Italo-American pizzeria and bar. Whether you’re sipping expertly crafted martinis or indulging in a wood-fired pizza, this is the place for unforgettable moments, complete with vinyl DJs adding the perfect soundtrack to your evening. It’s the ultimate spot for a sophisticated yet relaxed gathering.
Where: 1176 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Mamma Mia, if you haven’t checked into this hotbed of Italian goodness in Palm Beach, then you need to rectify that — STAT. If the graceful standalone building and décor aren’t enough, then the stone-baked pizzas and handmade pastas should quash the pain from not being able to visit the old country! Their private dining space is upstairs and seats you and eleven of your nearest with your very own dedicated servers for a superb taste of Italy.
Where: 1069 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Madame V’s private dining rooms are a game-changer. Choose between the Sakura Room (up to 16 guests), the Lotus Room or Jasmine Room (both up to 18 guests), or combine the Lotus and Jasmine rooms for a party of up to 50 guests. For the ultimate experience, there’s even the option of a private chef and bartender, making your evening unforgettable.
Where: 6-8 Palm Beach Ave, Palm Beach
If you’re planning a long lunch or intimate dinner by the sea, Hanks’ private dining room is calling your name. Seating up to 24 guests, this stylish space is the perfect setting for indulging in their coastal European-inspired menu, designed for sharing and savouring. Think handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and chargrilled delights, all served with a side of ocean views. With a cocktail list boasting 29 specialty sips (hello, Mango Margarita), your event is guaranteed to be as lively as it is delicious. Gather your crew and let Hanks take care of the rest.
Where: 76 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta
Kirra Beach House offers an array of delights, including a cosy wine bar that can be booked for private dining. Additionally, guests can enjoy a private barbecue area, a versatile function space and a dedicated room perfect for weddings and special events.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
It was a sad day that we farewelled the GC’s last Pizza Hut buffet, but the building’s resurrection as Siblings Kirra is a triumph. Now a modern Australian brunch and dinner destination, dripping with 1950’s Miami beach vibes goodness from pillar to post. There’s no endless soft serve, but there is a stunning private dining room. The perfect choice for your next shin-dig this room seats 26 guests, with a small private deck attached for a long lunch or intimate private dinner.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra
If you haven’t visited Cooly’s panoramically-blessed gem presiding over Point Danger, let’s just say it has foodies giddy with glee for good reason. Leveraging sweeping views of the beachfront that stretches from Snapper Rocks across to DBar, Pipi’s vacillates between laid-back and luxury. Nestle into the sought-after Private Dining Room with magnificent 220 degree views of the Pacific Ocean for an intimate dining experience.
Where: 275 Boundary St, Coolangatta
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski and Belinda Symons
How Now Brown Cow, it’s time to get fancy!
We’re all partial to a spot of fancy feasting from time to time. Whether it’s an anniversary, birthday, special celebration, or none of the above and you just feel like getting dressed up and playing swish, thankfully the GC has some cracking fine dining options. Once upon a time, our hood may not have exactly been praised for its culinary prowess, but that was so 1990 and today’s Gold Coast eats scene has award-winners at every turn.
So don your special occasion finery and refresh your memory re. which cutlery matches which meal coz here we go!
T’Ang Court
If you’re vibing a unique and tantalising Cantonese fine-dining affair, then it’s T’ang Court for the win. The esteemed Surfers Paradise restaurant inside the swisher-than-swish The Langham, Gold Coast is so divine it’s been awarded an Australian Good Food Guide Chef Hat for 2023. Presenting elevated culinary masterpieces using local produce and paired with a bespoke wine list, it’s a nod to a dynasty that shaped a nation.
Where: The Langham Gold Coast, 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Coast
Coast seamlessly blends casual elegance with a celebration of contemporary Australian cuisine. Using only the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients, feast on a curated selection of share plates, as well as local seafood and signature steaks, dry-aged in-house and cooked to perfection in the famous Josper charcoal oven (#BBQsmokyheaven). An elegant and sophisticated space with warm lighting, plush seating, an all-time wine list, and exquisite views of the big blue, it’s fine dining and its, well, finest!
Where: Level 1, Ocean by Meriton, 86 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Rick Shores
Penning a fine dining list without Rick Shores would be a criminal. Another icon focusing on fresh, locally sourced produce with intention to share, this Pan-Asian institution has awards for dayzzzz. The multi-gazillion dollar ocean views from within are simply unparalleled and don’t even get us started on the world-famous Bug Rolls. IYKYK and if you don’t, drop everything and try them now. You’re welcome.
Where: 43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
The Fireplace
As the name suggests, expect cosy feels and epic wood-fired cuisine. Executive Chef Hamish and fellow culinary lord Randy Tablan showcase the finest locally sourced produce. And we’re not just talking about firing up the ovens with any ‘ole wood here – redgum wood is the chosen one, infusing each dish to perfection. If ever there was a (classy) party in your mouth, this is it.
Where: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Manor Circuit, Sanctuary Cove, 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
Palette
With not one but two chef’s hats to its name courtesy of The Australian Good Food Guide, need we say more. Situated in the stunning HOTA Gallery, Executive Chef Dayan Hartill-Law draws inspo from the artworks on display and major exhibitions to show just how naturally art and food blends. Our tip: order the Line Caught Coral Trout with leek cannelloni, teardrop tomato, micro cucumber. Insert (fancy) drool here. You can’t go wrong here.
Where: HOTA Gallery, Home of the Arts, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Kiyomi
With a menu created by visionary Executive Head Chef Chase Kojima (and awards up the wazoo), Kiyomi gives diners a modern, yet authentic taste of Tokyo – sans the long-haul flight! As you explore the innovative dishes, you’ll quickly see why it has earned itself a reputation as one of the town’s most talked-about restaurants. Our tip: order the Scallop Sashimi, Spanner Crab, Compressed Watermelon and Yuzu Honey, and pair it with one of the signature sakes.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Citrique
Famous for its breakfast buffet, weekend-long lunch, award-winning seafood market experience buffet, and exciting Modern Australian a la carte dishes, it’s the ultimate fine dining experience. Calling the beautiful Gold Coast home, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa’s Citrique restaurant is a stunner. Let Executive Chef Paul Smart show you why is a master of his craft…and his craft is crafting unforgettable five-star meals.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
The North Room
At The North Room, the mantra is to always keep guests intrigued with an ever-changing food and wine list. They believe we eat with our eyes (same), so the incredible eats here not only captivate the tastebuds, but activate an unparalleled multi-sensory experience. Smaller, share style dishes focused on a few primary, seasonal ingredients create a relaxed, contemporary fine dining experience to remember.
Where: 1/2527 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Social Eating House
This award-winning local treasure has emerged bigger and better since its sleek, New York luxe makeover, eclipsed only by its incredible menu. The back-to-back recipient for the People’s Choice ‘Chef of the Year’ Award, owner and Executive Chef Matthew Jefferson along with Head Chef Youngkyu “YK” Reu, treat diners to the epitome of modern Australian and international cuisine perfection. An absolute MUST.
Where: The Oracle Boulevard, Shop 137/3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
Restaurant Labart
This Australian cuisine specialist offers a small, frequently changing menu showcasing the best seasonal, local produce – and we’re superfans. Delighting tastebuds with sophisticated and perfectly balanced flavours, everything from the warm rustic ambiance to the staff’s impeccable knowledge of every morsel they serve up, the experience is faultless. Do yourself a favour and opt for the wine pairing. It’s worth its weight in grapes.
Where: 2a/8 West Street, Burleigh Heads
Words by Bianca Trathen.
