Tommy’s Taco Bar gives us something to taco 'bout!
Tommy’s Taco Bar gives us something to taco 'bout!
Well amigos, Currumbin’s beloved Italian haunt, Little Tommy’s, just traded in its pasta and pizzas for piñatas and pico de gallo! Okay, it’s a no to the piñatas, but they are embracing a whole new schtick and are officially in their Mexican era! Now known as Tommy’s Taco Bar, trust us, this is nacho average Mexi joint and it’s gonna quac your world!
The masterminds, Tom Torchut and Ronnie Tarabay (yes, the same genius pair behind the wildly popular Tommy’s Italian), have gone all-in on Mexican fare, turning this cozy corner of Currumbin into a vibrant Mexican-inspired taqueria.
‘Team Tommy’s’ has spent six months in the trenches learning the A to Z of authentic Mexican cuisine. This includes a lot of taste-testing, and how do we get a job where we’re paid to do that? Head Chef Frankie put in the hard yards to make every dish sing like a mariachi band on a Saturday night, offering the finest Mexi fare done well. Really well.
Outside, you can’t miss it, with its bright red exterior and pops of cacti, luring local after local to venture inside for a piece of the action.
Inside, it stays true to its roots with a chilled-out, super friendly vibe. The walls are decked out in vibrant Mexican artwork, and the most important part (the bar, obvs) has had a serious glow-up. And while it’s walk-in only, with people always coming and going, the place feels warm and welcoming – exactly the kind of spot you want to stumble into on a balmy GC evening.
To kick things off, how about an entrada (entrée) and we’re stanning over the Jalapeño Sourdough Focaccia topped with smoked scamorza cheese. Or, go bold with the Beef Tartare Tostada layered with red pepper, spring onion, and lime.
Moving into mains, there are zero prizes for guessing what the signature dish is here. Our pick is the Fish Taco, tempura-battered fish slathered in chipotle mayo with a crunchy coleslaw kick. It’s also hard to go past the Achiote Pork Taco, with slow-cooked pork and crowned with pineapple salsa, coriander, and lime.
Nacho lovers, Tommy’s sees you with chili con carne beef or a bean-packed veggie option, both served with your choice of fries or corn chips. And if you haven’t yet heard of Quesabirrias, prepare to have your life changed. In our humble opinion, it’s the Birria Beef Quesabirria for the win, with oxtail, short ribs, Oaxaca cheese, three kinds of chilies, and coriander.
If you’re still not full, indulge that sweet tooth and we are obsessed with the Traditional Flan which is overflowing with caramel custard goodness.
And, for the bargain-hunters among us, Taco Tuesday means five-dollar tacos, giving you the perfect excuse to sample every option on the menu.
Now down to business – the drinks. No fabulous Mexican joint is complete without tequila and Mezcals up the wazoo and yep, this certainly rings true at Tommy’s Taco Bar. Our fave cocktails are of course the Margaritas and absolutely everyone saw that coming. You simply must try the Cilantro Margi, with coriander infused Arette Blanco, chilli, agave and lime. Yeah, we know the key flavour is highly controversial, but this bad boy will convert even the staunchest anti-coriander advocate.
Or, if you’re more of a Mezcal fan, the Mezcal Negroni with Campari and vermouth will hit just right, as will the selection of exotic beers, wines, and mocktails.
So whether you’re a taco connoisseur or just in it for the margs and mezcals, Tommy’s Taco Bar has everything you need to fiesta like there’s no mañana.
Where: 140 Duringan Street, Currumbin
When: 5pm – 9pm Tuesday to Saturday. Closed Sunday and Monday
Settle in at HOME Currumbin.
HOME Currumbin isn’t just a place; it’s a feeling and trust us, once you step inside, you won’t want to leave. Located right in the heart of it-girl real estate, Currumbin Industrial, it combines modern Aussie cuisine with a down-to-earth vibe that reminds us of, well, HOME (…but with that super on-trend reno we’ve all been talking about doing for, umm, we’ve kinda stopped counting).
