Roll out the red carpet this Mother’s Day at The Star Gold Coast.
Roll out the red carpet this Mother’s Day at The Star Gold Coast.
She gave you the gift of life so that qualifies her for deserving the gift of everything, and with Mum’s big day just around the corner we’ve found some of the best ways to spoil that special lady in your life.
Mum’s officially the word at The Star Gold Coast and as usual they’ve come up with the biggest and best ways to treat your leading lady right – it’s time for her to have her Main Character moment.
Cucina Vivo
If she’s a foodie you’ve come to the right place. Treat mama bear to an indulgent 3-course shared Italian lunch and if this doesn’t secure ‘kid of the year’ status, the glass of Chandon on arrival will. For just $95 per person, let’s unpack the spread. There’s Warmed Ciabatta Bread with olive oil and aged balsamic plus irresistible Fresh Figs with aged balsamic, toasted pistachios and honey. But we’re not done yet coz you can also devour Stracciatella with pumpkin seed pesto and lemon olive oil and (drumroll ploise), the ever-faithful house made Arancini with mushroom, dill and aioli.
Then it’s time for the main event, Stockyard Scotch Fillet with lemon and garlic potatoes, broccolini and Primitivo wine sauce and Market Fish with Vin Bianco cream and soft herb salad. These are paired with some srsly good salad action, in this case the Italian Chop Salad. Top it all off with a taste of Italy sweets edition, aka Tiramisu. Bellissima!
Garden Kitchen & Bar
With the change of season comes that glorious Autumn sun, so why not soak it up while Mum sips on a spicy marg at Garden Kitchen & Bar. The perfect spot for the whole fam with space aplenty for your little rascals to burn some energy before you tuck into their a la carte menu or indulge yourselves with a signature seafood platter and enjoy a complimentary glass of Domaine Chandon.
Kiyomi and Uncle Su
Got a craving for some of the best Asian cuisine on the Coast? Lucky for you The Star has two, Kiyomi and Uncle Su. Think indulgent and authentic Japanese and Chinese fare with flavours that are out of this world. Enjoy both of their traditional a la carte or banquet menus, plus a complimentary glass of Chandon on arrival for mum – we can sense a theme happening here and we’re all for it.
Harvest Buffet
Sometimes more really is more, and the chefs at the Harvest Buffet know that all too well. Let mum eat until her heart’s content with their signature all-you-can-eat buffet, tuck into a feast of prawns and oysters at lunch or if you’re wanting the full seafood buffet experience, stay for dinner. PSA: You’ll want to wear stretchy pants – trust us. Of course, mum will be treated to a glass of bubbles with her meal here too and we’ll cheers to that!
Nineteen at The Star
If Mum is on the boujee side then there’s no place like Nineteen At The Star for her special day. Pop in for lunch or dinner and soak up the glorious view from one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic rooftops. Enjoy all your favourites a la carte. The best of seasonal produce and fresh seafood, paired with one of their signature drops – sounds like a win-win for yours and mum’s tum.
Azure Spa & Fitness
She’s more of an R&R kind of gal we hear you say? Azure Spa & Fitness is the home of indulgence so why not get Mum something that will let her zen out and forget she’s a parent for a moment. Raising you was no joke – she deserves it. Get your hands on a signature spa treatment for $215 and let the Mother’s Day treatment keep going because she can use this bad boy throughout the month of May and be treated like the Queen that she is.
For a one-stop (Mother’s Day fun) shop, it’s all about The Star. For more information on any of The Star Gold Coast’s Mother’s Day activations, go here.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: Mother’s Day, Sunday 12th May. Azure Spa & Fitness treatment available throughout the month of May
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be aged 18 years or over to enter the casino. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT.
We know the places to make your Mama Bear feel spesh.
Gold Coasters, do we detect the slightest notes of aromatherapy oils, artisan tea blends and fresh-baked scones filling the air? Yep, that’s right – Mother’s Day is just around the corner!
But fret not if you’re yet to line up anything plush in honour of Mama dearest. All across the Coast, our most fanciful eats, fun and self-care purveyors are putting the finishing touches on myriad ways to spoil the OG lady in our lives.
Here are a few ideas that go some way towards expressing our eternal gratitude this Mother’s Day. Hint: you can defo skip the servo flowers.
