Culinary Stars invites you to experience cuisine from the world’s finest JW Marriott chefs.
Culinary Stars invites you to experience cuisine from the world’s finest JW Marriott chefs.
If food is your love language, get ready to swipe right on every course! The JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa is turning the humble dinner into a four-night intergalactic flavour odyssey with the return of Culinary Stars – the resort’s annual showcase where international culinary heavyweights collide, collaborate, and conquer.
Running from November 10 to 13 at the award-winning Citrique Restaurant, this year’s theme is inspired by the earth’s natural rhythm. The menu is built around four key elements; Root, Leaf, Flower, and Fruit will deliver a sensory spectacle worthy of the stars.
In its fourth year, Culinary Stars is uniting JW Marriott’s finest chefs from across Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Europe. Each night focuses on a different element, with six courses designed to honour nature’s own recipe for creation, from earthy beginnings to full-blown fruity finales. And of course, it’s all tied together by JW Marriott’s signature mix of sustainability, creativity, and pure indulgence.
Kicking off the culinary constellation on Monday, November 10, is Root – a night devoted to the foundations of flavour. Expect dishes that dig deep into earthy richness, like Red Prawn Lokma with black garlic and sweet potato, Poached Glacier Toothfish bathing in lemon myrtle beurre blanc and caviar, and a melt-in-your-mouth Pork Belly Nem that’ll make your tastebuds forget their manners. As for dessert, it’s a cheeky nod to JW Marriott’s origins with the JW Root Beer Dessert, a nostalgic, fizzy finale that’s a bubbly blast from the past with a five-star twist.
Tuesday’s Leaf dinner takes things up a (herbal) notch. Fresh, fragrant, and greener than your average wellness influencer’s smoothie, this night is all about renewal and vibrancy. Diners will be treated to the likes of Baby Lettuce with goat cheese and lavender, Pan-Roasted Snapper with celeriac and apple purée and char siu, and a shimmering Golden Leaf Dark Chocolate Delice so pretty you’ll be tempted to frame it before you fork it.
By Wednesday, things are in full bloom with Flower, a show-stopping ode to beauty and brilliance. Think Sea Bream Leche de Tigre Ceviche with passionfruit and nasturtium, Charred Wagyu with lobster and zucchini flower, and a Red Rose Hazelnut Mousse that practically flirts with you from the plate.
The grand finale lands on Thursday, November 13, with Fruit – the juiciest chapter of the series. Expect culinary fireworks from Newton’s Apple with scampi and citrus, Miso Black Cod with yuzu sake foam and the Mandarin Illusion, a Chocolate Mousse Cake that will convince you dessert is, in fact, an art form.
Guiding this gastronomic galaxy is JW Marriott Gold Coast’s own Executive Chef Paul Smart, a man who knows how to make a plate sing (and possibly perform interpretive dance). He’s joined by an all-star lineup including Wallace Mua from JW Marriott Auckland, Mehmet Faruk Yardimci from JW Marriott Istanbul Marmara Sea, and James Paul Lorenzo from JW Marriott Hanoi. In other words, a masterclass in global gastronomy, right here in our own backyard.
Citrique, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa’s crown jewel of dining, is the perfect stage for this culinary showcase famous for its Modern Australian flair and luxurious seafood spreads. The restaurant’s culinary team is internationally renowned for combining premium local produce with inventive global influences, and when paired with JW Marriott’s signature JW Garden-grown ingredients, you just know this series is going to be next-level delicious.
And if the food alone doesn’t make you swoon, there’s always the wine. Each evening comes with the option to add a carefully curated wine pairing for $69 per person, because the only thing better than six courses is six courses with perfectly poured company.
Each night is priced from $129 to $159 per person (plus $69 for wine pairing) and also supports the Gold Coast Community Fund. Yes, this event provides indulgence with purpose – and it feels just as good as it tastes.
Plus, it’s a great excuse to book a little stay-cay and enjoy all the JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa has to offer! So, if you’re ready to trade your weeknight stir-fry for a six-course standing ovation, your table at Culinary Stars awaits!
Bookings are now open here.
Where: 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
When: Monday 10 – Thursday 13 October
Words by Bianca Trathen
STORY SPONSORED BY JW MARRIOTT GOLD COAST RESORT & SPA
The only time it’s good to have a lot on your plate.
The history of buffet style eating is a mixed affair. Its origins could be said to hark back to a mixture of cultures — from Asia to Europe. The ‘smorgasbord’ became internationally known as such at the 1939 New York World’s Fair exhibition, because the Swedes had to invent a new way of showcasing the best of Swedish food to large numbers of visitors. And the rest, as they say, is history…
Whoever can claim to have been responsible, we’re not fussed! The point is buffets — and smorgasbords — are amazing ways to reach newfound eating goals, and we’ve got quite a few exceptional ones right here on the Gold Coast. Happy binge eating, folks!
It’s the seafood buffet extravaganza in Main Beach that locals keep returning to time and time again, and as one of those locals, we can tell you it’s got all of the very best things you’ll love. Yes, fresh seafood galore but also a whole charcuterie section, an excellent Asian dish section, and so many delicious desserts to choose from. Buffet is open daily for breakfast, Saturday and Sunday for lunch and Thursday to Saturday for dinner.
Where: Level 1, Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, 71 Sea World Drive, Main Beach
Not only does Harvest Buffet treat their diners to top-notch eats, but they also allow patrons to feast on glistening poolside views as well. The stunning indoor and outdoor spaces are seriously as enticing as the food, and the private dining room screams “have your birthday/celebration here” and ok, if you insist…Open for breakfast and dinner daily, as well as lunch every Saturday and Sunday so you can get stuck into their famed prawn and oyster buffet, you’ll be sure to leave this place bursting at the seams. We must make special mention of their dinner offering which includes the freshest seafood like oysters, prawns, sushi, roasts from the carvery as well as crowd-pleasers like pizza, pasta, curries, soups and salads. Should we also mention they have a decadent dessert bar? Yep, complete with a chocolate fountain! It’s our buffet dreams answered!
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach
Buffet in the sky? No probs. Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise is where you’re find this gem, nestled above the city skyline so you can (literally) take your dining experience to new heights. Think breathtaking views of the city skyline from ocean to hinterland and of course, the most incredible seafood feast curated by award-winning chefs. They’ve also got vegetarians covered with a huge range of options to make sure every leaves well and truly full. All that buffet-ing is thirsty work of course, so why not treat yourself to an expertly crafted cocktail (or mocktail) to seal the deal. Open for lunch and dinner from Thursday through Sunday.
Where: Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise, 2807 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
It’s a quality over quantity affair at Il Barocco, it’s long been a favourite dining spot for buffet lovers for obvious reasons. After all, this is a 5-star luxury property we’re talking about! The team uses only the very best, locally sourced seafood and the aim of the game is to create a fresh, diverse-looking buffet, which they nail. Besides exceptional seafood, there are hot and cold meats, vegetarian dishes and the prettiest dessert section. Treat yourself to the most luxe buffet setting on the Coast. Open for breakfast daily, with Seafood buffet dinner on Saturday nights.
Where: Imperial Hotel Gold Coast, 94 Sea World Drive, Main Beach
Catering to the entire family, Frenzy’s at Southport Sharks is open for dinner and offers an extensive buffet selection featuring dishes inspired by cuisines from around the world. The all-you-can-eat buffet offers a tasty range of meats, salads, international dishes and desserts, all available between 5.30pm and 8.30pm, 7 nights a week. Yep, we don’t know about you but we have our plates ready!
Plus, Frenzy’s is now serving up a mouth-watering, heart-warming all-you-can-eat breakfast feast every Saturday and Sunday! The scrumptious selection includes all your brekkie favourites (as well as cheese and charcuterie, yes please) AND includes bottomless Bun coffee – they’ve really got everything covered.
Where: Southport Sharks, Olsen Ave & Musgrave Ave, Southport
Not a morning person? Well breakfast up in the clouds might be the closest you’ll get to staying snug in that cosy bed of yours and to be honest, I’d say this brekky is worth the wake up. With all the classics you know and love on offer to build your own big breakfast, seasonal fruits (because, summer) and even cereal if your inner child is begging for coco pops – we won’t judge. You can indulge in the food and then indulge in the view of the GC because it always looks a little prettier from up above. SkyPoint’s breakfast buffet is served every day between 7:30am – 10:30am.
Where: Q1, Level 77 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise
Many things may have changed over the years, but the yum factor of Shoreline Restaurant’s famous buffet isn’t one of them #phew. Located in the Sea World Resort, treat yourself to a balanced and plentiful breaky smorgasbord from 6.30am to 10am daily, or all-you-eat-dinner from 5.30pm to 8.30pm every Friday and Saturday (no judgement if you do both). Special dinner shout-outs go to the Queensland prawns, wide array of international dishes, juicy Chef carved meats, and delectable desserts. And let’s not forget the coastal ambience and live entertainment, satisfying all the senses.
Where: Sea World Resort, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Wake up with an expansive selection of season-inspired breakfast classics at Cove Café’s buffet. Recently reimagined with a tropic-inspired aesthetic reflecting the natural beauty of Sanctuary Cove, it’s the perfect place to start your day. Hit the live omelette station for eggs cooked your way, seasonal fruit, international dishes and naughty but oh-so-nice delicate pastries. Wash your ten outta ten breakfast down with fresh juices and Vittoria Coffee, then saunter around the glorious Sanctuary Cove shops to burn off your brekky. At least that’s our excuse…. Open seven days a week from 6.30am until 10.30am.
Where: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove
There are buffets and there are buffets and this my friends is the latter. A boujee buffet if you like (yes, we like!), Akoya is located inside The Langham Gold Coast, our go-to for luxury stays and plays. Serving up beautiful coastline views and some of Australia’s finest meat, fish, and poultry, this is a buffet connoisseur’s dream. Offering a buffet feast every Saturday night from 5.30pm to 10pm, or their signature breakfast buffet daily from 6.30am, it’s a must for any local or visitor. The only thing more delicious and high rent than the fare is the strikingly contemporary interiors, and bespoke open kitchen. Swoon!
Where: The Langham Gold Coast, 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
From brekkie platters piled high with tropical fruit to eggs cooked exactly how you like them (#PoachGoals), voco Gold Coast has your morning sorted. Sip on a fresh espresso and mix it up with healthy bites or hearty classics – or both, it’s a buffet, live a little! And if seafood is your love language, come back for the seafood buffet dinner. We’re talking whole prawns, rock oysters on the shell, Asian, Indian and Mediterranean faves, and seasonal dishes to keep things exciting. Oh – and did we mention the epic kid-friendly dessert bar? Breakfast buffet is offered daily from 6:30am – 10am, while the seafood buffet rolls out Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30pm – 9pm.
Where: voco Gold Coast, 3032 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
One of the most beautifully presented buffets around is Citrique at the JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa. They are renowned for a next-level, seasonal seafood selection, and folks, it is the goods. Every dish you could possibly want is available at Citrique, including yum cha, sushi, curries, antipasto, European dishes, and speciality plates you’ll fall for in a big way. If the delish food offer wasn’t enough, the view of their iconic pool is the ultimate for giving holiday vibes while you fill up on the fare. It’s open for buffet breakfast daily, with Friday and Saturday buffet sittings in the evenings and lunches Sunday.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Words by Bianca Trathen and Jacqueline Bojanowski
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.
Ready, set, stirrup some fun!
If there’s one thing Gold Coasters know how to do, it’s celebrate in style. Of course, Melbourne Cup Day is no exception.
Whether you’re in it for the bubbles, the frocks, or the thrill of the big race, the Gold Coast is serving up long lunches, flowing champagne, and more sweepstakes than you can shake a fascinator at.
Whether you’re after something opulent, glamorous, or more relaxed, here is a list of Gold Coast venues (listed North to South) inviting you to partake in some horseplay on Tuesday 4th November 2025. Place your bets: these are the hot tickets in town.
The Club at Parkwood Village
The Club at Parkwood Village is turning Melbourne Cup Day into a garden party to remember. From 12pm, enjoy live music, a drinks package, and canapés or grazing stations for a casual cocktail-style experience, or opt for a sit-down VIP dining package with a three-course meal. Watch the races live on big screens, join sweepstakes and Fashions on the Field competitions, and soak up all the spring racing spirit. VIP guests can enjoy spirits and cocktails, while every guest will be surrounded by a stylish, festive crowd ready to celebrate.
Where: 76/104 Napper Road, Arundel
Crafty’s
Casual, fun, and always buzzing, Crafty’s is the go-to for a laid-back Melbourne Cup Day. From 11:30am, enjoy a 3-course menu paired with a 3-hour beverage package featuring Crafty’s favourite pours, while live race screenings, lucky door prizes, and the Best Dressed competition keep the excitement high. After the races, stick around for live music, entertainment, and an unforgettable afterparty. It’s the perfect mix of good vibes, great food, and flowing drinks with your mates.
Where: Harbour Town Shopping Centre, 147 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters
Aviary Rooftop Bar
For skyline views and race-day flair, Aviary Rooftop Bar is the place to be this Melbourne Cup. From 11:30am, guests are welcomed with a Four Pillars cocktail before enjoying a 3-hour beverage package and grazing on roving woodfired pizzas, premium hot and cold canapés, a seafood bar with Coffin Bay oysters and Mooloolaba prawn rolls, and a design-your-own cannoli dessert station. DJs, live sax, Fashions on the Field with prizes, lucky door draws, sweepstakes, and champagne tower moments keep the rooftop buzzing. Packages start from $119 per person, with optional premium drinks upgrades for those feeling lucky.
Where: Aviary Rooftop Bar, Melia Court, Southport
JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa
Prepare to dial up the glamour at JW Marriott, where Citrique is laying on the ultimate Cup Day Seafood & Grill buffet, stacked high with freshly shucked oysters and other delicious delicacies. Your glass of Moët & Chandon on arrival sets the tone, before a three-hour premium beverage package keeps the good times flowing. Entertainment, sweepstakes and raffles (supporting Gold Coast Hospital Foundation) ensure there’s more than one way to score big. And if you’re dressed to impress, you might even win an overnight stay in a lux ocean-view king suite at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa (breakfast at Citrique included), valued at $878. Tickets are $199pp, with the option to upgrade to a Moët & Chandon package.
Where: 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
QT Gold Coast
If the Melbourne Cup were a cocktail, it would taste exactly like QT Gold Coast’s party. qtQT will be buzzing with live music, Fashions on the Field, and the glamour crowd sipping a welcome glass of G.H. Mumm Champagne. Guests can enjoy an oyster shucking station, roaming canapés, and sunlit soirées with tables dressed to the nines, all from the qtQT Level Two Rooftop. General admission starts at $69, and for an extra $79 per person, you can upgrade to a three-hour beverage package featuring flowing Mumm Champagne, lychee mojitos, refreshing spritz, and house spirits.
Where: QT Gold Coast, qtQT Level Two Rooftop, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Palette
Cup Day gets an artistic twist at Palette inside HOTA. Expect a refined three-course menu matched with a three-hour beverage package, plus all the excitement of the race streamed live. With sweepstakes, entertainment and fashion, this is a chic choice for those who like their Melbourne Cup with a side of culture. Tickets are $200pp and worth every penny for an elegant afternoon surrounded by art and indulgence.
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Juju
Celebrate Melbourne Cup Day Juju-style with food, fashion, and fizz from 12pm at Mermaid Beach. Choose your vibe: a refined long lunch downstairs with champagne, oysters, sashimi, king prawns, tenderloin, and chocolate mousse Bézier, complete with a live MC, Fashions on the Field, and Best Dressed prizes ($149 per person), or a lively rooftop party with roaming canapés, bubbles, and a premium drinks package. Booths include reserved seating and share platters, with the same MC and fashion fun keeping energy high (GA $179, Premium GA $199).
Where: 2235 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Robina Pavilion
If you’re after a waterfront vibe, Robina Pavilion is rolling out a Melbourne Cup Day celebration that’s equal parts luxe and lively. From 12pm, enjoy a three-hour premium drinks package featuring wine, beer, tap RTDs, bubbles, and a cheeky spritz on arrival, paired with a moving feast of hot and cold chef-curated canapés and a decadent dessert station. Take in the races on mega screens, groove to live music, strike a pose in lux photo booths, and join in sweepstakes and prize competitions. Whole table bookings are available, making it perfect for groups wanting a stylish, fun-filled race day. Tickets are $155 per person + booking fee.
Where: 229 Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina
Robina Events Centre
Over at Robina Events Centre, the Melbourne Cup luncheon is taking things sky-high on their rooftop terrace. Kick off with a cocktail on arrival before indulging in a three-course lunch paired with a generous three-hour drinks package. Olympian Leisel Jones will be the MC, while live tunes, sweepstakes and a photo booth keep the vibe lively between races. Tickets are $170pp, or if you’ve got a full stable of friends, grab the early bird table of 10 for $1,500.
Where: Robina Events Centre & Green Fields Bar + Restaurant, Level 4, 94 Laver Drive, Robina
Kirra Beach House
With its dreamy beachfront backdrop, Kirra Beach House is shaping up as one of the most coveted tickets this Melbourne Cup Day. From 11:30am, arrive to a sparkling glass of Mumm Marlborough Brut before enjoying a 3-hour canapé and drinks package, including Aperol Spritz and Hugo Spritz, an oyster bar, and a chef’s selection of canapés.
DJs and Fashions on the Field crank up the party vibe, while live Melbourne Cup coverage keeps the excitement high. VIP cabanas offer private service, seafood towers, and Perrier-Jouët Champagne for the ultimate A-list experience. The afternoon also features sweepstakes supporting the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation and access to the Southern Gold Coast’s largest afterparty from 2:30pm onwards. General tickets start at $169 per person.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
So whether you’re chasing oysters and Moët, woodfired pizza on a rooftop, or simply a cold beer and a punt with friends, the Gold Coast has you sorted this Melbourne Cup. Book early, though, these tickets gallop out the gate fast.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