HOME may be a new chapter for the space formerly known as Portside, but it’s already shaping up to be a GC brekky and lunch fave. What really sets HOME apart is the sense of community, thanks to new owners, Sam, Wade, Nic, and Chook. These locals grew up within 5kms of HOME and after taking over from Rob and Bec Tingay in 2024, decided to put their own spin on this much-loved local haunt.
For some fun facts on this awesome foursome, Sam and Wade run Currumbin Surf School, Nic has over 20 years of experience in the restaurant caper (more on him shortly), and Chook is an all-round local legend manufacturing Screaming Lizards surfboards. Sam and Nic both have a keen eye for all-things-design, with Sam previously running bespoke furniture store Parker & Persia with wife Stef.
Diving into the heart of the home (or HOME) – the kitchen – it was an opportunity for menu creator and kitchen designer Nic to really shoot his shot, and…. #bullseye. A culinary genius, he also runs The Baker’s Bistro in Seminyak and has worked his gastronomic greatness at top dining establishments across Bali and in both London and Copenhagen. Joined by Sous Chef and Lead Kelly Suetugui of GC institution Bam Bam Bakehouse and Pallete HOTA fame), these two were born to plate perfection together.
The brunch-to-lunch menu at HOME is designed to hit the sweet spot between 8am and 2pm, with something for everyone. Think approachable modern Aussie classics with an international gourmet glow-up.
You’ll find classics like Eggs Your Way and a B&E roll for those after easy-going options, but the real magic happens when they take familiar dishes and give them a unique twist. Think Potato Hash and Chunky Avocado Toast elevated with house-made condiments like romesco sauce or a charred red pepper and sesame sambal. In fact, all condiments, dressings, and pickles are made in-house, from the char siew sauce on the popular Banh Mi to the harissa folded into lemon tahini, showcased in dishes like the Falafel Wrap.
With a restaurant-level approach to produce and preparation, they’re delivering café-style dishes that are homemade, fresh, and perfect for everyday eating.
And if you’re wondering about the drinks (of course you are), let’s just say you’ll want to raise a glass (or three) to the bevs on offer.
A special shout-out must go to their signature sip, the Limencello Spritz, which is as refreshing as a dip in the Currumbin surf. It’s perfect for cooling down after you’ve spent an afternoon soaking up the sun, or just soaking up the vibe in the recently shushed-up outdoor terrace which seats up to 40 hungry and thirsty peeps.
Speaking of vibes, the interior is a whole mood, with Sam creating a space that’s both modern and cozy. Picture a calm, peaceful spot where you can settle in, catch up with friends, or just pretend you’re working while aimlessly scrolling the gram with a St Ali coffee in hand. The colour palette (tasteful ivory, olive, and earthy tones on the inside, with the perfect combo of sage and terracotta hues outside) and eclectic design pay homage to Currumbin’s heritage, with imagery reflecting the area’s roots.
Whether you’re brunching with mates, grabbing a bite between beach sessions, or settling in for an extended lunch, this place just gets it. It’s the sort of place you’ll feel like you belong the moment you arrive – just like your actual home.
Where: 4/42 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Waters
When: 5.30am -2:30pm Monday-Saturday & Sunday 6am – 1pm
Words by Bianca Trathen
Images by Mathilde Bouby
Let's go Currumbin!
Currumbin is the gift that keeps on giving, and locals just can’t get enough! From lush wildlife sanctuaries and delectable dining spots to vibrant cultural hubs and scenic coastal views, this coastal gem truly has it all.
Whether you’re an avid foodie, nature enthusiast, or culture vulture, there’s something here to tickle your fancy and keep you coming back for more. Let’s dive into 18 of the endless reasons why Currumbin is the place to be.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
If there’s one place that’s been synonymous with Currumbin for as long as we can remember, it’s Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Nestled within a lush 27-hectare outdoor sanctuary, people of all ages can enjoy a variety of fun and educational shows, feed the lorikeets, cuddle a koala, visit the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, and enjoy a bite to eat at The Homestead. Enjoy 10% off adult/family general admission on us here.
Where: 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin
Tommy’s Italian
From day dot, Tommy’s stole a pizza our hearts with its incredible Italian nosh partnered with the breathtaking backdrop that is Currumbin Beach. Expect familiar favourites but served Tommy’s style (fresh, authentic, and using the finest local produce) prepared with passion. Do yourself a favour and book on the upstairs balcony – it’s the spritz to your Aperol.
