Gold Coast Tavern replaces One50 Public House.
Gold Coast Tavern replaces One50 Public House.
Iconic venues across the Gold Coast are either slowly being renovated or completely changing hands. View this as good or bad; either way, the results are modernised going out spots that rival our southern neighbours in the big cities!
The all-new Gold Coast Tavern is nestled beside the Nerang River and just across the road from our brimming arts hub, HOTA. Now under new ownership, the venue previously known as One50 Public House, Surfers Rowers and the showing your age Margarita’s on the Water, has been completely refurbed in a multimillion-dollar revamp. The riverside venue offers an eye-catching proposition for an afternoon of sipping cocktails, a catch-up with mates over beers and sport, or just a good old fashioned lazy afternoon pub-style lunch on Bundall Road.
This is another striking venue brought to you by hospitality group JDA Hotels, who reopened the Mermaid Beach Tavern earlier this year. Hot off the back of that success, it looks like they have hit the nail on the head once again.
Once inside, there are different areas for everyone, a bar/bistro space with unmatched views on the river and Surfers Paradise skyline, a fully serviced gaming room with a separate bar, and multiple breakaway function rooms spaces upstairs. It has to be said, though, the real highlight has to be snagging yourself a table close to the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the water. Should you keep your eyes peeled, there is every chance you’ll spot some passing swans and even the occasional dolphin or two! (No joke, you heard it here first!)
The essence of the venue is to create a space where anybody can come in at any time of the week and find themselves with the best drinks and excellent quality food. Across the bar, you’ll find a wide selection of spirits, wines and a terrific line-up of local, national and international beers. The cocktail offering is equally impressive with a solid selection of everyone’s favourite classics like Mojitos and Espresso Martinis, the impeccable supplement to a sunny afternoon spent gazing as the water ebbs by.
On the food side of things, the effort has been put into creating a modern-style pub menu with forward-thinking dishes. You’ll still have classics like the Chicken Schnitzel and 250g Grain Fed Rump, but you’ll also have the option to spice things up a little bit with inclusions such as Prawn, Lemon & Pea Fettuccine or Chicken Karaage Burger. There’s also a healthy collection of 13″ pizzas freshly made to order and a sizeable kids menu offering enough variety to please even the most discerning toddler.
Besides drinks specials throughout the week, the venue will have events running nearly every evening of the week: Tuesdays are quiz night, Thursdays music trivia, and Fridays through till Sunday will feature live music sets. Monday night is a 2-4-1 meals promo evening, and Wednesday night is steak night: mark those in your diary folks!
Another fantastic feature of the Gold Coast Tavern are their function spaces upstairs. Varying in size, the three areas are suited to a host of events, social gatherings and corporate occasions, from large-scale presentations and celebrations to intimate board room style meetings. Interested parties are encouraged to enquire, but we are told these spaces are currently booking out fast!
Well Gold Coasters, yet another superb family-friendly venue now calls itself home on the banks of the Nerang River and aren’t we a lucky bunch to welcome this institution back!
When:
Venue: Every day 10am-2am
Bistro: Mon to Thurs and Sat: 11:30am-3pm & 5:30pm-9pm, Fri & Sun: 11.30am-10pm
Where: 150 Bundall Road, Bundall
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
See inside the freshly renovated space.
Iconic venues of yesteryear are the hallmarks of the Gold Coast. Many have disappeared and are but memories of sun-drenched times, but a few remain and have been tastefully brought into the 21st century. The recent reopening of the Mermaid Beach Tavern fits perfectly into this latter ideal, and from the peek we had inside at their fit-out and their food and drink menu, it’s safe to say, you should be excited.
Now, if you ask anyone about the history of the Mermaid Tavern, you’ll likely receive some smiles, and some affirmations of how it was once the place to be for a kids party when it was a McDonald’s or for general great times when it crossed over to being a tavern in the 90s. Certainly a case of: if you were there, then, you know! Well, don’t despair and think all of the best times have been had, because after a lengthy renovation over the last two years, an all-new and upgraded Mermaid Beach Tavern has finally opened its doors to the public.
Here is what you can expect inside.
