Clifford’s Grill & Lounge is serving up fire, flavour, and a whole lotta flair.
Clifford’s Grill & Lounge is serving up fire, flavour, and a whole lotta flair.
There’s something primal about the allure of fire. Maybe it’s the caveman (or woman) in all of us. Maybe it’s the smouldering scent that transforms simple ingredients into a smoky seduction. Whatever it is, Clifford’s Grill & Lounge at voco Gold Coast has mastered the art of turning flame into flavour – and they’ve done it with the kind of effortless sophistication that could make Gordon Ramsay crack a smile.
Since flicking on the grill back in 2014, Clifford’s has quietly become one of Surfers Paradise’s most deliciously underrated gems. Tucked inside the golden glow of voco Gold Coast, this 90-seat restaurant manages to pull off the impossible: refined and on-trend without trying oh-so-hard. It’s where we locals come for a long dinner (tried and tested – tick), tourists stumble upon after quizzing randoms on the street; “where should we go for dinner?”, and literally everyone leaves wondering why it took them this long to find it.
Let’s start off by celebrating the perfectly designed interiors, which hit that sweet spot between contemporary and comfortable. Think polished timber, warm lighting, and just enough luxe to make you feel a little fancy without having to Google which fork to use first (and we know – that struggle is real).
Now, on to the heart (and heat) of it all is Chef Daniel, who’s turned the open-grill kitchen into a stage worthy of its own super spotlight. The menu is modern Australian with a coastal twist, which basically means fressssh local ingredients sans the smoke and mirrors – traded up for smoke and sirloin. Every dish that hits the table is kissed by flame (oh the romance!), from perfectly charred steaks to seafood that tastes like it was plucked straight from the Pacific, cooked to picture perfect status (literally – get it on the grid), and placed lovingly on your plate.
For example, tuck into the Black Angus Eye Fillet (200gm), A La Plancha, with thyme and garlic butter, truffle mash, roasted field mushroom, broccolini, kale, and house jus. Or the Lobster Linguini – Qld tropical lobster tail in white wine and lemon emulsion, cherry tomatoes, mild chilli, garlic, and olive oil.
Do we need to go on? We will anyway coz have a go of the signature sharing Slow Cooked Lamb Shoulder – started yesterday, pulled apart today, Salsa Verde, lamb jus, sea salt, and lemon. And just because you can, why not finish with Bombe Alaska Croquant macadamia, salted caramel and vanilla bean ice cream, and scorched meringue. Your sweet tooth will thank you. Your dentist…perhaps not so much, but priorities.
And finally, what does this crowd-fave have to offer for thirsty punters? In short – a lot. Let’s unpack the signature cocktails (equal parts art and attitude), like the refreshing Pineapple Express, with Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, Licor 43, Pineapple Juice, and Cinnamon. And the wine list? Let’s just say it’s a 10/10 – extensive and packed with drops for every palate.
Location-wise, the Clifford’s clan couldn’t have picked a better perch. Right in the heart of Surfers Paradise, it captures the energy of the Coast while offering a cool, calm escape from the chaos outside. It’s the perfect meeting point for hotel guests, locals, and anyone who appreciates good food served with good vibes. And better yet, you can always float upstairs to your voco room and call it a night. Dinner, drinks, a staycation and seriously – don’t threaten us with a good time.
So, whether you’re toasting to something special, hunting down your next date-night destination, or simply following the irresistible scent of perfectly grilled meat, Clifford’s is calling. Follow the smoke signals, grab a glass, and settle in because when the flames start flying at Clifford’s Grill & Lounge, the Gold Coast dining scene gets seriously lit.
Where: 31 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise
When: 5.30pm – 10pm Wednesday to Sunday
Instagram: @cliffordsgrillandlounge
Website: cliffordsgrilllounge.com.au
Words by Bianca Trathen
Images by Mathilde Bouby
STORY SPONSORED BY CLIFFORDS GRILL & LOUNGE
Unwrap joy with a feast fit for Santa himself.
Christmas on the Gold Coast is creeping up on us at alarming speed, and if you’re anything like us, the thought of tackling a big festive feast after a morning of opening presents and popping bubbly sounds downright exhausting.
Luckily, there are plenty of local spots ready to handle the heavy lifting for you. Hang up the apron, ditch the dishes, and let the pros serve up a day of delicious indulgence with no cleanup required. Here’s your guide (north to south) to the best Christmas Day feasts on the Gold Coast. Word to the three wise men – these tickets are flying faster than Santa’s sleigh, so grab yours before they’re gone!