Where: 818 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
The Bread Social
Get b-ready! After baking out of The Farm in Byron for eight years, mates Sam Saulwick, Tom Scott and Paul Giddings moved the entire operation to a huge new space on Queensbury Ave. The café design invites patrons to peep on the bakers, involving us in all aspects of sourdough bread and pastry production. Think scrolls, croissants, tarts, baked cheesecake, cookies, sandwiches and more.
Where: 2 Queensbury Avenue, Currumbin Waters
Tarte Beach House
Cult flavourite alert! We were shook when our Burleigh-based numero uno Tarte Bakery launched a bigger and slightly more refined big sis lunch venue. Tarte Beach House is an elegant combo of Paris meets The Hamptons, while looking out over the crystal-clear waters of Currumbin. All items are made completely in house using the freshest ingredients possible, and the mouthwatering menu changes seasonally.
Where: 2-4 Thrower Drive, Currumbin
Kinship
Nestled underneath the Currumbin SLSC’s new Junior Activity & Community Centre is the kool-as Kinship. Rivalling all the edgy hipster haunts, its menu combines fresh and trendy takes – such as brekkie tacos and biscoff crumpets – along with your classic cafe faves. The breezy beachside spot offers sit-down service, along with plenty of equally delicious portable options for peckish passersby.
Where: 766 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Aperitivo
If a charming Italiano café full of character is your vibe, you’ll fall head over heels for Aperitivo. Tucked away in Thrower Drive, nom your way through tasty focaccias, paninis, arancini, sfogliatelle, Roman style pizza, lasagne, cannoli, tiramisù, and grazing boxes to order. Go on a weekend and you and your pooch can pull up a pew in neighbour Currumbin Dental Care’s quaint garden space next door.
Where: 8a Thrower Drive, Currumbin
Little Vine Room
We are so grapeful for this piece of paradise. Decked out in delicious deep green and apricot hues, Little Vine Room is as pleasing to the eyes as its food and sips are to the palette. Think cheese and charcuterie plates, gourmet toasties and jaffles, and a spread of sensational bites, paired perfectly with wines for days and top tier cocktails.
Where: 27-31 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Waters
The Bathhouse at Ground
The Bathhouse offers the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation in the stunning Currumbin Valley, forming part of the Ground community hub. Think mineral enriched hydrotherapy spas, a plunge pool, traditional cedar hot tub, therapeutic cold bath, large wood fired hot stone sauna, an outdoor infrared sauna, massage, and bespoke facials. Tranquilly personified.
Where: 2 Village Way, Currumbin Valley
Currumbin RSL
I mean, who doesn’t love an RSL and this one is the MVP. Set on the banks of picturesque Currumbin Creek, Currumbin RSL also known as ‘The Best Little Club in The World’, is a multi-award-winning boutique style show-stopper. With delish global grub, a pizzeria, hand-crafted drinks, and Soundlounge, a live music lounge with some of the best acoustic artists, everything this place touches turns to solid gold.
Where: 165 Duringan Street, Currumbin
Pasture & Co
Embracing the eco-friendly philosophy with gusto, Pasture & Co is a must-visit family-friendly café with d-lish healthy eats, a prime location, friendly service, and an environmental conscience. Committed to nurturing both people and the planet, self-sustainability, and supporting small local businesses, don’t skip this one!
Where: 6 Village Way, Currumbin Valley
Fuel Bakehouse
Serving up some of the absolute best doughnuts you’ll ever eat is Currumbin’s Fuel Bakehouse. With varieties like Nutella, custard and salted caramel to name a few, calories don’t count here so buy at least four of each. It’s not just doughnuts though, they also do epic pies, cruffins, croissants; all of the baked goodies – and cracking good coffee. Perfection the lot of it.
Where: 44 Currumbin Ck Road, Currumbin Waters
The Salt Mill
A tiny little space directly across from the beach, The Salt Mill is one of the Coat’s most beloved cafes for a reason. Several in fact. They do exceptional coffee, takeaway sandwiches, Açai bowls (arguably some of the best around), smoothies, fresh juices, smashed avo, raw treats – everything that is delicious in the world. Buy one of everything then stroll across the road and take in that unrivalled ocean view.
