New store to open from August.
New store to open from August.
Everyone knows a doughnut time is a good time and guess what folks, Burleigh Heads is in for a(nother) good time. That’s right, your favourite sweet treats are back after a short hiatus and they are coming to a James Street near you.
The much-loved business, which briefly closed its doors earlier this year, has been taken over by someone who appreciates the life-changing goodness of a tasty round dessert as much as the next guy and he is our new fave friend.
The Brisbane-born brand was taken over by one Mr Pete Andros and he’s got plans to roll the brand out in many a capital city before the end of the year.
Which is cool, but all we really care about is the new Burleigh store, which will take up the space next to Sushi on James NEXT MONTH. Happy day friends.
The team will be bringing us a whole range of new flavours and we would like as many variations on strawberry doughnuts as possible please. They’ll also keep the old time favourites and offer vegan, gluten-free and low sugar options so we all get to eat doughnuts together for the rest of our days.
Due to the way-too-fast expansion of the initial biz, which saw the owners forced to close their doors, Mr Andos and the team say they’ll start small but, having secured new locations up and down the east coast already, looks like no-one will be missing out on the goodness that is a Doughnut Time treat.
Stay tuned, we’ll definitely be in there taste testing as many flavours as possible the second the doors open.
Doughnut get in our way.
LOCATION: 2 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Words by Kirra Smith.
Bug rolls, the beloved hill and local brews.
Oh, Burleigh, you little beauty, what’s not to love, right? Since the dawn of time (or the dawn of the GC at least), Burleigh has been one of the most-loved suburbs amongst a slew of strong contenders.
Sure, the beach is beautiful (that Hill is iconic for a reason) and James Street boasts all the best eats and acai bowls galore, but it’s more than that. Burleigh has a soul of its own born of cruisy, barefoot, salty sea breeze vibes you simply won’t find anywhere else. Gushing aside, we’ve found the best of Burleigh so you don’t have to.
Here’s our guide to the best eats, bars, shopping spots and places to visit so you can see why the locals love it and you should too (or else). We always say, when in Burleigh, do as the locals do.
Perched three floors high, within the stunning new Mondrian Gold Coast, is Haven. What is the Haven, you ask? It’s a nothing-short-of-exceptional beach club, spanning a refined yet relaxed dining room, private cabanas, a full-service pool club and a sunset bar. Whether you’re brunching in your bikini or toasting at twilight, Haven is where it’s at. As the sun sets, the evening comes alive with a soundtrack of DJs, curated playlists and live performances.
Where: Level 3/3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Literally opening out onto the sand at Burleigh Beach, Rick Shores is loved not just by locals but globally for its stunning sunset views and those tiny little taste sensations, otherwise known as Bug Rolls. If you’ve never tasted one, you’ve been wasting your life (seriously). Make a booking RIGHT NOW and order like 5. Wash them down with one of Rick’s signature cocktails, and you’re a bona fide Burleigh-ite.
Where: Shop 3, Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If you’re looking for fancy food but with the relaxed vibe that’s quintessentially Burleigh, look no further. The stunning space offers incredible Vietnamese dishes inspired by trips to Vietnam, tasting some of the very best street food in the world every single day. Sounds epic! It’s a refined style of dining paired with mouthwatering cocktails and a sleek, pared-back vibe. Jimmy Wahs is one of the Gold Coast’s most impressive eateries, and we are big fans.
Where: 1724 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
The fine dining venue has become part of the fabric of Burleigh’s bustling heart, but it’s also become one of the Gold Coast’s premier dining destinations. Tucked away on West Street, the five-star, seasonal-produce-led restaurant is an absolute must-visit. Trust us, your dining experience here won’t be easily forgotten. The produce is sustainable, and the wine list features some of the most stunning natural wines in the world. The service is impeccable too, but in a fun, not-too-formal way. We LOVE.
Where: 2A/8 West Street, Burleigh Heads
Après Surf is your friendly neighbourhood bar in Burleigh. If a crisp beer, indulgent pub-style eats, and DJ beats sound like your pint of lager, this place is for you. It’s plain ol good vibes from 5pm daily (except Tuesdays) with DJs every weekend! Head there on a Thursday for $1 dumplings and free stand-up comedy from 8pm! Doesn’t get much better than that, and Burleigh locals know it.
Where: 1/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
They started off as a taco-slinging hole-in-the-wall in Palm Beach in 2021, instantly becoming a cult favourite. Now, they’ve levelled things up with a move to Burleigh. Think bigger and better space, with the same beloved laid-back Aussie beach culture, and big Mexican flavours we all know and love. The new location invites you to settle in, sip a marg (or three) and let the good vibes take you to Mexico. Batanga, anyone?
Where: 1718 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Looking for a Burleigh locals’ guide to the best fish and chips in town? Look no further. And this place doesn’t just stop at fish and chips (even though we wouldn’t recommend going past them). They also serve fresh poke bowls and vibrant superfood bowls, plus a range of Bali-inspired dishes that reel in people from all over; they’re that good. Think flavour-packed Gado-Gado, nasi goreng and Bali satay chicken sticks. Wash it down with a premium cocktail and watch Burleigh come to life (this place is in a prime people-watching locale).
Where: 1716 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
A true family-run gelateria, Al Bacio Gelato Naturale is run by husband-and-wife duo Craig and Rebecca Heininger, alongside their daughter, Jaime. Since opening in late 2025, they’ve been serving scoops of authentic, 100% natural Italian gelato to Burleigh locals (and visitors), and we cannot be more thankful. The signature Al Bacio, meaning “as good as a kiss” in Italian, is a rich chocolate-hazelnut scoop made with homemade hazelnut paste from Piemonte, Italy. Then, for those who like to gulp down their gelato, you can order your favourite flavour in thick shake form. Can we get a hell yeah?
Where: 7/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
As you cruise down the GC Highway, the striking red and white umbrellas and festoon lights grab your attention and give you a whiff of what awaits inside. Crispy Italian is where to head when you’ve got a hankering for wood-fired pizza done insanely well. You’ll get a fun, laid-back vibe and a menu stacked with la pasta, la pizza, woodfired gnocchi and desserts impossible to resist. Did someone say Aperol spritz? Oh yeah, that was us.
Where: 4/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Local is one of those venues that just gets it. Equal parts polished and laidback, this Burleigh favourite nails the brief from morning through to late arvo and beyond, making it the kind of place you pop into “just for one” and somehow leave with a full camera roll and a new core memory. With multiple spaces to suit every vibe, from the fairy light–lit beer garden and fully stacked tinnie bar to plush indoor booths and a main bar made for game days, Local is built for long hangs, big feeds and even bigger catch-ups. The menu covers all bases (classic pub grub, elevated plates and a few fancy moments for good measure) and the atmosphere is always buzzing.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
There’s a good reason this gem is heaving at all hours: the home of the iconic muffin top (IYKYK) and some of the best coffee in town. It’s not just locals who love it – you’ll find Gold Coasters and beyond flocking here for a taste of the goods. Come for a coffee and to get around their huge menu with something for everyone – literally, it’s impossible to not love something. Plus, we’re pretty sure it’s mandatory to leave with a pastry in tow – go on, you deserve it.
Where: 1748 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Locals know the only thing loose in this (top) paddock is scrumptious, buttery baked goods. Since opening its charmingly renovated doors in 2014, Paddock has been the ultimate spot for brunch, lunch and sweet treats that keep us coming back daily. With lush gardens, a cottage, loft, rooftop and barn to hide away in, the menu is just as endless as the spots to enjoy it – perfect for indulgence, people-watching, or a little bit of both.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
A local newbie that’s already earned its rightful place on this list (which is saying something). Start with a coffee- because there’s no other way, and theirs is superb- before diving deep into their menu full of hearty but totally healthy eats. Think Shakshuka Scramble with charred eggplant, peppers, tomato chilli salsa & charred bread. Chef’s hot tip: add brisket. Or, indulge yourself in a croque monsieur made with ham and gruyere, fried eggs, cheese sauce, green pea chef salad and parmesan that will blow your beret off. Everything here is made fresh, seasonal, and irresistible.
Where: 4 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
Serving Southern California vibes (think cactus, umbrellas, pastel greens) all day long, alongside morning margaritas (you read correctly), epic eats and epic coffee. If you didnt catch on, Palm Springs does things a little differently, and Burleigh locals love them for it. They said, ” We will give you avocado smash and serve you one better”. Better in the form of a morning marg with breakfast tacos. It may sound rogue, but don’t tell us it isn’t exactly what you’ve been waiting for. Ideal hangover feed, perfect weekend brunch. Thank us later.
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
This small but mighty wine bar has one of the largest selections of boutique wines (we mean, it is in the name) with some seriously epic eats to accompany. We can’t go past the cheeseburger – seriously, don’t sleep on this – and if you don’t know where to start on what to sip, the expert team always nail the reccos. Pop a Pet Nat on your must-try for something a little bubbly, or if you’re more of a red drinker, their signature chilled reds are the ultimate for a hot summer’s day.
Where: 12 James Street, Burleigh Heads
It’s the good time, slightly fancy Australiana bar of your dreams, and it is perfectly at home in Burleigh Heads. Rosella’s is a local haunt that’s been a firm favourite since its opening. With both a drinks and a food menu made entirely of Australian produce, we are in heaven. They’ve got cocktails inspired by Fantales, Blinky Bill and Bondi Beach, all the very best Aussie beers and some of the tastiest eats to pair. It’s refined, beautifully decked out and created by a couple of absolute legends. Love.
Where: 6/1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
This fam-and-friends-run distillery from husband-and-wife duo Justin and Lana Bell is serving up elevated cocktails designed specifically for sipping (and swooning), paired with snacky plates that absolutely understood the assignment. The space is a moody, deep-green, tropical-tiki dream and the drinks are bespoke and downright dangerous in the best way. Oh, and they’re big on collabs too, teaming up with like-minded legends to keep things fresh and fun, so consider this your official cue to keep a very close eye out for their next one. It’s intimate, it’s stylish, it’s packed with heart (and gin), and it’s proof that when you mix great spirits with great people, magic happens.
Where: 1/9 Calabro Way, Burleigh Heads
If Burleigh had a local hall of fame, Burleigh Pavilion would be its MVP. This beachfront institution sits right above the sand at Burleigh Heads, serving up panoramic ocean views, sunset vibes and reliably good times from arvo cocktails to dinner dates and everything in between. Within its sprawling space you’ve got casual beach-bar energy, breezy terraces and The Tropic, the coastal-meets-Mediterranean restaurant where you can settle in for a sun-soaked lunch or a long, leisurely dinner with views literally stretching to the horizon. Whether you’re here for the drinks, the eats, the views, or just to feel like you’re living your best summer life year-round, Burleigh Pavilion is basically Burleigh’s living room with a better wine list.
Where: 3a/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If there’s one thing Burleigh deserves (the big legend), it’s a brewery, and Burleigh Brewing Co. certainly delivers. since opening in 2006, Burleigh Brewing Co. has produced a lineup of delicious drops – all perfectly Burleigh. Get a sixer for Netflix and chill, or head into the brewery from Friday to Sunday afternoons to get amongst it.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads
This place is the ideal setting for a lil cocktail and antipasti moment. A wine with your significant other, cocktail hour with the gals, or dare we say, a quick shot to kick off an epic night. Alongside wines, beers, margs and cocktails, they serve ‘a quality shot’ for those who value efficiency or are known to be fashionable-late and need to catch up, as they say. That’s definitely not us…Okay, it’s totally us.
Where: 1740 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Hidden inside the opulent Mondrian hotel, Ciel Spa is the city’s first bio-wellness spa blending high-tech treatments with high-touch luxury. Forget cucumber slices and pan pipe music, here you’re getting a serious glow-up down to a cellular level. From zero-gravity dry float sessions and Himalayan salt rooms to LED facials and cosmetic doctor appointments, they have it all. It’s a bit of a treat-yo-self moment.
Where: Level 2/3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Well, hasn’t this simple little piece of Mother Nature become an icon? No matter the day of the week (but particularly Sunday arvos), “the hill” as it’s affectionately known, is packed with picnic rugs, ball games and groups of revellers basking in the sunshine. Looking out over the ocean and with the city in the distance, it’s the perfect spot for a late afternoon lemonade or early morning coffee date with the crew. Order some of your fav takeaway from James Street, and perch up on a picnic blanket to soak up the scenery. Better yet, sunset.
Where: The south end of The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads
If you’re feeling energetic, take a stroll around Burleigh Hill to Talle Creek for some Insta-worthy rainforest scenery. Or if you’re game, head up the vertical trail for a hill climb that’s rewarded with an epic view. Yes, some sweat may be involved, but it’s all in the good spirit of exploration. Cool down after with a swim at Burleigh Beach or Talle Creek, wherever you end up.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
A relaxing little beachside club loved by young and old alike, Burleigh Bowls has been around since 1937 and is certainly a prime piece of real estate these days. Barefoot Bowls rolls on from 12–5pm every Sunday, and it’s a measly $10 per person, including coaching and bowls (AKA ball whipper snappers). Get down and support your local while sipping on a schooner.
Where: Connor Street, Burleigh Heads
If you’re in need of some retail therapy, then James Street is the only place you need to go. The range of shopping has everything you need, whether you’re looking for some new additions to your home from Maison & Maison or to update your wardrobe at Emte, you’re guaranteed to leave suitably more stylish. If you’re looking for the perfect piece of art to dress your walls at work or home, Art Yarramunua is our pick for their incredible collection of expertly curated indigenous art.
Where: James Street, Burleigh Heads
Everyone’s favourite Saturday morning market adventure. Get up early, grab your basket and set out in search of fruit, veggies and of course, your first coffee of the weekend. These days, the farmers market also boasts locally made clothing and homewares, flowers, meat and seafood and delicious breaky and lunch options. Happy days! Open every Saturday from 7am–12 ‘rain, hail or shine’.
Where: Burleigh Heads State School, Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
A hip, new community hub for Burleigh.
Good vibes and strong community feels are alive and well in Burleigh Heads thanks to a crew of passionate locals. There’s a slew of bars, eateries and locally owned stores, all of which combine to create the beachside suburbs stellar reputation.
Now, we can add creative community space to the mix with the opening of The Burleigh Common, found on the beach end of West Burleigh Road (opening Monday the 11th of Dec).
The eclectic space is part a locally made homewares, fashion and art store, part food truck parking (and eating) zone, part co-working space and part workshop hosting, documentary screening room. So many parts, so many good times ahead.
Inside you’ll find locally crafted furniture (by Distressed Lady) strewn artfully around the place, huge portrait canvases adorn the walls (by local artist Dean Marquat), greenery and vintage homewares are dotted throughout and just outside, a little garden paradise may just be your seating area of choice.
Fellow shopaholics, you can buy every single piece of furniture, art, homewares and clothing in the space and take it home with you on the spot. Careful someone doesn’t snap up the very seat you’re parked on.
The concept was dreamed up by local couple Christian and Sandra whose passion for connection and supporting the local community inspired them to create something unique to Burleigh. The idea is for locals to come together to celebrate creativity and unique ideas and give everyone the opportunity to share their passions.
Works of art will be changed out on the regular to showcase as many artists as possible and an array of local clothing brands will also be on offer.
There’ll be Blackboard coffee available from 7am every morning and a changing roster of food trucks will cater to your diverse tastes.
It’s the epitome of Burleigh’s grassroots village vibe where everyone is welcome and there’s always a story to tell.
Street parking in the area is minimal but you’re encouraged to ride your skateboard or bike and leave it in the designated area while you go about your business.
Keep an eye out for upcoming workshops and community projects and get ready to make some fun new pals. Finishing touches are still being added but we’re pretty sure it’ll be a good time come Monday.
See you there for a latte and a chinwag.
LOCATION: 39 West Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Heads
HOURS: 7am to 2pm
Words and photos by Kirra Smith.
AKA the best day of the year.
Finally, a day dedicated to eating the best food on earth. It’s International Doughnut Day on Friday, 6th June, and can we get a hallelujah?!
The day was created by The Salvation Army during the Great Depression in 1938 to honour the women (also known as Dough Lassies) who volunteered to serve doughnuts to soldiers in World War I and to help raise funds for those in need.
Since then, the sugary treats have come a long way and are one of the best around to this day. Here are the best spots to stock up on the Gold Coast:
Serving coffee, cookies, sandwiches and the most dangerously good doughnuts you will ever lay your lips on. Guys, they have Churro Doughnuts and Fairy Bread Doughnuts?! Like, what kind of heaven on earth is this?! It’s healthy if you chase it with a matcha, right? Good, because their signature Iced Strawberry Matcha is gorgeous.
Where: 99-103 Broadwater Avenue, Hope Island
Their tagline is ‘baking things better’; let us tell you, they ain’t lyin’! Their every baked good is as delish as the next, and they’ve got all your classics baked to perfection. However, we are here for doughnuts today, and yes, we have favourites. The Vanilla Slice Doughnut and the Biscoff Doughnut are chef’s kiss.
