Soul Boardwalk wins over locals and visitors alike.
Soul Boardwalk wins over locals and visitors alike.
When you’re in Surfers Paradise and hunger strikes you want food that’s easy, vibey and good enough that you’d happily repeat tomorrow. Enter: Soul Boardwalk – beachside, breezy and doing the absolute most in the best way.
Right opposite the beach at the top of Cavill Mall, Soul Boardwalk isn’t just for visitors. Locals are regulars too, and that’s always the greenest of green flags. No overthinking, no bookings panic, just roll in, pick a mood and eat accordingly.
Mornings start strong. Locals fuel up at ESPL Coffee, grab a takeaway and do a bit of prime people-watching while the beach wakes up (elite cardio-free entertainment). If you’re more of a “sit, sip, stay” brekkie person, Surfers Paradise Beach Café delivers all the classics with friendly faces and ocean views that may convince you to cancel the rest of your plans and stay put. Long breakfasts accidentally turning into lunch? Very on brand here.
By lunchtime, Soul Boardwalk hums. Alma is the go-to for shared plates and “we’ll just get one more” energy, while Vapiano keeps things cruisy with fresh pasta and pizza made to order (yes, we’re watching it being made and yes, we love that). After a big beach morning, Fishbowl hits just right with fresh, Japanese-inspired bowls that feel light, clean and smugly healthy.
One of the newer kids on the boardwalk that locals are genuinely hyped about is Woodfired Mediterranean Grill and Café. Brought to life by Gold Coast restaurateur Arthur De Snoo, it blends Greek, Italian and Moroccan flavours without any fuss or fluff. The woodfired pizzas are the main character, light, flavour-packed and made with house-made dough and fresh daily sauce. Add freshly baked breads, Moroccan pitas and a surprisingly solid whisky list and… yeah, it’s already a regular.
As the afternoon rolls into evening, Soul Boardwalk becomes the meet-up spot. Seascape Restaurant and Bar is where you go when you want to impress. Seafood, cocktails and ocean views doing the heavy lifting. The newly reopened Hurricane’s Grill and Bar is back and better, with a glow-up, extra alfresco seating and those iconic flame-grilled ribs and steaks. Same fave, just hotter.
For easy, no-frills feeds, Brazilian Flame Bar and Grill brings the drama with meats carved at your table (yes please), while Hog’s Breath Café is a comfy classic for burgers and steaks. And when life is moving fast (or you just need a snack, stat), KFC and Subway are right there doing what they do best.
Dessert is where the pace slows and decisions get sweeter. Yo-Chi and Minus 18 Degrees are both firm favourites, especially on warm nights when everyone’s out strolling, chatting and pretending they don’t want dessert (lies).
What we really love about Soul Boardwalk is how easily food turns into an entire afternoon. Ripley’s Believe It or Not is a fun wildcard, especially with kids in tow, while Build-A-Bear Workshop somehow always becomes a holiday highlight. If browsing is more your thing, Foot Locker and Quiksilver are right nearby and fit the beachside brief perfectly.
For visitors, that local stamp of approval matters and Soul Boardwalk has it in spades. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee, lingering over lunch or settling in for dinner after a long beach day, it’s welcoming, familiar and effortlessly fun. The kind of place you pop into once… then somehow return to every time you find yourself in Surfers.
Where: Soul Boardwalk, 4 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Instagram: @soulboardwalk
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY SOUL BOARDWALK
Your go-to guide to dining and unwinding at Soul Boardwalk.
As the Gold Coast shakes off the chill and welcomes warmer days, Soul Boardwalk in Surfers Paradise is turning up the heat in the tastiest way possible. Perched just steps from the sand, this beachfront haven is the ultimate spot to soak up the sunshine, sip something refreshing, and savour good food with a sea breeze.
From sunrise to sunset, Soul Boardwalk at the top of Cavill Mall delivers all-day vibes with a backdrop of the iconic Surfers Paradise beach that’s hard to beat.
Let’s start sunny side up with coffee in hand from ESPL, a local favourite for its beachside brews and laid-back energy.
Hunger hitting hard? Head to Surfers Paradise Beach Café, where the breakfast classics like Belgian Waffles and Eggs Benedict come with million-dollar ocean views and an easygoing atmosphere.
