The dinner-and-a-show era may be fading, but teppanyaki restaurants seem to be keeping the art alive. Sanctuary Cove’s newest venue, Kuroki Teppanyaki, is ready to take centre stage.

Situated in Sanctuary Cove Village, Kuroki Teppanyaki is the latest creation from hospitality duo Kevin Teo and Eddie Cheng, two names already well-seasoned in the local dining scene thanks to venues like The One Food Republic, Kamikaze Teppanyaki Coomera, Superwok Coomera and Bam Bam Korean Fried Chicken & Beer. Basically, if it sizzles, they’ve probably perfected it.

But with Kuroki Teppanyaki, they’ve turned it up a notch… or ten. This is teppanyaki for those who love the theatre but crave refined flavours, high-quality ingredients and chefs who cook with intention, not just flipping wizardry.

Kuroki means ‘black wood’ which to Kevin and Eddie represents depth, warmth and character, the kind of qualities built slowly over time. They have etched those qualities into every wall, floor and ceiling of their new venue.

The interiors, designed by Tracy Ni of Ni Design, are a masterclass in understated drama. Think moody colour palettes, light-reflecting surfaces and textured wood wall panels that nod to the restaurant’s namesake.

With space for 80 guests, Kuroki Teppanyaki offers private dining, cosy indoor seating, and of course, seats around the teppanyaki grill. Every person becomes part of the show where strangers become friends as the smoky aroma fills the air.

At the heart of it all stands Head Chef Eddie Cheng, who commands the grill with the quiet confidence of someone who’s spent more than ten years learning exactly what guests want.

Starting with a contrast to the smoke, Kuroki Teppanyaki’s a la carte menu eases you in with a raw bar of fresh sashimi and oyster platters. From there, the heat slowly rises with pan-fried gyoza, delicate tempura, and yakitori skewers like the indulgent Aburi Salmon.

The entrees maintain the flame. There’s Truffle Edamame (a dangerously addictive upgrade on the classic) and a Charcoal Prawn Tartlet layered with ikura, cucumber, seaweed paste, and wasabi mayo, all tucked into a crisp charcoal-butter shell. 

The Kuroki Signature Bento is a treasure chest of the restaurant’s greatest hits with fresh sashimi, Hokkaido scallops, oysters, tempura, agedashi tofu, wagyu cubes, pickles and a plum-infused quail egg. Served with salad, rice and miso, it arrives looking like edible art. There’s also a bite-sized version on the lunch menu.

Now, for the star attraction.

All teppanyaki sets are served with the full spread – a seasonal appetiser platter, vegetables, salad, miso soup, steamed rice and dipping sauces to mix and match as you go. And the meats? Whether it’s chicken thigh, lamb racks, toothfish, or whole squid, everything is on the table, or should we say, on the grill?

And if you don’t know what to order, the banquets are a great place to start.

Throw in cocktails like the crowd-pleasing gin and yuzu Kuroki Cove, and you’ve got yourself just the right amount of sizzle and smooth to put a smile on your grill.

Where:  Shop 3A Masthead Way, Hope Island
When: Tues and Wed 5pm–8:30 pm, Thurs–Sun 11:30 am–2:30 pm and 5pm–8:30 pm.

Words by Lisette Drew

If there’s one thing we never grow tired of, it’s a cracking cocktail and lucky for us, the GC is a melting pot of masterful cocktails guaranteed to leave you shooketh.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these spots are a must-visit for anyone who loves a tipple (or five), tried and tested by the team because, you know, we had to complete our due diligence. From beachy vibes to moody speakeasies, here’s the scoop on where to sip the best cocktails in town listed north to south.

Destino

It’s where Mediterranean-inspired decor, an atmosphere as light as the sea breeze itself, and world-class service collide to create an unmissable destination for cocktail hour. Need we say more? This little gem at Sanctuary Cove is the gift that keeps on giving. Earning a reputation as a cocktail connoisseur’s haven within its first week, the initial hype has not only endured – it continues to soar. If you’re up the north end (or even if you’re not) – just go.
Where: Shop 38c, 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island

The Exhibitionist Bar

Flirt with breathtaking views of the Gold Coast to the Hinterland, with a cracking array of cocktails to choose from at The Exhibitionist Bar. Sitting high on the HOTA Gallery rooftop, their specialty cocktails are inspired and expertly curated, with each drink drawing on major art exhibitions. Naturally, the cocktails change with each new major exhibition, meaning you’ll never run out of reasons to pop in for a sip.
Where: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise

Steampunk

It’s bold, it’s quirky, and it’s guaranteed to get your cogs turning. Standing as Australia’s only steampunk-themed bar, Steampunk in Surfers Paradise is a one-of-a-kind spot that blends innovation, nostalgia, and a whole lot of fun. Step inside and you’re instantly transported, with gears, gadgets, and glowing lights, to set the scene. The adventurous cocktail menu is packed with playful creations (yes, even fishbowl cocktails), served with a dash of theatre and a splash of mischief.
Where: 3113 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

Veladora

Asking us to “find the red palm tree”– challenge accepted! We all know any restaurant or watering hole at The Star Gold Coast never misses a beat, and Veladora is no exception. This place is actual cocktail nirvana, so take it from us: leave the car at home- you won’t be able to stop at one. Watching the mixologists in action is half the fun, and don’t even get us started on the vibe, thanks to the Mezcal-inspired speakeasy design.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Six-Tricks Distilling Co.

Hold onto your highball glasses, Gold Coast, because Six-Tricks is redefining the local distillery scene one cocktail, rum, or whisky at a time (okay, maybe more than one). This two-million-dollar masterpiece is state-of-the-art with a spacious indoor bar and sunset deck perf for sipping the night away – and even a private cask hall! You’ll be left shaken, not stirred, in the best possible way.
Where: 3 Brightlands Ct, Mermaid Waters

Cantina

Mermaid Beach locals will tell you that if you’re frothing for a quality cocktail (us – always), it’s Cantina for the win. This pint-sized neighbourhood tapas bar proves that good things come in small packages, and by good things, we mean cocktails. Forming the perfect pair with sibling Piatto Italian restaurant right next door, line your tum with Spanish-style bar bites so that your sneaky cocktail can turn into two…or five….
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

The Cambus Wallace

If you haven’t stepped aboard The Cambus Wallace, are you even a Gold Coaster? Serving up the finest classic cocktails, international rums and whiskeys, and heartwarming food, the only thing moodier than the dark hues of the boat-themed bar is you if you don’t sample at least one of their tipples. There’s a reason (AKA epic cocktails) that it always gets a nod on our lists!
Where: 4/2237 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

Sueño Rooftop

Perched above its sister venue, Norté, Sueño Rooftop offers a dreamy, Latin American-inspired rooftop escape in Nobby Beach. You can say hola to crisp, Latin-inspired cocktails, delicioso snacks, and sea breeze flowing in from just a few streets away. Spanish escape? Yes! Long-haul flight? No!
Where: 2217 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

Sandfire

Looking for an absolute beachfront cocktail tapas bar? Look no further – this.is.it. Serving up an exciting fusion of coastal charm, inventive cocktails, and sumptuous tapas, it’s a winner, winner, cocktail dinner. Crafted by expert mixologists, the cocktail list boasts an array of innovative libations, from classic martinis to exotic tropical creations, so you’re assured a perfect pairing for every palate and mood.
Where: Level 1/293 The Esplanade, Miami 

Granddad Jack’s

Distil our beating hearts! With a fresh curation of concoctions that could coax Sleeping Beauty herself from her 100-year slumber, this magical albeit not-so-faraway Miami-based fave has earned quite the rap for its bewitching, fable-inspired concoctions. If you’re after something extra spesh that you can’t find at every other cocktail bar, welcome. Extra points for everything from syrups to spirits made on site.
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami

Malibu Racquet Club

Welcome to Palm Springs! Well, almost- you’ll be fooled by the chic ambience and vibrant aesthetic. Nestled in the heart of Burleigh Heads, The Malibu Racquet Club is the perfect spot for sunset sips and pre-dinner drinks. Hello, double-parked margaritas. Patrons can enjoy the beautiful southern GC breezes while seated outside, or opt for a cozy booth or the bar inside. Everything from the cocktail list to the paired-back decor is curated to delight summer-lovers. Yes please!  
Where: 1740 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Rosella’s