Now, we’re not saying anyone’s posh, but if Mum appreciates a refined spread, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove is serving up a Mother’s Day Pink High Tea with plenty of flair at Cove Café. Sip on a glass of sparkling Bimbadgen Moscato on arrival before diving into a seasonal lineup of elegant bites like Slow-cooked Toowoomba beef brisket doughnut, Lobster & tarragon vol-au-vent, plus sweet treats including raspberry macarons and tropical passionfruit tartelettes. Of course, there are classic and lemon myrtle scones with all the trimmings, alongside delicate finger sandwiches.
Priced at $89 per adult and $30 per child (aged 5–12), bookings are essential for Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th May from 12pm. Sunday is now fully booked, and there is limited space for Saturday, so get your bookings locked in quickly here.
Where: Cove Café, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Hope Island
Celebrate Mother’s Day in style at Sanctuary Cove, where waterfront views and feel-good moments set the scene for a day to remember. Head to the Marine Village for a complimentary retro Kombi photo booth on the Village Green from 10am to 2pm, complete with printed snaps and the chance to win a luxe Hunter Valley getaway.
Make a day of it with long lunches, bubbles by the water or a little retail therapy, with plenty of dining options across the precinct. Think a two-course feast at Red’s Kitchen & Bar, live music and giveaways at Cove Tavern, a blush-toned Pink High Tea at Cove Café, or a festive feast at Pablito’s.
Happening Sunday 10 May, this is your go-to for a relaxed yet elevated Mother’s Day by the marina. For information on all the offers and activities, click here.
Where: 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
If Mum’s love language is luxury (and let’s be honest… it probably is), JW Marriott Gold Coast is pulling out all the stops with their seriously elegant High Tea by JW at Chapter & Verse Bar & Lounge.
Start things right with a glass of Moët and Chandon Rosé Champagne on arrival, before settling in for a beautifully curated spread of handcrafted sweet and savoury delights from the resort’s talented pastry team. Tea is served in stunning Cristina Re teacups with 24-carat gold detailing, adding an extra layer of sophistication to an already special experience.
There are even a few extra surprises in store, including the chance to win limited edition “Mum” mugs, so the spoiling doesn’t stop at the last sip.
Priced at $109 per person, with sittings at 10:30am and 1:30pm on Sunday 10th May, this is one Mother’s Day treat she will not forget. Book here.
Where: Chapter & Verse Bar & Lounge, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Is Mum a fan of the finer things, but you know it’s quali-tea time that really fills her (tea)cup? Ditch the daisies and dial up the indulgence with QT Gold Coast’s Mother’s Day QTea High Tea. Think tiered towers stacked with standout bites like duck bombolini with truffle aioli, beef brisket and ratatouille tarts, smoked salmon en croute, plus sweet treats including Ferrero-inspired delights, cassis macarons and strawberry basil cheesecake. There are bubbles (or even a craft beer), plus tea or espresso coffee to keep the good times pouring.
Priced at $99 per adult (including a glass of G.H. Mumm Rosé Champagne), $85 per teen and $39 per child, bookings are available for Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th May from 11:30am to 2pm (two-hour sittings). Book here.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Palette Restaurant at HOTA is serving up a Mother’s Day lunch that’s as impressive as she is. Set inside the Gold Coast’s only three-hatted restaurant, this is your cue to swap brekkie in bed for something a little more elevated.
Settle in for a long, leisurely lunch filled with beautifully plated, seasonal dishes that are equal parts art and flavour. Think standout plates like Australian bay lobster with brioche, char siu beef with crispy eggplant, and dreamy desserts starring feijoa or caramelised pineapple. It’s all thoughtfully curated and perfectly paired with a glass of wine or beer, because Mum deserves nothing less.
Choose between two courses for $85 or go all out with three for $100, with sittings from 11am on Sunday 10th May. Consider this your sign to book now and favourite child status is basically guaranteed. Book here.
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise
Everyone’s favourite Surfers Paradise shopping centre, Paradise Centre, is dialling things up this Mother’s Day with cool-mum energy and experiences to match. Forget the predictable pressies, this year it’s all about margaritas at El Camino Cantina, axe throwing at MANIAX, fresh piercings at Lovisa or even a cheeky tattoo at Celebrity Ink.
