The best weekends begin with brunch at Coomera Lodge Hotel.
The best weekends begin with brunch at Coomera Lodge Hotel.
Brunch, it’s the meal of the moment. Totally (om)lit, it’s best enjoyed on weekends and while this can be said about most things, it’s eggceptionally true for brunching.
In addition to a mouth-wateringly good menu, we choose our brunch haunt based on looks and if this makes us sound shallow, you should see our resting brunch face. Preferably somewhere in natural surroundings, with substance and soul in equal measure. A place that nails that elusive balance of heritage charm and modern day feels. An old favourite with a new renovation and please, don’t get that the wrong way around.
Well friends, we know an iconic brunch-slinging local which in the words of Chrishell Strauss, has experienced an awakening (not a midlife crisis). It meets all our criteria and if you think “they’re bacon that up”, you clearly haven’t experienced the newly restored Coomera Lodge Hotel.
Established in 1885, this Gold Coast gem has had a stunning nip and tuck, restoring it to its former glory but with a 2023 glow-up.
Every weekend it serves up a range of ten outta ten brunch dishes, speaking to the classic, hearty flavour fans, as well as those craving something sweeter.
For a taste of what’s on offer, let’s first unpack a staple which belongs on every brunch menu (full stop), Smashed Avo. With sourdough, avocado, tomato salsa, bacon, poached eggs and aioli, Coomera Lodge Hotel has nailed the flavour profile with this guaranteed palette pleaser.
For the sweet-tooths, you can’t go past their pancakes with abs…also known as waffles. Think bacon, maple syrup, Chantilly cream and we don’t about you, but we feel all kinds of French and fancy when there’s Chantilly involved.
Whilst the weekend brunch experience is definitely one to write home about, there’s much more to Coomera Lodge Hotel 2.0 with something to tickle everybody’s fancy.
The new-look venue has a range of incredible spaces to choose from, like The Perch. This recently constructed pavilion style area screams “chillaxed eats and sips with your mates” and we’re only too happy to oblige.
We’re also partial to relaxing on the luscious lawn with family and friends at the expansive beer garden. Overlooking the beautiful Coomera River and overflowing with atmosphere, it’s the perfect Sunday sesh spot.
For a more substantial feed, wander back across to the stunning new bistro and peruse the wide range of tastebud titillating meals. From pub grub to more refined modern fare, one thing’s for sure – you won’t leave hungry.
There’s free Funky Bunch trivia on Tuesday nights, musical bingo on Thursday nights and IYKYK #NotYourAverageBingo. Plus, there’s more local and international sport than you can poke a stick at playing live and loud in the zhuzhed up Sports Bar. We’re talking AFL, NRL, NBL, rugby union, league, UFC and more, and ladies – we’ll meet you over at The Perch #cocktailoclockcalls.
Between the nosh, entertainment, beautiful natural surroundings, on-fleek fit-out, and old-fashioned service, what’s not to love about Coomera Lodge Hotel (spoiler alert – nothing). Do yourself a flavour and add it to your must-visits, starting this weekend with their infamous brunch. See you there!
Where: 160 Maudsland Road, Oxenford
When: 10am – 1am, Monday to Sunday
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY COOMERA LODGE HOTEL
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when someone says “Dreamworld”? Indulging your inner adrenalin junkie with epic thrill rides galore? Or maybe a trip down memory lane coz waiting at Kodak for our Dreamworld prints from mum’s disposable camera was literally life circa 1990. Whilst that all rings true, our answer is (drum roll pls)….Night Markets #CueMicDrop. No, we’re not disoriented after one too many spins on the Steel Taipan, Dreamworld really is the new home to our region’s coolest Night Markets, creating the GC’s hottest coupling since Kenny and Belinda #KoalaPowerCouple101.
Serving up good times and good food from 5pm to 9pm every Friday and Saturday night, the first point we need to highlight is cost, or lack thereof. No need to buy a ticket to Dreamworld, simply forgo that trip to the $2 shop and redirect your shiny gold coin (or Eftpos card coz srsly, what is cash) to your Dreamworld Night Market entry! That’s right, it’s only two bucks for adults and better yet, free for kiddos under 13, passholders and anyone already inside the park.
So what can we expect from these Night Markets and get comfy coz It’s.A.Lot. Let’s start with the nosh and we’re talking unreal street eats, sweets, drinks – the works! Serving up cuisine how we like it best – food truck style – there’s something for everyone. Think decadent dumplings and bao, North American, South American, Korean, Vietnamese, Indian, Latin American, German, Spanish, Italian and Turkish tucker, and that’s just a taste* PunAlwaysIntended.
If you’re a cocktail or beer enthusiast (is the sky blue and duh), check out Apollo’s Cocktail Bar and Apollo’s Beer Bar. Or perhaps you’d rather give booze the boot and stick to coffee, tea and juices and the choices are equally abundant and satisfying. As are the desserts with the likes of popcorn, Hong Kong style waffles, Dutch pancakes, churros and donuts and if you’re thinking who needs mains then #same.
Food is just the beginning though with more entertainment than you can poke a sate stick at and yes, you can nom plenty of those too. Dreamworld Night Markets are also the home of exciting live music from local, emerging, and well-known artists on the Main Street Stage. With set lists changing weekly there’s always someone new to enjoy….and add to your ever-growing Spotify list.
Turn up the heat with free family entertainment and we don’t mean that figuratively coz there are actual fire twirlers people #(Non)CannedHeat. There are also stuntmen, live performance artists, roaming entertainers, and of course, free movies on the big screen from 6.25pm. Pull up a beanbag and keep your little ones entertained, whilst enjoying a well-earned time-out from the daily grind.
If you fancy yourself as the arty farty type, you’re invited to bring your best strokes with the crew from Paint Juicy. Happening on alternate Friday and Saturday nights (at an additional cost), if you haven’t experienced the creative outlet that is a paint and sip class then friends, this is THE place to do it. Paint and Sip sessions are just $59 per person and include entry, a drink on arrival, and an individual snack box. Plus, you can take home your own art creation to hang proudly in your abode, or chuck in your wheely bin but hey, it’s all about the journey which is next level fun, fetch and fab. Paint and Sip is perfect for the whole family and session spots are strictly limited (translation – book yesterday).
If you’re more of a lol enthusiast than a paintbrush pusher, keep your eyes peeled for an evolving showcase of live comedy gigs. And for the small folk, get a load of Gamesite, the pay-for-play fun zone with all your fave arcade games (#kool) and of course, Belinda’s Tree House, perfect for expelling their second (third and fourth…times two) wind.
So as you can see, there is something for everyone – young, not so young, creative, not so creative, hungry or hungrier. Whether you’re heading for after-work drinks, taking the kids out for dinner, or looking for the ultimate good-times-and-vibes joint to host your corporate function or party, all roads lead to one destination: Dreamworld Night Markets.
For more information, go here.
Where: Dreamworld, Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera
When: 5pm – 9pm, Fridays & Saturdays
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY DREAMWORLD
Hope Island might be famous for its canal-front living and a name that screams positivity, but there’s more to this northern gem than just golf courses and good vibes. Nestled far enough from the hustle of the CBD to feel like a retreat, yet close enough to dip back into the action, it delivers a lifestyle that’s totally 4220.
And honestly, it makes sense – when a chunk of your neighbourhood is an actual resort, that vibe is bound to stick.
The locals here? Absolutely smitten with their slice of paradise and trust us, they’re not going anywhere. Here are twelve reasons why Hope Island folks are locked in for the long haul.
Sanctuary Cove
I mean, this place needs no introduction. Bursting with top-notch dining, drinking, a world-class marina, primo people-watching opportunities and don’t even get us started on the shopping, it’s no wonder this vibrant spot holds a special place in our hearts. With a lineup of eats and sips venues (keep reading for more deets) and boutiques like Soho Girl and Theo & Joe, there’s no shortage of places to do your dough.
Where: 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove
If you’re after a quadruple threat, welcome. Between the Lagoon Beach Club, epic pool, beautiful accommodation and of course, the wood-fire wizardry that is The Fireplace restaurant, it’s the ultimate stay-cay destination. Plus, if you’re in the market to get hitched, there’s a reason this place has remained on bride and groom’s to-be ceremony and reception list for decades.
Where: Manor Circuit, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Rise
The French know how to wow, and Rise Bakery is no exception. With divine pastries, fresh baguettes, heavenly macarons, and a champagne bar, it’s a slice of Parisian perfection. Add a peek-a-boo kitchen and luxe interiors and you’ve got trés chic indulgence. Pop in for croissants, sip bubbly, and embrace all the bready, sugary goodness – because calories don’t count when it’s French.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Pablitos
When it comes to tacos and tequila, Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria in Sanctuary Cove is a spec-taco-lar must-try. With a fresh, plant-based-forward menu, fancy margaritas, and over 50 sipping tequilas, it’s a fiesta for your taste buds. The chic Mexican-Caribbean vibes, terracotta tables, and divine dishes make this spot muy auténtico. Vamos, amigos!
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Hope Island Tavern
Say hello to the revamped Hope Island Tav, where sunshine, good vibes, and laid-back living collide in the best way possible. Smack dab in the heart of Hope Island, stretch out in the expansive beer garden and let the good times roll. The little ones will stay busy in the awesome playground while you devour drool-worthy wood-fired pizzas and fresh-as-can-be seafood.
Where: 93 Broadwater Avenue, Hope Island
Doughed
Doughed is a bona fide foodie haven, serving epic coffee, matcha, NYC-style cookies, and drool-worthy doughnuts. Their all-day Early Riser Focaccia Sandwich and other sanga options hit every craving, while sweet tooths will go gaga for their array of sugary treats. Don’t miss the signature Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte – it’s qualiTEA perfection!
Where: 99-103 Broadwater Avenue, Hope Island
Rosé Gelateria
This pastel paradise serves artisan gelato, pastries, and coffee fit for a foodie’s dream. Indulge in unique flavours like Fig and Mascarpone or Passionfruit Pavlova, sip affogatos, or snack on a macaron…or ten. Pair your treats with a shake or your fave coffee and take a stroll around the magnificent marina. Yes ploise.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
Ahoy, boat lovers! The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is back for its 38th year and ready to make waves from 22 – 25 May. The most glamorous, immersive, unmissable boating lifestyle event in the Southern Hemisphere, it showcases the latest-and-greatest boating tech and equipment, exclusive waterside VIP experiences and over 43,000+ visitors, 330+ exhibitors, and 760+ boats. It’s a shore thing.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Mecca Bah
If you love Mecca Bah Broady, get ready to fall for its chic sibling at Hope Island. Indulge in fresh, locally-sourced Middle Eastern and Mediterranean delights in a setting that’s as aesthetic as it is authentic. With live tunes on Thursdays from 5pm and dazzling belly dancers every Saturday evening from 7:30pm, prepare to be mezze-merised. Your taste buds will thank you!
Where: 18/10 Santa Barbara Road, Hope Island
Native Harvest
Native Harvest is the northern GC’s worst-kept secret, serving up a fresh take on Australian fusion cuisine and celebrating native ingredients. From Native Australian Chilli Scramble to a Fresh, Tangy Prawn Tartare, the menu is a winner winner bush dinner. Pro tip; pair your nosh with their Native Plum Spritz for peak indulgence. Doggo-friendly and oozing charm, “I’ll (definitely) allow it”.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Hope Island Links Golf Club & Sanctuary Cove Country Club
Hope Island’s heart beats to the swing of a golf club, with world-class courses stealing the spotlight. The Links, crafted by British Open champ Peter Thomson, has aced Australia’s top ten resort courses since 1993. Whether you’re teeing off or tying the knot, this iconic venue isn’t just for golfers – it’s the go-to for unforgettable functions and events.
Where: Springfield Drive and Gleneagles Drive, Hope Island
Destino
Craving a Mediterranean escape sans the airfare? Destino at Sanctuary Cove delivers delish tapas, refreshing cocktails, and top-shelf wine in a chic, sunlit setting. Kick back on the deck or spend your Friday and Saturday nights vibing to a live DJ from 7pm. With its Euro vibes, low tables, and outdoor seating, one drink will likely become three. Take it from us, Destino is your passport to indulgence – no packing required!
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
It had been a long time between drinks. Not literally (obvs), but between clinking glasses, bottles or cans at our beloved Burleigh Town Hotel.
That was until last week, when the $4.5 million new look was revealed with more cool factor and family friendly vibes than you can poke a paint brush at.
In its 2.0 form, the iconic venue has something for everyone and get comfy, coz this is going be a long unravel.
Food and beverage led hospitality operator Australian Venue Co deserves a round of applause (and drinks) for investing in Extreme Makeover; QLD Pub Addition (as we have branded it), revitalising popular local venues such as Burleigh Town Hotel, Coomera Lodge Hotel and The Wallaby Hotel in Mudgeeraba.
This one is a real showstopper, boasting a zhuzhed up modern bistro, the sports bar to end all sports bars, a new look gaming room, plus a brand-new E.P.I.C beer garden and kid’s playground. Talk about raising the bar coz yes, it’s ale it’s cracked up to be.
Let’s start with the external façade shall we and yes, we shall. Modern vertical timber panel detailing gives it instant curb appeal, plus you can catch a glimpse into the Talle Pegola area, one of the many watering holes throughout the joint. Step inside and regardless of where you turn, you’ll be nodding in vigorous approval.
The world class Sports Bar features a state-of-the-art 11-metre mega screen and if you thought it was hard to drag hubby away from the game before… It’s the biggest pub screen in the southern hemisphere and if you think that’s impressive, have a go of the suspended cylinder screen promising perfect viewing from every vantage point #jawdrop.
The spacious, bright, family friendly Bistro space features high ceilings with exposed timber beams, and we’re a sucker for this kinda jam. The space flows out seamlessly to the Patio area where you can chillax rain, hail or shine with a frosty Bronson in hand. Choose from bench style tables and traditional table and chair options, adopting the #trending colour palette of white, sage, timber, burnt coral and terracotta hues.
Just over yonder is the festoon-lit Talle Pergola area, another undercover spot perfect for an arvo or evening bev with the crew. Alternatively, there’s the Burleigh Pergola space where you can park yourself under a brolly to make sure your cold drinks stay that way. Or, arguably the best seat in the house is on the grass in the Talle Beer Garden and yes this is where you’ll find us getting a dose of vitamin d with our vitamin b(eer). A special shout-out must go to the funky AF beanbag style chairs which are a winner winner pub grub dinner with young and old.
Speaking of grub, the Sports Bar offers true-blue snacks, slinging the likes of snags in bread, sausage rolls, rissoles and more. For a heartier feed, the Bistro serves up Aussie bangers with a contemporary nod. Start with some sharesies like Salt and Szechuan Pepper Calamari flash fried calamari, green onion, grilled lime cheek, and lemon zest aioli.
For a main, we recommend the Chicken Schnitzel coz #ChookSchniddy, or the mouth-watering 250g Porka-House (Pork Porter House…but we like Porka-House better), from the grill. Or choose from a large selection of hand-stretched wood-fired pizzas, make friends with a salad, then dive into a something sweet. We pick the Chargrilled Pineapple with coconut sorbet, white rum caramel, and freeze-dried cherries because we never desert dessert.
To celebrate the reopening, get set for a weekend of special events from Friday 25th until Sunday 27th November. Friday is Welcome Day with complimentary roving canapés and refreshments, a Tradie Club smoker and accessories giveaway valued at $1,000, and a Stone and Wood beer garden pop-up. Saturday is Sports Fans Dream Day, featuring an epic line-up in the Sports Bar on ‘that’ humdinga of a screen, Stone and Wood beer garden pop-up, Sports Bar TAB activation, prizes and giveaways.
And finally on Sunday, the reopening revelry will go out with a bang coz it’s Family Fun Day!
Bring the kiddy winkles down for special ankle-biter entertainment, including a live reptile show and relax, said reptiles will not actually bite your kid’s feet. There’s also a face-painter and free ice cream in other words, kid utopia.
So get down to The Burleigh Town Hotel next weekend…and every weekend…for the atmosphere you’ve always known and loved, but on a lager than life level.
Where: Tsipura Drive, Burleigh Heads
When: Reopening celebrations Friday 25th – Sunday 27th November. Normal trading hours 10am – late, Monday – Sunday
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY BURLEIGH TOWN HOTEL
