Ember by Fire Baby is putting the sizzle in Southport.
Ember by Fire Baby is putting the sizzle in Southport.
If you’ve been wandering around Southport lately thinking something might actually be on fire, don’t panic. Chances are you’ve just walked past Fire Baby, where it’s second dining space has just burst into life.
Fire Baby opened up in August with plenty of heat, and now Ember is set to fan the flames even further. Owner and founder Michael Read, alongside Donna Read, have dreamed up their ideal restaurant, a place for pizza, steak and all the smoky bits in between.
Split across two levels, the venue burns bright with two distinct personalities. Upstairs, Fire Baby serves up comfort by the slice thanks to the Italian-born dough whisperer Vincenzo Quaranta. Downstairs is their latest offering, Ember, where flame-licked steaks and charcoal-grilled seafood take centre stage.
Step into the lower-level den and you’ll feel the temperature shift. Ember is moody and sultry thanks to that unmistakable smoky aroma. Think char, think sizzle, think cooking and conversations around a campfire, without having to leave the city.
Ember’s culinary team have been deep in experimentation mode ahead of the opening. Executive Chef Bradley Davids, with roots in South Africa and a lifelong love of cooking over open flames, and Head Chef Lee de Vry, whose journey spans award-winning seafood and modern Vietnamese cuisine, bring bold flavours, precision, and a spark of creativity to every Ember dish. Alongside Junior Sous-chef Jared, they are the beating heart of the Ember experience, every plate fuelled by fire, technique, and a touch of magic.
Start fresh with Pacific Oysters dressed in Champagne mignonette, then dive straight into silky ocean Trout Sashimi with tamarind and shallot. The perfect contrast to the charred flavours to come.
Some mains give the embers a gentle poke like Rigatoni Arrabbiata loaded with basil, olives and stracciatella. But if you like to see flavour seared onto your food, order the BBQ Lamb Ribs with house sauce and chives and BBQ Pork Cutlets with hot honey and pickles.
The true showstoppers at Ember are the premium-cut steaks. The O’Connors Superior MB 5+ Rump Cap is flame-grilled to perfection that you can almost hear it sizzling as it lands on the table. Add Duck Fat Potatoes with smoked salt, seasonal leaves with lemon myrtle dressing and housemade chimichurri, and you’ve got yourself a flaming good time.
To cool off, a curated wine list, standout cocktails and desserts like a vanilla crème brûlée with popcorn ice cream will do the trick.
If, like us, you find it hard to make decisions, especially around food, Ember offers two set menus – the Ember Stone and the Ember Experience. With a starter, middle, main and dessert all planned out for you, there’s nothing to do but enjoy the glow.
Fire Baby and Ember offer Southport something rare, one venue where you don’t have to choose between cheesy comfort food or flame-driven dining, you can have both. A one-stop haven for every flavour mood and late-night whim.
Where: 10 Welch Street, Southport
When: Fri to Sun 12pm – 3pm, Wed to Sun 5pm –8:30pm
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Mathilde Bouby
Fire Baby turns up the heat in Southport.
Southport, get ready for a new hot spot! Fire Baby is firing up on all cylinders, and trust us, it’s a slice of something special. Doors are officially open, bringing a new dose of deliciousness to the heart of Southport.
The vision for Fire Baby comes from Dr Michael Read and Donna Read, proud locals with a passion for Southport. Michael, a doctor and accomplished businessman, has spent over 35 years building medical, childcare and community-focused ventures in the area. Now, with Donna by his side, he’s bringing his lifelong love of food into the Southport community.
Step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve been tossed straight into the flames in the best way possible. Phillip Buchanan of Burleigh Design wrapped the interior in exposed red brick, so dining here feels like stepping inside a giant pizza oven. Add in the handiwork of Theo Meredith and the TDM Constructions team, and you’ve got a space that’s warm, welcoming and ideal for sharing those cheese-pull moments with friends.
But of course, decor is just the dough base. The real magic happens in the kitchen. Executive Chef Bradley Davids, originally from South Africa, brings the heat with a background steeped in the tradition of cooking over open flames. Growing up with the braai – South Africa’s much-loved barbecue custom – Brad learned early on how to coax incredible flavour out of fire. From New Zealand bakeries to high-end Sydney pubs, and from gastro adventures across the USA, Canada and Europe, he’s carried this flame around the globe. Now, at Fire Baby, he’s stoking it into something truly spectacular.
