If your chook cravings are cluckin’ and you’re searching for a spot that takes fried chicken to the next level, Fricken is nothing short of peck-tacular. Nestled in the heart of Broadbeach (where 5 Boroughs used to roost, right next to Starbucks), this fast-casual chook stop has officially hatched and is already the wind beneath our (chicken) wings.

Fricken is more than just a catchy name – it’s a passion project. Starting as a humble food truck side hustle in Canberra powered by “mum’s’ homemade fried chicken”, Fricken has followed the sun to our local shores in bricks-and-mortar style. And we can confirm that every step of the journey has been soaked in family pride…and a crispy coating that’s equally delish and ‘hensome’.

Behind the bird is a small flock of geniuses, including Mo Saad. Mo is an ex-hospitality manager with a background in computer science, who traded software for seasoning to bring this dream to life. Working around the cluck, Mo combined his natural entrepreneurial smarts, a whole lot of heart, and his team’s enthusiasm to create a space that’s more than just finger-lickin’- it’s im-peckable.

The interiors and build, championed by Owen J Thompson, nailed the ‘surf shack meets street-style diner’ brief. Think laidback vibes, bold colours, a cheeky attitude, and a big dose of personality, just like their food. There’s a retro colour palette of reds and sandy neutrals, grid-tiled tabletops, quirky rooster art, and even a statement pillar wrapped in pixel-perfect red-and-white tile. It’s a cool, casual spot where you can kick back, hang with mates, and enjoy some seriously good chicken.

Seating options are clucking versatile too. Whether you’re perched inside soaking up the action, chilling alfresco in the sea breeze, or grabbing takeaway for a beachside feast, you can ruffle some feathers in style (and taste).

So, what’s on the menu? A lot but in short: the Fricken Box. It’s a glorious medley of crispy chicken tenders, golden fries, thick-cut toast and a generous cup of their signature dipping sauce – a tried and tested recipe inspired by US fried chicken heavyweight, Raising Cane’s (yep, that viral sensation). It’s crunchy, salty, savoury, sweet, and impossibly addictive. One dip and your eggs-pectations will be blown. And bonus points for being one of the rare fried food joints that actually cater to gluten-free folks without making it a second-thought side dish.

But the plot ‘chickens’ because it’s not just the eats at the top of the pecking order, the beverages are equally clucking good. Fricken’s House-made Lemonade is the perfect zesty sidekick to your chicken fix to keep you feeling clucky, lucky, and peckin’ perky.

What makes Fricken really strut ahead of the flock is the quality. We’re talking premium cuts, everything made fresh, and sauces that are designed to dunk, drizzle, or drench. It’s too elevated to be called “fast food,” but far too craveable to be fine dining, landing somewhere deliciously in-between. Plus, Mo and the team are already making moves to connect with the community (and no doubt converting local fried chicken fans one Fricken Box at a time), proving that this newcomer is far more than a one-chick-pony.

So, if you’re keen for a cheeky feed that packs some serious crunch, follow the scent of golden, juicy goodness. Fricken is here and ready to serve up some deep-fried deliciousness – with zero clucks given.

Where: 89-91 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
When: 11am – 9pm, Monday to Sunday

Words by Bianca Trathen
Images by Mathilde Bouby

Looking for a thrill, a brain-teasing challenge, or just a fun excuse to race against the clock with friends or family? The Gold Coast is packed with escape rooms that cater to every type of adventure seeker. From high-tech cinematic puzzles to spine-tingling horror rooms and interactive game arenas, there’s no shortage of ways to test your wits, teamwork, and nerves.

We’ve rounded up four of the best spots where you can lock in, solve the clues, and hopefully escape before time runs out. Dun, dun, duuuuun.

Eclipse Escape Rooms

If you’ve ever wanted to live out a high-stakes thriller, Eclipse Escape Rooms is your stage. Nestled inside Chevron Renaissance, this local gem has four custom-built escape rooms (and another coming soon) that will test your smarts, speed, and sanity in equal measure. Everything here is done in-house, so no franchised templates or recycled storylines, just original, high-tech puzzles designed to blow your mind.

Each room feels like a movie set, with moody lighting, clever gadgets, and special effects that’ll keep you guessing until the last second. Whether you’re solving crimes, escaping secret labs, or diving into fantasy adventures, Eclipse is known for its cinematic detail and clever twists that make every session feel fresh.
Where: Level 1, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, 3240 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

Fox in a Box Gold Coast

Fox in a Box doesn’t just lock you in a room- it throws you into the middle of a story. This world-renowned escape room franchise has made serious waves with eight themed rooms that range from thrilling to downright terrifying. If you’re a first-timer, step into ‘Prison Break’ for classic escape room vibes or take on ‘Mastermind: A Heist Story’ for a family-friendly, flashlight-in-the-dark challenge. Feeling brave? Enter ‘The Other Side’ for a thrilling, horror-heavy escape inspired by cult-favourite shows like Stranger Things. This one will test even the pros! There’s ‘Zombie Lab’ and ‘Wild West Saloon’ for medium-level puzzle fans, and ‘Bunker’ for the ultimate challenge, boasting a success rate of just 40%.