Upon entry from the Gold Coast Highway, you are met by light spilling in from gaping overhead skylights in two rooms that shoot off to the left and right of the entrance. These are known as The Pods and provide comfortable high tables and banquet-style seating for big and small groups to chat over drinks or tuck into some food. Neutral tones, light wood hues and hanging green plants all add to the modern yet tranquil feel. We’re also told these high ceiling rooms can be completely shut off and will be available for private hire and functions into the future — so we think it’s about time to start thinking of those events you need to celebrate!
Into the main bar area, you’ll see another source of light spilling in from above, except this time the ceiling is entirely open, meaning the bar area feels as al fresco as possible whilst remaining inside. Look, the Gold Coast isn’t averse to a spot of rain from time to time, but you needn’t worry as it is fully retractable — but with over 300 days of sunshine a year, we expect this to be open majority of the time!
An airy and nicely spaced-out dining/bistro area follows on with the bonus of a slightly removed and sealed-off children’s playroom. For those with little ones, this will undoubtedly be music to your ears, meaning you can enjoy your hard-earned glass of vino or beer whilst the little ones run themselves ragged with their newly made friends.
Did we mention all of this is just the street level? If you take a wander downstairs, you’ll find an elegantly fitted out gaming lounge with its own cute bar and a fully devoted sports bar with enough large screens in there to cover any given sport any day of the week.
And last but by no means least, there is a north-facing decked terrace area to the very rear of the venue, which has shading but also enjoys sun for much of the day.
To put it simply, you have a few different options of how to spend your time at the Tavern.
The venue wants to make everyone feel welcome no matter what time of the day it is and serves food and drinks from 11.30am every day. As you would expect, the well-stocked bar is doing a wide array of cold beers, including some Gold Coast favourites.
The wine list has enough styles to cater for all tastes, and a cocktail list with a strong repertoire of classics — featuring an Espresso Martini (our favourite), a Mojito, and the cult-favourite Aperol Spritz — which are sure to walk out the door on a warm day.
On the food side of things, the offering is diverse, ranging from starters and salads to pizzas (all under $20) and a grill menu. You’ll discover familiar flavours (Chicken Parmi’s and standard pub fare) beside eye-catching dishes like beer battered Bug Tacos, a Beef Stracotto pasta and a Black & Blue Salad featuring charred sirloin steak and gorgonzola. We also think the Chilli Crab Linguine with blue swimmer crab meat, chilli, garlic, white wine, tomato, extra virgin olive oil, rocket and lemon will become a crowd favourite.
There’s also a sensibly priced kids menu (all choices are just $10 and include ice cream) and a dessert menu for the big kids featuring a Dropped Ice Cream Cone you simply cannot help but order…
If it’s been a while since you set foot in this Gold Coast original, or if somehow you never have, why not take a trip to Mermaid Beach and see what all the fuss is about?
Where: 2500 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: Every day, 10am — late
Food service: Mon-Thurs: 11.30am-3pm and 5.30pm-9pm | Fri & Sat: 11.30am-10pm | Sun 11.30am-9pm
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
Time to seas the day.
Is there anything more quintessentially Queensland than kicking back on the deck of a great surf club with an ice-cold drink, ocean breeze in your hair, and uninterrupted ocean views? Not really! It sounds like a holiday fantasy, but it’s really just a standard afternoon on the Gold Coast. How lucky are we?! Sometimes, we do forget it.
Our shoreline is scattered with surf clubs and you could pretty much stumble into any one and score relaxed vibes and a solid feed. But as always, we want the best for you, so we’ve rounded up the very best surf clubs from south to north. Grab a seat, order something cold, and settle in.
With a front row seat to one of Australia’s most iconic surf breaks, Rainbow Bay Surf Club gives world-class surf views, classic pub eats, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s one of the best spots on the Coast for sunset drinks after an ocean swim on a balmy summer’s afternoon. Salty hair? You’ll fit right in. There’s always a crowd here, so it’s always a good time. This surf club is nothing if not iconic.
Where: 2 Snapper Rocks Rd, Coolangatta
Quite literally built out over the ocean, “The Vikings” is one of the most iconic surf-club spots on the entire coastline. You’ll feel like you’re sitting above the waves while enjoying huge plates of classic favourites, weekend entertainment, and a buzzing crowd of both locals and visitors. The views alone are worth the trip, but their stacked menu and friendly staff seal the deal. You’ll hear everyone recommend this surf club, and for good reason.
Where: 741 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Positioned at the heart of Palm Beach, the award-winning Palm Beach Surf Club offers more than just a stellar upbeat atmosphere and sweeping ocean views, but a tasty menu (with weekly specials worth planning your visit around) and live music! Whether you’re popping in for a coffee, enjoying a drink with friends, or having dinner with the family, there’s a range of meals, snacks, and beverages to suit everyone’s taste and budget.
Where: 117 Jefferson Lane, Palm Beach
Perched between the beaches of Burleigh and Palm Beach, Tallebudgera Surf Club is the go-to for families and perfect for long lunches and locals who love a chilled waterfront vibe. You’ll find generous portions, vibrant cocktails, breezy open-air seating, and an epic playground for pre- or post-feed kid antics. You’ve also got Bean Surfing Cafe to enjoy from 5.30am-2pm daily, serving all your favourite beachside eats and epic coffee.
Where: 1505 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Overlooking one of the most famous beaches in Queensland, Burleigh Heads SLSC is where you’ll find old-school surf-club vibes. With sweeping views of the ocean and city skyline, hearty meals, and a prime position beside the iconic Burleigh Hill, it’s a natural choice for pre- or post-day-at-the-beach feeds.
Where: Goodwin Terrace & Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Situated at the quieter, more relaxed end of Burleigh, North Burleigh Surf Club is a top pick for families, groups, or anyone wanting beach views without the crazy crowds. You’ll get that gorgeous ocean breeze on the deck, reliable menu favourites, and a chilled atmosphere for an ideal arvo by the beach. There are weekly specials and regular entertainment top it all off.
Where: 293 The Esplanade, Miami
A true neighbourhood favourite since 1954, Nobby’s has entered an exciting new era after joining The Bears Group in late 2025. The partnership brings a refreshed hospitality focus while keeping the relaxed, community-first surf club vibe locals love. Expect updated menus with coastal-inspired flavours, classic club staples and the same welcoming atmosphere, with a major renovation planned for 2027 to further elevate the space.
Where: 25 Albatross Ave, Nobby Beach
Mermaid Beach AEME Surf Club remains a humble favourite among locals, striking the perfect balance between relaxed and lively. The club offers a kids’ playroom, heaps of weekly specials (the Tuesday Steak Night and Sunday International Food Night are local legends), plus trivia, members’ promos and plenty of big-screen sport. It’s friendly, consistent, and very easy to make a habit of.
Where: 172 Hedges Avenue, Mermaid Beach
Kurrawa Surf Club is one of the Gold Coast’s largest and most polished surf-club spaces, think sun-filled dining rooms, breathtaking beach views, a ‘something for everyone’ menu including pizzas and Spanish charcoal oven dishes, and a seriously popular brekkie menu. This surf club is fit for every occasion, from post-beach hangs to laid-back lunches to special occasions. They’ve also got live music and big screens to catch all the sports action. Its central location makes it one of the easiest clubs to access without a car.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach
Not only are you getting all the perks of classic surf club- uninterrupted ocean views and unbeatable atmosphere- you’re also getting fed from an award-winning restaurant. Who says you can’t have it all? You’re getting everything from classic club staples to gourmet salads and asian dishes, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They have spacious, light-filled dining spaces and offer one of the best beachfront outlooks in central Surfers.
Where: 51 Garfield Terrace, Surfers Paradise
Sitting beachfront in the heart of Surfers Paradise, this iconic surf club is a welcome escape from the buzz of the strip. Following a major renovation, the space feels fresh and open, with sweeping ocean views that make any meal better. The bistro serves up elevated surf club classics (the Outback Parma still reigns supreme), ice-cold drinks and that easy, friendly atmosphere surf clubs do best. A top spot for sunset sessions, and whale watching if the time is right.
Where: Corner of Hanlan Street & The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
The best kind of pub.
There are very few things better in this life than an icy cold schooner (or wine if you must) at a pub that still looks like it did when it was built.
Think all wood everything, fireplaces, that smell that seeps into the carpet and can never be removed, walls vibrating with epic stories, huge pub feeds and good times always.
In honour of this, we’ve put together a list of all the old school pubs on the Gold Coast so you can dressed up in absolutely anything you please and head in for a pub meal the size of your head.
Bearded Dragon Hotel
Tamborine’s favourite pub in the paddock offers an all day casual dining menu until late, chefs blackboard specials, burgers, steaks, snacks, coffees and of course, alcoholic beverages. There’s live music on weekends and always plenty of smiling faces to meet.