And then there’s the man behind the oven: Vincenzo Quaranta. Born and raised in Italy, Vincenzo practically grew up with flour on his hands. After perfecting the craft at family-run pizzerias in Italy and later Frankie’s Pizza in Sydney, he’s brought his infectious love of pizza to the Gold Coast. His wood-fired creations are the kind that stop conversation mid-sentence – crispy, chewy and topped with authentic Italian soul.
But first, antipasti. Dive into charcuterie boards piled high with wagyu bresaola, prosciutto, truffle squid ink salami, pancetta, guindilla, piccalilli, olives, buckwheat crisp and puff bread.
The real showstopper is, of course, the pizza. From the simplicity of a classic Margherita with San Marzano tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil and parmesan to the hearty comfort of Patate e salsiccia with mozzarella, provolone, roast potato, salsiccia and rosemary, Fire Baby’s wood-fired creations are shaping up to be the kind of slice that would make even your nonna smile.
Activate your dessert stomach with an ice-cream platter featuring pistachio, 66% Valrhona, and lemon cheesecake, or sip your sweets instead with a Mediterranean Bloom, a refreshing mix of St-Germain, limoncello, Aperol, gin and grapefruit. To top it all off, the wine list is swoon-worthy, brimming with delicious drops from both Australia and Europe.
Opening in two stages, it’ll first serve up classic, wood-fired comfort at Fire Baby Pizzeria before levelling up with Ember by Fire Baby – an elevated dining experience showcasing fire in all its refined, charcoal-grilled glory. One venue, two dining experiences, endless reasons to come back for seconds.
Where: 8-10 Welch Street, Southport
When: Wed – Sun 12pm – Late, take away: 12pm – 8.30pm
Words by Lisette Drew
They’ve stolen a pizza our hearts!
A food that needs zero introduction – pizza is Italy’s gift to the world that just keeps on giving (to our happiness levels and waistlines, mainly). From office parties to cozy date nights, this god-tier culinary creation is the celebratory cornerstone of gatherings everywhere. We can think of no occasion that isn’t improved by the addition of this beloved Italian staple…. and if there is, we don’t wanna know about it.
A dish steeped in tradition; pizza is divisive as it is delicious. Team crispy, or team chewy and chonky, deep dish style? Then there’s the question of the toppings – to olive, or not to olive? – and don’t even get us started on pineapple!
Heck, even trying to narrow down which of our fine establishments serve the best slice is a controversial endeavour. Which is why we’ve compiled this trusty guide to all the most legit GC pizza joints in whom pizza-loving locals eternally crust.
Here are 19 of the best, from north to south, so you can dig in without delay (okay maybe just a little delay, molten hot cheese is no joking matter).
Ready to take a tour of Italy’s most famous cities all under one roof? Italia Moto brings each region to life on a pizza! Head to the Italian countryside with Bruno Pancetta – San Marino with truffle cream base, marinated potato, pancetta and parmesan. Or go coastal with Giovanni Gamberi – Sicily featuring pesto base, mozzarella, cherry tomato, marinated prawns in garlic, lemon and chilli. End your Italian escape with a scoop of gelato, and that’s amore!
Our pick: Bruno Pancetta Pizza
Where: 104 Helensvale Rd, Helensvale
You know where there’s BYO, there’s good times ahead. Papa Rolly’s is your go-to neighbourhood spot, bringing together all the home-style, beloved dishes from their family of eateries (you know em Gemelli). Pair your favourite bottle with a woodfired pizza or a hearty pasta. Hell yeah!
Our pick: Bella Donna pizza
Where: 124 Pappas Way, Carrara
True to its name, Fire Baby brings heat and flavour in equal measure. Think hot-out-of-the-oven pizza washed down with an Inferno Mezcal Margarita! This Southport hotspot serves up woodfired pizzas, share plates, and cocktails in a seriously sleek space. It’s the kind of spot that quickly becomes your go-to, weeknights and weekends alike.
Our pick: Quattro Formaggi pizza
Where: 8-10 Welch Street, Southport
Rossa brings authentic Italian to Southport with blistered crust, doughy bases and fresh, flavourful toppings. Simple, rustic, and utterly delicious, it’s a place where the pizza does all the talking. Grab a glass of red, take a seat, and let the laid-back Italian atmosphere wash over you. For purists and casual diners alike, Rossa hits all the marks.
Our pick: Pepperoni Pizza (best seller)
Where: 59 Meron Street, Southport
Situated right next to the pristine beach, La Calabrese at Ocean is all about traditional Italian ingredients with a modern twist. The pizzas in particular are food-gasmic, and if you don’t concur, then soz but #weir-dough. Anything but your average pizza, a process called ‘biga’ is used to make the dough, and honestly, the ‘yeast’ we can do is divulge why this technique is so special. How about a fior di latte, Italian sausage, ham, mild salami, and oregano? Drool.
Our pick: Arca Salumi Pizza
Where: Where: Level 1, 84 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
If simple Italian flavours done exceptionally well toot your horn, then make a date with The Star Gold Coast’s Cucina Vivo. Chef Fabio has gained quite the cult following, affectionately known as the best Pizzaiolo Chef outside of Italy. This man is the master of the woodfire oven, and the ever-popular venue’s secret weapon. Date night sorted!
Our pick: Fabio’s Pizza
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Lobby Level, Broadbeach
If you haven’t been to Gemelli in Broadbeach, are you even a true Gold Coaster? Rustic yet stylish, with handcrafted pizzas, house-made pasta, and a buzzing atmosphere, Gemelli nails Italian food with a modern twist. Authentic, flavour-packed, and full of heart, this is the kind of place Nonna would happily approve of.
Our pick: Patate Pizza
Where: 2/2685 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Double Zero is certified Neapolitan pizza heaven (fun fact: they were the first Neapolitan pizzeria in QLD). Think gorgeous woodfired pizza with leopard-spotted crust, cooked for just 90 seconds! Award-winning, authentic, and endlessly satisfying- this is where true pizza lovers go to geek out.
Our pick: Crudo Pizza
Where: 2/2715 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Two essentials in one place: award-winning pizza and gelato. Every woodfired dough pillow (aka, pizza) is bursting with flavour and fresh toppings, no matter which you choose. Then, you gotta finish strong with creamy house-made gelato. Or, you could finish stronger again with a Tartufo Di Pizzo (half hazelnut, half chocolate gelato, and filled with melted chocolate!). You don’t need to convince us.
Our pick: Al Salame Pizza and Nocciola gelato (2 scoops is a must)
Where: East Tower The Phoenician Building, Shop 10/104 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Sapori is a little slice of authentic Italy with a welcoming, cosy atmosphere and pizzas that showcase perfectly fermented, woodfired bases. The interior is just adorable, the toppings are generous, the wine list is solid, and the staff are friendly as they come. Needless to say, it’s a top choice for casual dinners or celebratory nights out. Sapori feels like that neighbour who always knows exactly how to make pizza perfect.
Our pick: Marg on Steroids Pizza
Where: Santa Cruz Village, 60 Santa Cruz Blvd, Clear Island Waters
They’ve built a loyal following so devoted, you’d think they were running a pizza cult (a cult we would happily be a part of)- fans happily trek across town just for their Franc Jnr’s fix. Famous for their thick Detroit-style slices, this spot oozes old-school charm. Walking in feels like stepping into a ’90s pizzeria where everything is unapologetically classic- retro vibes with bold flavours.
Our pick: White Boy Rick (that sesame crust lives in our dreams)
Where: Shop 2/32 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach and 2/102 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Where do we even begin with Lenny Pizzeria & Bar? Let’s just say, their 72-hour fermented dough hits different—light, chewy, and full of flavour that’ll have you questioning every other slice you’ve ever had.
No matter how you slice it, the addition is a total score for Railway Street’s dining scene, with sensational woodfired delights like fermented chilli-kissed Prawn and Calamari Pizza served with confit garlic, parsley and lemon. You know the drill: two, four, six, eight…
Our pick: Fancy 4 Cheese
Where: 58 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
Here’s a factoid for you – in Italy, the term “bar” stands for more of a watering-hole-meets-cafe hybrid; combining coffee, cocktails, sweet snacks like pastries and quintessential savoury Italian fare… so basically, all the best things. Unintentional micro geography lesson aside, this concept is exactly what owner Riccardo ‘Ricky’ Proserpio set about recreating at Crispy – and now you know this place is fantastic for several reasons, including a top-tier traditional pizza selection. To name just one, the long-standing fave, Margherita, which also comes in a 1/2 metre in size. You won’t be disappointed.
Our pick: Diavola Pizza
Where: 4/1840 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
There’s no denying that Burleigh stalwart, Justin Lane, is the king of pizza. It’s come a long way from its humble beginnings, growing from a wee little pizzeria into a heaving multi-level restaurant, bar and event space. The perfect spot for a casual slice and catch up with your crew (so we assume the cocktails are implied). Pick your cutest stretchy pants, you’re bound to run into at least 35 people that you know. And that’s just on a Monday.
Our pick: Justin’s BBQ Smokehouse
Where: 2/10 James St, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Pizza is the laid-back, old-school hero locals love. Big, cheesy slices that hit the spot every time, casual service, and a relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for takeaway to the beach or a simple night in. Stone-baked with local ingredients = seriously good pizza.
Our pick: Hawaiian (simple is just best, sometimes)
Where: 7/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Laid-back, intimate, and perfect at sundown – T’amero brings delicious pizza without the fuss, a lil fancy, and all the flavour. The vibe is welcoming, the pizza is consistently excellent, and the whole experience feels just a little special. Vino, crispy slices and sunset- yes please!
Our pick: Rustic Pizza
Where: 6 Treeview Dr, Burleigh Waters
You’ve seen it. We’ve all seen it. The sprawling, modern industrial stunner fronting Palmy’s main drag is a total traffic-stopper, and we’re pleased to confirm that its contents are as epic as the outside. And when it comes to amazing nosh across the board, Balboa Italian sure isn’t pulling any punches. In particular, the pizzas are #goals #IYKYK – and if you don’t – we would suggest remedying this immediately. Take your pick between the selection of red and white sauce bases, or try them all because carbs, shmarbs.
Our pick: Number 1 or Vegan Lovers
Where: 1069 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
A cosy and super cute spot where Mediterranean and Moroccan vibes collide; Toro’s does pizza with panache. With peach tones for days (#swoon) – the spread at Palmy’s cosy slice slinging haven is quintessentially Italian, but with a healthy dose of tasty modern takes to keep us on our toes. The super relaxed yet chic vibe is just our type, and the pizzas will delight even the most discerning pizza connoisseur. There’s even dessert pizza if that’s your jam… (well, Nutella, technically speaking). Yep, she’s a winner on all fronts.
Our pick: Peri Chicken Pizza
Where: 7/2 Eighth Ave, Palm Beach
One minute, we’re passing through Currumbin minding our own business, and the next, our mouths immediately commence watering at the mere sight of Tommy’s telltale red and white umbrellas adorning the promenade. And that’s before we’ve even caught wind of the freshly-flamed bites bubbling away within! In only a few short years, this two-storey cutie has become a fixture along the suburb’s seaside strip; serving up multi-million dollar ocean views and mighty fine pizzas to match (and cocktails… because nothing says happiness like a slice of Italy in one hand and a margi in the other). Who can resist? Certainly not us.
Our pick: Caprina Pizza
Where: 818 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
August’s tastiest new arrivals.
Is it just us, or can you too feel that hint of spring in the air? One minute we are shivering under doonas, the next we’re dusting off floral dresses, ready to chase a little sunshine. And with so many fresh new openings popping up, there’s never been a better excuse to step out.
Here are the Gold Coast’s hottest new spots to see us into the new season.
Brunswick Heads just got a little more culinary magic with moody new nosh spot, River, Wild at Heart. Chef Michael Lee, a Scottish-born former welder turned globe-trotting culinary maestro, brings modern Australian fare that’s both soulful and seasonal. Think wattleseed-crusted venison, charcoal kangaroo carpaccio and desserts that sing winter berries and smoked malt. Add in the River Margi cocktail, intimate interiors, guest chef pop-ups and local wine whisperer Harriet-Rose Johnson guiding the sips, and you’ve got a dinner date that feels like home, every time.
Where: 2/26 Mullumbimbi Street, Brunswick Heads
Hidden between a laundromat and a Thai eatery, Kemuri Kitchen is Carrara’s cult izakaya serving up serious flavour. What began as Hiro and Yuki Okubo’s market stall is now a hot spot where pillowy bao buns, smoky binchotan-grilled yakitori and crisp karaage chicken steal the show. Add a sharp sake list curated by Hiro, fortnightly omakase feasts, and hand-pressed bao from Yuki, and you’ve got one of the Coast’s best-kept dining secrets.
Where: 3/124 Pappas Way, Carrara
Self-care just levelled up with SOL Elements, Australia’s first “floating” elemental bathhouse, now open on Tamborine Mountain. Four years in the making, this sanctuary by Russell and Shae Raven blends striking design with deep intention, inspired by earth, air, fire and water. Think magnesium thermal pools, icy plunges, a Himalayan salt cave, infrared saunas and secluded suites with private baths overlooking the lake. Add in bespoke scrubs, float caves and healing spa rituals, and you’ve got wellness with real SOL.
Where: Tamborine Mountain Glades, Cedar Creek Falls Rd & Tamborine Mountain Rd, Tamborine Mountain
Upper Coomera rolls out the royal treatment with the arrival of Andonis Cafe & Bar, Brisbane’s beloved brunch empire, now making its Gold Coast debut. With nine buzzing venues already under its belt, Andonis brings its famous photogenic plates south of the border. Executive Chef Senthil Kumar adds global flair, while owner Anthony Kekkou ensures paddock-to-plate passion shines through. Think modern interiors, dog-friendly vibes, loaded shakes and brunch cocktails – this is brunching at its best.
Where: 177 Reserve Road, Upper Coomera
Aussie classics meet Korean comfort food at W&H Bites Cafe in Labrador. Created by husband-and-wife duo Wonyoung Jung and Hyehyun Ko, the family-run spot dishes up everything from Bulgogi Beef hot dogs to towering Nutella Pancakes, plus addictive Yakgwa honey-cinnamon cookies. Whether you’re craving coffee, a K-brunch feast or something sweet, W&H Bites makes every visit Seoul-ful.
Where: 107 Turpin Road, Labrador
Morning latte or evening wine? At Both Espresso and Wine, the answer is simply yes. Created by hospitality pro Danny Padilla and Chef Afonso Both, this stylish new spot in Runaway Bay is equal parts cosy café and neighbourhood wine bar. Start your day with barista brews and brunch favourites like Pea and Ricotta Fritters or Banoffee French Toast, then return for curated wines, artisan cheese boards and hearty mains by night.
Where: Shop 12 – 128 Lae Drive, Runaway Bay
Paradise Point welcomes a fiesta of flavour with Street Taco Bar & Taqueria.The creation of Jorge Camargo Erazo, whose Gold Coast kitchen creds includes The Collective and Bam Bam Bakehouse, this vibrant spot blends Mexican heart with Aussie soul. Expect bold tacos, drool-worthy quesadillas, and churros that demand extra napkins, all washed down with colourful margaritas like the Tropical Fiesta. With its vibrant decor and sun-soaked vibes, this is where fiesta meets familia.
Where: Shop 5, 46 The Esplanade, Paradise Point
Robina Town Centre has a sweet new swirl with Cocoflufferia by Goji, the playful spin-off of Goji Granola Bar. Dedicated to their cult vegan soft-serve, expect ever-changing flavours like matcha and Belgian choc, plus a DIY topping bar loaded with goodies from Biscoff crumbs to Bueno drizzle. Dessert dreams = unlocked.
Where: The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre, Robina
Southport is heating up with the arrival of Fire Baby! Dreamed up by locals Dr Michael and Donna Read, the venue fuses community spirit with fiery food. The red-brick design glows like a pizza oven, setting the stage for wood-fired magic from Executive Chef Bradley Davids and pizza maestro Vincenzo Quaranta. Think antipasti, charcuterie, pizzas that silence conversation and cocktails that set your heart alight.
Where: 8-10 Welch Street, Southport
Words by Lisette Drew