Rosella’s has been serving up pure Australiana vibes to bustling Burleigh since January 2019— and clearly doing something right, because they once snagged the crown for Best Cocktail Bar in Queensland. And what’s more quintessentially 2025 Aussie behaviour than sipping on a host of sensational cocktails in a beautiful beachy ‘burb?! Serving up nostalgic and native fare, this little ripper hums until late seven nights a week. ‘Knoath!
Where: 1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh

Familiar Spirits

Looking for a chic tropical cocktail bar and cellar door experience? Look no further than Familiar Spirits, the hidden gem tucked away in the industrial zone of Burleigh Heads. The intimate atmosphere, combined with a curated selection of house-made spirits, makes it a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts. The cocktail list is nothing short of impeccable —you must try them all! That’s an order.
Where: 1/9 Calabro Way, Burleigh Heads

Suga

With a name that (literally) sums up our guilty pleasure, Suga lives up to its namesake – and then some. When it comes to our local speakeasy, the only thing more satisfying than the cocktails is the…no, it’s definitely the cocktails. The low-lit lamps highlight the insanely good menu, which serves as the perfect belly-liner so that you can partake in another cocktail (yes, even on a school night).
Where: 1142 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Burly Bar

If you like your gin with a side of smooth operator, Burly Bar in Currumbin is your next stop. Step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into a New York lounge with a Japanese twist – think dark corners, cool beats, and even cooler drinks. This distinctive and eclectic spot is where craftsmanship meets cocktail hour, treating mixology like an art form.
Where: 60 Currumbin Creek Road, Gold Coast

Bar Evelyn

You’ve never met a cooler Evelyn (and if you’re born after 1980, you’ve probably never met one). This antipasto and pizza bar has not only garnered a staunch following for its A+ seasonal antipasti, sourdough pizza, and freshly made pasta but also for the evelyn-utionary cocktails. With its moody lighting and dark wooden charm, Evelyn is the kind of spot that makes even a balmy summer night feel effortlessly cool.
Where: Shop 20/58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Words by Bianca Trathen and Chelsea Ipsen.

Ah, ice cream, you dreamy, heaven-sent creation, you. A treat that transcends all ages, there’s no denying it is one of – if not *the* – most iconic summer foods going. And here on the GC, our (usually) balmy climate is more suited than most to indulge in (several) scoops of creamy, churned ice cream or gelato goodness any old time we please…

Which is just as well, with all of the fabulous Gelaterias and frozen dessert purveyors gracing our city. It’s a near full-time job trying to keep tabs on them all… and, side note – new dream profession unlocked.

Let’s dig in (y’know, with one of those adorably tiny, and mildly impractical ice cream spoons) to some of the best spots to cool off with a cup, cone, or even a fully-loaded sundae –stacked, sprinkled, and swirled within an inch of its life. Who’s hungry?!

Rosé Gelateria

Artisanal gelato slinger Rosé Gelateria dons its telltale blush accents across two lush GC locations – Tedder Ave and Sanctuary Cove – which, in itself, is a pretty decent clue as to the boujee, boutique style approach at these pretty-in-pink creameries. Besides a delicious assortment of crafted ice creams, they pour some fantastic coffee, including an iced coffee with vanilla bean gelato and vanilla syrup that’ll knock your socks and/or crocks off (hopefully not ‘and’, though). The signature Rose flavour, which comes sprinkled with petals, is a treat for the peepers and the palette. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a prettier gelato fix on the Coast!
Where: Shop 39a, Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove and Shop 6/19-21 Tedder Ave, Main Beach

Italia Moto Pizza & Gelato

As the name suggests, Italia Moto Pizza & Gelato isn’t just about serving incredible Italian savouries; it’s also about serving scoopfuls of creamy gelato. Take it in a cup, in a cone, or take it home! Take it plain, or take it with ‘tune-ups.’ AKA, indulgent sauces and crunchy toppings like M&M’s, Oreos and sprinkles. And don’t even get us started on their affogatos– did someone say heaven?
Where: 104 Helensvale Rd, Helensvale

Shiro Gelato & Snack

The concept of a friendly neighbourhood noshery specialising in snacks is one we can wholeheartedly get behind, and Shiro Gelato & Snack has your cravings covered with a Japanese take on all things to nibble, slurp, and lick. If it’s the lickable variety you’ve got your heart set on, house-made gelato flavours like Matcha Pistachio, Double Rich Mango and Choco Banana are all a common sight here. Take it to the next level and make it a Mochi-wrapped gelato scoop – served perfectly encased in the gelatinous Japanese dessert.
Where: 50 Nerang St, Southport

