We’re greeking out over George's Pizza Wine Bar.
We’re greeking out over George's Pizza Wine Bar.
Okay, if you don’t know the name George Tassis, have you ever actually dined on the Gold Coast? The man, the myth, the legend has flexed his flex yet again with Talle’s new Greek god of gastronomy, George’s Pizza Wine Bar.
This is THE white building on the Burleigh side of Talle Creek that has lay dormant for years (we all know the one) and let’s be honest – we were all waiting for George to reinvent this bad boy, firstly because it was one of his OG stomping grounds (George’s Paragon, which is still going strong in three locations around the GC). And secondly because Tassis lives on the hill above the restaurant, so it’s basically his backyard but with a little more flair and a lot more feta.
Still personally greeting diners as they make their way inside, this dude is a vibe and the ultimate host with most. His latest venture once again delivers a Santorini doppelganger with a unique combo of Insta-potential, get-in-my-belly-good Greek nosh, and even a dancefloor summonsing us all to get our Zorba on.
From the Greek-inspired steps to the whitewashed walls adorned in bright bougainvilleas and the obligatory Greek blue and white interior (classic George) – this place is a vibe. Visually, it’s everything we want from a Greek eats venue, elevated to the nth degree with all kinds of eclectic energy.
The outdoor area screams ‘drink on me’ and is perf for a tipple before tucking into your Greek feed, or a post-nosh-up nightcap. Inside the octagonal-shaped venue you’ll find lots of inviting white and blue rendered booths, fairly lights a-plenty draping overhead, Greek and Aussie flags, and gorgeous vine-covered terraces.
Speaking of greenery, there are lit-up olive trees and a statement bar area jam-packed with Greek-inspired artwork. The bar itself is underlit with pink neon lighting, ensuring nobody misses it – like that would ever happen (yamas!). And the piece de resistance – a dance floor, complete with a stage and glitzy disco lights. Opa!
Let’s talk food, starting with their pizzas because if anyone can nail this southern Euro stable, it’s our George. We can’t go past the Cappricciosa or the Pepperoni and Rucula which means rocket, but sounds so much fancier in Italian.
If you’re not vibing a pizza, give the Beef Moussaka a nudge or if you’re vegetarian, the Vegetable Moussaka gives its beef counterpart a darn good run for its money. Other mouthwatering options include Calamari and Fries, Spanakopita with Greek salad, Eye Fillet, Fresh Oysters and so much more.
Naturally the wine list leans very heavily into the Motherland, with plenty of Greek vinos to wet your whistle. There’s a beer for everyone, whether you’re partial to a Crownie, VB, craft beer, Greek ale, or a variety of other international offerings.
And if you’re in the mood for cocktails (always), you’ve come to the right place! George’s Aperol Spritz is top-shelf, or indulge in classics from yesteryear like a Brandy Alexander which bonus, also doubles as a dessert!
George’s is perfect for date night, family night, group gatherings – any occasion really! Just remember that it’s walk-in only (not taking bookings yet) so get there early because trust us, it’s on everyone’s radar right now and folks are literally lining up for a slice of the action.
So, if you’re ready for a fun-fuelled night and a Greek feast fit for the gods, George’s Pizza Wine Bar is your new go-to. Just don’t blame us when you leave in a feta-fuelled food coma.
Where: 1705 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
When: From 5pm, Friday & Saturday
Words by Bianca Trathen
Images by Mathilde Bouby
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
Where the Italian food is pasta-tively amazing.
Sorrento residents and Italian lovers GC-wide, have you heard? If you don’t know what we’re talking about then clearly you haven’t, because this one is #trending! Say ciao to Georges On Sorrento… the latest in their long-standing portfolio of Italian Stallion status nosheries, including Romanas in Nobby’s Beach, Valentinos in Broadbeach and neighbouring Georges on Broadbeach. Serving up steak, seafood and pasta like a boss, is it as phenom as its superstar siblings and of Corsican it is – don’t be Sicily.
Owner operator Emilio Covino, part of three generations of local restauranteur prowess spanning 53 years, has brought an extra helping of authentic goodness to the table. We’re talking Nonna’s oldest recipes and we all know that no-one – not even global juggernaut cooks, are a patch on Nonna! Inspired by the Amalfi Coast and bursting with fresh local produce and atmosphere, the space is warm, inviting, and everything you’d hope it would be. A very welcome addition to the newly made-over Sorrento Shopping Village, David Levestam Constructions has built what’s set to become the new local go-to.
Georges features indoor seating for those who prefer the rustic vibe, and plenty of outdoor seating in a large open courtyard that’s perfect for a family night out. You may shiver at the mere mention of “outdoor” right now, but not on Emilio’s watch with heaters, blankets and of course “red red wiiiiiine”. Outside you’ll also find TV screens and music which side note; make it the perfect place to hold your next event or celebration.
Indoors you’ll find a sizeable bar (tick!) with taupe and cream bricks and a striking black marble top. It’s offset against an exposed brick-style wallpaper in a warm, traditional terracotta-esk hue, making you feel right at home as soon as you step inside. Oh, and there are lots and lots of wine bottles on display, because any member of the Covino clan knows the way to our heart.
Head Chef Uttam Dahall is not ‘alfredo’ to cater to your every culinary need. Let’s kick things off with some entrees and oooh, we just spotted the Freshly Shucked Coffin Bay Oysters (done all the ways) and yep, we’ll take those. Plus we’ll have a Polpette In Sugo thanks, which is slow-cooked veal and pork meatballs and pomodoro, and we’re suckers for meatballs cooked with love by an expert, unlike the ones we bang together at home after a bottle of Merlot.
For mains, do yourself a favour and order the signature Local Line Caught Snapper with lemon butter sauce to prevent a ‘fish-ious’ case of FOMO. Another Georges’s signature is any one of the drool-inducing Traditional Woodfired Pizzas, and the impressive variety is seriously testing our decisiveness. After much thought, we’ve landed on Giorgios Special with San Marzano tomato, Fiore di latte, caramelized onions, salami, oregano and garlic olive oil…and she’s a winner! Or if you are pasta-inclined (same), try the Fettuccine Giorgio with farmed button mushrooms, smoked bacon and chicken breast medallions in a cream garlic cognac sauce.
While you eat, enjoy a Melograno Spritz which is Brookies Slow Gin infused with blood orange and pomegranate. And of course, no Italian meal is complete without wine – red and white – and no, it wasn’t an accident that we said “and” instead of “or”.
So next time you’re in the market for a traditional Italian feed, the only name (literally) you need to remember is: “Georges”.
Where: 2/20 Bundall Road, Bundall
When: 12pm – late Monday & Tuesday, 12pm – late Thursday – Sunday. Closed Wednesday.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Making it that little bit harder to concentrate on the menu.
As it turns out the Gold Coast is quite the good-looking city. With all of our green mountains and beguiling beaches, you’d expect venues to be taking full advantage of the glorious vistas we have on show. And guess what — there certainly are!
We propose you consult our trusty list of scenic dining spots and feast your eyes upon some infinitely more inspiring and soul-fulfilling sights than the mountain of half-folded washing on your dining room table. Or is that just us?
We’ve taken a good look around our city and put together a list of the very best places you can eat with your eyes.
Oozing luxury at every turn, if it’s knockout views you seek, there’s a whole yacht to love about La Luna. Perch up and be mesmerised by all the Broadwater action passing you by as you treat the tastebuds to some top notch Mediterranean and Asian-fusion inspired eats – and soak up some world class marina vibes while do it. With a spot that just screams long lunch, tuck into ocean inspired delicacies like Moreton Bay bug rolls and Kingfish Ceviche and sip the afternoon away on the signature cocktail menu. Pinky popping and fanciest pants, optional.
Where: La Luna Beach Club, Marina Mirage, 74 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Hyde Paradiso
A light and airy stunner studded with cascading greenery, spacious ceilings, and of course, uninterrupted views to the iconic shores of our very own glitter strip – Hyde Paradiso is oceanfront, Surfers Paradise dining at its finest. Start – or finish – your day by gazing out to the rolling surf, watching the world go by while you refuel with your choice of breakfast, brunch, lunch and/or dinner at this Euro-chic noshery. And if we *have* to choose, Kingfish Tacos and a Salted Coconut marg sounds like a particularly swell way to farewell the day, no?
Where: Hyde Paradiso, Level 2/8 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Nab yourself a spot on the deck and watch the water goers weaving throughout the canals (aka jetski’s absolutely carving up) as you ponder working your way through the dedicated marg list – perhaps Pineapple or Watermelon to start? Situated on the banks of the Nerang River, Surfers Pavilion is a particularly stunning spot for scenic dining and/or drinking, with a mix of small bites, share plates, seafood and burgers on offer. Grab some mates, chuck in a helping of Bug and Prawn Linguine or a Pav Parmy, and you’ve got yourself a party for the peepers and the tum.
Where: 30/34 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
Gonna take a little more than some enchanting views to impress you? The Langham Gold Coast’s five-star stunner, Akoya, dishes up an elevated and extravagant experience from breakfast through dinner, daily. Come Friday and Saturday evenings, the seafood-centric menu becomes a full-blown buffet of ocean odysseys inspired by the breathtaking beachfront backdrop. All dished up with that specific, over-achieving brand of Langham indulgence, it’s safe to go ahead and consider those socks well and truly knocked off (we’ll spare you the butchered Berlin ‘Take my breath away’ power ballad rendition, though).
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Excuse us while we don our Captain Obvious pants, but, no waterfront restaurant list worth its salt(water) would dare omit an icon like Rick Shores. Located mere footsteps from the sand and directly underneath The Tropic, this place is certainly not riding on the coattails of its incredible views – an esteemed foodie haven renowned for its equally stunning and inventive array of eats. Get your fix of sensational pan-Asian flavours flanked by panoramic views to the Pacific Ocean as far as the eye can ‘sea’. Their share plate menu is filled with absolute taste sensations and the cocktails are always pure perfection. For us, it doesn’t get much better than dining (and drinking, obviously) at Rick Shores.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
It might be one of our worst kept secrets, but there’s no denying there’s something magic in the water at Burleigh – and who hasn’t spent many a weekend scrambling to get a slice of that sweet outlook out to the Surfers Paradise skyline? Capitalising on that million dollar view, The Tropic brings a whole new level of luxe to our long standing weekend hill chill pilgrimage, with a windswept, sun-kissed deck to throw down Freshly Shucked Oysters, King Prawn Pasta and vodka-infused Caviar bumps. With a view like this, it would be rude not to also oblige in sunset inspired sips, like the Lucy Lava, made with Malfy Blood Orange Gin, Spiced Rum, apricot and aromatic rosemary notes.
Come for the water views – stay for the… *insert absolutely any item from the menu, here*
Where: 3b/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
Sitting right on the sand in one of our most sought-after suburbs, the vistas extend the entire coastline from Surfers to Tweed. Though more specifically, it’s the mouth-watering, modern pub-style fare and frosty bevvys they’re consistently churning out breakfast–dinner that makes this surf club gem both worth a mention and a visit. An old-faithful that’s always a sight for sore eyes.
Where: 741 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
The epitome of la dolce vita vibes – Tommy’s Italian in Currumbin has so much more going for it than incredible Italian eats, courtesy of some killer ocean views. Housed in the heritage ex Beach Shack Cafe site, its breezy beachside abode is a dreamy sun-drenched spot for lazy afternoons spent slurping down grilled seafood, woodfired pizzas and hand-crafted pasta. Two levels of absolute beachfront bliss are backed up by an enticing and extensive sip menu of shaken cocktails, wines, spritzes and jugs. A trip to Tommy’s truly is a treat for all the senses.
Where: 818 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
With a whopping 1200 sqm of sweeping surf views, newcomer Kirra Beach House was not messing around when it came to capitalising on the suburb’s relatively untapped surf frontage. And the uninterrupted, panoramic ocean views are just the beginning – equipped with not one, but three bars, an oh-so instagrammable mix of indoor and cabana-studded alfresco spaces, and chic beach club vibes aplenty. The epitome of elevated seaside dining, the vaycay-inspired sips like the Champagne Piña colada and ‘Cancun’ spicy watermelon margarita are complemented by a Mediterranean-style grazing menu, purposefully crafted to share with your crew as the waves roll in and sun sinks low.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Bringing a fresh face to the iconic Kirra Beach Pavilion with some slick 1950s Miami vibes, Siblings is another vantage-blessed stunner at which to simultaneously treat the eyes and the tastebuds with Modern Australian style eats, available anytime from lunch onwards. Those lucky enough to snag a waterfront table can soak up uninterrupted beach views flanked by swaying pandanus palms, and people watch to our heart’s content. Pineapple salsa studded Steak tacos and share platters of Moreton bay bugs & king prawns go down an absolute treat surrounded by the salty sea air, as do cocktails like the Sicilian Summer – a frosty concoction made with Mulberry gin sour… and, er, what were we saying again? We were momentarily distracted by… *gestures vaguely at entire menu and IRL Baywatch unfolding in front of our eyes*
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra
Sitting pretty on the 13th floor of the Beachcomber International Resort, Cooly Breeze is our only fine dining restaurant that boasts unique views to the southern coastline and the Tweed River surrounds. Easily one of the southern GC’s best kept dining secrets, the hidden rooftop gem channels an intimate, Amalfi coast experience with moorish Mediterranean-inspired eats from a sky-high vantage hidden in plain sight. The cosy ambience and sweeping surf vista is coupled with a fresh menu, such as the Seared Scallops da Costa and an azure-toned Rainbow Martini as vibrant as the view. Plus, there’s always the chance to catch a spontaneous whale show during migration season. Neat, huh?
Where: Level 13 of Beachcomber International Resort, 122 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Perched dramatically atop Point Danger with uninterrupted ocean views stretching from Snapper to D’Bah, Pipi’s Restaurant is the kind of place that makes you order dessert before mains, purely because the view told you to. This Mediterranean-inspired stunner from the Gambaro Group nails the holy trinity of epic scenery, polished coastal interiors and seriously elevated eats, making it a no-brainer for long lunches, sunset sips and special-occasion splurges. Expect pristine seafood, perfectly cooked Steak Frites, theatrical oyster shucking and cocktails that pair alarmingly well with salty sea air. It’s refined without being stuffy, luxe without losing its laid-back Cooly soul, and frankly, the ocean is doing most of the heavy lifting. But the food happily keeps up.
Where: 275 Boundary St, Coolangatta