Where: 104 Helensvale Rd, Helensvale
Here to prove that foods are better when they’re round is Burg World with cookies, pizza, burgers and doughnuts (all round!) and in tip-top taste. Let’s focus on just their round varieties with holes in them for a moment, just wait till you see their doughnut cabinet! They’ve got Creme Brulee, Unicorn, Apple Crumble, Banana Split – you name it! A+ for Gold Coast’s most creative doughnut flavours!
Where: 20 Siganto Drive, Helensvale
Combined under one roof is great coffee and a doughlicious array of deep-fried treats, including doughnuts! As discussed, crullers are doughnuts, so let us introduce their Strawberry Cream Cheese & Pistachio Mini Cruller Cake?! It looks even better than it sounds. They even do a Chicken Doughnut Sandwich. You’ll have to trust us on that one- Janus Deli knows what they’re doing.
Where: Shop 14, Crestwood Plaza, 458 Olsen Ave, Molendinar and 12 Hanlan St, Surfers Paradise
It’s safe to say that anyone who loves doughnuts has dabbled in a Krispy Kreme. After all, they are the top dogs amongst the doughnuts. To celebrate International Doughnut Day, Krispy Kreme is known for launching limited edition flavours, and sometimes even giving away free (yes, FREE) doughnuts for the occasion. What a dream come true! Get ’em while they’re sugary.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach and Shop 13/2 Cavill Avenue, Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise
When you think of Paddock Bakery, doughnuts will definitely cross your mind. They often create themed doughnuts for special occasions (which, presumably, is now) and are always absolute bangers. Current favs are the creme brulee and nutella doughnuts! We’re not drooling, you are! Their brew is also 10/10 – a perfect doughnut pairing.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
The makers of some of the fluffiest doughnuts on the Gold Coast are Currumbin and Burleigh (and Cabarita) legends- Fuel Bakehouse. They come in changing flavours and we’re big fans of everything, but in particular the Bueno, Nutella and Choc Custard for obvious reasons. You can pop in for one or pre-order a whole bunch for the doughnut party you’re no doubt having. Perfect.
Where: 44 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin, Shop 1/23 James St, Burleigh Heads and 39-45 Tweed Coast Road, Cabarita
It’s time to get something straight (or twisted)- crullers are technically doughnuts, people! If not twins, the doughnut and cruller are brother and sister. Both are deep-fried to perfection, circular, and dusted with sugar or glazed to finish. Tarte does THE best crullers on the Gold Coast- another non-negotiable, sorry.
Where: Shop 1, 2-4 Thrower Drive, Currumbin and 2 West Street, Burleigh Heads
Neptune’s doughnuts are the real deal, hot, fresh and made to order, just the way the cinnamon gods intended. These golden rings of joy are simple, classic, and absolutely irresistible. No OTT toppings or wild fillings—just that perfect crisp edge, fluffy centre and cinnamon sugar coating that hits the spot every single time. Pro tip: eat one immediately, then go back for another. It’s basically self-care.
Where: 1525 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Sure, it might be crossed with a croissant, but deep down, it’s still a doughnut. The cronut at Paris Brest is flaky, buttery and just the right amount of cheeky, with layers that melt in your mouth and a crisp edge that means business. It’s handmade with love (and a scandalous amount of French butter), by a pastry wizard who trained in France, so you know it’s legit. Get there early, because these babies disappear faster than you can say ooh la la.
Where: 1073-1077 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
These folks know how to make a doughnut. These local legends are well-versed in all things baked with dough, and boy, is it a delicious affair! In terms of doughnuts, they’ve got your classic Cinnamon Doughnut and filled varieties too! We highly recommend grabbing a selection.
Where: 12 Bay St, Tweed Heads and 2 Queensbury Ave, Currumbin Waters
George’s Deli might be slinging hefty New York-style sammies, but they’re also dishing out some serious doughnut energy. Their handmade Ube Donut is soft, fluffy and filled with purple yam goodness that gives it a pop of colour and a whole lotta flavour. It’s where New York deli vibes meet Filipino flair, and honestly, we’re not mad about it. It’s part deli, part bakery, all delicious. By George, it’s a flavour bomb you won’t forget.
Where: Shop 3, 106 Marine Pde, Kingscliff
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