Where: 2-22 Tamborine Mountain Road, Mt Tamborine
The Wallaby Hotel
Established in 1883, The Wallaby Hotel is renowned as a place for cold beer, live rock, warm smiles and lasting memories. Recently The Wallaby was lovingly refurbished to stand proudly once more within the Mudgeeraba community. It’s much-loved Gold Coast and the food is always delicious. Head in for a guaranteed good time.
Where: 45 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
Merimac Tavern
The Merrimac Tavern is pretty much always packed with revellers and that’s because you can do all your favourite things there – eat, drink and be merry. On Friday’s it’s parmy and trivia night so gather the crew and get down there for a laugh.
Where: Gooding Drive, Merrimac
Fox & Hounds
Transported all the way from Royal Tunbridge Wells. The Fox & Hounds is the only pub in Australia that is truly British from the ales to the cuisine. There are MANY a British ale to be sampled and delights (maybe) like Haggis which yes, is Scottish but must be mentioned. If you’re after something different in an old-school pub setting, look no further.
Where: 7 Elevation Drive, Wongawallan
Woodchoppers BBQ Smoke & Grill
Family owned since 1995, Woodchoppers Inn recently opened its new BBQ SMOKE & GRILL restaurant. They take the techniques and skills that make the North American BBQ world famous and infuse classic Australian flavours to create a distinctly local BBQ experience. From seafood to poultry, vegetables to game and meats a plenty, the art of BBQ opens up a world of dishes just waiting to hit the table. It’s all very good, we know because we sampled the lot.
Where: 64 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
D’arcy Arms
An old school Irish pub to be sure. The D’arcy Arms is an institution, you’ll feel like you’re a world away, but right at home. The bar features a county Ireland feel including the historic first Guinness keg brewed in Queensland, tapped at the D’arcy Arms opening on 8th August 1988. There’s always live music on offer and plenty of Irish eats to fill your belly. After a pint or two of Guinness that is.
Where: 2923 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
Cecil Hotel
Offering up a great atmosphere to meet up for meal, drink or just a quiet chat and found in the heart of Southport, The Cecil Hotel is the place to be. The art deco hotel first built in 1907 shows all the live sporting action, host parties for big events and always draw a crowd looking for a fun time. Their woodfired pizza is the goods too.
Where: 42 Nerang Street, Southport
Eagle Heights Hotel
Eagle Heights Hotel offers a relaxed, family friendly atmosphere boasting arguably the very best view of the Gold Coast from the spacious Beer Garden. The Bistro serves up tasty eats and there’s live music on Sunday’s to have a bop too. Do yourself a favour and head up to Eagle Heights Hotel, don’t forget your camera. Fun fact… it was originally built by none other than Mel Gibson.
Where: 1683 Tamborine-Oxenford Road, Mt Tamborine
Canungra Hotel
An absolute stunner, you won’t miss the Canungra Hotel if you’re passing through. Sit outside on the deck and watch the world go by while sinking a few schooners, downing a tasty dish and listening to live entertainment from the bar (Friday nights). There’s raffles on Sundays and you can even stay the night should you “accidentally” have a few too many.
Where: 18 Kidston Street, Canungra
Jacobs Well Bayside Tavern
They call it ‘the best little pub in the canefields’ and it’s easy to see why. They’ve got epic pizzas, eats like Smoked Brisket Burgers and a Fat Ass Chicken Parmi and of course, all the sips you could want to go along with them. Fancy desserts too.
Where: 1170 Pimpama-Jacobs Well Road, Jacobs Well
Oxenford Tavern
Oxenford’s authentic Tavern and Bistro offers great food at great value. There’s pub meals and all of the sports on TV, found within a spacious venue complete with polished wooden floors and a huge outdoor deck. We’re big fans of the Loaded Schnitty Burger for obvious reasons.
Where: 179 Old Pacific Highway, Oxenford
Advancetown Hotel
Looking for good, old fashioned country hospitality? The Advancetown Hotel is your Hinterland destination for delicious food, entertainment for the whole family and first-class everything. Enjoy live music each Sunday afternoon and join in the fun every Friday night when the team host the best in local karaoke talent. There’s a children’s play area and undercover outdoor dining allow you to enjoy the atmosphere while the kids have some fun. It’s win-win.
Where: 402 Nerang-Murwillumbah Road, Advancetown
Words by Kirra Smith
