YOMG lands in Elanora.
YOMG lands in Elanora.
If you find yourself craving burgers, frozen yoghurt and a side of good times all in one hit, you’re in luck. YOMG (aka Yo My Goodness) has officially opened its doors at The Pines Elanora, marking its third Gold Coast outpost and it’s giving “local fave” energy already.
The Melbourne-born brand has been making serious moves in South East Queensland, and the Gold Coast in particular has really rolled out the welcome mat. After launching in Chermside in 2024, then quickly setting up shop in Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach, The Pines feels like the natural next step. And if first impressions are anything to go by, the southern Gold Coast is more than ready.
So what’s the vibe? Think bright, buzzy and built for everything from post-beach refuels to family dinners and casual catch-ups. The space has been purpose-designed to feel welcoming and social, somewhere you can settle in, share a spread and maybe lose track of time over a stacked burger and dessert from the self-serve froyo bar.
And yes, let’s talk about the food. Because YOMG doesn’t do things by halves. The menu is stacked with premium Angus beef burgers, alongside plenty of plant-based options for the vegans and veg-curious among us. Add to that a lineup of loaded fries, thick shakes and all the indulgent extras you could want, and you’ve got yourself a choose-your-own-adventure situation, one we’re very much on board with.
But the real MVP? That iconic self-serve froyo station. We’re talking an ever-changing rotation of flavours, plus a toppings bar that lets your inner child and outer adult run wild. Whether you’re a minimalist with a swirl of vanilla or someone who piles on mini M&Ms, strawberries and Biscoff like there’s no tomorrow, it’s all fair game here.
Of course, if you know YOMG, you’ll know it’s not just about the core menu. The brand has built a loyal following thanks to its limited-edition drops, those creative, seasonal specials that get people talking and lining up. From collabs to one-off menu moments, these releases have become a bit of a thing at their Burleigh and Pacific Fair locations, and the good news is Elanora is getting in on the action from day one.
Behind it all is Co-Founder Justin Wilson, who says the Gold Coast has been one of YOMG’s standout markets. And it’s easy to see why. The brand’s mix of quality food, fun atmosphere and community focus hits a sweet spot for locals looking for more than just a quick bite.
That community angle is a big part of the Elanora opening too. The store has been staffed by a local team, with a clear focus on creating a space that genuinely feels part of the neighbourhood. Not just somewhere you pop into once, but somewhere you come back to again and again.
And in a spot like The Pines, that makes perfect sense. It’s one of those centres that locals already love, so adding YOMG into the mix feels like a bit of a glow-up moment.
YOMG is cementing itself as one of the region’s most exciting dining destinations. Whether you’re chasing a quick burger, a loaded shake or a full-blown froyo creation, Elanora just became your new go-to.
BRB, grabbing a spoon.
When: Daily from 10am–10pm
Where: The Pines Shopping Centre, Shop 69, Corner Guineas Creek Road, K P McGrath Dr, Elanora
Words by Belinda Symons
For swirl queens and topping maximalists.
Fro-Yo dessert bars are THE ultimate choose-your-own-adventure moment, and frankly, we will not be told otherwise. If there were a Fro-Yo pro’s and con’s list it’d look a little something like this:
Pros: You get to build the dessert of your literal dreams. We’re talking swirl-on-sprinkle-on-drizzle-everything energy. It’s just as elite for the kiddos as it is for the grown-ups who take their topping strategy very seriously. And the combos? Endless. Unhinged. Borderline chaotic (in the best way).
Cons: …cute of you to assume there are any.
Lucky for us the Gold Coast’s frozen yoghurt scene is having a full-blown main character moment. Whether you’re refuelling after a beach sesh, cooling down post-market wander, or simply answering the very important call of “I deserve a sweet treat,” these local legends have your fro-yo cravings handled.
Remember, the concept is ‘self-serve’, not ‘self-control’, so don’t be shocked when you have none of the latter after stepping inside this purple palace of frozen yogurt. YOMG – so good you have to say it ‘yo-my-goodness’– serves handcrafted frozen yogurt using fresh milk and farmers’ yogurt alongside shakes, burgers, wings and other bites.
But today, we’re here for the creamy swirling goodness. Go wild with crumbly, bubbly, chewy, crunchy and drizzly toppings like brownie bite, boba bubbles, fresh fruit, jelly beans, crumbled biscuits and pistachio sauce (to name a few). Oh, and they do acai, too!
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Broadbeach Waters and 15 Connor St, Burleigh Heads
Their words, not ours: “For the swirl-obsessed, the spoon-lickers, the sweet-seekers.” Goo.E serves a mix of real ice cream and yoghurt, and boldly claims it’s 1000% better – confidence we respect.
With over 50 toppings, this is not the place for decision paralysis. Think milk rocky road bites, choc malt balls, sour neon worms, vegan granola, cremthick pistachio pastry, mango popping boba, cookie dough, fresh fruit… okay, deep breath- you get the idea. We’re going straight for the white choc yoghurt. Add a slick, moody fit-out, and you’ve got dessert done well.