There’s plenty happening across the weekend, from mums throwing for free at MANIAX (with a paying guest) to mystery gift boxes at Unique Trendz Boutique, plus escape room adventures at Padlock’d (with complimentary chocolates for Mum). TGI Fridays is also getting in on the action, with a complimentary dessert for mums when you book ahead.
From shopping perks to hands-on fun, Paradise Centre is your one-stop spot to spoil Mum (and have a little fun while you’re at it). Find out more information here.
Where: Paradise Centre, Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Spoil Mum your way at The Star Gold Coast this Mother’s Day, with a lineup of dining, indulgence and a little bit of everything in between. From Italian favourites at Cucina Vivo to fresh seafood feasts at Harvest Buffet, plus Japanese dining at Kiyomi and yum cha or banquets at Uncle Su, there’s something to suit every kind of celebration. You can even take things up a notch with sky-high dining at Nineteen at The Star.
If relaxation is more her style, treat Mum to a little downtime with a 90-minute escape at Azure Spa, or turn the whole day into a staycation she won’t forget.
On Sunday 10th May, with lunch and dinner options across the precinct, this is your one-stop spot for Mother’s Day plans. For information on all the events click here.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach
Burleigh Leagues Club is serving up a Mother’s Day Breakfast Buffet that’s all about starting the day on a delicious note. Expect a generous spread of hot and cold favourites, freshly baked pastries, seasonal fruit and all the hearty classics to keep everyone happy.
There’s a complimentary glass of champagne for Mum on arrival, because bubbles with brekkie just feels right, plus the chance to win a $300 hamper while you’re there.
With a relaxed, family-friendly vibe and plenty to go around, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser. Happening Sunday 10 May from 8:30am to 10:30am, priced at $45.50 for adults, $15 for kids and free for under fives. Book here.
Where: Burleigh Leagues Club, 80 Pacific Avenue, Miami
The Strand Coolangatta is bringing all the feel-good vibes this Mother’s Day with a lineup designed to help Mum truly unwind. From Wednesday, May 6, swing by with the family to snap a pic at the dreamy floral photo wall. No bookings needed, just smiles all round. On Saturday, May 9 from 9am to 3pm, Level One transforms into Mum’s Lounge, where she can soak up some well-deserved downtime with free five-minute massages from Cozy Time Massage, live music and a relaxed, flower-filled setting. There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained too, from shell trinket workshops by The Craft Parlour and card-making stations to angel and tarot readings in the afternoon. Don’t miss the charity flower wall, where a gold coin donation could score Mum a prize from The Strand’s retailers. Find out more here.
Where: 72-80 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Words by Belinda Symons
Go ahead, make someone’s daisy!
There’s always a good excuse to gift flowers – love, joy, appreciation, romance, a heartfelt “sorry,” or just because someone survived Monday. But with Valentine’s Day around the corner, there’s never been a better time to surprise your special someone (or yourself, no judgment) with a fresh, vibrant bunch.
To help you lock in best friend/ partner ever status – or fast-track your way out of the doghouse – we’ve rounded up the best spots for the freshest flowers and the brightest bunches. Go on, make someone’s day!
Burleigh’s luxury florist has set up shop on James Street, and trust us – you’ll want to stop by. Studio O’Hara serves up stunning fresh and dried floral arrangements, pre-made bunches and a Create Your Own Flower Bar for those feeling extra creative. Need a gift? They’ve got a curated selection of locally sourced goodies to pair with your blooms. Need flowers now? They deliver Gold Coast-wide. Whether it’s for love, celebration, or a quick “please forgive me,” Studio O’Hara has you covered – in the most stylish way possible.
Where: 33 James St, Burleigh Heads
If flowers could give hugs, Indigo & Jade would be wrapping you up tight. This Mermaid Waters favourite is all about modern, thoughtfully crafted blooms that feel personal, intentional and very Instagrammable. From ready-made bunches to custom creations and their much-loved Roses en Masse, everything is designed to suit life’s big moments and the “just because” ones too. Add in a beautifully curated selection of gifts and same day delivery when you order before 2pm, and suddenly forgetting an anniversary feels far less scary.