A tried and tested festive contender for your consideration – round up your kin and revel in the Chrissy Day array at RACV Royal Pines, for an indulgent spread hosted within the impeccable surrounds of the Royal Benowa Ballroom.
Kicking off from 12:00 pm, this year’s proceedings include a 3-hour beverage package along with all the traditional festive fare – delight in fresh Australian seafood, carved meats, and a selection of hot dishes, salads and desserts. Tickets start from $51 for children aged 2-4 (ages 0-2 free) up to $328.45 per adult. Click here for all the details.
Where: Ross St, Benowa
SOLD OUT
Families looking to converge for some magical (and mouthwatering) Christmas mems, look no further than the luxe QT Ballroom.
Bubbles pouring, spirits soaring, this year’s feast is pure festive indulgence. Start with a Christmas cocktail on arrival, then dive into a glittering seafood spread of Crystal Bay prawns, Moreton Bay bugs, oysters, crab and more. Follow with the classics – roast turkey, smoked leg ham and Cape Grim sirloin – before finishing with brandy pudding, 24-month soaked mince pies and a flowing chocolate fountain.
Three hours of free-flowing drinks, live music, entertainment, gingerbread decorating and even a visit from Santa keep the merriment in full swing.
Tickets from $89pp for kids up to $320 for adults + BF. Get all the details here.
Where: QT Gold Coast Ballroom, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
We need not spend days toiling away in the kitchen, offload the preparations (read: stress) and let the voco pros handle your Chrissy day proceedings. Indulge in a banquet of iconic Christmas Day fare, such as fresh seafood, summer salads, succulent roast carvery, a variety of hot and cold dishes – complete with a mouthwatering dessert bar and a three-hour beverage package for your feasting pleasure. Plus, face painting and a sneaky cameo from the big man in red, for some extra special Christmas magic for the kiddos.
This little Chrissy extravaganza will set you back $299 per person, with children from $89 (ages 0-4 free). and simultaneously deliver max satisfaction and zero stress in the process. Get all the details here.
Where: 31 Hamilton Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Assemble your nearest and dearest for a delicious ripper of a Christmas celebration at the Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach. This year, the Grand Ballroom is serving up a feast to remember – ocean-fresh seafood, pistachio-stuffed turkey, slow-roasted pork, a Parmesan wheel pasta station, and decadent desserts to finish.
Kick things off with a sparkling welcome drink, then enjoy three hours of premium wines, champagne and Byron Bay Lager, all while live music and festive fun keep the mood merry.
These tickets are limited so jump on now and book and then all you have to do come Christmas is sit back, relax and let lunch be served. Go here for all the delicious details.
Where: 81 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Words by Belinda Symons
Fire, flavour and fabulous feasts at Clifford’s Grill & Lounge.
Clifford’s Grill & Lounge has just celebrated its 10th year as the Gold Coast’s go-to grill house. Round of applause, please! Maintaining five-star standards in hospitality is no easy feat, but for Clifford’s it’s a walk in the park.
And if you’ve seen their menu lately, you’ll know why. It’s straight fire… literally and figuratively.
Located within the charming voco Hotel (formerly the Watermark), Clifford’s is just steps away from the Surfers Paradise tram station — no designated driver required!
Despite being in the heart of the bustling Surfers Paradise, Clifford’s offers a surprisingly serene escape.
Inside, the mezzanine feels intimate and cosy, while the upper deck and bar, with floor to ceiling windows, which open during summer, is perfect for people-watching as the world goes by.
Renowned for their succulent steaks and smoky share plates, we’re here to tell you that Clifford’s excels from turf to surf. Whether you’re a meat lover or a seafood aficionado, they’ve got you covered. From pasture and grain-fed meat, to the freshest seafood and vegetables, Clifford’s uses only the best local produce and grills it to perfection. To top it off, they use only the best local produce.
Executive chef Daniel Smith brings a wealth of global expertise to Clifford’s and is passionate about his produce. His mantra is maximum flavour, minimal food miles, and he is proud that Clifford’s sources all their ingredients from within a 200km radius.
Their signature sharing dishes are of epic proportions and include a 1kg char-grilled t-bone steak, sliced off the bone, served with three dipping sauces, and sides of truffled mash, and specialty salada. Or how about a colossal 1.2kg tomahawk steak grilled to perfection? We hear zero objections! It’s served sliced with freshly grated horseradish, black garlic, truffle mustard tapenade, and house jus. Okay, we have one more mouth-watering recommendation for you, slow-cooked lamb shoulder — started yesterday and pulled apart today. Say less!
