Tapos Singha was recently appointed Head Chef at the award winning, hatted restaurant, Miss Moneypenny’s Broadbeach. Originally from Sydney, Tapos has worked the kitchens of numerous highly acclaimed restaurants including Merivale’s 3 hatted Est at Establishment, two hatted Lucio’s in Paddington and The Watsons Bay Hotel. Tapos started Bang Street Food in 2015, a unique concept of modern Bangladeshi cuisine. A Bangladeshi native, Tapos was able to celebrate the street food of his youth.

Ben Walsh, the CEO of The Good Time Group Holdings said ‘We are thrilled to have Tapos on board and are very much looking forward to introducing him to the Gold Coast and push our dining offering to a level yet to be experienced on the Gold Coast. His food is simply incredible. The Queensland dining scene should be very excited about his arrival.’

We chatted to Tapos about his new career move and what he’s most looking forward to about living on the Gold Coast.

Tell us a bit about yourself.
I recently moved the to the Gold Coast from Sydney after initially moving to Melbourne from Bangladesh when I was very young. I moved to Sydney in my early 20’s when I started working in restaurants. I now have two beautiful boys both under two, so that keeps my wife and I very busy!

You have just been announced as the new Head Chef of Miss Moneypenny’s Broadbeach. Congratulations! What are you looking most looking forward to about living on the Gold Coast?
The lifestyle, weather, and the quality of the produce. In Sydney we would often use QLD produce – the quality if the meat and vegetables coming out of QLD are of such a high standard. Seafood generally came from northern NSW or QLD and I have found a beautiful Wagyu, Phoneix Wagyu from Mort & Co – why would you use Japanese Wagyu when the full blood Wagyu right here in QLD is that incredible!

Tell us about your career thus far?
I was fairly young when I became a Head Chef and after 3 years, I decided to work as a Chef de Partie (CDP) to refine and strengthen my skills to be as best I could possibly be. Opening my own restaurant, a little later, was a highlight of my career. We were so overwhelmed with the interest in BANG when were in the Time Out Top 50 four years in a row, being written up in the new York Times, Australian Good Food Guide and Gourmet Traveller Magazine. Being part of SNS Food Safari was also a fantastic experience as was cooking for Al Pacino at Lucio’s in Paddington – especially when he popped into the kitchen to say thanks! That was a day I won’t forget!

Have you always known you wanted to be a chef?
I was very young when I realised I loved cooking. Both my mum and dad would cook, so I was always in the kitchen with them – and I was always the first to taste anything that came out of our kitchen! I tried a few things before I decided to be a Chef, and when I realised how much I loved it, working hard with a great team and being able to have late night dinners at Golden Century and other restaurants that were open into the early hours of the morning in Sydney with my team and other Chefs around Sydney.

One of the things you are renowned for is your unique take on Bangladeshi cuisine, can we look forward to a new menu at Miss Moneypenny’s?
We will always retain our famous signature dishes that are extremely popular, although we will be looking at launching a new menu in the coming months that will feature some of my creative touches in many dishes.– I am very excited to be including a beautiful slow cooked Crispy Skin Duck dish that I am sure will prove to be extremely popular.

What are your thoughts on the Gold Coast’s dining scene in general?
It has been a very busy few months getting settled into our new life on the Gold Coast although with the produce that’s available locally I can’t wait to get around to as many restaurants as I can. With this beautiful weather, it appears people generally are out more often and enjoying the Gold Coast so I certainly want to make some time to do that too! But I can say the Gold Coast dining scene is rapidly evolving. Some time ago it was never really on the map for great dining experiences, however that’s changed now and its reputation as a premium dining destination has been cemented and it only continues to improve which is a great thing!

Do you have any Gold Coast favourites you keep going back to?
Café/Coffee spot: BSKT Café or anything right on the beach
Restaurant: Miss Moneypenny’s of course!
Bar or place for a drink: Paloma Wine Bar
Beach: Tallebudgera Creek with the kids

How do you choose to spend your weekends?
Before the kids, we were out quite a lot, bouncing from restaurant to restaurant enjoying all different food and wine experiences, now that we have two very young children, our life has quietened down a little. Time with the kids, I love being able to put them to bed at night, I miss that a lot when I’m working.

Fancy a trip to Greece? Of course you do, and put your passport away coz we’re not about to go full Oprah #soz. We are, however, here to pass on some very valuable intel – particularly for those partial to a gutsy Greek nosh up.

The Coast houses its fair share of south-eastern Euro eats spots, but if you’re a genuine Greek food enthusiast, it’s all about Xenia….and we don’t mean the Warrior Princess coz there’s a sneaky ‘i’ in there for a start. We’re talking about the new showstopping Xenia Grill restaurant in Main Beach, loaded with more Greeky goodness than you can poke a souvlaki skewer at.

Casuarina and Cooly residents have been privy to the Xenia Grill experience for several years and finally, it’s the northerners’ turn. Like its siblings, the Main Beach noshery dishes out plate-smashingly good Xenia hospitality, which is kinda like saying “ATM machine” seeing as Xenia is Greek for hospitality. And if you’re wondering where we’re going with this, to be fair, so are we.

The mouthwatering menu is inspired by Kastellorizo Island, a small Greek island near the Turkish coast. Serving truly authentic, traditional cuisine and Grecian inspired killer cocktails, founders Kate and Dino Georgakopoulos are proud partners in life and the workplace, proving that you can mix business and pleasure.

Delivering the ultimate Greek experience outside of actual Greece, their lip-smacking recipes hail from Dino’s family kitchen. In fact, they have created an environment where customers feel like they’re part of “the family” with a plethora of delicious food, laughs and good times to share. Plus, they believe “a life without feasts is like a long road without taverns” and this speaks to us on so many levels.

Appointing Space Cubed Design Studio for the Greek Islands inspired interior and Matt Holt Building and Construction for the build, the result is a modern classic. With a tasteful blue and white colour scheme, on-fleek pendant and festoon lighting, vertical VJ panels, contemporary arch features, and a splash of foliage, it gives a nod to its traditional homage but with a very ‘now’ aesthetic.  Accommodating 70 people, you can dine at the indoors banquet style seating or in the outdoor undercover area. A special shout out must go to the loud and proud “Eat, Drink, Love, Greek” wall feature and quite frankly, we’ve never heard better advice.

With Executive Chef & owner Dino Georgakopoulos and Group Head Chef Dileep Palouse in full command of the kitchen, you are in spectacularly competent hands. If you have ever sat down at a Greek family’s table you will know they enjoy a feast to share. Xenia is no different. Their Mazi banquet is a crowd favourite and features, the signature dish Arni Sto Fourno, sovereign lamb shoulder with lemon potatoes, kale and potato crisps, and tzatziki. If something a little smaller to start tickles your fancy, or you’d like to order some small mezze to share, look no further than the Oktapodi. This local chargrilled octopus with fava and toursi is as Greek as it gets and so (tenta)cool.

Stopping by for lunch? The trusty souvlaki is spectacular! Lamb, chicken, pork or vegan option with revithopites is everything we want from our Souv and more, as is the Baklava for dessert with filo, almonds and walnuts, citrus syrup, and kataifi, served with ice cream. All made onsite with the utmost of Greek Love!

For refreshments, we strongly recommend their most popular signature cocktail, the Mastiha Sours with Greek Mastiha, grapefruit, lemon, and aquafaba. If you’re feeling more like a classic, a Coconut Margarita will guarantee you a great time.

There is also a selection of quality Greek wines, beers and spirits, plus mocktails and other non-alcoholic drinks for those who had a big one the night before.

Looking to be transported to the bustling streets of Greece? Don’t miss Xenia’s famous Taverna nights. With Greek dancing, plate smashing and live music, it’s an experience unmatched elsewhere on the Gold Coast. Head to the events section of Xenia’s website for details on their next Taverna night.

So north side peeps, don’t say we’re not good to you. Head to Xenia Grill at Main Beach to experience your new fava-rite authentic Greek restaurant.

Where: 30 Peak Avenue, Main Beach & 52 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
When: Main Beach: From 5pm Monday, Wednesday & Thursday. From 12pm Friday – Sunday
Coolangatta: From 12pm Wednesday – Sunday. Closed Monday & Tuesday

Words by Bianca Trathen.

STORY SPONSORED BY XENIA GRILL

If you love to wine, dine and shop you’ll love Broadbeach. If you prefer to surf, laze in the sun or strut along beachfront esplanades, you’ll also love Broadbeach. From cult-followed cafes to shiny new eats, boujee bars and shopping boutiques, this burb’s an A-grade entertainer that shines bright in the eyes of locals and visitors alike.

There are many reasons locals – and Gold Coasters far and wide – love a bit of Broady, but here are 15 to get you started.

The Star Gold Coast
If ever there was a reason to call up the babysitter, it’s for a session at The Star. Here, you’re greeted with live music and a melange of premium food options- you won’t need to go anywhere else. Start with a few bevvies at the Atrium Bar before choosing your cuisine for the night. Will it be the fresh Garden Kitchen & Bar or the award-winning Cantonese at Uncle Su’s? Why not taste Tokyo right on the Gold Coast at Kiyomi, authentic Italian eats at Cucina Vivo or the ultimate buffet experience at Harvest Buffet? Or maybe you’re looking for the chic rooftop bar at Nineteen at The Star or a sneaky drink at the new look Veladora?
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant
If you’re after a tried and tested, long-standing comedy cabaret, good ‘ole Dracs has been serving up frights, food and frivolity since we were all ankle-biters. Most people are sold when they hear there’s a ghost train alone, let alone the actual show, which changes every so often, so there’s always a reason to go back! Enjoy a quality 3-course dinner and a menu of magical and mystical cocktails and shots!
Where: Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach

Social Eating House + Bar
If you consider yourself a gastronome, then this Oracle Blvd darling is for you. Social serves modern Australian flavours in a casual meets fine dining setting. For this, they’ve secured more hats than a Milliner’s workshop and have just won 3 glasses at the 2024 Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards. This comes as no surprise with Executive Chef Matthew Jefferson in charge. With a recently refreshed menu (promised to please even the most refined palates), you’ll experience a carefully curated range of bar snacks, charcuterie, and small and large share plates featuring the finest Australian ingredients and paired to perfection.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach

Blues on Broadbeach
Unlike our other listings, this one’s not here 24/7. However, it’s that much of a Broady icon that it would be criminal not to throw it a mention. As the name suggests, it brings us world-class blues music and jazz from locals and famous acts alike, performing across multiple venues over four unforgettable days. And it’s free. When does that ever happen?!
Where: Various Broadbeach venues

Elk Espresso
This place has never met an empty table; it’s constantly bulging at the seams with raving fans. Of course, we are one of such fans. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the beach, the coffee is all-time, the menus are seasonal and heavenly, and they do a Boozy Bottomless Brunch. And sold!
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

The Oasis
It’s an everyday escape for locals, and one of our top shopping centres on the coast (for good reason). The Oasis is home to stunning fashion boutiques, and the number of fabulous eateries at hand is impressive in of itself. In addition to the ones we highlight in this article, we’re talking Mario’s, Madison’s Café and Patisserie, Spice Kitchen and Bar, and The Broadbeach Tavern, to name just a few. It’s a #OneStopShop.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Broadbeach Bowls Club
Ahhh, good old lawn bowls. The game that never fails to deliver a good time. If you’re looking for the best way to spend a chill arvo on the GC, it’s with a game of barefoot bowls, brew in hand at Broadbeach Bowls Club. When you’re finished, they have a full bistro menu waiting with big portions of all your go-to pub-grub meals. They also have a canape package perfect for a laid-back birthday or celebration.
Where: 169 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

kōst Bar & Grill
Just over a year old, yet kōst has already wriggled its way onto our hot list… sneaky bugger. Just kidding, they’re here for a reason, and credit is due! The contemporary style bar and grill is perfect for sophisticated sips, flame-grilled eats and boujee’ bar snacks’, all within a relaxed-luxury setting. Champagne with a side of caviar, anyone?
Where: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

No Name Lane
Well, if it isn’t No Name Lane making a name for themselves as Blake Lively’s favourite coffee. In her exact words “”the best coffee of her life”. We can attest to this, alongside the cafe’s cult local following. Not only are they adored for their cuppa, but their all-day breakfasts and gourmet lunches also go down a treat so if you haven’t been, remedy this immediately.
Where: 16 Charles Ave, Broadbeach

Kurrawa Surf Club
Ocean views don’t come any better than this. With legit THE most prime location, Kurrawa Surf Club has everything you’d want from a Surf Club…and more. With awesome regular members specials and fresh ingredients, there’s no such thing as a bad meal here. They host a trivia night and live music, and of course there’s the obligatory gaming lounge for those who like a flutter.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach

CHA CHA Japanese Restaurant
Gold Coasters have been CHA CHA bound for an authentic Japanese nosh-up which won’t break the bank for years, and that’s not about to change any time soon. The banquet menu is divine and every visit you’ll experience the same level of scrumptiousness. But the soy on the dim sum…it’s BYO and it’s hard to find an already affordable yet high-quality restaurant offering our 3 favourite letters. Score.
Where: 2705 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

Pacific Fair
This list wouldn’t be complete without mention of THE queen. Pacific Fair (aka Pac Fair) is any Gold Coasters first point of call when a new ensemble or therapy (retail or other) is required. It has every retailer you could possibly wish for, fabulous food options and indisputably the most gorgeous fit-out you’ve ever seen. Nothing rivals it.
Where: Gold Coast Hwy and Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach

Costa Taco
You bet we did a happy dance when news broke that our fav taqueria from Palm Beach had opened a third location in Broady (the second was Byron). For us, and many (most) Gold Coasters, it was a love at first bite. Costa Taco stole our taste buds with their authentic, flavour-filled eats and there was no turning back. And why would we? You would have to be coco to say no no to coconut margaritas?
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

The Lamb Shop
In a pita shell, you’re getting bangin bar snacks and succulent souvlaki- what’s not to love? After a long day on Broadbeach beach (presumably), when you’re feeling sun-kissed and salt wrapped, is there anything better than biting into a tangy lamb-filled pita wrap to replenish exerted energy? No! The Lamb Shop’s entire menu is prepared in-house daily, using only fresh local produce, premium cuts and authentic grilling techniques. That’s why we love em!
Where: 1 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach

The Beach Hotel Broadbeach
There’s no better place to snag a seat and sink a beer (or a Golden Hour Sour) on a Saturday arvy than at the brand new The Beach Hotel in Broadbeach. The airy spaces and indoor-outdoor flow let the sea breeze carry through the beer garden into the public bar. The vibe is set to ‘summer chill’, eats are delish, sips are refreshing and every corner is designed for the perfect gathering with your pals. After some spirited fun, head inside Cora, a restaurant within The Beach Hotel, where fine dining and a laid-back atmosphere come together to deliver palate-pleasing Mediterranean-inspired bites and crisp, cool drinks. Don’t mind if we do.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Words by Chelsea Ipsen