Chats with the co-owner of Mario’s Italian Restaurant and Beachside Pavilion.
Chats with the co-owner of Mario’s Italian Restaurant and Beachside Pavilion.
Andrew Dimattina is a local restauranteur who has played a huge part in two of Broadbeachs’ most successful, longstanding restaurants and a third that’s hot on their heels.
Having been a part of the much-loved Alto’s for 13 years and family-friendly Mario’s Italian Restaurant since 1989, he’s a man who knows food. We sat down for a chat with Andrew about Beachside Pavilion and why he thinks Mario’s has stood the test of time in Broadbeach.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
On and off for 15 years.
What do you love most about our beachside city?
The weather and the beach of course.
How long have you been in the restaurant business?
Since I was born! My family have had restaurants in Melbourne for over 40 years and I’ve been working in them since I was eight years old.
Why do you think Mario’s Italian Restaurant has stood the test of time in Broadbeach?
It’s a family friendly place that people feel comfortable in because of the friendly staff, the comfort food and the overall vibe of the venue.
How did Beachside Pavilion come about?
Alto’s had been an amazing venue for 13 years but we wanted to change the bar feel of it and make it more of a beach-vibe restaurant focusing on fresh seafood, the best quality steaks and amazing breakfasts while overlooking the beautiful beaches we have here.
What’s unique about each of your venues?
Mario’s is an institution that people have been coming to for years and Beachside has great beachy décor and incredible food, perfect for long, lazy days in the sun.
Do you have a favourite dish from each?
Mario’s – Spaghetti Marinara and Beachside – the Seafood Platter has it all.
What’s the best piece of life advice you’ve ever received?
The harder you work, the luckier you become.
Tell us your favourites on the Coast…
Beach: Mermaid
Cafe: Paddock Bakery
Restaurant: Hellenika
How does your weekend usually look? Work, work and more work with the occasional beer after work.
Click here for your chance to win a $100 voucher to either Mario’s Italian Restaurant or Beachside Pavilion.
They’ve stolen a pizza our hearts!
A food that needs zero introduction – pizza is Italy’s gift to the world that just keeps on giving (to our happiness levels and waistlines, mainly). From office parties to cozy date nights, this god-tier culinary creation is the celebratory cornerstone of gatherings everywhere. We can think of no occasion that isn’t improved by the addition of this beloved Italian staple…. and if there is, we don’t wanna know about it.
A dish steeped in tradition; pizza is divisive as it is delicious. Team crispy, or team chewy and chonky, deep dish style? Then there’s the question of the toppings – to olive, or not to olive? – and don’t even get us started on pineapple!
Heck, even trying to narrow down which of our fine establishments serve the best slice is a controversial endeavour. Which is why we’ve compiled this trusty guide to all the most legit GC pizza joints in whom pizza-loving locals eternally crust.
Here are 19 of the best, from north to south, so you can dig in without delay (okay maybe just a little delay, molten hot cheese is no joking matter).
Ready to take a tour of Italy’s most famous cities all under one roof? Italia Moto brings each region to life on a pizza! Head to the Italian countryside with Bruno Pancetta – San Marino with truffle cream base, marinated potato, pancetta and parmesan. Or go coastal with Giovanni Gamberi – Sicily featuring pesto base, mozzarella, cherry tomato, marinated prawns in garlic, lemon and chilli. End your Italian escape with a scoop of gelato, and that’s amore!
Our pick: Bruno Pancetta Pizza
Where: 104 Helensvale Rd, Helensvale
You know where there’s BYO, there’s good times ahead. Papa Rolly’s is your go-to neighbourhood spot, bringing together all the home-style, beloved dishes from their family of eateries (you know em Gemelli). Pair your favourite bottle with a woodfired pizza or a hearty pasta. Hell yeah!
Our pick: Bella Donna pizza
Where: 124 Pappas Way, Carrara
True to its name, Fire Baby brings heat and flavour in equal measure. Think hot-out-of-the-oven pizza washed down with an Inferno Mezcal Margarita! This Southport hotspot serves up woodfired pizzas, share plates, and cocktails in a seriously sleek space. It’s the kind of spot that quickly becomes your go-to, weeknights and weekends alike.
