Rowdy Ranch Steakhouse raises the steaks.
Rowdy Ranch Steakhouse raises the steaks.
Surfers Paradise has officially gone country, and no, this isn’t a drill – it’s a full‑blown honky‑tonk takeover. Rowdy Ranch Steakhouse swung open its saloon doors on 7 January and ever since, locals have been boot‑scootin’, bull‑riding and brisket‑devouring like they’ve been teleported straight to Lower Broadway, Nashville.
Owners Jarrad Webb and David O’Connell – seasoned pros from the pub and steakhouse world – have teamed up with Head Chef Tom Kirby to deliver a steakhouse / country bar like no other and honestly, we’re devouring it faster than a cowboy at an all‑you‑can‑eat rib fest.
The pair chose their Surfers Paradise location for one simple reason – foot traffic and nightlife that could keep up with the chaos they were planning. They wanted a place where a high‑energy country bar, live music, dancing and mechanical bull riding would be wanted – dead or alive – by locals and tourists alike. And can we just say, you’ll be roped in at first bite…or first grapevine.
Inside, the transformation is something to behold. Built by JL Coastal and designed by David O’Connell, the space is a full‑throttle ode to Nashville honky‑tonks – timber finishes, western décor, neon signs that glow like a country star’s teeth, and a dedicated bull arena. There’s a stage for live country music, plenty of room for line dancing, and enough atmosphere to make even the most city‑slickin’ Gold Coaster feel like they’ve just rolled in from the ranch.
Families haven’t been forgotten either. With indoor and outdoor seating, undercover areas, a private dining room and even a kids’ playroom, Rowdy Ranch somehow manages to be both rowdy and responsible. And if you’ve ever wanted to learn to line dance without judgment, Tuesday nights from 7pm to 9pm are your moment – free lessons, zero shame, maximum yee‑haw.
But let’s talk about the real reason anyone rolls into a steakhouse – the food. Head Chef Tom Kirby, whose resume includes Miami Marketta, the Mona Lisa restaurant launch and Evenfall Vineyard in Tasmania, has crafted a menu that hits harder than a country breakup song.
Starters kick off with Rowdy’s Twice Cooked Wings – a 500g serve of slow‑cooked, flash‑fried perfection with house pickles, cool ranch and your choice of sauce. From the grill, the signature 1kg Tomahawk Steak is the undisputed show pony. Served with steakhouse fries or buttered mash and your pick of house‑made sauces (the sticky black pepper gets our vote), it’s big enough to share…or not if you’re feeling particularly cowboy‑coded.
Classics like the Parmi deliver comfort with a country twist, as does the Rowdy’s ½ Pound Beef Smash Burger stacking brisket patties, Swiss cheese, tomato relish, mustard pickle and wild rocket into a milkhouse bun that’s working overtime to wrangle the lot. There are salads, kids’ options, and sides like Market Greens with charred lemon, fried capers and herb oil for anyone pretending to be balanced.
Dessert is no afterthought either. The Pecan Pie with vanilla bean ice cream and Jack’n’Dry sauce is sweet enough to mend even the most broken country‑song heart, and don’t even get us started on the Lemon Meringue Tart.
Rowdy Ranch’s unique selling point is simple – it’s bringing Nashville to the Gold Coast, no passport required. Great steaks, cold beers, cocktails, live country music, dancing, bull riding and a whole lotta personality. It’s rowdy, it’s rustic, and it’s ready to two‑step straight into your regular rotation.
In a city that loves a good theme, Rowdy Ranch stands out by going all in – boots, bull, bourbon and all. Whether you’re chasing a killer steak, a raucous night out or just a place to let your inner cowboy run free, this Surfers Paradise newcomer is ready to welcome you with open arms and a whole lot of yee‑haw. So saddle up, Gold Coast – one visit and you’ll be hooves‑over‑heels.
Where: 3/15 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
When: Lunch Wednesday to Saturday 12-3pm, Dinner 5pm 9pm everyday
Website: rowdyranch.com.au
Instagram: @rowdy_ranch_steak_house
Words by Bianca Trathen
Images by Liam McDonald
See more from Rowdy Ranch Steakhouse in our reel here.
Your cheat sheet to classic bistro bliss.
If there’s one dish that screams treat yourself (with a side of fries), it’s steak frites. We’re talking juicy, perfectly cooked steak, a pile of golden, crispy chips and zero intention of sharing. It’s rich, it’s comforting, it’s a little bit fancy but still gives big “elastic waistbands welcome” energy. Whether you’re planning a cheeky midweek splurge, a flirty Friday date night or a catch-up that revolves entirely around something dangerously delicious, the Gold Coast delivers the goods (obviously). Here’s where to chase down the coast’s most crave-worthy steak frites.
Coast Dining has created a new midweek ritual that’s near impossible to resist. No arm twist required here, folks. Every Thursday, they serve up a perfectly cooked steak frites for $25, made with crispy fries that make every bite of steak 10x better. Add in their tempting drink specials and a chilled atmosphere, and you’ve got the ultimate Thursday night mini-scape.
Where: Ocean by Meriton, Level 1/86 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Another spot turning Thursday into our favourite night of the week is Bar Leo. From 4pm, tuck into their $26 steak frites, cooked to absolute perfection, while happy hour runs from 4–6pm with $10 wines, $8 beers, and $15 margaritas. Walk-ins are welcome, but with a dish this good coming from an AGFG Chef Hat Award-winning kitchen, booking ahead might just be your safest bet!
Where: 4 Panitz St, Bundall
At The Tropic, steak frites comes with a side of salty sea air and seriously chic surrounds. Their 320-day dry aged 700g rib fillet is a showstopper – rich, intensely flavoured and cooked to juicy perfection – served with a generous pile of golden fries that are made for mopping up every last bite. It’s bold, indulgent and designed to be shared… but we wouldn’t blame you if you didn’t.
Where: Goodwin Tce, Burleigh Heads
At Lars Bar & Grill, steak frites reaches new heights. Their Stockyard NY Strip Steak is pan-fried on hot pans, seasoned perfectly with salt and pepper, and served with crispy fries and a decadent green peppercorn sauce. This carefully crafted dish is perfect for steak lovers who appreciate technique and flavour. Needless to say, it’s worth dressing up for. Ideal for both a casual dinner and a celebratory meal out.
Where: 1/2217 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Apres Surf has taken the classic steak frites and given us one better- a flank steak baguette with house-made herb butter, served alongside crispy fries, all tucked into a freshly baked baguette. Y’all know we can’t resist a double-carb. Priced at $25, this Friday night special is the perfect option for a casual date night or a relaxed dinner with friends. The combination of hearty steak, herby butter sauce, and crisp fries makes it a mouthwatering choice for anyone seeking something a little different from the usual steak-fries option.
Where: 1/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Paloma Wine Bar does steak frites very well – the kind of you come back for again and again. Available from 4pm Wednesday through Sunday, their classic steak frites is a dish you can count on to impress every time. A tender, perfectly cooked steak sits alongside golden fries and a sauce you’ll be daydreaming about. It’s sophisticated yet totally satisfying, making it ideal for pairing with one of their carefully curated wines. Whether you’re after a date night option or simply want to treat yourself midweek, Paloma’s take on this French favourite never disappoints.
Where: 12 James St, Burleigh Heads
Picture your next Wednesday night: smack bang on the beach with a sea breeze cooling you down. You’ve got a tender steak with bottomless fries from 5pm. Does it get any better? No, obviously. Pair it with a French wine– because when in Kirra- and watch that gorgeous sun go down. It’s time to make Wednesdays great again- starting here.
Where: 4 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
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
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