Where: 784 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Consciously Clean
Consciously Clean is the place to go if you need to stock up on anything and everything eco-friendly in terms of home and body cleaning goods. They have a system where you can bring in your own jar or bottle and fill it with the product of your choice (or purchase one there) – and it’s all very affordable. Not only that, but you can also grab food containers and wraps, drink bottles, pet things, and skincare too. It’s a one-stop shop. We love.
Where: 4/42 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin
Freeman’s Organic Farm
For a tree-change, make sure you add Freeman’s to your weekend rotation. The farm was established in 1915 and in the 1920’s, became the largest commercial banana farm in Australia. Today, the farm grows all organic produce which you can purchase (grocery shop – tick), plus grab a bite and an organic 3 Elements coffee at The Farm Café. Enjoy your treats and take in the sensational hinterland views.
Where: 618 Tomewin Mountain Road, Currumbin Valley
Currumbin Valley Brewing
Currumbin Valley Brewing, crafted by local brewers Pete “Smokey” Wheldon and Luke Ronalds, is the newest gem in the creekside area’s growing list of watering holes. Featuring a 10hL Rolec copper-clad brew house, this taproom and brewery took several years and community support to bring to life.
Where: 27 Traders Way, Currumbin Waters
Dust Temple
All your favourite arty aspects combine at Dust Temple, an ex-warehouse turned gallery, coffee shop, and creative community hang. Hosting local, national and international artists, musicians, poets, an in-house ceramicist, a leatherworker, and a silversmith, it’s certainly a place to go if you need to feel creatively inspired. Amp up the happy vibes with a coffee while you’re there.
Where: 54 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin
Balter Brewery
You’ve heard about it and if you’ve not yet had the chance to visit, make today the day. Balter is the brainchild of your fave local pro surfers combining two of the things we Gold Coasters love the most, beer and waves. It’s a delightfully decked out space with big old beer vats on display, a sweet mural on the wall, and plenty of outdoor spots to sit. Happy days.
Where: 14 Traders Way, Currumbin
Words by Bianca Trathen
On your marg, get set, GO!
It’s one of life’s greatest pleasures; eating Mexican and drinking margis – sounds a bit corny but we stand by it. So it’s pretty darn lucky the Gold Coast is spoilt for choice when it comes to Mexican meals, mmm there’s a little Mariachi band playing in our head just thinking about it.
And if you don’t like Mexican then this is guac-ward, because we’ve done the heavy lifting – aka eating – so you can pick your taco joint of choice and put your taco where your mouth is. Come on, don’t be salty – unless you’re a margarita of course.
So here’s our round up of the Coast’s best spots to get your Mexican fix, but before you go don’t forget the rules – first we fiesta, then we siesta. We’ll be there faster than you can say “extra guac, please”.
Street Taco Bar & Taqueria brings bold, flavour-packed Mexican eats to Paradise Point, and locals are absolutely here for it. Blending authentic flavours with a laidback coastal vibe, this colourful spot serves up all the classics with serious heart. On the menu, think punchy tacos, loaded nachos, slow-cooked meats and churros worth saving room for, all made fresh and gluten-free without missing a beat. The margaritas are flowing, the energy is warm and welcoming, and it’s the kind of place you’ll find yourself coming back to on repeat.
Where: Shop 5, 46 The Esplanade, Paradise Point
With shops across the country, we’re lucky to have ourselves one of these spicy little dens of Mexican magic here on the Goldy. Slip in and slip on a sombrero and let the endless fantastic food and de-lish cocktails flow. Overlooking one of the Gold Coast’s best known beaches – Surfers Paradise – it’s big on size, vibes and margs… No really, the margs are giant and nothing gets us going like a cocktail as big as our sombrero.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Kicking around since 1995, The Aztec Broadbeach…along with The Aztec Coolangatta…is a hit with the whole fam, boasting a fun-loving mixture of cosy booths, ultra-modern furnishings, neon lights and an epic fluoro bar. A colourful and upbeat venue, you’re spoilt for choice with all the Mexican goodies you’d hope to find and half price lunches Friday through Sunday in case you needed any more convincing.
