Burleigh’s newest sweet sensation moves in with Oh My Waffle.
Burleigh’s newest sweet sensation moves in with Oh My Waffle.
Some things will never dessert us. Like our favourite sweet treats which always lift our mood when we’re feeling a bit crummy. We’re particularly partial to a cookie and even though they make our clothes shrink, we still reckon it’s impossible to overdough-se on them. So imagine our (Turkish) delight when we found out that Fortitude Valley’s Mr Treat was Burleigh-bound. And not just that, but moving in with fellow sugarbabe, Oh My Waffle and Oh My God, we can barely contain our sweet tooths!
Launching this Saturday 25th March, Mr Treat will bring a whole new level of decadence to the south side with their loaded cookie creations. Together with Oh My Waffle, this decadent duo are the epitome of ‘twice as nice’ and we cannot wait to experience this batch made in heaven.
Owners and Head Chefs Jessica Hannagan and Courtney Havill are two smart cookies who have been operating Burleigh’s Oh My Waffle for five years. Their freshly baked cookies proved to be so popular that they decided to open a dedicated cookie store. Wanting to spice things up and conquer a new geographic market, Mr Treat was born in Brissie’s Fortitude Valley. Demand up there was off the chain, however as they launched during the middle of Covid, well, need we say more…
The lovely ladies made the difficult decision to close, however endless messages about their scrumptious cookies ensued and slowly but surely, the WuFlu related challenges started to disappear. So, they decided to reopen Mr Treat inside their successful Oh My Waffle store to create one humdgina dessert slinging megastore! With the help of their families, Jessica and Courtney have been busy renovating to combine both concepts and trust us, it’ll be love at first sight…and bite.
With a predominantly baby blue colour palette and helpings of equally yummy pinky-peach and white, the fit out is as delish as the cookies. There’s indoor and outdoor seating meaning doggos are welcome, and the only thing sweeter than eating a cookie and/or waffle, is eating a cookie and/or waffle with your pup in tow.
The out-of-this-world loaded cookies are available in eight flavours, all with super fetch names (and yes, we’re still trying to make it happen #GoGretchen). The signature would have to be We Met on Crumble with vanilla cookie dough filled with salted Caramilk ganache and white chocolate chips, topped with Caramilk crumb. We’re also vibing the Drop It Like It’s Hot, with red velvet cookie dough filled with white chocolate chips and stuffed with cream cheese frosting. If you’re gluten intolerant and a staunch supporter of all things Vegan, have a go of the Let’s Dough, a delicious salted double chocolate cookie.
Lovers of ice cream are also in luck, with options like Uh Huh Honey featuring Kim and Kanye on a motorbike vanilla ice cream with blended bananas and Frosties, topped with tiny teddies, banana, honey, and more Frosties. Mint to Be also speaks to us, with chocolate ice cream blended with peppermint and mint slice topped with Aero and Ice Magic.
With yummy specials planned for the holidays plus the upcoming launch of their Australia wide postage for cookie boxes, things couldn’t be sweeter for Mr Treat. And this Saturday 25th of March, not only are they celebrating the Mr Treat GC opening, but it’s also Oh My Waffle’s fifth birthday! To celebrate, there’ll be $10 waffles and buy one get one half price cookies all day. Chip chip hooray!
Where: 1837 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads (inside Oh My, Waffle)
When: 2pm – 9pm Monday & Tuesday, 10am – 9pm Wednesday to Friday 10am – 9pm, Saturday 9am – 10pm & Sunday 9am – 9pm
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Images by Belinda Symons.
In celebration of the gooey, nutty godsend that literally whips people into a frenzy.
Indulging in the gooey, nutty godsend that is Nutella is a guilty pleasure that knows no bounds. Fortunately for Gold Coasters, there’s no shortage of spots across our sunny shores offering tantalising Nutella treats to satisfy those sweet cravings.
There’s no denying the joy it brings to enthusiasts, so here are 10 spots offering delectable Nutella creations (listed North to South).
D Point 10 – Nutella Doughnut
The Nutella Doughnuts (filled with lashings of the good stuff) are some the very best things in the entire world and you (and should) can eat them by the dozen at D Point 10. So soft, so fluffy, so great.