As lunchtime rolls around, so do the flavours. Alma brings a fiesta to the table with bold Mexican eats and cocktails made for savouring. From Chilli Margs and Jalapeno Poppers To Soft Shell Crab and Lobster Tacos, there’s something for every taste.
Vapiano dishes up crowd-pleasing Italian, think hearty bolognese served with fresh spaghetti tossed to order and hand-stretched pizzas you’ll want to share (or maybe not).
Craving something more refined? Take things up a notch at Seascape Restaurant & Bar. With its panoramic views and ocean-inspired menu, it’s the place to linger over seafood platters piled high with oysters, prawns, Moreton Bay bugs and Hervey Bay scallops. Need we say more?
For those who like a side of theatrics with their meal, Brazilian Flame brings the sizzle. With succulent slow-roasted meats carved tableside and served in true South American style, it’s a dining experience that makes an impression. Their all-you-can-eat offering features a range of sizzling flavours, perfect for satisfying every craving.
Nostalgia hits at Hog’s Breath Café serving up steaks, curly fries and retro charm in spades, and if you’re after a quick bite between swims, Subway or KFC will have you sorted fast.
Fishbowl is the go-to for beachgoers craving hearty and healthy takeaway. The Japanese-inspired bowls are brimming with flavour, perfect to tuck into on your beach towel.
And just in time for the sunny season, Hurricane’s Grill & Bar is making its return. After a fresh new refurb, the iconic venue reopens in late August, bringing back those legendary flame-grilled ribs and oceanfront energy in a slick new look.
Sweet tooth calling? Us too.
Cool off with handcrafted gelato from Minus 18 Degrees or build your dream fro-yo creation at Yo-Chi, complete with all the toppings your heart desires.
Whether you’re wandering up from the waves, indulging in a long lunch or meeting mates for sundowners, Soul Boardwalk is the beachfront dining destination that dishes up sunshine on a plate, every day of the week.
Where: 4 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
When: Monday–Saturday 9am–9pm, Sunday 9am–7pm
Website: www.soulbroadwalk.com.au
Instagram: @soulbroadwalk
Words by Lisette Drew
STORY SPONSORED BY SOUL BOARDWALK
Hurricane’s is back with a new look and menu.
Listen, up! Drum roll please…Hurricane’s Grill & Bar Surfers Paradise has made its long-awaited return! Gold Coasters, rejoice! Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred may have done a number on the iconic beachfront venue, but we’re here to let you know they’re back, brighter, breezier, and more beautiful than ever! Consider this your official forecast: clear skies, good vibes, and seriously elevated eats.
If you haven’t heard of Hurricane in Surfers, are you even a local? Look, probably not, but that’s okay. A bit of history, it’s been a GC fav since 2013- a dependable spot for a suburb steak, ocean views and a good time. But now? Well, thanks to a facelift arguably more impressive than Kris Jenner’s and a full menu revamp, she’s fresh baby! Think light, relaxed, coastal elegance, courtesy of award-winning interior designers Luchetti Krelle.
The once darker, moodier interior has been transformed into a total seaside daydream. Expect locally-crafted timber details, hand-made tiles, curve finishes, and a brand-new private dining room perfect for intimate celebrations of up to 40 guests. One of the biggest changes? The original wraparound ocean-facing windows can now be fully opened, giving the whole 300-seat restaurant an alfresco vibe that blends seamlessly with the salty sea breeze. You’ll settle in, sip something pretty, and stay far longer than intended.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Hurricane’s moment without the food, and the refreshed menu absolutely delivers. The raw bar alone is enough to lure in every seafood lover within a 20km radius, featuring fresh, icy local catches that are impossible to resist. From there, things take a Mediterranean turn with starters like fried focaccia with honey butter and burrata (because, always) that deserve their own fan club.
Steak lovers, brace yourselves. Hurricane’s has introduced a dry-aged program and premium Australian cuts, including a jaw-dropping 1.7kg tomahawk and 1kg T-bone with nothing below MS8. It’s indulgent, impressive, and yes, exactly the kind of thing that will make you revisit that gym membership. And don’t worry, the OG icons are still here too: flame-grilled ribs, stacked burgers, and those fresh, colourful salads that balance out all the decadence. It’s all the things you know and love, just turned up a notch.