For those who prefer lighter fare, Clifford’s menu also offers a delightful array of options with a notable Asian twist. Think delights such as seared scallops with mild prawn sambal, sticky braised pork belly, served on a dollop of pea puree and topped with chilli hair. Or how about seared ahi tuna, sliced and served with fennel and ginger pickles, toasted nuts and seeds, and a drizzle of sesame dressing?
Too many options to decide? We highly recommend Clifford’s great value $79pp Signature Banquet! A perfect way to sample a range of delicious dishes, including (but not limited to) garlic sourdough (because bread is life), 3-hour slow braised sticky pork belly, pumpkin and mozzarella Sicilian arancini, choice of shared main, along with sides of truffled mash and house salad!
Whatever you choose, we encourage you to leave room for dessert, or if you’re like us, we have a second stomach for that. We recommend their famous Bombe Alaska — salted caramel and vanilla bean ice cream, encased in scorched meringue and topped with candied macadamia nuts. O.M.G. Word to the wise, if you order it, be prepared to share. This showstopper will induce serious food envy. Everybody else at the table will be vying for a taste.
Feeling thirsty? Clifford’s has you covered with a drink menu that’s just as impressive as their culinary delights. Sip back and relax with signature cocktails like the Spiced Rum and cinnamon laced Pineapple Express, or the tropical and spicy Miami Heat. Clifford’s boasts a wine list that’s been carefully curated to pair perfectly with their smoky, grilled dishes. And for beer enthusiasts, Clifford’s offers a variety of craft brews, featuring both local and international favourites.
Clifford’s Grill & Lounge offers an unforgettable dining experience. With its prime rib location, relaxed ambiance, and flame-licked fare, it’s no wonder Clifford’s has become a staple in Surfers Paradise.
Where: Clifford’s Grill & Lounge, voco Gold Coast, 31 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise
When: Wednesday – Sunday 5.30pm – 10pm
Website: goldcoast.vocohotels.com/eat-drink/cliffords-grill-lounge
Instagram: @cliffordsgrillandlounge
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY VOCO HOTEL GOLD COAST
The original icon of the Gold Coast.
Once upon a time we left holidaymakers to their own devices in arguably the GC’s most famous beachside suburb, but off the beaten path – well to be fair, some are still very much on it – locals have been keeping these gems all to themselves for a little too long if you ask us. That’s right, Surfers Paradise is more than a postcard-perfect destination, it’s a lifestyle locals love to embrace, because why should we leave all the fun to the tourists! So now we’re here to spill the beans on all the reasons locals can’t get enough of Surfers Paradise.
For all-in-one spots
Surfers Paradise does convenience like a pro with destinations where you can shop, eat, and play all in one spot. Paradise Centre is a beachside fave with a mix of fashion, food, and fun, right at your fingertips in the heart of Cavill Mall. Just a short stroll away you’ll find Soul Boardwalk where laidback vibes met beachside dining and retail therapy aplenty – because what better way to get the food digesting than with a shopping moment.
If an urban escape is more up your alley then pop on over to Chevron Renaissance for all your boutique shopping needs, whether it’s a bite to eat, to grab groceries for the week, a new fit for that special event or a pedicure pamper moment your wish is their command. The two hour free parking is also a big drawcard!
All-you-can eats
If you’re in the market for a buffet that’ll bowl you over then you’ve come to the right place because at this point buffet should be Surfers Paradise’s middle name.
Locals know that they’ve got the buffet game locked down so if you’re up for eating so much seafood you’ll need to unbutton your pants to fit in another plate then Citrique at the JW Marriott has your name all over it.
Just down the highway you’ll find a bustling international market that dreams (and hungry bellies) are made of with QT Gold Coast’s iconic Bazaar Marketplace experience.
Edging on the cusp of neighbouring Broady, Horizon Sky Dining might have pretty much everything on the menu but what about revolving panoramic views of the Gold Coast? They’ve got those two and we’ll take a plate of both thank you very much.
For your morning sips
If you’re anything like us, the day doesn’t start until coffee has been sipped. Kickstart your day with the perfect brew at ESPL Coffee. This beachside gem is great for delicious bites with a friendly vibe.
If you’re seeking people who are serious about coffee, Paradox Coffee Roasters is the destination you seek. They are committed to producing the highest quality coffee there is — just ask the locals!
Like your morning sip with a side of epic treats? Janus Bakehouse is for you… don’t mind us drooling just thinking about it.