Where: 201 Varsity Parade, Varsity Lakes
Rosé Gelateria
In addition to serving up delicious gelato this pastel-infused beauty is a veritable fountain (literally) of nutella goodness. They have Nutella Cheesecake Dessert Jars, Nutella stuffed Cinnamon Cruffins, Nutella Shakes and the pièce de résistance, Nutella on tap! You are guaranteed to walk out of here in a sugar coma.
Where: Sanctuary Cove, Shop/39A Masthead Way, Hope Island and Shop 6/19-21 Tedder Ave, Main Beach.
Cheeky Waffles
The naughtiest kid on the block, Cheeky Waffles offer a nutella “love injection” into their genitalia-themed desserts. Perfect for those who like their waffles extra saucy!
Where: 3189 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Paradox Coffee Roasters – Iced Nuttellate
So it’s an Iced Latte but with Nutella which, as far as we’re concerned, makes it one of the best things in the world. Need we say more.
Where: The 4217, 7/10 Beach Road, Surfers Paradise
Elk Espresso – Nutella Thick Shake
Elk Espresso are famous for their insane Nutella Thick Shake, which is one of the most delicious things you’ll ever taste. Maybe order two.
Where: Shop G044, Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Ave, Broadbeach
Joe’s Deli – Two Tone Hollywood cheesecake
This traditional Italian style deli is known for its killer sandwiches, but its sweets are equally spesh. Next time you’re shopping up a storm at Pac Fair refuel with a slice of Joe’s Famous Two Tone Hollywood cheesecake. This is a true crowd-pleaser, served with a decadent drizzle of liquid Nutella and a perfectly torched marshmallow brulee topping.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach
Bam Bam Bakehouse – Nutella Cronuts
Bam Bam’s Nutella Cronuts are the best way to start every day. The nutty spread is wrapped up in a soft buttery and sugar-coated flaky croissant dough and honestly who even needs an explanation, just go eat some.
Where: 2519 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Paddock Bakery – Nutella Bots & Coco Pops Milkshake
Paddock is the queen of OTT sweet treats but we just can’t go past their sweet little Nutella Bots. Lashings of Nutella inside their soft sourdhou cinnamon doughnuts. Bite-size and so very excellent. If you prefer your Nutella in liquid form order a Coco Pops Milkshake and thank us later. Coco Pop flavoured milk finished with Nutella & fresh Coco Pops – crack it & let the fun begin!
Where: Hibiscus Haven, Miami
Ze Pickle – Oreogazm
Deep fried Oreos in doughnut batter with ice cream and Nutella drizzled on top. The dream.
Where: 1/37 Connor Street, Burleigh Heads
Custard Canteen – Double Choc Brownie Cookie
Chunks of epic choc brownie, Lindt milk and dark chocolates, topped with Nutella. Is it hyperbole to call a cookie life-changing?
Where: 1525 Gold Coast Hwy, Tallebudgera Creek
Words by Belinda Symons
We like them a waffle lot.
Waffles. Part breakfast, part dessert – our only criticism is that we want to see more of them in and around our face.
A dish that lived in the shadow of pancakes for far too long, thankfully tides are changing for this once underrated brunch treat. Hailing from Belgium and extremely popular in the US, these days, the crispy, lattice-like slabs are a familiar and welcome sight on our cafe circuit – in both sweet and savoury form.
When you’re craving golden, grill-forged goodies, here are six of the best places on the Coast to get your waffle fix. Pass the syrup!
Bubbo Dessert
As if straight from the streets of Hong Kong and into our hungry gobs, Bubbo Dessert has got our bubble waffle hook-up. If you’re yet to get a taste of this traditional street-style snack, thankfully you don’t have to go far to do so. To-ing and fro-ing between markets across Brisbane and the Coast – from 5-9pm every Friday & Saturday, you can find the Bubbo crew slinging their waffly wares out of their food trailer at the Dreamworld Night Markets. What better way to say ‘hello weekend’ thank with one of these fluffy yet crisp bad bois, rolled into a cone and stuffed with all the things dessert dreams are made of.