The drink selection has also had its own little glow-up. Think dessert cocktails, boozy slushies, tropical-style cocktails, a dozen mocktails, tap beers, local wines, spirits– the hardest part is choosing. Although a boozy slushie overlooking the ocean feels like a pretty safe bet.
Despite the new look and lifted menu, one thing hasn’t changed: the warm, welcoming service that locals adore. The team is led by long-standing Restaurant Manager Kimberley Dutheil, who’s been holding down the fort since 2022, and Event & Venue Operations Manager James Broomhall (since 2020). Their passion and consistency mean Hurricane’s still feels like Hurricane’s, just with a very sophisticated makeover.
Part of restaurateur Tony Teixeira’s Hurricane’s collection, the Surfers Paradise venue sits alongside beloved spots in Bondi Beach, Cronulla Beach, Narellan and Top Ryde. And with this slick new upgrade, it might just hold the crown. Bias? Never.
Regardless of whether you’re an OG Hurricanes lover or a first-timer, this is your cue. The all-new Hurricanes is the perfect location for family dinner, long long with friends, date night or your next big celebration!
Where: Soul Boardwalk, Level 2/4-14 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
When: 12pm – 3pm / 5pm – 9pm, Monday-Thursday. 12pm-10pm, Friday-Saturday. 12-9pm, Sunday.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Taking kids out for a feed on the glitter strip has never been so easy!
Loading the kidlets into the car in search of a decent feed can be a wildly unpredictable sport. And by unpredictable, we mean slightly traumatic. But fear not — these Surfers Paradise restaurants are tried, tested, and given the ultimate seal of approval by many-a-small human (and therefore, relieved parents).
From the glitter strip classics to crowd-pleasing favourites, this is your go-to guide for taking the rug rats out to eat for a tanty/whinge-free meal. Bless their cotton socks…
A feast with a side of thrilling theatrics?! Count us in! If the kiddos (or you) haven’t yet experienced the fire and energy of teppan dining, this is your cue. From family-friendly to elevated eats, Misono serves up fresh Japanese fare that’s as delicious as it is fun. Think Australian Wagyu, chicken, scallops, bug meat and more, expertly cooked over flame, with fresh sashimi and sushi on hand to balance things out. Even better, there are dedicated kids’ teppanyaki banquets, making it an easy win for families. The venue is bright and open, the staff are welcoming, and bringing the whole crew along is refreshingly fuss-free.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
If you’ve got little ones with big appetites, Wahlburgers is a win. Famous for its juicy, no-nonsense burgers and crispy fries, Wahlburgers almost guarantees a breezy family dinner out- like seriously, what kid is complaining about burgers for dinner?! Everything on the menu is totally kid-approved, with classics like cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, and mac & cheese. Don’t forget the shakes — another sure-fire hit.
Where: 2 Cavill Ave, Shop EP008/9 Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise
A classic family favourite, TGI Fridays has something for everyone. From baby back ribs and burgers to chicken fingers and loaded fries, the menu satisfies every craving. Kids can enjoy their own smaller portions of mac and cheese, cheeseburgers, chicken nuggets, and more. They’re also open for breakfast, with options like avo smash, eggs on toast, pancakes. Casual and fun!
Where: Paradise Centre, Shop E10/10A/2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise and Shop 1005B/19 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina
If it’s a family fiesta you’re craving, look no further than El Camino Cantina. Their shareable tacos, quesadillas, and nachos are perfect for little hands, and the colourful, lively atmosphere will be an adventure in itself for the kids. Head on down for Taco Tuesdays – 3 tacos of your choice plus an icy-cold drink, at only $35pp – or Wing Wednesdays – 1kg of saucy chicken wings for just $20, plus a chance to win a prize! How spec-taco-ular!
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Milky Lane is the ultimate kid magnet thanks to its retro milkbar-inspired fitout (perfect for Insta snaps) and epic menu. Think decadent burgers, loaded fries, and over-the-top milkshakes that even adults will envy. The kids’ menu is equally impressive and the desserts…well, you can’t go past them. Decadent, daring and downright delicious.