Each experience is crafted with next-level production design- we’re talking world-class tech, immersive soundscapes, and storylines that pull you straight into the action. The venue itself has a fun, social vibe with a lounge for pre- and post-game hangs, making it perfect for birthdays, bucks nights, or corporate team building (yep, they can host up to 48 players at once). Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned escaper, Fox in a Box is where logic meets adrenaline in the most cinematic way possible.
Where: Level 1/3173 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

Padlock’d

If you think escape rooms are all smoke and mirrors, Padlock’d will prove you dangerously wrong. As Australia’s biggest escape room venue, this Surfers Paradise venue offers a whopping 14 rooms, from enchanted escapes and abandoned carnivals to heists and prison breaks. Each room is a fully immersive world, complete with clever tech, detailed sets, and a healthy dose of mystery to get your heart racing (and your brain buzzing).

Whether you’re wrangling a corporate crew, hosting a birthday bash, or just up for some puzzle-packed fun with mates, Padlock’d has you covered- up to 73 players within 90 minutes, in fact. And if you dare to turn things up a notch (or five), their new ‘Door Seven’ horror experience at Paradise Centre promises to haunt your dreams long after you’ve escaped. No wonder this place was named a Best of Queensland Experience in 2024.
Where: 3177 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise + Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Other World HQ

If traditional escape rooms feel too predictable, Other World HQ is about to blow your mind (and maybe your nerves). These cutting-edge escape rooms blend live-action storytelling, and video game-inspired challenges into one mega experience. It’s like stepping through a portal into another dimension (literally).

The star of the show is ‘Saboteurs’, a real-life, space-themed reimagining of ‘Among Us’, where players complete physical tasks while trying to suss out the impostor in their midst. We have to admit, it’s ridiculously addictive. Horror fans can rejoice at ‘The Cursed Passage’ – billed as the ultimate nightmare-fuelled escape experience, set inside a dream-harvesting facility overtaken by monstrous nightmares. Across five rooms, your mission is to restore the barrier between dreams and reality before the darkness takes over. Then there’s ‘The Forgotten Arcade’, where a rogue AI called ‘The Glitch’ has corrupted old-school game machines, and you’ll have to battle your way through warped digital worlds to save reality itself.

With the capacity to host up to 45 players, Other World HQ is ideal for birthdays, events, or anyone who’s bored with screen time and wants to dive into some out-of-this-world fun.
Where: Level 1/3107 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

Once upon a time we left holidaymakers to their own devices in arguably the GC’s most famous beachside suburb, but off the beaten path – well to be fair, some are still very much on it – locals have been keeping these gems all to themselves for a little too long if you ask us. That’s right, Surfers Paradise is more than a postcard-perfect destination, it’s a lifestyle locals love to embrace, because why should we leave all the fun to the tourists! So now we’re here to spill the beans on all the reasons locals can’t get enough of Surfers Paradise.

For all-in-one spots
Surfers Paradise does convenience like a pro with destinations where you can shop, eat, and play all in one spot. Paradise Centre is a beachside fave with a mix of fashion, food, and fun, right at your fingertips in the heart of Cavill Mall. Just a short stroll away you’ll find Soul Boardwalk where laidback vibes met beachside dining and retail therapy aplenty – because what better way to get the food digesting than with a shopping moment.

If an urban escape is more up your alley then pop on over to Chevron Renaissance for all your boutique shopping needs, whether it’s a bite to eat, to grab groceries for the week, a new fit for that special event or a pedicure pamper moment your wish is their command. The two hour free parking is also a big drawcard!

All-you-can eats
If you’re in the market for a buffet that’ll bowl you over then you’ve come to the right place because at this point buffet should be Surfers Paradise’s middle name.

Locals know that they’ve got the buffet game locked down so if you’re up for eating so much seafood you’ll need to unbutton your pants to fit in another plate then Citrique at the JW Marriott has your name all over it.

Just down the highway you’ll find a bustling international market that dreams (and hungry bellies) are made of with QT Gold Coast’s iconic Bazaar Marketplace experience.

Edging on the cusp of neighbouring Broady, Horizon Sky Dining might have pretty much everything on the menu but what about revolving panoramic views of the Gold Coast? They’ve got those two and we’ll take a plate of both thank you very much.

For your morning sips
If you’re anything like us, the day doesn’t start until coffee has been sipped. Kickstart your day with the perfect brew at ESPL Coffee. This beachside gem is great for delicious bites with a friendly vibe.

