Costa Taco spices up Broadbeach.
Costa Taco spices up Broadbeach.
It’s the news we’ve all been waiting for, much-loved Palm Beach Mexican eatery Costa Taco has opened a third space in Broadbeach and we couldn’t be happier.
Brothers Nick and Matt Stanley started their foray into the local foodie scene at Currumbin Community Markets in 2020 before moving into Palmy and (probably) not enjoying a single second of sleep since. We Gold Coasters very quickly fell in love with the laidback venue serving up authentic, flavour-filled eats the likes of which you don’t often see outside of Mexico.
The pair set out with the idea of creating a menu filled with real Mexican dishes that aren’t adapted to suit Aussie palates and the result has been an outstanding success. So much so they have now expanded to Byron Bay and most recently of course, the little house on the corner of Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Highway in Broadbeach.
As was the case in Palm Beach, Costa Taco has introduced a space where the energy of Mexico fuses with the Aussie beach culture perfectly. The fitout is relaxed and filled with colour offering both indoor and outdoor seating that is both welcoming and the kind of spot that gives that roll-in-off-the-beach vibe.
The dishes boast locally sourced ingredients, of the very best quality that come together in traditional recipes, and it is without a doubt, some of the most exceptional Mexican food you’ll ever sample. The actual menu comes complete with a map on the back, marking the exact locations the dishes originate.
Let’s begin with the tacos. The Beer Battered Local Snapper Taco alights from Baja, the coastal peninsula almost entirely surrounded by the ocean. The Snapper is caught locally on the Coast, battered with Mexican beer and served with a cashew salsa made with European-style flavours. The Guerrero Chicken Taco is a product of the Guerrero region and that little beauty is marinated in citruses, sour grape juice and three types of chillies and comes with Costa’s secret sauce, Pico de Gallo and Cashew Salsa Verde.
The Specials menu is one of our favourite sections (also the Marg section) and there are so many must-try’s here. The Chilaquiles are Mexi-style wet nachos and are the kind you’ll find if you visit Mexico City. Salsa made with green tomatoes and a ricotta-style cheese is poured over the top to allow for a varied texture and the flavour is tangy and so very tasty.
The Quesabirrias is traditionally a Mexican hangover cure in the Guadalajara region, and we’d likely induce a hangover just to eat it every day. Made up of two cheesy Birria (stewed meat) tacos that are grilled until they’re crispy and served with Costa Tacos’ famous dipping sauce, these are one (of many) dishes you will order again and again.
Our third highlight is the Ceviche Tostadas. In case you’ve never had the pleasure, ceviche is fish cooked in lime juice and in this case, served on crispy tostadas with fresh tomato, cucumber, onion, chilli and avocado. They hail from the Sinaloa region of Mexico, found on the Coast.
To drink there are both local and Mexican beers, Mexican soft drinks and of course, Margaritas – chilli, coconut and a special guy you should absolutely order several of.
It’s no surprise to those of you who have sampled Costa Taco previously that the Broadbeach venue is perfection in the form of traditional Mexican-eats but if you haven’t yet, do yourself a favour and head down immediately. It’s an eating experience you won’t soon forget.
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
When: 12pm to 9pm daily
Permission to eat as much as possible.
I don’t like banquets – said no one EVER!
Thankfully we are spoiled for choice here on the GC with the best of the best. Whether you’re into modern Australian, Asian fusion, Middle Eastern or European eats, there’s a feast for every belly. So grab your mates, bring your appetite, and get ready to eat your heart out (literally) because life’s better with a banquet.
Let’s dig in!
For a curated Japanese banquet journey, One Eighty in Labrador offers two Omakase Courses: a General ($110pp) and a Premium ($150pp). The General Omakase Course offers a well-rounded exploration of flavours, featuring ramen, yakitori skewers, sashimi, soup, and more. The Premium Omakase Course is designed to be ‘the pinnacle of ‘One Eighty’, featuring the finest expressions of authentic binchotan-grilled yakitori and elevated Japanese flavours. Our eyes are on the 180 Original Eye Fillet Sandwich.