Where: 9/90 Markeri St, Mermaid Waters
We’re crushing hard on the fresh, high quality, and on-trend blooms from Flowers Gold Coast. With an amazing array of stunning fresh blooms, dried flowers and hampers, all made by locals, for locals. With an impressive variety of stunning flower options available, Flowers Gold Coast (literally) deliver the goods every day of the week. They also offer same day delivery to Brisbane and Logan for orders placed by 11am.
Where: 7/10 Expo Court, Ashmore
If flowers are your love language, say hello to Flowers by W – the Burleigh-based bloom whisperers who take floristry to an art form. These petal pros don’t just arrange flowers, they craft emotion, one stunning bouquet at a time. This creative hub is where floral magic happens, using locally sourced blooms whenever possible. Whether it’s a wedding, a grand gesture, or just because (self-love counts too), Flowers by W delivers.
Where: Online and 13 Prosper Crescent, Burleigh Heads
This boutique Gold Coast florist’s magical blooms saw them named as a finalist in the 2022 Wedding Industry Awards. Nakita, the creative mind behind Wilde Little Bloome is passionate about creating quality, unique and super special pieces. They create dreamy, organic and rustic inspired bouquets with both fresh and dried flowers.
Where: Online
With the tagline “Bold, Unmistakable and Courageous” you just know this florist is going to stand out in the crowd. Owner Monique Rameau has a devotion to detail and focuses on creating a personalised experience for every client.
Where: Online
Equal parts florist and feel-good gift haven, The Potted Bloom Room is your Varsity Lakes go-to for blooms that mean something. This charming local spot dishes up fresh and dried flowers, lush plants, dreamy hampers and homewares you’ll want to keep for yourself. Think crowd-pleasing faves from Ecoya and Glasshouse, plus bouquets that feel like a warm hug in floral form. With same-day delivery when you order by 12 noon, click-and-collect and easy online ordering, spreading a little joy has never been simpler. Warning, you will leave wanting more than just flowers.
Where: Shop 6/221 Christine Avenue, Varsity Lakes
Taking a trip to Tugun is always a great idea and a fabulous way to slow things down and enjoy a more relaxed village-style vibe to the Gold Coast. Swing by Tugun Fruit and Flowers, and not only will you find amazing juices (yum), you’ll also discover adeptly put together flower arrangements and a collection of dried flowers which are sure to brighten any room.
Where: 4/467 Golden Four Drive, Tugun
The fantastic work of these guys can be found across various different cafes across the Coast from Helensvale to Burleigh, such as northern favourite Bear Boy, Paddock, Bam Bam Bakehouse and Rosé Gelateria. But fear not, you’ll also see their extensive range of blooms online for delivery right across the Gold Coast. Specialising in weddings and flower workshops, yep, that’s right. How do you fancy learning how to make your own pressed flower frame?!
Where: Multiple Gold Coast cafes or online
Now it may be a touch off-topic, but the selection of gifts that online Gold Coast florist Bloom Jar has at your disposal is nothing short of impressive. Jazz up any flower order with the addition of candles, chocolate, body oil, and wine! Their ‘everlasting collection’ are carefully curated dried flower arrangements and vary in style and size: perfect for any situation!
Where: Online
Located in two locations in Southport, there’s no denying these guys are big players when it comes to fresh flowers – their multiple awards also cement this fact! You might get distracted from your flower mission with the exciting selection of homewares, skincare, and gifts, but remain focussed – you got this!
Where: 4/41 Musgrave Avenue, Chirn Park and Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport
Belle, the genius behind Bee’s whimisical floral creations, started her business by designing flowers for her disorganised sibling! Just 8 months in she won the Gold Coast Bulletin’s Best Florist Competition for 2021. Weddings and events are skillfully catered for with sustainability front of mind. Meaning all your flowery dreams and desires will be realised with minimal impact on the environment! We love this!
Where: Online from Mudgeeraba
Words by Belinda Symons
Cake it to the limit!
If you haven’t sampled the goodies from these cake artists, butter late than never we say because they will never dessert you. There’s only one quality rivalling the taste of these sensational sweeties and that’s their presentation, which speaks directly to your insta grid (say cheese…cake)!