If you’re seeking people who are serious about coffee, Paradox Coffee Roasters is the destination you seek. They are committed to producing the highest quality coffee there is — just ask the locals!

Like your morning sip with a side of epic treats? Janus Bakehouse is for you… don’t mind us drooling just thinking about it.

To escape the hustle & bustle head to Bumbles. Budds Beach has long been a local secret but there’s good reason why Gold Coasters have been flocking to this hot spot for 10+ years. Get your coffee fix, some snacks and set up on the edge of Budds Beach for the ultimate start to the day.

For you harder sips
Fancy a cocktail (or five)? Well you’ve come to the right place because Surfers is a cocktail connoisseur’s dream come true. After sunset – okay maybe before too – Surfers turns into a cocktail connoisseur’s playground.

Lulu Rooftop is the newest addition to the scene, serving up a funky art deco aesthetic alongside sophisticated sips.

Sports fan? Hit up The Sporting Globe to get all the sporting action live and loud or get ready to yeehaw and let loose at Cowboys, with a bucking bull taking pride of place the Americana vibes are vibing.

Okay party people, we hear you asking where to go get Gold Coast vibes going and it’s obviously got to be Cali Beach Club – it’s giving European inspired beach party so you’re guaranteed a good time. If it ain’t broke don’t fix it we say, so it’s no wonder locals keep going back for more at The Island Rooftop, an institution for good reason you can’t beat the open air and the huge beverage list never fails us.

For drinks with a view Surfers Pavilion has nailed casual waterfront meets ‘I don’t want to leave yet’ as it overlooks the canal so you can watch the boats drift by. Hinterland your preferred view? Well, The Exhibitionist Bar’s got them aplenty, actually they’ve got panoramic sight of the whole GC so take your pick. Back over on the beachside Coast Beach Bar are home to some of the best marg’s on the GC and even better views of the suburb’s namesake beach.

For casual eats
Sometimes you just want to keep it low-key and you know what, that doesn’t have to mean that the flavours are low-key too. You go-to for authentic Thai flavours has got to be Sura Thai, dine in to make the most of the cosy and authentic feel or grab your favourites to-go. Shiraz Persian Restaurant has become known as the Coast’s best Middle Eastern bites with aromatic Persian dishes like tender kebabs gracing the menu.

Don’t sleep on Velaa’s Asian fusion fare from classic poke bowls and new flavours like their signature Thai Milk Tea Parfait (uh, YUM) just waiting for you to discover.

We like big burgers and we cannot lie so Wahlburgers is a must-try for us, plus you might even sneak a peek at Mark Wahlburg when he’s in town next if you’re lucky!

Alright, this one is definitely loved by more than just locals, HOTA’s Markets are the ultimate hangout to ring in Sunday Funday, pick up all the local farm fresh produce and flowers your heard desires and then grab a bite (we’re looking at you, Mio Wraps) and a sweet treat for the road and thank us later.

For something a little bit fancy
Now’s the time to bust out your best fancy fit because Surfers has some pretty boujee spots up their sleeves.

Nestled beneath the HOTA Gallery, Palette proves that fine dining is back, baby! Treat yourself to the degustation for the full experience, with dishes and cocktails inspired by the each gallery exhibition you need to see it – or taste it – to believe it.

The buffet is always a winner at Citrique, but have you tried their a la carte? Take this as your sign to snag a seat and let the food come to you while you spoil yourself with the Chef’s Signature Bay Bug Dumplings (life-changing) or some chargrilled Australian Wagyu.

Elevated Thai is the word at Nahm Talay Thai, all your regular favourites but even better and cocktails that are just begging to be instagrammed – bonus point for the beach front views.

Let the good times roll
Surfers Paradise isn’t short on adrenaline or intrigue and it doesn’t matter if it’s your first or 50^th time visiting, they still pack the same punch in our humble opinion.

Scale SkyPoint for unbeatable views atop the Q1, chill out (literally) at the IceBar and get a moment to reflect at the Mirror Bar – see what we did there.

If you’d rather enter another dimension for a little while then Infinity is begging for you to explore their mysterious maze or drop into Other World HQ and escape the ordinary with mind-bending interactive games and escape rooms. Test your team work (and maybe patience) at Eclipse Escape Rooms and Fox in a Box, go on – put that big ol’ brain to work.

We’re partial to a trip down nostalgia lane so we’re always down to battle it out at Timezone, and when there’s fun for all ages on the menu how could you not! Feeling flighty? Take a literal leap of faith at iFly and get a taste of indoor skydiving before you brave the great outdoors.

Gosh all that exploring calls with some pampering to finish the day, but not without its quirks! Barefoot Fish have tanks full of fish – yep, real live fish – just waiting for you to dip in for a soak so they can get rid of any dry or dead skin and leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed.

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski