Get your hands on some fire black tie attire.
Get your hands on some fire black tie attire.
So, you’ve secured your tix to the hottest little soiree in town *cue excitement* followed immediately by a sartorial tailspin at the prospect of traipsing across the entire Gold Coast to track down a glittering gala-worthy gown that’s good to glow. Unless you’re hitting the red carpet on the reg, procuring a ball gown is something that probably doesn’t crop up on the ole’ to-do list that often.
As your inside word on all things Gold Coast, of corset it’s us you can trust to guide you on your quest to track down the most glamorous gowns in town.
If this is a realm you have’t revisited since you dedicated half of high school to finding the perfect frock (… among all that diligent studying, of course), fear not. Not unlike Angelina Jolie’s iconic Oscars pose circa 2012, we’ve done all ‘the leg’ work and compiled a handy list of some local boutiques dishing up divine dresses.
(So now you have more time to doom scroll Pinterest for the perfect #hairspo, you’re welcome).
Gearbox Boutique
Broadbeach’s Gearbox Boutique is a name that’s been going strong on the GC for almost 20 years now. Owner Chris Deaves’ extensive industry experience and passion is testament to the brands continued success, going from strength to strength since the boutique’s inception in ’04 (and looking damn fine while doing it).
The spot is well-known among locals of all ages as a one-stop-shop, both for its stellar dresswear selection and next level customer service. Brimming with wall to wall racks showcasing the array of glittering gowns, Gearbox has something suit all manner of soirees. Plus, the Oasis proximity makes for a very convenient caffeination checkpoint post-shopping spree.
Where: Level 1, Oasis Shopping Centre, Broadbeach
Sonia Stradiotto Couture
Local brand Sonia Stradiotto Couture has been bedecking Gold Coasters in formal finery for some 30 years now. Known for her haute couture and eclectic suiting among the Aussie fashion scene, specialities of the label include bold and sequinned silhouettes – utilising rare, globally sourced fabrics such as intricate laces and lush velvets. Chances are, if you’re seeking evening attire that’s a little bit ‘la-di-da’, you’ll find it at Sonia’s swanky shopfront in Marina Mirage.
For those looking to splurge on something truly show-stopping, there’s also a designer service to have a bespoke garment whipped up just for you #fancypantsmuch.
Where: Marina Mirage Shopping Centre, Level 1, Shop 131 & 132, 74 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
One Night Stand Designer Dress Hire
No need to borrow, beg or even buy – One Night Stand Designer Dress Hire is here so we can have a fashion fling with the dress of our dreams. The hero both us, and our credit cards, need.
Hunt through their extensive online catalogue to find a curated collection of sleek, spicy and stunning silhouettes – our haute hookup so we can ‘spend the night’ with some of our fave designer brands, sans commitment. From Aje to Zimmerman, the local label gang’s allll here.
The hire fee includes 5 days of rental and cleaning, which is a relief, because where does one even *find* a dry cleaner these days…?
Where: Level 1, Suite 6c, 2563 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
One Honey Boutique
A fresh face to Bundall is the One Honey Boutique flagship showroom, ready to dress us to the nines with a 10/10 collection of exquisite evening gowns. The One Honey team are dedicated to helping you find a fabulous frock for your own Queen ‘Bey’ moment, their proud point of difference being there’s no charge for fittings nor is there a limit to how many you can try on #thelimitdoesnotexist. They’ve also got the sweet hook up as stockist for an array of local and international brands, such as sought after names like Portia & Scarlett and Sherri Hill.
Buyer, and browser, beware – if you plan on hitting up this particular dress destination, plan those shopping expeditions in advance because bookings are required.
Where: 2/40 Bundall Rd, Bundall
The Formal Gallery
Judging by the testimonials alone, The Formal Gallery is THE place to rent your red carpet drip, hooking locals up with jaw-dropping frocks fit for everything from black tie events to the Brownlow.. and beyond. It’s not uncommon to spy their dreamy dresses strutting and sashaying across the Miss World and Miss Universe stages, and hey, those gals know a thing or two about glamour (.. and beauty and grace.… #obligatoryMissCongeniality)
You can search for your fave frock by date (efficient) and once you find a dress you’re obsessed with, book a try on at the Bundall boutique. The luxe lewk is yours for 4 days, with cleaning included in the hire fee.
Where: Villa 1/13 Vespa Cres, Bundall
Studio Minc
Studio Minc has been hooking up Southport and surrounds with all the fanciest threads going on ten years now – though it’s well worth the side quest for absolutely anyone seeking a fire frock, as of the few boutiques boasting a collection of dresses proudly designed & made ethically in Australia. We love.
A fashion-forward family brand built by the local Mother and daughter team made up of Michelle, Madeleine, and Morgan – Studio Minc is the style savvy trio’s answer to the gap they felt existed for young, elegant, and A-lister aligned gowns. And, the rest is herstory – these days, the only gap that remains is some perfectly-placed side slits for us to put our best foot forward.
Bring your bestie along for one of their dual ‘BFF’ Formal Dress Try’ appointments, and secure one of the handcrafted creations by the all-female in-house team, for an all round girl gang slay.
Where: 27 Margaret Street, Southport
Pacific Fair
OK, so this isn’t strictly a boutique but this list wouldn’t be complete without making mention of the Fair-est shopping centre in all the land Coast. Not only is it packed full of big guns like DJ’s and Myer, it also houses perpetual faves like Sheike, Forever New and Aje along with fancy-pants options like Carla Zampatti and Scanlan Theodore.
As an added kicker they have personal stylists on offer, so you can shop up a black tie storm with your very own in-house fashion expert.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach
Words by Kellie Leader.
Because food is the way to everybody’s heart. And Tier 1 friends list.
Friends, they’re the family we choose and worth their weight in gold. But LBR, don’t we all kinda fancy ourselves as the group authority on where to go for the best nosh, vibe and cocktail list? Well stick with us kids, we’ve got this!
Here are our tried and tested (on repeat) recommendations to elevate you to Queen Bee status. XOXO.
If you’re out to impress, Norté is basically your cheat code. From the team behind Rick Shores and Southside, this luxe rooftop restaurant and bar (aka Sueño) brings Latin American flair with serious flavour and even more serious design credentials. Think mango-drenched raw scallops, wagyu tostadas and a Peruvian-style potato dish stuffed with tender kangaroo tail – yep, they’re doing things a little differently here. The vibe is high-end without the fuss, the mains are made for sharing, and the drinks list is a mezcal-lover’s dream.
Where: The Oxley Atrium, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach
Srsly, the mere mention of The Langham will have your mates nodding in approval. The bougee T’ang Court honours its Michelin-star sister restaurants specialising in fine Cantonese dining. Reflecting the timelessness of the Tang Dynasty, China’s golden age, score extra points for the epic cultural nod. The authentic Cantonese dishes are complemented by the high-end, contemporary fit-out. In the words of Nike, just do it.
Where: The Langham Gold Coast, 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Dripping in coastal-styled furnishings and high-quality on-fleek accents, COAST is the restaurant with the most! This spectacular $2.5 million-dollar venue adorning the first floor of the brand-new Ocean by Meriton is all about fine modern Australian shared cuisine, and breathtaking uninterrupted views of the big blue. Sink a margi with your gang at the 14m marble bar, a second one outside on the stunning terrace, and the next (several) with your designer dinner in the main dining room.
Where: Ocean by Meriton, 86 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Occupying arguably the most iconic turf on the Coast, Siblings packs wow-factor for days. This modern Aussie brunch and dinner hot spot at Kirra Beach Pavilions is dripping with 1950s Miami beach vibes from pillar to post. Beautifully styled with a colour palette and décor celebrating its glorious surroundings, a meal here should be on every Gold Coaster’s to do list. The food is on-point and there are 52 signature cocktails to enjoy with your chums. Nuff said.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
When The Australian Good Food Guide awards you 14 points and two chef’s hats, you’ve officially arrived. With accolades like this, your fancy friends will be all over it like Pro Hart on a Stainmaster commercial. Situated in the stunning HOTA Gallery, Palette takes inspiration from artworks on display and major exhibitions to show just how naturally art and food blends. Fresh ingredients sourced locally where possible create a showstopping modern Australian menu guaranteed to woo.
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Steak night just got a glow-up. Lars Bar & Grill is bringing woodfired flair and coastal cool to Nobby Beach, dishing out the kind of smoky, sizzling goodness that’ll have your friends drooling before they even sit down. From the team behind The Oxley 1823 (and with hospitality royalty Lars Kollrepp at the helm), this spot nails the fine-diner-meets-grill-house vibe. With over ten epic cuts of steak, next-level sides, and a wine list that means business, Lars is where you go when you want to eat like a king but feel like you’re still at the beach.