Where: 180 Marine Parade, Labrador
A restaurant with Shiraz in the name can only mean great things, and for banquet enthusiasts, this is where it’s at. If it’s just you and your +1, the $79pp Banquet for Two has your names on it. If there are four or more in your group, choose from the Persian Feast Banquet ($79pp), or for the crem da le crem, the Ultimate Persian Banquet ($99pp). It’s an award-winner for a reason, people!
Where: 2893 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
For something with a Euro‑coastal twist, Meltemi offers two Mediterranean banquet options with a minimum of 2 people, making them perfect for an indulgent date night. For $105pp, the Meltemi Coastal Indulgence banquet impresses with dishes such as QLD Coral Trout Crudo, Half BBQ Murray Cod, Lamb Kontosouvli, and Meltemi Summer Salad. Or, for $79pp, The Aegan Table features Grilled Greek Pita, Hummus Bil Tahini, Grilled Prawns, Lebanese Chicken and more. You’ll be transported to sun-drenched Cyprus in a single bite.
Where: 17 Albert Ave, Broadbeach
Broadbeach’s eclectic Asian fusion destination offers two vibrant set menus: Maggie Luxe for $79pp and Maggie Royal for $99pp. Maggie Luxe brings everything from Vietnamese Noodle Salad and Tom Yum Dumplings, to Cheeseburger Spring Rolls and Kingfish and Salmon Tartare. Over at Maggie Royal, dishes get even more decadent with Twice-Cooked Bungalow Pork Belly, Black Pepper Beef, Singapore Chilli Bugs, and Crab Cream Korokke. The vibe is just as memorable as the food, making it a perfect pick for group dinners, birthdays or celebrations that need a little extra flair. Pre-booking required for groups of 10 or more.
Where: 89 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
One of the most loved venues on the Coast has the perfect option if you want to try a little bit of everything…and then some. Obvs, we’re talking about Hideaway and their epic $69pp Street Feast (minimum of 2 people required for groups of 10 or more). The table will be loaded up with your choice of edamame or lotus roots, three smaller plates, two bigger plates, one rice or noodle dish, and a salad or greens. Trust us, this culinary journey through Asia’s backstreets is a must!
Where: 2657 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
The always-impressive, award-winning Japanese restaurant Kiyomi, located at the Star Gold Coast, is another beauty of a banquet. Choose from the $175pp 10-course Omakase menu, featuring dishes such as Hiramasa Kingfish Miso Ceviche, Wagyu Tartare 9+MBS, Bay Lobster Tempura, and Lamb Rump. Or, don your fanciest fancy pants and splurge on the Premium Omakase menu for $300pp, including a chef demonstration that must be seen to be believed!
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
If you’re after a banquet that feels equal parts party and feast, Harajuku Gyoza is the word. This Japanese spot offers a Bottomless Banquet ($88pp) that stacks all your favourite grilled, fried and poached Japanese share plates (with gyoza aplenty, of course). Plus 90 minutes of bottomless cocktails, beer, wine, and soft drinks. The Salaryman Banquet offers a selection of their most popular dumplings and dishes for just $48pp! Now, that’s a steal. There’s an option to upgrade this banquet to bottomless as well for an additional $27pp.
Where: 2/26 Victoria Ave, Broadbeach
Mamasan has us sorted with two banger banquet menus, Yin and Yang, plating up the perfect blend of traditional and modern cuisine from Southeast Asia (minimum of 2 people). For $88pp, the Yin invites us to devour the likes of Shio Kombu Kingfish, Wagyu Katsu Sando, and Roasted Red Curry Duck. Or, over at the Yang banquet for $108pp, you’ll be treated to Yellowfin Tuna Tacos, Spanner Crab Tortellini Dumplings, and Satay Crispy Half Chicken with lemongrass. Both banquet styles offer optional add-ons and premium upgrades. Either way, it’s a solid ten.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
Oh, Bonita (x 2), you’ve had our heart since day dot – particularly with the Feed My Belly banquet for a purse-proud price of just $49pp! Mandatory for groups of eight or more and also available for smaller groups, get your banquet on with a tasty seven-course selection of the staff’s fave dishes. The menu includes dishes like Bonita’s iconic Grilled Corn with cilantro crema, fresh cheese, and smoky paprika, Spicy Chicken Wings, and a Classico Taco of your choice. Added bonus – you can pop next door to Bon Bon Bar for a pre or post tequila!