Our pick: Quattro Formaggi pizza
Where: 8-10 Welch Street, Southport
Rossa brings authentic Italian to Southport with blistered crust, doughy bases and fresh, flavourful toppings. Simple, rustic, and utterly delicious, it’s a place where the pizza does all the talking. Grab a glass of red, take a seat, and let the laid-back Italian atmosphere wash over you. For purists and casual diners alike, Rossa hits all the marks.
Our pick: Pepperoni Pizza (best seller)
Where: 59 Meron Street, Southport
Situated right next to the pristine beach, La Calabrese at Ocean is all about traditional Italian ingredients with a modern twist. The pizzas in particular are food-gasmic, and if you don’t concur, then soz but #weir-dough. Anything but your average pizza, a process called ‘biga’ is used to make the dough, and honestly, the ‘yeast’ we can do is divulge why this technique is so special. How about a fior di latte, Italian sausage, ham, mild salami, and oregano? Drool.
Our pick: Arca Salumi Pizza
Where: Where: Level 1, 84 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
If simple Italian flavours done exceptionally well toot your horn, then make a date with The Star Gold Coast’s Cucina Vivo. Chef Fabio has gained quite the cult following, affectionately known as the best Pizzaiolo Chef outside of Italy. This man is the master of the woodfire oven, and the ever-popular venue’s secret weapon. Date night sorted!
Our pick: Fabio’s Pizza
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Lobby Level, Broadbeach
If you haven’t been to Gemelli in Broadbeach, are you even a true Gold Coaster? Rustic yet stylish, with handcrafted pizzas, house-made pasta, and a buzzing atmosphere, Gemelli nails Italian food with a modern twist. Authentic, flavour-packed, and full of heart, this is the kind of place Nonna would happily approve of.
Our pick: Patate Pizza
Where: 2/2685 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Double Zero is certified Neapolitan pizza heaven (fun fact: they were the first Neapolitan pizzeria in QLD). Think gorgeous woodfired pizza with leopard-spotted crust, cooked for just 90 seconds! Award-winning, authentic, and endlessly satisfying- this is where true pizza lovers go to geek out.
Our pick: Crudo Pizza
Where: 2/2715 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Two essentials in one place: award-winning pizza and gelato. Every woodfired dough pillow (aka, pizza) is bursting with flavour and fresh toppings, no matter which you choose. Then, you gotta finish strong with creamy house-made gelato. Or, you could finish stronger again with a Tartufo Di Pizzo (half hazelnut, half chocolate gelato, and filled with melted chocolate!). You don’t need to convince us.
Our pick: Al Salame Pizza and Nocciola gelato (2 scoops is a must)
Where: East Tower The Phoenician Building, Shop 10/104 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Sapori is a little slice of authentic Italy with a welcoming, cosy atmosphere and pizzas that showcase perfectly fermented, woodfired bases. The interior is just adorable, the toppings are generous, the wine list is solid, and the staff are friendly as they come. Needless to say, it’s a top choice for casual dinners or celebratory nights out. Sapori feels like that neighbour who always knows exactly how to make pizza perfect.
Our pick: Marg on Steroids Pizza
Where: Santa Cruz Village, 60 Santa Cruz Blvd, Clear Island Waters
They’ve built a loyal following so devoted, you’d think they were running a pizza cult (a cult we would happily be a part of)- fans happily trek across town just for their Franc Jnr’s fix. Famous for their thick Detroit-style slices, this spot oozes old-school charm. Walking in feels like stepping into a ’90s pizzeria where everything is unapologetically classic- retro vibes with bold flavours.
Our pick: White Boy Rick (that sesame crust lives in our dreams)
Where: Shop 2/32 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach and 2/102 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Where do we even begin with Lenny Pizzeria & Bar? Let’s just say, their 72-hour fermented dough hits different—light, chewy, and full of flavour that’ll have you questioning every other slice you’ve ever had.
No matter how you slice it, the addition is a total score for Railway Street’s dining scene, with sensational woodfired delights like fermented chilli-kissed Prawn and Calamari Pizza served with confit garlic, parsley and lemon. You know the drill: two, four, six, eight…
Our pick: Fancy 4 Cheese
Where: 58 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
Here’s a factoid for you – in Italy, the term “bar” stands for more of a watering-hole-meets-cafe hybrid; combining coffee, cocktails, sweet snacks like pastries and quintessential savoury Italian fare… so basically, all the best things. Unintentional micro geography lesson aside, this concept is exactly what owner Riccardo ‘Ricky’ Proserpio set about recreating at Crispy – and now you know this place is fantastic for several reasons, including a top-tier traditional pizza selection. To name just one, the long-standing fave, Margherita, which also comes in a 1/2 metre in size. You won’t be disappointed.
Our pick: Diavola Pizza
Where: 4/1840 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
There’s no denying that Burleigh stalwart, Justin Lane, is the king of pizza. It’s come a long way from its humble beginnings, growing from a wee little pizzeria into a heaving multi-level restaurant, bar and event space. The perfect spot for a casual slice and catch up with your crew (so we assume the cocktails are implied). Pick your cutest stretchy pants, you’re bound to run into at least 35 people that you know. And that’s just on a Monday.
Our pick: Justin’s BBQ Smokehouse
Where: 2/10 James St, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Pizza is the laid-back, old-school hero locals love. Big, cheesy slices that hit the spot every time, casual service, and a relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for takeaway to the beach or a simple night in. Stone-baked with local ingredients = seriously good pizza.
Our pick: Hawaiian (simple is just best, sometimes)
Where: 7/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Laid-back, intimate, and perfect at sundown – T’amero brings delicious pizza without the fuss, a lil fancy, and all the flavour. The vibe is welcoming, the pizza is consistently excellent, and the whole experience feels just a little special. Vino, crispy slices and sunset- yes please!
Our pick: Rustic Pizza
Where: 6 Treeview Dr, Burleigh Waters
You’ve seen it. We’ve all seen it. The sprawling, modern industrial stunner fronting Palmy’s main drag is a total traffic-stopper, and we’re pleased to confirm that its contents are as epic as the outside. And when it comes to amazing nosh across the board, Balboa Italian sure isn’t pulling any punches. In particular, the pizzas are #goals #IYKYK – and if you don’t – we would suggest remedying this immediately. Take your pick between the selection of red and white sauce bases, or try them all because carbs, shmarbs.
Our pick: Number 1 or Vegan Lovers
Where: 1069 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
A cosy and super cute spot where Mediterranean and Moroccan vibes collide; Toro’s does pizza with panache. With peach tones for days (#swoon) – the spread at Palmy’s cosy slice slinging haven is quintessentially Italian, but with a healthy dose of tasty modern takes to keep us on our toes. The super relaxed yet chic vibe is just our type, and the pizzas will delight even the most discerning pizza connoisseur. There’s even dessert pizza if that’s your jam… (well, Nutella, technically speaking). Yep, she’s a winner on all fronts.
Our pick: Peri Chicken Pizza
Where: 7/2 Eighth Ave, Palm Beach
One minute, we’re passing through Currumbin minding our own business, and the next, our mouths immediately commence watering at the mere sight of Tommy’s telltale red and white umbrellas adorning the promenade. And that’s before we’ve even caught wind of the freshly-flamed bites bubbling away within! In only a few short years, this two-storey cutie has become a fixture along the suburb’s seaside strip; serving up multi-million dollar ocean views and mighty fine pizzas to match (and cocktails… because nothing says happiness like a slice of Italy in one hand and a margi in the other). Who can resist? Certainly not us.
Our pick: Caprina Pizza
Where: 818 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
An authentic new pizza place for Burleigh Heads.
First of all, if there’s a feeling that eating pizza evokes, it is stoked and second of all, Burleigh Heads has a new pizza joint and you will indeed be stoked upon sampling every single slice
It’s called Stoked Wood Fire Pizza, as if you didn’t know and it can, as of a short time ago, be found at Stockland Burleigh Heads in the new fancy food area that is also home to coffee legends Nook.
Who also, as it turns out, are the owners of Stoked (so you know it’s the goods).
It’s a corner spot, all glossy white tiles and a pink neon sign (our fave) but the pièce de résistance is the pizza oven itself, all the way from Tuscany and tiled (by the team) in an array of pink, gold and copper hues that we would like for our house thank you very much. Might also need a pizza chef to go with it though.
Speaking of pizza chefs, Stoked’s are two of the best around – Ollie who once owned a pizza caravan (surely the best kind of caravan) and Gervin, who has whipped up tasty eats from Europe to Melbourne and now, right here on the Gold Coast. Good news for us.
Also, remember Slurping Panda, the epic little venue in the Burleigh Arcade that is no long with us (RIP)? Well, the man behind that venue is also one of the owners of this venue. So double good news for us.