Where: 1/38 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Vapiano is perfect for families who love freshly made pasta, pizza, and risotto. I bet you can’t name a single person who doesn’t adore one or more of those things. And at Vapiano, they serve it hearty, yet elevated with everything from burrata and prosciutto with focaccia and roast pumpkin and quinoa salad to creamy carbonara and mini Hawaiian pizza. In other words, there’s something for every member of the family. Pop in any day of the week between 4-6pm for sips from $6 and snacks from $5. Hell yeah!
Where: Soul Boardwalk, T208 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise and Shop R006/103 Foxwell Rd, Coomera
As relaxed as the name suggests, and situated in the sunny Surfers Paradise, Longboards is perfect for families and any occasion. You will be hard-pressed to find a menu as loaded as Longboards, covering snacks, loaded fries, normal fries, mains, salads, wings, burgers, and sweets. The kids’ menu includes fun eats like mini sliders and chicken bites. But warning! They’ll be tempted by your popcorn chicken and cheesy garlic bread (assuming you would order such deliciousness), and will resort to stealing given the right opportunity!
Where: Q1 Resort & Spa, Corner of Hamilton avenue &, Northcliffe Terrace, Surfers Paradise
Nothing beats a surf club for that casual, welcoming family vibe, and BMD Northcliffe Surf Club is a real Gold Coast gem! They’ve got stunning ocean views alongside a menu of seafood, burgers, gourmet salads, pasta, and grilled classics for adults, and fish, burgers, pizzas, or nuggets with chips for kids. They’re also open for breakfast, serving favourites the kids will love.
Where: 51 Garfield Terrace, Surfers Paradise
La Playa is your little slice of Mediterranean paradise on the Gold Coast, serving vibrant eats by the beach. We’re talking chargrilled favs, exotic salads, pastas and skewers. The kids have it equally as good with chicken skewers with butter rice, chicken bites with fries, pizza, and spaghetti bowl. What’s more, kiddos eat free (yes, FREE) every day from 5pm to 6pm with a purchase of any main meal.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Hog’s Breath is a family favourite for hearty meals that everyone will love. Think prime ribs, steaks, burgers, and chicken schnitzels — proper crowd-pleasers for hungry adults. Kids are well looked after too, with options like crumbled calamari, chicken quesadillas, mac and cheese, sirloin steak and more. Every kids’ meal is served with a choice of curly fries, kids’ salad or vegetables, plus tomato sauce, a free drink and a free ice cream — now that’s a big win. And there’s more! Sweet tooths can add strawberry jelly for $1, or upgrade to a kids’ banana split for $3.50. Okay, now we’re just jealous…
Where: Soul Boardwalk, Building T2/9 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
After a day of balls-to-the-wall adventure inside the infamous Hijinx Hotel challenge rooms, one’s appetite must be nothing short of ferocious. Enter, Hijinx Hotel’s straightforward yet incredibly delicious lineup of burgers, pizzas, and snacks to save the day. There’s plenty of plant-based options too, so no tummy is left growling!
Where: 40 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Why fly to the States when you can get the Yankees right here on the Gold Coast?! Let your kids get a taste (literally) of the USA: from American nachos and loaded fries to ribs and wings. While there’s no kids’ menu specifically, one meal can be made to share, or choose one of their epic American Platters for the whole family to enjoy! Go get your Yankees on!
Where: 4 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise
For something a little different (and seriously delicious), Shiraz Persian brings bold Persian and Middle Eastern flavours to a relaxed, family-friendly setting. The menu is extensive, spanning generous banquets, salads, soups, seafood, slow-cooked dishes, kabobs, plus plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. New to Persian cuisine? Expect fragrant rice, succulent grilled meats, warm breads with dips, and colourful sautéed vegetables. It might sound slightly outside classic kid territory, but trust us — one bite in and even the fussiest eaters are converted.
Where: 2893 Gold Coast Hwy, Surfers Paradise
And if all else fails, there’s the trusty buffet, the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure dining destination with something for everyone, and then some. You literally cannot go wrong. Check out our buffet list here.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