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Bringing bold Latin American‑inspired share plates to Mermaid Beach, Norté is the banquet for groups that love rich exotic flavours and fire‑kissed cooking. Their 90 Banquet (for $90pp) delivers unforgettable, mouthwatering dishes like Beef Tostada with Fermented Chilli, Mooloolaba Spanner Crab Churro, Braised Beef, and Dulce de Leche Gelato. In other words, don’t walk- run!
Where: The Oxley, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach
Burleigh’s favourite contemporary Chinese joint, Mr Hizola’s, always serves up a cracking good time. With a menu absolutely choccas with choice, the banquet is definitely your best bet here (compulsory for groups of ten or more, and a maximum of 16 people). It’s called The Emperor’s Feast, and never has a name been more fitting! For $69pp, choose one lingshi, two small dishes, one dim sum, two mains, one noodles or rice, and one salad or veg. The authentic flavours are *chef’s kiss* and there is buckley’s chance you’re leaving hungry.
Where: 1730 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
This eternal crowd fave can do no wrong. The $59pp Feed Me menu is available for a minimum of 2 diners and is required for groups of 12 or more. Think the likes of Byron Bay burrata to start, an insanely long list of pitch-perfect pizzas such as the pork belly, garlic, red onion, gorgonzola, buffalo mozzarella, rocket, and pear pizza, and pastas-a-plenty (our vote: gnocchi with lamb ragu, herb, and grana Padano). Extra points awarded for serving up a vegan take on the Feed Me menu, which is just as lush.
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh’s perennial favourite modern Vietnamese gem is just as feast‑worthy as any banquet. Every item on their menu is a must-try, so your best option is to take a seat, say “Feed me”, and the chefs will create a special menu for your table for just $86pp. You’re in safe hands with award-winning chefs, so sit back and relax- there’s no bad outcome! We recommend the ‘matching wine’ add-on for $58pp, because wine not?
Where: 1724 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
At Kirra’s coastal beauty- Billy Chow- each meticulously curated dish is an experience to be savoured and shared. With not one but three banquets to choose from, including a vegetarian option, which means you’ll need to go again and again…and again! Ranging from $69 to $95pp, think Pork Belly Curry with coconut rice, Har Gow Dumplings with Mooloolaba prawns and pork, and Pad See Ew with organic tofu, cheong fun, egg, Chinese broccoli, soy and ginger and more. Get in our bellies!
Where: 76 Musgrave Street, Kirra
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Cheers to the freaking weekend….and weekdays.
If there’s one thing we never grow tired of, it’s a cracking cocktail and lucky for us, the GC is a melting pot of masterful cocktails guaranteed to leave you shooketh.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these spots are a must-visit for anyone who loves a tipple (or five), tried and tested by the team because, you know, we had to complete our due diligence. From beachy vibes to moody speakeasies, here’s the scoop on where to sip the best cocktails in town listed north to south.
It’s where Mediterranean-inspired decor, an atmosphere as light as the sea breeze itself, and world-class service collide to create an unmissable destination for cocktail hour. Need we say more? This little gem at Sanctuary Cove is the gift that keeps on giving. Earning a reputation as a cocktail connoisseur’s haven within its first week, the initial hype has not only endured – it continues to soar. If you’re up the north end (or even if you’re not) – just go.
Where: Shop 38c, 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
Flirt with breathtaking views of the Gold Coast to the Hinterland, with a cracking array of cocktails to choose from at The Exhibitionist Bar. Sitting high on the HOTA Gallery rooftop, their specialty cocktails are inspired and expertly curated, with each drink drawing on major art exhibitions. Naturally, the cocktails change with each new major exhibition, meaning you’ll never run out of reasons to pop in for a sip.
Where: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
It’s bold, it’s quirky, and it’s guaranteed to get your cogs turning. Standing as Australia’s only steampunk-themed bar, Steampunk in Surfers Paradise is a one-of-a-kind spot that blends innovation, nostalgia, and a whole lot of fun. Step inside and you’re instantly transported, with gears, gadgets, and glowing lights, to set the scene. The adventurous cocktail menu is packed with playful creations (yes, even fishbowl cocktails), served with a dash of theatre and a splash of mischief.