Gelato Messina

We’ve been living the ‘cream’ ever since Gelato Messina returned to our shores, and they’ve been slinging their famed flavours out of Surfers’ slick Paradise Centre precinct ever since. The Messina name is one known for taking this gelato business seriously… everything from the dulce de leche to the gelato base – and even the chocolate – is made from scratch, down to their very own dairy farm to keep them plied with the creamiest jersey milk. There’s a reason that their… *checks notes* – literally every flavour – is what ice-cream dreams are made of.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2A Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

The Gelato Shop

Cup, cone, or even sundaes – no matter your preferred method of consumption, Broadbeach’s The Gelato Shop has got you covered when it comes to all things chilled, sweet and creamy. The legendairy lineup of award-winning flavours includes the likes of Chunky Chocolate Cheesecake and Snickers gelato, a slew of fruit-based sorbets and decadent vegan options like Coffee Crunch or Peanut Butter. For an all-out indulgence, there’s locally made Warm Cookies & Gelato, Waffles and an array of fully stacked Sundaes.
Where: 97 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Ciccio’s Pizza & Gelato

Not only do they serve a slice worth doughing over, but scoops of gelato. Melt-in-your-mouth (it won’t last long enough to melt in your cone) authentic Italiana gelati. Savour it plain and simple with a one or two-scoop cone, or take it on a freshly baked Sicilian brioche bun or a pizza?! What could be better? We’ll tell ya! It’s their Rumming dessert pizza, made with zuppa inglese gelato (rum/custard), white chocolate glaze, and chocolate dust. Mamma mia, che buono!
Where: East Tower The Phoenician Building, Shop 10/104 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

My Gelato

Started from Roma, now they’re here! Thanks, Drake. But yes, My Gelato did come all the way from Rome, Italy, to bring us, mere mortals, authentic gelato made with the freshest ingredients – all resulting in flavours that are both classic and innovative. Think Raffaello (just like the Ferrero balls) and Paciugo made with caramelised hazelnut and Nutella. Or, how does Latte Di Rosa (Rose Milk) or Honecomb sound? Pretty darn good if you ask us.
Where: 12w/1 Oracle Bvd, Broadbeach

La Macelleria

A spot that’s a stickler for tradition, La Macelleria is kitted out with all the best Italian gelato-making gear. You can watch on as the crew whips up their artisanal, chilled confections daily… *drooling intensifies*. Wrap your lips around stalwart flavours like Bacio and Pistacio, gelato shakes and out-of-this-world cup sundaes – for those who love their desserts layered with pure indulgence. One taste, and your love for this place will be un-cone-ditional.
Where: 90 Markeri Street, Mermaid Waters

Gelato Gemelli

Every scoop of Gelato Gemelli’s creamy creations is made from scratch with imported equipment straight from Bologna, the heartland of gelato-making. No shortcuts, no pre-mixes – just proper Italian gelato crafted with love and precision. The signature scoop? The Pisellino – a heavenly blend of pistachio cream and white chocolate that’s worth melting for. Cones or cups aren’t your only choice here; you can also have your fave flavour served in their famous brioche gelato sandwich. Just stop – we may pass out from sheer excitement.
Where: 2/2217 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach ‘The Oxley’

Al Bacio Gelato Naturale

A true family-run gelateria, Al Bacio Gelato Naturale is headed by husband-and-wife duo Craig and Rebecca Heininger, alongside their daughter, Jaime. Since opening in late 2025, they’ve been serving scoops of authentic, 100% natural Italian gelato to Burleigh locals (and visitors), and we cannot be more thankful. The signature Al Bacio, meaning “as good as a kiss” in Italian, is a rich chocolate-hazelnut scoop made with homemade hazelnut paste from Piemonte, Italy. Then, for those who like to gulp down their gelato, you can order your favourite flavour in thick shake form. Can we get a hell yeah?
Where: 7/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Scoop Gelati

Here’s the scoop… if you’re in and around Burleigh and find yourself in the mood for gelato, sorbet, or ice-cream shakes – do not pass go – head directly to Scoop Gelati.
The hand-crafted, small-batch recipes include refreshing revelations like ANZAC Biscuit, Caramel Biscotto and Apple Crumble, all made fresh on-site. Got an ice cream connoisseur in your life? Their frozen cakes are a treat for the eyes and the taste buds – perfect for every occasion, or ‘just because’ works too.
Where: 23 James Street, Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Gelato Co