Where: The Aria Building, Shop 11/17 Albert Avenue, Broadbeach & 152 Griffith Street (Twin Towns end), Coolangatta
We briefly considered gatekeeping Costa Taco to keep those highly coveted tables to ourselves, but a list of epic Mexican eats without it just wouldn’t sit right. Especially now they’ve expanded with a Broadbeach outpost and their biggest venue yet in Burleigh. Serving up seriously authentic Mexican fare, the menu is short, sharp and all about doing a few things exceptionally well, with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Now, stop reading and order the fish tacos.
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach and 1136 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Grab your (fully clothed) amigos and head on down to Cancun – okay fine, Broadbeach – because Nude Amigos might be cheeky in name, but its flavours are seriously bold. The space is light, breezy and effortlessly chic, basically calling your name for a long, leisurely sip of one of the exotic (read: very fancy) tequilas lining the bar.
And the good times don’t stop there – Nude Amigos has spread the fiesta across three locations, with venues in Broadbeach, Coolangatta and Kingscliff, so you’re never too far from a margarita moment.
Where: Lot 1, 70 Surf Parade, Broadbeach, The Strand Shopping Centre, Coolangatta and 60 Marine Parade, Kingscliff
Eats institution Bonita Bonita, along with little sister Bon Bon (pouring mezcals and tequilas for your pre or post-dinner festivities), is a long-standing fave for good reason. The dimly lit, moody and ornate interiors set the scene for an intimate dining experience, while the menu delivers every single time. Once a dinner-only darling, the Mexican gods have answered our prayers, with lunch now firmly in the mix alongside their iconic evening service. Settle in for seriously mouth-watering eats, the grilled corn is a must, and the cocktails? Just as iconic.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Always buzzing, Mexicali brings those laidback Cali meets Mexico vibes we just can’t quit. If you’re rolling deep, do yourself a favour and lock in a banquet so you can spend less time deciding and more time focused on the margaritas. Sunset sips on the balcony are a non-negotiable, and don’t even think about leaving without a cheeky snap under the ever-changing lightbox message on the stairs.
Where: Level 1, 2223 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach
Who said the beachside burbs should be having all the fun? Not us, so if you’ve been having a siesta on our humble Hinterland’s worst kept secret and Gold Coast institution, Hotel Panchos, then this is the sign you need to get on out to Mudgeeraba so they can guac your world. With splashes of colour from wall to wall plus enchiladas, margs and tinnies at the ready you’re set for a spec-taco-lar feed.
Where: 581 Springbrook Road, Mudgeeraba
If you haven’t been to Hail Mary, have you even done Burleigh? Tucked down a James Street laneway, this pink-hued gem is easy to miss – but trust, it’s worth finding. She’s not just a pretty face either, dishing up some of the freshest, most flavour-packed Mexican going around. Swing by for lunch or dinner and you’ll quickly see why it’s a local fave.
Where: 6/26 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Frida Sol is one of those institutions that locals quietly rave about. Looking out over the Gold Coast Highway, it opens into a vibey little taqueria serving up fresh, modern Mexican. Order the prawn tacos, they’re a crowd fave for a reason, or dive into the loaded nachos piled high with all the good stuff. It’s also a winner for families thanks to a top-notch kids menu.
When: 1176 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
This vibrant spot has well and truly settled into its Mexican era, serving up a punchy, flavour-packed menu alongside a laidback, come-as-you-are vibe. Expect all the good stuff done right, think crispy fish tacos, slow-cooked pork numbers and quesabirria that’ll have you planning your next visit mid-bite. The bar is stacked with tequila and mezcal, the margaritas go hard, and Taco Tuesday is your weekly excuse sorted.
Where: 140 Duringan Street, Currumbin
Fresh, flavour-packed dishes with a cheeky hit of oriental flair (go on, try saying that after a margarita or two) are the name of the game at Agave Rosa. It’s vibrant, a little bit funky and seriously welcoming, with a menu that fuses two absolute fave cuisines in all the right ways. And because no Mexican spot worth its salt skimps on the good stuff, the cocktails and margaritas here absolutely go off.
Where: Shop 2/74 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski and Belinda Symons