Where: 3113 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Asking us to “find the red palm tree”– challenge accepted! We all know any restaurant or watering hole at The Star Gold Coast never misses a beat, and Veladora is no exception. This place is actual cocktail nirvana, so take it from us: leave the car at home- you won’t be able to stop at one. Watching the mixologists in action is half the fun, and don’t even get us started on the vibe, thanks to the Mezcal-inspired speakeasy design.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Hold onto your highball glasses, Gold Coast, because Six-Tricks is redefining the local distillery scene one cocktail, rum, or whisky at a time (okay, maybe more than one). This two-million-dollar masterpiece is state-of-the-art with a spacious indoor bar and sunset deck perf for sipping the night away – and even a private cask hall! You’ll be left shaken, not stirred, in the best possible way.
Where: 3 Brightlands Ct, Mermaid Waters
Mermaid Beach locals will tell you that if you’re frothing for a quality cocktail (us – always), it’s Cantina for the win. This pint-sized neighbourhood tapas bar proves that good things come in small packages, and by good things, we mean cocktails. Forming the perfect pair with sibling Piatto Italian restaurant right next door, line your tum with Spanish-style bar bites so that your sneaky cocktail can turn into two…or five….
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
If you haven’t stepped aboard The Cambus Wallace, are you even a Gold Coaster? Serving up the finest classic cocktails, international rums and whiskeys, and heartwarming food, the only thing moodier than the dark hues of the boat-themed bar is you if you don’t sample at least one of their tipples. There’s a reason (AKA epic cocktails) that it always gets a nod on our lists!
Where: 4/2237 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Perched above its sister venue, Norté, Sueño Rooftop offers a dreamy, Latin American-inspired rooftop escape in Nobby Beach. You can say hola to crisp, Latin-inspired cocktails, delicioso snacks, and sea breeze flowing in from just a few streets away. Spanish escape? Yes! Long-haul flight? No!
Where: 2217 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Looking for an absolute beachfront cocktail tapas bar? Look no further – this.is.it. Serving up an exciting fusion of coastal charm, inventive cocktails, and sumptuous tapas, it’s a winner, winner, cocktail dinner. Crafted by expert mixologists, the cocktail list boasts an array of innovative libations, from classic martinis to exotic tropical creations, so you’re assured a perfect pairing for every palate and mood.
Where: Level 1/293 The Esplanade, Miami
Distil our beating hearts! With a fresh curation of concoctions that could coax Sleeping Beauty herself from her 100-year slumber, this magical albeit not-so-faraway Miami-based fave has earned quite the rap for its bewitching, fable-inspired concoctions. If you’re after something extra spesh that you can’t find at every other cocktail bar, welcome. Extra points for everything from syrups to spirits made on site.
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami
Welcome to Palm Springs! Well, almost- you’ll be fooled by the chic ambience and vibrant aesthetic. Nestled in the heart of Burleigh Heads, The Malibu Racquet Club is the perfect spot for sunset sips and pre-dinner drinks. Hello, double-parked margaritas. Patrons can enjoy the beautiful southern GC breezes while seated outside, or opt for a cozy booth or the bar inside. Everything from the cocktail list to the paired-back decor is curated to delight summer-lovers. Yes please!
Where: 1740 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Rosella’s has been serving up pure Australiana vibes to bustling Burleigh since January 2019— and clearly doing something right, because they once snagged the crown for Best Cocktail Bar in Queensland. And what’s more quintessentially 2025 Aussie behaviour than sipping on a host of sensational cocktails in a beautiful beachy ‘burb?! Serving up nostalgic and native fare, this little ripper hums until late seven nights a week. ‘Knoath!
Where: 1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh
Looking for a chic tropical cocktail bar and cellar door experience? Look no further than Familiar Spirits, the hidden gem tucked away in the industrial zone of Burleigh Heads. The intimate atmosphere, combined with a curated selection of house-made spirits, makes it a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts. The cocktail list is nothing short of impeccable —you must try them all! That’s an order.