On the menu are a Romano style of pizza with crispy bases and well-proportioned amounts of toppings for each slice (which isn’t considered enough in the world of pizza making).
Let us discuss a few faves, which we, of course sampled, so we could bring you the very best story. Somebody gotta do it.
The Margherita though it may seem simple is in fact, not. Made with cherry tomatoes, Bocconcini and sweet basil and is a delightful little flavour-packed pizza. The Prosciutto is also the goods with, yep, prosciutto di parma, roquette and soft mozzarella.
Our favourite though is the Seafood pizza with Aussie prawns (fresh off the trawler), calamari, green mussels, roast garlic, chilli, parsley and cheese and it is the perfect balance of flavours, not too oceany and it looks pretty too.
The dessert pizza is of course, a must-try, it’s got all of the Nutella, plus bananas, strawberries and marshmallows and not one person will judge you if that’s your actual dinner.
One of the very best aspects of the new foodie space at Stockands’ is that the entire area is BYO and there is a bottle shop a mere ten steps away so you may pop in there while your pizza is cooking in the sparkly oven.
What a time to be alive.
Yes, you may also take the pizzas away and indulge in the privacy of your own home should you so wish.
Either way, do yourself a favour and go get Stoked.
LOCATION: Stockland Burleigh Heads, West Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Heads
HOURS: 11.30am until 8pm daily
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
The team at Pepé Italia reveal a new, casual space.
There are very few things in life better than a traditional pizza straight out of a woodfired oven and made with a whole lot of Italian love. Except maybe a smorgasbord of cheeses and also handcrafted pasta topped with all of the Parmesan. Actually, we love them all equally.
Which is why it absolutely warms our hearts to bring you news of a brand new Italian deli that recently opened in Palm Beach by people whose work you already know and love.
It’s Pepé Italia Deli by yes, the team who gifted us Burleigh’s Pepé Italia in early 2017, so you know it’s going to live up to your highest expectations.
The newbie can be found in Palmy’s brand new refurbished shopping precinct Pavilions, on the highway and it’s the first restaurant to open its doors there. With street frontage, plenty of natural light and happy Italians scattered throughout, it’s a place you’re going to want to spend a bit of time.
Inside you’ll find cabinets filled with a variety of cheeses and dried meats (both local and imported form Italy) and fridges packed with homemade pasta and pre-prepared meals like lasagna and meatballs (oh my) you can take home and pretend you made. Which is exactly what we’re going to do.
The deli is a more casual, pared back version of the Burleigh restaurant but the dishes on offer are quite similar.
On the Antipasti menu, everything was a taste sensation but we particularly loved the Wagyu Bresaola with Wagyu beef, shaved parmigiano, reggiano, rocket and lemon juice – so so tasty.
Pasta-wise, everything is made in-house and while you should probably sample every single dish, we were quite partial to the Ricotta e Spinaci with spinach and ricotta, agnolotti, butter, sage and parmesan cheese and Paccheri Positano with clams, mussels, baby calamari, prawns, barramundi, cherry tomatoes and Napoli sauce. Both absolutely stunning.
In terms of pizza, you obviously can’t go wrong especially where Pepé Italia is concerned. If we had to choose one, it would be the Tropea with San Marzano tomato, fresh buffalo mozzarella, prawns, basil, garlic and chilli. Very fresh and very delicious.
Let’s not forget the desserts and if you’ve ever had an Italian dessert you’ll know they cannot be skipped. There’s homemade Tiramisu, Cannoli Siciliana and Semi Frozen Dark Chocolate to name a few and they’re the perfect accompaniment to a pizza and pasta feast (obviously).
Of course there isn’t a single thing on the menu we would eat over and over again so choose your own adventure and prepare to be wowed.
If you’d like a little tipple to go with your experience, all your favourite cocktails are on offer as well as beer and wine of both the Australian and Italian persuasions.
Perhaps the best news of all though is Sunday Apertivo – a tradition in Italy where everyone gathers on a Sunday afternoon for drinks and the venue provides the food. Which is exactly what’s going to happen at Pepé Italia Deli every Sunday. It’s the Italian version of a Sunday session and everyone’s invited.
Perfection has moved into Palm Beach Gold Coasters, get down there for some good old fashioned hospitality.
LOCATION: Pavilions Palm Beach, 10 Fifth Avenue, Palm Beach
HOURS: 11am until late Wednesday to Saturday and 11am until 8pm Sunday
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