To escape the hustle & bustle head to Bumbles. Budds Beach has long been a local secret but there’s good reason why Gold Coasters have been flocking to this hot spot for 10+ years. Get your coffee fix, some snacks and set up on the edge of Budds Beach for the ultimate start to the day.
For you harder sips
Fancy a cocktail (or five)? Well you’ve come to the right place because Surfers is a cocktail connoisseur’s dream come true. After sunset – okay maybe before too – Surfers turns into a cocktail connoisseur’s playground.
Lulu Rooftop is the newest addition to the scene, serving up a funky art deco aesthetic alongside sophisticated sips.
Sports fan? Hit up The Sporting Globe to get all the sporting action live and loud or get ready to yeehaw and let loose at Cowboys, with a bucking bull taking pride of place the Americana vibes are vibing.
Okay party people, we hear you asking where to go get Gold Coast vibes going and it’s obviously got to be Cali Beach Club – it’s giving European inspired beach party so you’re guaranteed a good time. If it ain’t broke don’t fix it we say, so it’s no wonder locals keep going back for more at The Island Rooftop, an institution for good reason you can’t beat the open air and the huge beverage list never fails us.
For drinks with a view Surfers Pavilion has nailed casual waterfront meets ‘I don’t want to leave yet’ as it overlooks the canal so you can watch the boats drift by. Hinterland your preferred view? Well, The Exhibitionist Bar’s got them aplenty, actually they’ve got panoramic sight of the whole GC so take your pick. Back over on the beachside Coast Beach Bar are home to some of the best marg’s on the GC and even better views of the suburb’s namesake beach.
For casual eats
Sometimes you just want to keep it low-key and you know what, that doesn’t have to mean that the flavours are low-key too. You go-to for authentic Thai flavours has got to be Sura Thai, dine in to make the most of the cosy and authentic feel or grab your favourites to-go. Shiraz Persian Restaurant has become known as the Coast’s best Middle Eastern bites with aromatic Persian dishes like tender kebabs gracing the menu.
Don’t sleep on Velaa’s Asian fusion fare from classic poke bowls and new flavours like their signature Thai Milk Tea Parfait (uh, YUM) just waiting for you to discover.
We like big burgers and we cannot lie so Wahlburgers is a must-try for us, plus you might even sneak a peek at Mark Wahlburg when he’s in town next if you’re lucky!
Alright, this one is definitely loved by more than just locals, HOTA’s Markets are the ultimate hangout to ring in Sunday Funday, pick up all the local farm fresh produce and flowers your heard desires and then grab a bite (we’re looking at you, Mio Wraps) and a sweet treat for the road and thank us later.
For something a little bit fancy
Now’s the time to bust out your best fancy fit because Surfers has some pretty boujee spots up their sleeves.
Nestled beneath the HOTA Gallery, Palette proves that fine dining is back, baby! Treat yourself to the degustation for the full experience, with dishes and cocktails inspired by the each gallery exhibition you need to see it – or taste it – to believe it.
The buffet is always a winner at Citrique, but have you tried their a la carte? Take this as your sign to snag a seat and let the food come to you while you spoil yourself with the Chef’s Signature Bay Bug Dumplings (life-changing) or some chargrilled Australian Wagyu.
Elevated Thai is the word at Nahm Talay Thai, all your regular favourites but even better and cocktails that are just begging to be instagrammed – bonus point for the beach front views.
Let the good times roll
Surfers Paradise isn’t short on adrenaline or intrigue and it doesn’t matter if it’s your first or 50th time visiting, they still pack the same punch in our humble opinion.
Scale SkyPoint for unbeatable views atop the Q1, chill out (literally) at the IceBar and get a moment to reflect at the Mirror Bar – see what we did there.
If you’d rather enter another dimension for a little while then Infinity is begging for you to explore their mysterious maze or drop into Other World HQ and escape the ordinary with mind-bending interactive games and escape rooms. Test your team work (and maybe patience) at Eclipse Escape Rooms and Fox in a Box, go on – put that big ol’ brain to work.
We’re partial to a trip down nostalgia lane so we’re always down to battle it out at Timezone, and when there’s fun for all ages on the menu how could you not! Feeling flighty? Take a literal leap of faith at iFly and get a taste of indoor skydiving before you brave the great outdoors.
Gosh all that exploring calls with some pampering to finish the day, but not without its quirks! Barefoot Fish have tanks full of fish – yep, real live fish – just waiting for you to dip in for a soak so they can get rid of any dry or dead skin and leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski
