Meet Bar Ricci; Main Beach’s new kid on the block.
Meet Bar Ricci; Main Beach’s new kid on the block.
Get ready Gold Coast, because Main Beach is about to get a glow-up worthy of an Italian Vogue spread. The hotly anticipated Bar Ricci is opening its doors, taking over the hallowed ground once occupied by Shuck – the restaurant that defined Tedder Avenue cool for decades. Shuck may have shucked its last oyster, but Bar Ricci is here to remind us that this block of prime foodie real estate still has a lot of love – and limoncello – to give.
The brainchild of Carlo Deluise, a man who spent years frequenting Shuck like basically everyone else (#TheMems), Bar Ricci is the answer to every fine food loving Gold Coaster’s prayers.
Carlo knew Tedder deserved more than a sequel – it needed a blockbuster reboot, so he cast the ultimate ensemble: Head Chef James Choi (ex-Bar Carolina, Melbourne) and his culinary fireworks, and a bar crew imported straight outta Italy and Melbourne’s Society Bar to ensure your Aperol Spritz tastes like it was poured on the Amalfi Coast. Add a Sommelier from the Melbournians’ Supernormal, and you’ve got a lineup that’ll gnocchi your socks off.
The interiors and build are steeped in refined coastal Italian style, meticulously designed by the best in the biz, Peter Kennon. With two private dining rooms, a breezy air-conditioned terrace, and capacity for 170 seated diners (or 250 unseated), Bar Ricci is built for both intimate dinners and full-blown soirées.
And with multiple nationalities represented among the staff, the service is as worldly as the wine list – which, by the way, is one of the best Italian collections in Queensland.
Speaking of indulgence, the menu is giving Michelin star magic. If you can’t decide where to start, may we suggest the Assaggini selection, particularly the Green Pea Arancini with mozzarella and aioli.
Then, why not partake in some Carpaccio di Manzo with vintage retired dairy beef carpaccio, shallot, pine nuts, Comte, and horseradish. And, for those with a passion for pasta (aka, everyone you’ve ever met), the Tagliolini Di Mare cannot be beat, with blue swimmer crab, crustacean butter, and white wine.
Before we dive into the nitty gritty of the ‘Secondi’ part of the menu (for the uninitiated, this is the main event), it would be remiss of us not to mention that all steaks are charcoal-cooked in the OG real-deal – a Josper oven.
While the mere mention of the J word makes every bovine buff salivate, we simply must pivot and highlight Ricci’s signature dish; Barramundi Al Limone. Set to be THE pick that locals brag about to their fancy pants Sydney friends, we’re talking coral coast barramundi, limoncello butter, mussel, and zucchini.
Wash it down with a light and frothy Bergamot Sgroppino cocktail – proof that citrus and bubbles are the ultimate power couple – and soz, but no swanky southern-state based restaurant can hold a candle to that combo.
So, Italian nosh lovers, wine worshippers, and cocktail connoisseurs – mark your calendars because Tedder is about to get its groove back. Bar Ricci is not just another restaurant; it’s the start of a new wining and dining era for our beloved Main Beach and for this, we are forever grapeful.
Where: 20 Tedder Avenue, Main Beach
When: Lunch & dinner, Wednesday to Sunday
Words by Bianca Trathen
So much more than its million dollar views.
There’s no denying that Main Beach is one of those postcodes that has everything going for it. Surrounded by million dollar surf views and sprawling green space one way and the Broadwater the other – you don’t have to be Sherlock Holmes to figure out why locals are so frond of flocking to this breezy, palm-flanked suburb.
Bursting at the seams with boutique shopping, dining, luxury accom and entertainment options (heck, it even boasts its own theme park), there is never any shortage of things to do, see, or eat.
The sky – or, more accurately, your credit card – is the limit.
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort
We’re not sure if it’s the salt air, but clearly something magic in the air happening here. One of the many mainstays in Main Beach’s strip – Sheraton Grand Mirage has been going strong as our go-to for all things pampering since well before we were old enough to pay for our own seafood buffet (#tear). Recently refurbed and looking more luxurious than ever, whether it’s treating ourselves to a staycay or simply perching up poolside for a few hours with the famous Pearls Bar high tea, Sheraton never misses.
Where: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, 71 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach
Winey Cow
Just when we thought brunch couldn’t be any more perfect – its boozier, bottomless iteration entered the chat. Regardless of your enthusiasm for Croissant chilli scramble chased with several Spritz to start your day, Winey Cow does both with pizzazz. Bursting onto our brunch late last year, Mornington Peninsula’s famed crew of brekkie moo-vers and shakers arrived with awards out the wazoo and mimosas in hand. Next time you roll out of bed craving a Bagel Benny, Lobster Bao, or Bloody Mary, Main Beach’s bright and breezy brekkie gem has got you.
Where: 5/11 Woodroffe Ave, Main Beach
Imperial Hotel
Another luxury jewel in Main Beach’s crown, the Seaworld Dr landmark formerly known as the Palazzo Versace has housed many a high roller in its time. Of course, locals are equally welcome to swing by and soak up its spoils and waterfront views for a weekend or a few hours. If you’re in the mood for the latter, Le Jardin’s signature bubble-studded Imperial High Tea is an excellent starting point, or if you’re a sucker for a buffet, the opulent surrounds of Il Barocco Restaurant never disappoint.
Where: 94 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Sea World
Not merely a fixture of the Main Beach skyline and our childhoods, no matter how many birthdays pass us by, a trip to Sea World will always slap. Particularly so, because locals have the added perk of knowing the strategic times to sashay by (hello off season) for maximum thrillage and spillage (also hello, Storm Coaster front carriage #IYKYK). Swing by, spend a few hours chillin’ with the ocean critters, hit up a few rollercoasters, then bail with an ice-cream in hand. Happy days.
Where: Seaworld Dr, Main Beach
Holy Ship
What do you get when you take two fishing trawlers in need of some sea-rious TLC and a trio of swashbuckling restauranteurs? Main Beach’s swell new eats and sips concept, Holy Ship Bar & Restaurant… obviousea! Teaming up with co-owner Jake Ruttley, the brains behind former local gem, Tonic on Chirn, Kane and Yvette McCarthy, have certainly moved on to bigger and berther things. Launching twin floating venues earlier this year – the team has set their sights on bringing their signature grazing-style eats and sips to the sea! You even might spy the distinctive duo – decked out in cobalt blue and white – milling about the Broadwater on private function business when they’re not at home in their Marina Mirage mooring. Good times, ahoy.
Where: Birth 7&8 Marina Mirage, Marina Commercial arm, Sea World Drive, Main Beach
Peter’s Fish Market
Can you really call yourself a Gold Coaster ‘till you’ve bookended your spit hangs (or failed fishing expedition) with a pit stop at Peter’s Fish Market? Another absolute Seaworld Drive staple, this place has been churning out the fresh seafood, fish and chippies just a stone’s throw from the Broadwater for some 30 years now. Often heaving but always worth the wait, next time you feel the Sunday scaries coming on, pack a picnic rug and head here for a feed of famously crispy chippies, fresh prawns and some of the tenderest calamari going (or, BYOB for a chip butty by the sea – bliss).
Where: 130 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach
Marina Mirage
Another of Main Beach’s long-standing draws, Marina Mirage has long been a local haven of all things fancy and foodie. The produce-packed farmers markets every Saturday are always fave, as are the stellar array of eateries and boutiques. Home to international and local labels such as Sonia Stradiotto Couture, when we’re in need of designer threads, Marina Mirage never fails to hook us up. When it’s world-class waterfront wining and dining we’re after, the likes of La Luna Beach Club, La Luna, Glass and Omeros Bros have got you sorted.
Where: 74 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
That Beach Entrance
In addition to the more obvious allure of spectacular beaches, this saltwater blessed suburb just so happens to also be home to one of the GC’s most insta-famous beach entrances. Tucked just behind Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, you’ll find the particularly picturesque beach access path framed by its synonymous and oft-papped swaying palms. Even the most seasoned locals could never tire of being greeted by that view (or snapping just one more pic on those days when the weather is really turning it on).
Where: Head to Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort and look for the giant palms.
Rosé Gelateria
Dishing up dreamy interiors every bit as delicious as its artisanal ice-based confections, it’s little surprise this upscale ‘hood is now home to one of three boutique Rosé Gelateria locations. Joining its dusty pink-bathed big sis in Sanc Cove, head here to be greeted by swoon-worthy interiors and grab a scoop (or three) of house-made gelato or freshly brewed specialty coffee. With gourmet flavours like Passionfruit Pavlova and Fig and Mascarpone, gracing its rotation, there’s always something lush and lick-worthy with your name on it.
Where: 19/21 Tedder Ave, Main Beach
Tedder Ave
Spanning the length of the suburb’s residential end, Main Beach’s ever-bustling Tedder Ave strip is an icon that needs no introductions. Packed with boutique shopping, dining and sipping spots galore, it is nigh on impossible to ever be bored or hungry here. If you’ve got time to kill post beach walk, perch up and people watch one of the cute cafés, or swing by Main Beach Bakery for your sweet treat fix. In the latter half of the day, must-visit foodie hotspots like Greek gem Xenia, Domanis and fine dining seafood destination, Shuck help this lively hotspot really come into its own.
Where: Tedder Ave, Main Beach
Words by Kellie Leader
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