Where: 2217 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
There just aren’t enough stars for this Burleigh blockbuster. Another modern Australian restaurant to dine for, it is fine dining at its, well, finest. The work of passionate husband and wife team Alex and Karla Munoz Labart, Labart offers a seasonal, share-style menu made with only the best produce and a sustainable wine list to match. The earthy, refined and understated interior creates a warm and welcoming ambience, providing the perfect setting for an intimate meal with friends.
Where: 8 West Street, Burleigh Heads
Focusing on fresh, locally sourced produce with the intention to share, soz but we don’t want to #TooGood. At one with the ocean, the infamous Rick Shores overlooks beautiful Burleigh and serves up some of the very best eats in town. With awards up the wazoo, it’s a sure thing when you want to impress. Speaking of, insist your mates order the Fried Moreton Bay Bug Roll and don’t be surprised when they weep tears of joy. Wash them down with a few of Rick’s cocktails and this is not the time to volunteer for DD duty. Happy days.
Where: 43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If your peeps are fangirling/fanboying over perfectly cooked, juicy steaks of the highest quality (paired with the tastiest sides to level up the yum factor), look no further than Glenelg Public House in Mermaid Beach. The vibe of the low-lit space is relaxed and welcoming, encouraging you and your crew to settle in – with a glass of red in hand of course – for the long haul. May we recommend the banquet for a well-rounded, standing-ovation-worthy nosh-up. You’re welcome.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Let’s be real – if you’re trying to wow your mates, Haven is your ultimate flex. Perched up high at the ridiculously chic Mondrian Gold Coast, this beach club-meets-restaurant is pure coastal cool with a side of “how is this even real?” Think elevated seafood, sultry sunsets, and spicy margaritas that go way too well with DJs and wood-fired scallop pies. Executive Chef Aaron Teece is plating up flavour bombs that champion fresh Aussie produce – from juicy Ballina king prawns to wagyu sirloin you’ll be dreaming about for days. Luxe, laidback, and definitely not your average dinner spot.
Where: Level 3, 3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Words by Bianca Trathen
Level-up your drinking game.
If Queensland weather doesn’t shout rooftop bars at you in a high-pitched squeal, we don’t know what will. Our climate, coupled with the amazing hospitality scene here in our city, means these open-air meccas of good times and delicious libations are the prime place to find yourself — any time of the year! It’s all about drinks in the sunshine and snapping selfies with picturesque backgrounds for Insta-bragging purposes.
So, in honour of bars in high places, here are 14 next-level rooftop bars (listed north to south) you should prioritise visiting this weekend, next weekend and the weekend after…
Aviary Rooftop Bar
Perched atop Mantra on Sharks, Aviary Rooftop Bar’s views are as stunning as their extensive drinks list. With 180 degree views over the Surfers Paradise skyline and the ocean, it’s the perfect place for an after work beverage or Sunday arvo session with the crew. Ohh and don’t even get us started on their authentic Italian pizzas, and tapas… if you know, you know.
Where: Mantra at Sharks, Melia Ct, Southport (next to Southport Sharks)
Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar
A game-changer in Southport’s food and beverage scene, Mr PP’s is a multi level pizzeria and rooftop bar boasting city views and plenty of good vibes in the century-old postal building. There is a generous menu full of pizzas, tapas and charcuterie boards, the ideal scenario. Plus cocktails and local tipples, of which there are many. Live music on Sundays too.
Where: 43 Nerang St, Southport
Last Night on Earth
Pretty sure that if it were, in fact, your last night on Earth, you would want to spend it at a sweet rooftop bar with bulk cocktails at the ready. Last Night on Earth is the work of local legend Arran Wollams and his crew. It’s a somewhat underworld themed rooftop bar in the heart of Southport offering good times aplenty. It’s a dive bar, but not as you know it. Check it out.
Where: 50b Nerang St, Southport
Cali Beach Club
Cali Beach Club is not just a rooftop bar, it’s Australia’s largest Beach Club! This Gold Coast classic is the ultimate beachside party destination that’s never known a dull moment. The 2L spritzer and cocktail jugs may have something to do with this… One minute, you’re lounging on your dedicated daybed by the pool. Next, you’re sipping a Cali Colada in the pool. What’s that? The DJ set has begun?! Off to the dancefloor with you!