Where: 1/9 Calabro Way, Burleigh Heads
With a name that (literally) sums up our guilty pleasure, Suga lives up to its namesake – and then some. When it comes to our local speakeasy, the only thing more satisfying than the cocktails is the…no, it’s definitely the cocktails. The low-lit lamps highlight the insanely good menu, which serves as the perfect belly-liner so that you can partake in another cocktail (yes, even on a school night).
Where: 1142 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
If you like your gin with a side of smooth operator, Burly Bar in Currumbin is your next stop. Step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into a New York lounge with a Japanese twist – think dark corners, cool beats, and even cooler drinks. This distinctive and eclectic spot is where craftsmanship meets cocktail hour, treating mixology like an art form.
Where: 60 Currumbin Creek Road, Gold Coast
You’ve never met a cooler Evelyn (and if you’re born after 1980, you’ve probably never met one). This antipasto and pizza bar has not only garnered a staunch following for its A+ seasonal antipasti, sourdough pizza, and freshly made pasta but also for the evelyn-utionary cocktails. With its moody lighting and dark wooden charm, Evelyn is the kind of spot that makes even a balmy summer night feel effortlessly cool.
Where: Shop 20/58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Words by Bianca Trathen and Chelsea Ipsen.
Plant yourself at Garden Kitchen & Bar.
A lush garden oasis where delectable dining meets lively entertainment, you ask? Hold that request- your order has already been filled. It’s time to reacquaint yourself with Garden Kitchen & Bar!
If you haven’t found your way to The Star Gold Coast in a little while, we have the perfect excuse for you to change that right away. Garden Kitchen & Bar has proven time and time again to be the oracle for our dining and entertaining desires, which explains why it’s one of the Coast’s best loved hangout spots no matter the weather.
Built to bolster the Gold Coast’s enviable climate and luxuriously laid-back lifestyle, the open-concept venue blurs the lines between the indoors and out to reveal a quintessential Queensland design. The lavish bar and dining area is bathed in natural light and filled with lush green foliage. Find a spot on the emerald green velvet lounges and enjoy the garden oasis that surrounds you.
If you’re not long-lunching here, you really shouldn’t be long-lunching at all. Picture this, the sound of a champagne bottle pop and the clink of glasses. A charcuterie board arrives with locally sourced cured meats, pickled vegetables, house-made crisps & Australian cheddar. Kilpatrick oysters are being slurped back like you’re running someone else’s card, along with Airlie Beach tiger prawns because Garden Kitchen & Bar is killing the seafood game.
We all know Garden Kitchen & Bar is perfect for casual drinks and eats, as well as more intimate celebrations (hello dedicated semi-private dining room). The lunch and dinner menus are a feast of mouth-watering seasonal dishes, utilising only the freshest produce and a selection of garnishes and herbs hand-picked from an onsite herb garden.
For starters, we must recommend the baked bread and macadamia dip– it’s to dough for. For category crowd pleasers, indulge in a stockyard 200-day grain-fed tomahawk or their succulent rosemary-marinated Milly Hill lamb cutlets- both dished with a Chefs’ selection of fresh Australian produce and chips. The Garden Nourish Bowl with cauliflower and fried chickpeas is a stand-out vego option.
Now we don’t like to pick favourites, but we’re going to make a special exception for their deluxe Australian Seafood Experience; a selection of Australia’s best seafood from the tropical waters of Northern Queensland and the ice-cold southern oceans of Tasmania. How could we not?
Once lunchtime inevitably rolls into the afternoon, step outside onto The Lawn. There’s no time for putting around on this green. Well-versed in providing an unrivalled afternoon/evening place to assemble there’s stellar live entertainment on tap every weekend! Imagine you and your posse enjoying a toasty crackling fire, live entertainment, cheeseboards, mouth-watering bites from the Container Kitchen and delectable beverages. Yes please!
The only thing left to do is pencil Garden Kitchen & Bar into your social calendar stat!
Where: Casino Level, The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: Monday & Thursday: 17:30 – late, Friday 4:00 – late, Saturday – Sunday 12:00 – late. Live Entertainment Thurs – Sun
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be 18 years or over to enter the Casino. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT. Gambling Helpline 1800 858 858.