Picture the scene: you find yourself in the southern end of town (wandering off of one of those world-class beaches, no doubt), when you’re hit with a hankering – not quite hunger – but you could most definitely eat. The answer is Burleigh Gelato! Don’t let the name fool you; they are not exclusive to Burleigh – they’re also in Palm Beach. Let us tell you, the array of flavours is enough to earn the affection of even the frostiest-at-heart. The cookie-inspired creations, such as M&M Cookie Dough or Biscoff gelato, are enough on their own to get dessert fans swooning. They’re also handily available on major home delivery apps and open late – perfect for those late-night sugar cravings.
Where: 9 Connor Street, Burleigh Heads and 3/10 Palm Beach Ave, Palm Beach

Tango Gelato

Palm Beach’s turquoise sensation, Tango Gelato, serves up sweet scoops daily out of its Pavilions Shopping Centre location (also in Kingscliff if you’re ever stranded across the border). The icy creations include inventive combos like Ginger & Dark Chocolate, Strawberry Cookies & Cream and Blackberry Sorbet – so if you think you’ve ‘been there, licked that’ when it comes to ice cream flavours, we’d suggest you pay them a visit to have your mind blown immediately. They also offer delivery, so if you’re lucky enough to live nearby, you can always opt to have the ‘mind blown’ come to you (in your jim-jams, obvi).
Where: 1102 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach and Unit 4/78–80 Marine Parade, Kingscliff

Elly’s Gelato

Elly’s is about one thing: really good gelato. Full stop. The kind you plan your beach day around. The kind that turns “just one scoop” into “okay, maybe two.” The storefront will charm your pants off, while flavours like Salted Caramel and Kinder Surprise deliver creamy comfort with every lick. If you prefer something a little more classic, the Peppermint Chocolate Chip and Bubblegum (yes, bubblegum, and yes, it slaps) are absolute crowd pleasers.
Where: 778 Pacific Parade, Currumbin

Chilly Bin

Bringing Kiwi-style real fruit ice cream to Tugun, Chilly Bin (aka, an esky) is famous for its soft-serve-meets-smoothie hybrid made with frozen fruit blended on the spot with silky ice cream. First, you pick an ice-cream flavour for your base. Next, you choose your fruity flair. Finally, you add house-made cacao maple choc chips for that delicious crunch, and you’ve got yourself summer in a cup, or waffle cone. Consider us sold!
Where: 478 Golden Four Drive, Tugun

Ottimo

What do you get if you take a devoted Italian and send them to study for a diploma at the Gelato University of Carpigiani in Italy? You get Davide, the owner of Ottimo, of course! Promising superior gelato and coffee – rest assured, whatever flavour you settle on taking from this premium iced-goods purveyor is going to be the goods – it’s all made fresh and on-site daily, after all. Stroll in after an afternoon on the beach and let him and his friendly staff scoop you happy. And their signature ‘Sicily’ flavour, made with Mandarin Custard with Pistachio and Almond Caramel, sure does just that.
Where: Shop 18/52 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Luna’s Deli

There is a multitude of tasty reasons to stop by Luna’s Deli – but their desserts are number one on that list. Alongside buttery in-house pastries, they serve small-batch gelato, best enjoyed on a fresh-baked choc chip cookie topped with chocolate sauce– that’s our professional recommendation. However, each scoop is just as good on its own, whether in a cup or a cone, and one scoop is never enough.
Where: Shop 7/120 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Tamborine Mountain Gelato Co

Serving only the most authentic Italian gelato, the rainforest-studded surrounds of Tamborine’s mountainside community are the only reminder that you are, in fact, not strolling the streets of Sicily whilst sampling your delicious scoop of choice. At Tamborine Gelato, the iced goods are served old school – hidden behind the lids of a traditional Pozzetti gelato cabinet in the name of freshness. Seasonal, house-made flavours are rejigged every couple of days, with the chance to catch creamy creations like Tiramisu, Choc Mint Cookie and Honey and Rhubarb.
Where: Shop 4/15–17 Main St, Tamborine Mountain

Words by Chelsea Ipsen