Where: 21a Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Lulu Rooftop & Bar
Say hello to the lovely Lulu. Think Miami’s art deco scene meets laid-back tropical Gold Coast, with lush greenery, plush booth seating and marble-topped bars, it’s a vibe! Throw in the fact it’s on a rooftop and we’re sold. Okay, that’s a lie, our booths were booked when we got word of Throwback Thursdays, RnB Fridays and the regular Grils Brunches…
Where: Level 2/4 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise
The Exhibitionist Bar
News flash: HOTA isn’t just for the arts and culture, people, it’s also for cocktails. Speciality cocktails- each inspired by and changed to reflect the art centre’s current major exhibitions. We feel more cultured already. Enjoy it all while absorbing the breathtaking views of the city skyline. The highly talented Tom Angel heads up the bar and cocktail list, which is a seriously good spot for a sundowner — and the ideal place to take out of towners!
Where: Level 5/135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise
The Island Rooftop
It’s the largest open-air (and much adored) rooftop on the Gold Coast, perched on top of The Island in Surfers Paradise. This spot is kind of a unicorn, being part nightclub, part bar and part live music venue. It’s where killer beats meet delicious eats and craft cocktails. Every weekend you’ll find a line-up of DJs playing, a specially curated cocktail menu, and indulgent share-style eats. Think of it as your new weekend ritual.
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Nineteen at The Star
The fanciest of the bunch is undoubtedly Nineteen at The Star, complete with velvet booth-style seating, an infinity pool and ocean views for days. Found atop The Star Gold Coast’s The Darling, Nineteen is the perfect place for people-watching, dressing up and sipping on fancy tipples while dancing the night away. Be sure to take a snap on the runway stretching out into the pool!
Where: The Darling, Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
JuJu
This rooftop bar has serious “it’s a vibe” energy. JuJu in Nobby Beach delivers upscale dining with a side of cheeky fun. Split across two levels, this venue is perfect for sunset cocktails and late-night revelry. Expect Euro-summer vibes, lush greenery, and after-hours parties that feel straight out of Mykonos. With a sleek rooftop bar featuring a retractable roof, tequila carts, and live DJ-saxophonist duos, JuJu is where you go when you’re ready to keep the night alive.
Where: 2235 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Sueno Rooftop
Sueno is one of (if not, the) hottest bars on the Gold Coast, and for excellent reason. Go from dinner at Norte to a chilled rooftop, and chat the night away under the moonlight with a marg in hand. The Nobby Beach venue is ideal for a weekend catch-up, a mid-week cheeky cocktail, or an epic bottomless brunch every Saturday and Sunday. Do yourself a favour, find yourself here sipping a cocktail whilst drinking in the gorgeous view.
Where: 2215 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Justin Lane
A much-loved favourite among locals and visitors alike, Justin Lane is still one of the most popular rooftops on the Gold Coast and was actually the coast’s first official rooftop bar opening in 2011! Hard to imagine. The space is intimate, with booth-style seating overlooking Burleigh and plenty of cocktails to tickle your fancy. Once you’re done slinging back bevvys with the gang, head downstairs for some fair dinkum pizza (it’s so damn good).
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Pavilion
This one is straight-up iconic and the vibe is a match. It’s as close to the ocean as you can get with a cocktail before it becomes a safety hazard. You may be closer to Earth for this one, but the view here is arguably the best on the Gold Coast. Soak in the stunning sunshine while mulling over which epic cocktail to try first.
Where: 3a/43 Goodwin Tce, Burleigh Heads
The Collective
Everyone’s favourite multi-restaurant establishment, The Collective in Palm Beach, boasts a sweet rooftop bar with epic cocktails for your sipping pleasure. You can also order eats from one of the five menus on offer and watch the sunset while you’re at it. We recommend it.
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Kirra Beach House
Making waves for all the right reasons – Kirra Beach House redefined the southern eats and sips game. The handiwork of local hospo gun, Dave Galvin, which speaks to the caliber in and of itself – with three seperate bars, insta-worthy interiors, cabana-studded wraparound terrace and panoramic ocean views from all angles! We’d be remiss not to also mention the Mediterranean-style grazing and crafted cocktails. Perfect 10’s all round.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Pde, Coolangatta
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