Where: 6 Charles Ave, Broadbeach and Circle on Cavill South Tower, T43B/55 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
YOLO lives by its name- because you only live once, so you may as well add the toppings. Alongside classic flavours, they mix things up with options like matcha, peach and red apple.
Everything here is 98% fat free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and made with 100% pure, natural ingredients. Top it off with choc gold coins, marshmallows, fresh fruit and drizzles, then swing by during happy hour for 20% off (yes please).
Where: 8th Street B30 Harbour Town Premium Outlets Shopping Centre, 147-189 Brisbane Rd, Biggera Waters
With a line that stretches around the corner on the ‘reg (like, every single weekend) – locals have been going wild for Yo-Chi’s signature tangy and tantalising fro-yo goodness since the cult fave first swanned onto our scene in 2022.
Punters can get their probiotic fix in the most delicious of ways with a signature, soft serve style frozen yoghurt selection available on tap. The core range of year-round flavours are complemented by seasonal cameos, the majority of which are 98-percent fat-free… and 100-percent mouth-watering.
Where: 89 Surf Parade, Broadbeach, 27 Connor St, Burleigh Heads, Shop 1009/19 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina, Shop T1.05A/4 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise and 11/3240 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Golden Yogurt is giving Gilmore Girls meets Starbucks – cosy, cute, and dangerously irresistible. Grab a cup, pile on as many fro-yo flavours as your heart desires, then absolutely go wild at the toppings bar.
Crunchy, chewy, popping, tangy – if a topping exists, it’s probably here. This is the spot for maximum customisation and zero judgement.
Where: G03/89 Scarborough St, Southport
Family-run, Australian-owned and gorgeously humble, My FYI keeps things friendly and fun. Start by choosing your base – choc, mango, plain, strawberry, biscuit, or even strawberry and biscuit if you’re feeling bold.
They offer low-sugar and vegan options, rotating weekly flavours, and toppings such as brownies, Nutella, fresh fruit, and lollies. It’s the kind of place that feels like a warm hug… but make it frozen.
Where: Unit 1/4 Griffith St, Coolangatta
With up to 97% fat free yoghurt, Yo Way proves you really can have it all. Everyday flavours include original tart, chocolate, strawberry and mango, while specialty flavours go big – think meringue, panna cotta, pear, pink bubblegum and more.
Their gluten-free flavours somehow get even better, with options like apple pie, Snickers cheesecake, cinnamon, biscuit and tiramisu. Toppings range from fresh fruit and slivered almonds to Tim Tam and white choc drops.
Where: Shop 2046/19 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina, 32 Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach Waters and 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Cocoflufferia isn’t technically a fro-yo bar, but it’s so delicious we had to include it. Their signature Coco Fluff is a creamy, coconut water-based soft serve that’s always vegan, dairy-free and refined sugar-free.
It’s fully self-serve, stacked with all the flavours and all the toppings, plus options for both vegan and non-vegan sauces, so everyone wins. They also serve dairy-free fro-yo and açaí, making it a dream stop for plant-based dessert lovers.
Where: 9 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Hump day = cheap eat heaven.
It’s official, Wednesdays are here for redemption. Hump day just became your new favourite excuse to get out, eat well and spend very little doing it. From $1 wings to steak nights and half-price rooftop spreads, here’s where to eat your way through the middle of the week without blowing the budget.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Level-up your drinking game.
If Queensland weather doesn’t shout rooftop bars at you in a high-pitched squeal, we don’t know what will. Our climate, coupled with the amazing hospitality scene here in our city, means these open-air meccas of good times and delicious libations are the prime place to find yourself — any time of the year! It’s all about drinks in the sunshine and snapping selfies with picturesque backgrounds for Insta-bragging purposes.
So, in honour of bars in high places, here are 14 next-level rooftop bars (listed north to south) you should prioritise visiting this weekend, next weekend and the weekend after…
Aviary Rooftop Bar
Perched atop Mantra on Sharks, Aviary Rooftop Bar’s views are as stunning as their extensive drinks list. With 180 degree views over the Surfers Paradise skyline and the ocean, it’s the perfect place for an after work beverage or Sunday arvo session with the crew. Ohh and don’t even get us started on their authentic Italian pizzas, and tapas… if you know, you know.
Where: Mantra at Sharks, Melia Ct, Southport (next to Southport Sharks)
Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar
A game-changer in Southport’s food and beverage scene, Mr PP’s is a multi level pizzeria and rooftop bar boasting city views and plenty of good vibes in the century-old postal building. There is a generous menu full of pizzas, tapas and charcuterie boards, the ideal scenario. Plus cocktails and local tipples, of which there are many. Live music on Sundays too.