Here are 8 totally tier-rific GC based creators, perfect for a decadent treat to satisfy your craving, or a custom designed showstopper guaranteed to be the icing on the cake at your next event.
My Favourite Baker
Known as a lifeline for positively drool-worthy last-minute cake and cupcakes, we need My Favourite Baker in our lives because we always leave the cake to the final hour #mumfail #wifefail #partyfail #justfail. With glowing coverage in the who’s who of print media and raving Google reviews, you’re in excellent hands here. A special shout-out to the celiacs amongst us, they do epic gluten-free varieties. Happy dance!
Our pick: My Favourite Unicorn. It tastes as amazing as it looks. Translation: kid & big kid pleaser.
Where: 4/1 Inventory Court, Arundel
My French Pastries
You know a patisserie is darn good when it books out in advance for orders! An award-winning French bakery tucked away in Ampol Foodary, Mr French Pastries cakes are iconic. Pastry Chef Antonio Marchesi keeps it real, crafting all goodies from scratch, and using only the finest French flour, quality butter, and premium ingredients. A stickler for French tradition, it’s history in the baking!
Our pick: Millefeuilles Cake (aka French vanilla slice cake!)
Where: 4226/361 Robina Parkway, Robina
Baked GC
This place is literally a cake-o-holics haven. We’re talking birthday cakes, wedding cakes, kids cakes, party cakes, cupcakes, All.The.Cakes! Now strictly an e-commerce bakery, you’re guaranteed an epic handcrafted artisan dessert made locally from scratch. With an average three-day lead time for most cakes, Tamar is the master of flavour and a true artist when it comes to both ‘construction’ and aesthetics. Love at first sight and bite.
Our pick: Signature Mud Salted Caramel Cake
Where: 61 Matthew Flinders Drive, Paradise Point (for pick-up orders)
The Cake That Ate Paris
Calling all brides to be! If it’s a show-stopping wedding cake you’re channelling (obvs), Bree is your person! From her phenomenal baking skills and eye for detail, to her friendly down-to-earth nature and genuine passion for her business, this trained pastry chef has become one of the most sought-after cake designers on the Coast. Book your consult and taste test (the best part!) six to eight weeks out from your big day. Even your cake will be in tiers with emotion!
Our pick: Raspberry Buttercream Wedding Cake
Where: 1099 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
I Heart Cakes by Casey
Casey has become a bit of a cake-making celeb around our ‘hood. Using only the freshest ingredients, she makes all her cakes to order and loves collaborating with customers to ensure the end creation is precisely what they had envisioned. From wedding cakes to kids’ birthday cakes and anything in between, you knead Casey to bake it happen!
Our pick: Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Where: 8 Jarrahdale Drive, Elanora
Madisons Café & Patisserie
I mean, this place needs no introduction. A fave with long-time Gold Coasters for good reason, we’ve been meeting our pals at this award-winning cafe for a cuppa and a slab of homemade ten-outta-ten cake for decades. Madisons’ loyal army of customers begged for them to start whipping up custom cakes for functions and parties and like any smart business, they listened! If you haven’t been, go. Now!
Our pick: Caramel Mud Cake with Vanilla Buttercream and Macaron
Where: Ground Floor, Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Charles Avenue, Broadbeach
Sweet Cakes by Katy
What started as a passion for making cakes for family and friends’ events, soon turned into an obsession for making sweet treats for a living! Choose from pre-designed cakes, cupcakes and cookies, or opt for something custom created to score brownie points at your next ‘do! Bridesmaids, Katy does some lol-worthy naughty (but VERY nice) creations (#blush), plus offers nationwide shipping for cookies!
Our pick: Drunk girl cake
Where: 334 Foxwell Road, Coomera
Two Little Cupcakes
Sweet tooths, take head! Named after her two little boys (awwww), Rachelle Silvas specialises in gorgeous customised birthday cakes, wedding cakes, cake popsicles, personalised cookies, and cupcakes. Plus, she offers more than 26 different flavours and our head hurts at the thought of having to choose just one. So whether you’re celebrating a lap around the sun, getting hitched, or hosting a baby shower, you definitely want a piece of Two Little Cupcakes.
Our pick: Blueberry Pancake Vanilla Cake
Where: Benowa, Gold Coast
Words by Bianca Trathen.
