If you love to wine, dine and shop you’ll love Broadbeach. If you prefer to surf, laze in the sun or strut along beachfront esplanades, you’ll also love Broadbeach. From cult-followed cafes to shiny new eats, boujee bars and shopping boutiques, this burb’s an A-grade entertainer that shines bright in the eyes of locals and visitors alike.

There are many reasons locals – and Gold Coasters far and wide – love a bit of Broady, but here are 15 to get you started.

The Star Gold Coast
If ever there was a reason to call up the babysitter, it’s for a session at The Star. Here, you’re greeted with live music and a melange of premium food options- you won’t need to go anywhere else. Start with a few bevvies at the Atrium Bar before choosing your cuisine for the night. Will it be the fresh Garden Kitchen & Bar or the award-winning Cantonese at Uncle Su’s? Why not taste Tokyo right on the Gold Coast at Kiyomi, authentic Italian eats at Cucina Vivo or the ultimate buffet experience at Harvest Buffet? Or maybe you’re looking for the chic rooftop bar at Nineteen at The Star or a sneaky drink at the new look Veladora?
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant
If you’re after a tried and tested, long-standing comedy cabaret, good ‘ole Dracs has been serving up frights, food and frivolity since we were all ankle-biters. Most people are sold when they hear there’s a ghost train alone, let alone the actual show, which changes every so often, so there’s always a reason to go back! Enjoy a quality 3-course dinner and a menu of magical and mystical cocktails and shots!
Where: Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach

Social Eating House + Bar
If you consider yourself a gastronome, then this Oracle Blvd darling is for you. Social serves modern Australian flavours in a casual meets fine dining setting. For this, they’ve secured more hats than a Milliner’s workshop and have just won 3 glasses at the 2024 Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards. This comes as no surprise with Executive Chef Matthew Jefferson in charge. With a recently refreshed menu (promised to please even the most refined palates), you’ll experience a carefully curated range of bar snacks, charcuterie, and small and large share plates featuring the finest Australian ingredients and paired to perfection.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach

Blues on Broadbeach
Unlike our other listings, this one’s not here 24/7. However, it’s that much of a Broady icon that it would be criminal not to throw it a mention. As the name suggests, it brings us world-class blues music and jazz from locals and famous acts alike, performing across multiple venues over four unforgettable days. And it’s free. When does that ever happen?!
Where: Various Broadbeach venues

Elk Espresso
This place has never met an empty table; it’s constantly bulging at the seams with raving fans. Of course, we are one of such fans. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the beach, the coffee is all-time, the menus are seasonal and heavenly, and they do a Boozy Bottomless Brunch. And sold!
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

The Oasis
It’s an everyday escape for locals, and one of our top shopping centres on the coast (for good reason). The Oasis is home to stunning fashion boutiques, and the number of fabulous eateries at hand is impressive in of itself. In addition to the ones we highlight in this article, we’re talking Mario’s, Madison’s Café and Patisserie, Spice Kitchen and Bar, and The Broadbeach Tavern, to name just a few. It’s a #OneStopShop.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Broadbeach Bowls Club
Ahhh, good old lawn bowls. The game that never fails to deliver a good time. If you’re looking for the best way to spend a chill arvo on the GC, it’s with a game of barefoot bowls, brew in hand at Broadbeach Bowls Club. When you’re finished, they have a full bistro menu waiting with big portions of all your go-to pub-grub meals. They also have a canape package perfect for a laid-back birthday or celebration.
Where: 169 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

kōst Bar & Grill
Just over a year old, yet kōst has already wriggled its way onto our hot list… sneaky bugger. Just kidding, they’re here for a reason, and credit is due! The contemporary style bar and grill is perfect for sophisticated sips, flame-grilled eats and boujee’ bar snacks’, all within a relaxed-luxury setting. Champagne with a side of caviar, anyone?
Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

No Name Lane
Well, if it isn’t No Name Lane making a name for themselves as Blake Lively’s favourite coffee. In her exact words “”the best coffee of her life”. We can attest to this, alongside the cafe’s cult local following. Not only are they adored for their cuppa, but their all-day breakfasts and gourmet lunches also go down a treat so if you haven’t been, remedy this immediately.
Where: 16 Charles Ave, Broadbeach

Kurrawa Surf Club
Ocean views don’t come any better than this. With legit THE most prime location, Kurrawa Surf Club has everything you’d want from a Surf Club…and more. With awesome regular members specials and fresh ingredients, there’s no such thing as a bad meal here. They host a trivia night and live music, and of course there’s the obligatory gaming lounge for those who like a flutter.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach

CHA CHA Japanese Restaurant
Gold Coasters have been CHA CHA bound for an authentic Japanese nosh-up which won’t break the bank for years, and that’s not about to change any time soon. The banquet menu is divine and every visit you’ll experience the same level of scrumptiousness. But the soy on the dim sum…it’s BYO and it’s hard to find an already affordable yet high-quality restaurant offering our 3 favourite letters. Score.
Where: 2705 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

Pacific Fair
This list wouldn’t be complete without mention of THE queen. Pacific Fair (aka Pac Fair) is any Gold Coasters first point of call when a new ensemble or therapy (retail or other) is required. It has every retailer you could possibly wish for, fabulous food options and indisputably the most gorgeous fit-out you’ve ever seen. Nothing rivals it.
Where: Gold Coast Hwy and Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach

Costa Taco
You bet we did a happy dance when news broke that our fav taqueria from Palm Beach had opened a third location in Broady (the second was Byron). For us, and many (most) Gold Coasters, it was a love at first bite. Costa Taco stole our taste buds with their authentic, flavour-filled eats and there was no turning back. And why would we? You would have to be coco to say no no to coconut margaritas?
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

The Lamb Shop
In a pita shell, you’re getting bangin bar snacks and succulent souvlaki- what’s not to love? After a long day on Broadbeach beach (presumably), when you’re feeling sun-kissed and salt wrapped, is there anything better than biting into a tangy lamb-filled pita wrap to replenish exerted energy? No! The Lamb Shop’s entire menu is prepared in-house daily, using only fresh local produce, premium cuts and authentic grilling techniques. That’s why we love em!
Where: 1 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

The Beach Hotel Broadbeach
There’s no better place to snag a seat and sink a beer (or a Golden Hour Sour) on a Saturday arvy than at the brand new The Beach Hotel in Broadbeach. The airy spaces and indoor-outdoor flow let the sea breeze carry through the beer garden into the public bar. The vibe is set to ‘summer chill’, eats are delish, sips are refreshing and every corner is designed for the perfect gathering with your pals. After some spirited fun, head inside Cora, a restaurant within The Beach Hotel, where fine dining and a laid-back atmosphere come together to deliver palate-pleasing Mediterranean-inspired bites and crisp, cool drinks. Don’t mind if we do.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

Ahh our humble, little ol’ Gold Coast… we’re famous for our food and fab beaches, but what about fashion? Well if we know a thing or two about Gold Coasters, it’s that beating our chest and making a big hoo-ha isn’t really our vibe so you might be surprised to know that some of Australia – and the world’s – most loved fashion brands started right here. Yep, turns out we’re really good at making more than just epic margs.

Here’s our pick of the 10 labels putting the GC on the global fashion map!

Kivari
What started as a humble stall at The Village Markets has since blossomed into a global brand bringing elevated resortwear to the everyday. So much so that even Saks Fifth Avenue can’t get enough of them – see, it’s not just us! If you aren’t familiar with Kivari’s signature look think ultra feminine meets boho prints and patterns, crafted for the dreamers and the wanderers – it’s giving major holiday energy and we’re here for it.

Olas Supply Co
Inspired by founders Joel & Nicole love of travel as well as the places and people they found along the way, so we guess you could say that Olas Supply Co isn’t just a brand; it’s a lifestyle. They’ve got goodies for the ladies, the lads and even your mini’s so the whole fam can get kitted out in your favourite swag from signature tees to matching sets that have summer written all over it. Designed for life by the ocean, they’re the ultimate for our sunkissed summers.

Rhythm
If you don’t already know Rhythm, then are you even really a Gold Coaster? It’s the quintessential surf brand that’s all about the good vibes and great design. From swimwear to clothing, Rhythm have become experts in capturing that laid-back, sun-soaked spirit of the Gold Coast. Consciously created, each and every piece is thoughtful designed with the coastal lifestyle in mind – think endlessly cool and comfortable.

Grace Loves Lace
If you’ve ever been a bride or are dreaming of one day being one, we bet you’ve pinned a Grace Loves Lace gown on your Pinterest board. Come on, don’t deny it – they are behind the most pinned wedding gown so you’re not alone. Known for their effortlessly beautiful bridal gowns, Grace Loves Lace has become an icon in the wedding space not just in their home town, but all over the world. They’ve got more than 20 showrooms globally so clearly they’re doing something very, very right. With a focus on comfort, style and individuality Grace gowns are made with movement in mind because ain’t nobody got time to be uncomfortable on their big day! But it’s not just lace they’re all about, there’s so much more – just take a look at their latest collection, an evolution from their signature silhouettes introducing more structured options made from crepes and more, while maintaining their commitment to gowns that move with you.

Peony Swimwear
Peony’s journey from The Village Markets to becoming a world-renowned sustainable swimwear brand has been one of our favourite success stories. Ever since lawyer turned swimwear mogul, Becky Jack, quite her day job to launch the boutique swim brand out of her garage the brand has not missed a beat delivering collections each and every season that make us immediately add to cart. With swim that as luxe and chic as it is eco-friendly, it’s no wonder celebs like Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid approve of this Gold Coast gem.

Isabelle Quinn
Since 2015 Isabella Quinn has been bringing some of our favourite designs to life, think feminine and contemporary silhouettes with a hint of romance. Known for her signature crochet dresses and unmistakably IQ prints with pops of seasonal colours and floral influences because there’s more to life than black, white and beige. This Gold Coast brand has paved their own way and carved a niche in not just the local fashion scene with refined silhouettes in each hand-made piece, but Australian’s all over wanting a piece of IQ because IYKYK.

Sabbi
They might be relatively newbies on the fashion scene but boy have they made a splash with their iconic “this senorita needs a margarita” fits – and truly we’ve never related to something more. Cool and quirky by nature, Sabbi was born from a fusion of love for both art and fashion, with all the designs hand-painted by Jase and Ash themselves made for every day life. And what’s more iconic than a fit that can take you from beach to bar? Spoiler: nothing.

Cleo Harper
Fitness meets fashion with Cleo Harper, the activewear brand that’s all about looking fab while breaking a sweat. Known for their flattering cuts and attention to detail, Cleo Harper’s pieces are made to move with you, whether you’re hitting the gym, taking a hot girl walk in Burleigh or just popping out for the farmers market and your caffeine fix – Cleo Harper have got you covered, literally. Designed on the Gold Coast, this label has built a loyal following of women who love workout gear that look as luxe as they feel when you’re wearing them.

Homebodii
We don’t think we’re out of turn when we say that Homebodii were the pioneers of lounge and sleepwear, and can you believe founder Ingrid Bonnor did it all from right her? Known for their aesthetic designs, the label has become a go-to for brides with their dreamy robes, pastel prints and lace lined pieces they’ve got everything from custom pj’s for the whole family as well as dreamy lingerie for all occasions. Because why not inject a little romance into your every day life? If you’re a home body looking for something beautiful to slip into, Homebodii’s got your name all over it.

LSKD
Okay so technically these guys aren’t quite Gold Coast grown, but they started their journey just down the road in Logan so we’ll claim them as our own – and their flagship store is right here at Pacific Fair. Never ones to be content with settling for the norm, you’ve probably seen the insane evolution LSKD has been on these past few years and it’s not just us who are big fans – they’ve built a cult following. Functional, design-led pieces are at the forefront of the brand so you’re guaranteed to love the buttery soft fabrics and trend-making silhouettes. They’re on a mission to inspire people to be 1% better every day and let’s just say that’s a whole lot easier when you’re kitted out in their epic fitness apparel.

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski

The thing about Broadbeach is that they just GET breakfast. Well I mean, they also get bars, fine dining and even shopping but if you ask us, the humble brekky is where they really shine. Whether you’re a savoury sarnie lover, a sucker for a smoothie, or someone who loves an epic brunch spread, they’ve just got a bit of everything to be honest.

Here’s our pick of the top spots where you can fuel up for a big day of whatever that little heart of yours desires.

Elk Espresso

Elk Espresso is the breakfast spot not just for the ‘gram, but obviously your taste buds too. Their menu changes seasonally, so there’s always something new and exciting to discover – no matter how many times you’ve been before. However, you can always expect some epic flavours and almost-too-pretty-to-eat dishes like their Ruby Oats, Bumblebee Hotcakes or Breaky Bresaola. Not to mention, they’re home to the boozy brunch, so if you prefer your espresso in martini form, then they’ve got you sorted.
Where: Shop G044 Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Ave, Broadbeach

Sonder

This mid-century, modern-meets-luxury cafe in Broadbeach is as chic as they come. Sleek space, vinyl records spinning, and a breaky menu that’s chefs kiss. Think sweet and savoury bagels, avo toast (obvs), toasties and even porridge. The cosy lounge area will have you reclining for hours as you sip fine-as-hell coffee.
Where: 12 Philip Ave, Broadbeach

No Name Lane & No Name Lane Espresso

This place might not have a name, but it sure has a reputation. And a darn good rep at that. Known for its specialty coffee, No Name Lane is where the caffeine connoisseurs (and the celebs- hello, Blake Lively) flock. Pair your cup of joe with their Eggs Cocotte or avocado toast, and you’ll be ready to take on the world (or at least Broadbeach). It’s cool, it’s stylish, and it’s the perfect way to kick off your morning.
Where: 17-19 Elizabeth Ave, Broadbeach and 33 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Banksy

No, this isn’t the spot where you’ll find a rogue, anonymous graffiti artist, but you will find one of the best breakfast menus in town. Banksy is all about blending creativity with comfort food, with dishes like the Eggs Benny on Sourdough Crumpets, Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast or Cheddar & Parmesan Cheese Scramble. They’re not just bringing big flavours but also big feels, with a huge focus on sustainability so you can eat in good conscience.
Where: The Spot, Shop 1/2763 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

Che Café & Bikes

Where breakfast meets bikes, and somehow it totally works. Che Café & Bikes in Broadbeach Waters nails that effortlessly cool combo of cycling culture and coffee vibes. Think smooth brews, minimalist interiors and the kind of menu that fuels good mornings, stacked croissants, smoothie bowls and chia puddings that hit just right. Whether you rock up on two wheels or two feet, you’ll fit right in.
Where: 3/1 Sunshine Blvd, Broadbeach Waters

Alkemist

If you like your brekkie equal parts wholesome and a little bit naughty, Alkemist has your name written all over it. These Broadbeach legends have been doing their thing for years, serving up vibrant, feel-good dishes that actually taste amazing. Faves right now include the Dubai Chocolate Açai Bowl, Chilli Scram and avo toast done properly. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel good from the inside out, and the best part? Your pup’s not just welcome, they’re basically part of the crew.
Where: 1/1 Sunshine Blvd, Broadbeach Waters

Goya

We love to spill the matcha on this one. Goya in Broadbeach is the kind of spot that makes you want to trade your morning toast for a Japanese sando, forever. Think fluffy-as-a-cloud milk bread stuffed with creamy egg, tobikko and mayo (the Tamago Sando, aka heaven between slices). Or go sweet with the Fruits Sando, pillowy bread, whipped cream and juicy fruit doing their thing in perfect harmony. The whole menu’s a delicious little love story between Japan and the Gold Coast – equal parts comfort and cool.
Where: Shop 9/2669 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

O Bagel

If your morning mood screams grab and go, this is your match made in carb heaven. O Bagel’s slinging seriously good, fresh-baked bagels loaded with house-made fillings that’ll have you questioning every other breakfast choice you’ve ever made. The move? The G’morning bagel. It’s basically a full brekkie jammed into one glorious handful, egg, bacon, hash brown, cheddar, tomato relish and aioli all snuggled inside that chewy, golden bagel. Ordinary bagels? Never heard of her.

Where: 2791 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach and 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Nineteen at The Star

Okay, this one is a little boujee, but if you’re looking to elevate your breakfast game – quite literally – Nineteen at The Star offers breathtaking views and a seriously luxe morning spread. With dishes like decadent Spanner Crab Omelette and Southern Buttermilk Biscuits for the sweet tooth, it’s pretty much the perfect spot for a special occasion or when you just want to feel fancy before noon. Top it off with a mimosa or a glass of bubbles, because why not? It’d be rude not to.

Where: The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach

Words by Chelsea Ipsen