Where: 43 Nerang St, Southport
Last Night on Earth
Pretty sure that if it were, in fact, your last night on Earth, you would want to spend it at a sweet rooftop bar with bulk cocktails at the ready. Last Night on Earth is the work of local legend Arran Wollams and his crew. It’s a somewhat underworld themed rooftop bar in the heart of Southport offering good times aplenty. It’s a dive bar, but not as you know it. Check it out.
Where: 50b Nerang St, Southport
Cali Beach Club
Cali Beach Club is not just a rooftop bar, it’s Australia’s largest Beach Club! This Gold Coast classic is the ultimate beachside party destination that’s never known a dull moment. The 2L spritzer and cocktail jugs may have something to do with this… One minute, you’re lounging on your dedicated daybed by the pool. Next, you’re sipping a Cali Colada in the pool. What’s that? The DJ set has begun?! Off to the dancefloor with you!
Where: 21a Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Lulu Rooftop & Bar
Say hello to the lovely Lulu. Think Miami’s art deco scene meets laid-back tropical Gold Coast, with lush greenery, plush booth seating and marble-topped bars, it’s a vibe! Throw in the fact it’s on a rooftop and we’re sold. Okay, that’s a lie, our booths were booked when we got word of Throwback Thursdays, RnB Fridays and the regular Grils Brunches…
Where: Level 2/4 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise
The Exhibitionist Bar
News flash: HOTA isn’t just for the arts and culture, people, it’s also for cocktails. Speciality cocktails- each inspired by and changed to reflect the art centre’s current major exhibitions. We feel more cultured already. Enjoy it all while absorbing the breathtaking views of the city skyline. The highly talented Tom Angel heads up the bar and cocktail list, which is a seriously good spot for a sundowner — and the ideal place to take out of towners!
Where: Level 5/135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise
The Island Rooftop
It’s the largest open-air (and much adored) rooftop on the Gold Coast, perched on top of The Island in Surfers Paradise. This spot is kind of a unicorn, being part nightclub, part bar and part live music venue. It’s where killer beats meet delicious eats and craft cocktails. Every weekend you’ll find a line-up of DJs playing, a specially curated cocktail menu, and indulgent share-style eats. Think of it as your new weekend ritual.
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Nineteen at The Star
The fanciest of the bunch is undoubtedly Nineteen at The Star, complete with velvet booth-style seating, an infinity pool and ocean views for days. Found atop The Star Gold Coast’s The Darling, Nineteen is the perfect place for people-watching, dressing up and sipping on fancy tipples while dancing the night away. Be sure to take a snap on the runway stretching out into the pool!
Where: The Darling, Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
JuJu
This rooftop bar has serious “it’s a vibe” energy. JuJu in Nobby Beach delivers upscale dining with a side of cheeky fun. Split across two levels, this venue is perfect for sunset cocktails and late-night revelry. Expect Euro-summer vibes, lush greenery, and after-hours parties that feel straight out of Mykonos. With a sleek rooftop bar featuring a retractable roof, tequila carts, and live DJ-saxophonist duos, JuJu is where you go when you’re ready to keep the night alive.
Where: 2235 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Sueno Rooftop
Sueno is one of (if not, the) hottest bars on the Gold Coast, and for excellent reason. Go from dinner at Norte to a chilled rooftop, and chat the night away under the moonlight with a marg in hand. The Nobby Beach venue is ideal for a weekend catch-up, a mid-week cheeky cocktail, or an epic bottomless brunch every Saturday and Sunday. Do yourself a favour, find yourself here sipping a cocktail whilst drinking in the gorgeous view.
Where: 2215 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Justin Lane
A much-loved favourite among locals and visitors alike, Justin Lane is still one of the most popular rooftops on the Gold Coast and was actually the coast’s first official rooftop bar opening in 2011! Hard to imagine. The space is intimate, with booth-style seating overlooking Burleigh and plenty of cocktails to tickle your fancy. Once you’re done slinging back bevvys with the gang, head downstairs for some fair dinkum pizza (it’s so damn good).
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Pavilion
This one is straight-up iconic and the vibe is a match. It’s as close to the ocean as you can get with a cocktail before it becomes a safety hazard. You may be closer to Earth for this one, but the view here is arguably the best on the Gold Coast. Soak in the stunning sunshine while mulling over which epic cocktail to try first.
Where: 3a/43 Goodwin Tce, Burleigh Heads
The Collective
Everyone’s favourite multi-restaurant establishment, The Collective in Palm Beach, boasts a sweet rooftop bar with epic cocktails for your sipping pleasure. You can also order eats from one of the five menus on offer and watch the sunset while you’re at it. We recommend it.
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Kirra Beach House
Making waves for all the right reasons – Kirra Beach House redefined the southern eats and sips game. The handiwork of local hospo gun, Dave Galvin, which speaks to the caliber in and of itself – with three seperate bars, insta-worthy interiors, cabana-studded wraparound terrace and panoramic ocean views from all angles! We’d be remiss not to also mention the Mediterranean-style grazing and crafted cocktails. Perfect 10’s all round.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Pde, Coolangatta
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