Where: Dreamworld Pkwy, Coomera
Cardamom Pod Brickworks
Known for all things nutritious and delicious – whether you’re in the mood for sweet or savoury, Cardamom Pod has got waffle cravings covered. Among their always satisfying selection of vegetarian treats, our stalwart herbivore hook-up also whips up a pretty mean weekend waffle special that’s well worth cancelling plans to get a taste of. Start your day with an Indian Street Food Waffle served with all the trimmings, or go all out with the dessert style Crispy Waffle, served with banana, biscoff caramel and boba espresso ice cream. YUM.
Where: 3/3 Brolga Ave, Southport
Cheeky Waffles
If you’re not yet acquainted with the debaucherous little dessert destination known as Cheeky Waffle, keep an open mind – and an even wider mouth. More than just an out of the ‘box’ presentation, the saucy waffles this novelty nosher serves up are OMG good. Pick your preferred shape, then have it slathered in toppings like caramel chocolate and Biscoff crumb. You might need some solid willy-power to stop at one.
Where: 3189 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Elk Espresso
We just can’t elk ourselves when it comes to whatever this Broadbeach fave is whipping up. The nosh, coffee and service never misses, but the waffles will always have a special place in our heart and tums. With variations like Fried Chicken, Violet Crumble and Matcha & Black Sesame gracing the seasonal menu at one point another, you’d batter believe the obsession only continues to grow (at a similar rate to our sweatpants collection… weird.) There’s a reason why Gold Coasters have been flocking to this one for over a decade… and the waffles rank pretty highly #We’reWeak
Where: Shop G044, Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Ave, Broadbeach
Pancake Diner
Burleigh’s new home of diner-style all day eats sure knows its stuff when it comes to all things golden brown and syrupy. Sharing a pedigree with a little Surfers Paradise Boulevard icon known as Pancakes in Paradise, Pancake Diner will hook you up with brunch and burgers from 7am, 7 days a week. Which means, along with boozy shakes, spiders and 12+ pancake flavours, you can get your fix of butter-drenched Belgian Waffles almost anytime you like. Pimp them with ice cream, butterscotch sauce or blueberries in syrup – the waffle’s your oyster.
Where: 16/221 Christine Avenue, Burleigh Heads
Oh My, Waffle
If you’re a fan of sweets, walking into Oh My, Waffle will have you weak at the knees. At this one stop sugar shop, you will find almost type of treat imaginable – NY-style cookies, brownies, brookies, cheesecake, loaded gourmet shakes…and, sorry, what were we saying again? Oh yeah, WAFFLES. With the choice of flavours available well into double digits, consider those cravings conquered. Now, sorry to say but it’s really time we split – there’s a mountain of Banana Butterscotch with our name on it.
Where: Shop 6,1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Words by Kellie Leader
Bug rolls, the beloved hill and local brews.
Oh, Burleigh, you little beauty, what’s not to love, right? Since the dawn of time (or the dawn of the GC at least), Burleigh has been one of the most-loved suburbs amongst a slew of strong contenders.
Sure, the beach is beautiful (that Hill is iconic for a reason) and James Street boasts all the best eats and acai bowls galore, but it’s more than that. Burleigh has a soul of its own born of cruisy, barefoot, salty sea breeze vibes you simply won’t find anywhere else. Gushing aside, we’ve found the best of Burleigh so you don’t have to.
Here’s our guide to the best eats, bars, shopping spots and places to visit so you can see why the locals love it and you should too (or else). We always say, when in Burleigh, do as the locals do.
Perched three floors high, within the stunning new Mondrian Gold Coast, is Haven. What is the Haven, you ask? It’s a nothing-short-of-exceptional beach club, spanning a refined yet relaxed dining room, private cabanas, a full-service pool club and a sunset bar. Whether you’re brunching in your bikini or toasting at twilight, Haven is where it’s at. As the sun sets, the evening comes alive with a soundtrack of DJs, curated playlists and live performances.
Where: Level 3/3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Literally opening out onto the sand at Burleigh Beach, Rick Shores is loved not just by locals but globally for its stunning sunset views and those tiny little taste sensations, otherwise known as Bug Rolls. If you’ve never tasted one, you’ve been wasting your life (seriously). Make a booking RIGHT NOW and order like 5. Wash them down with one of Rick’s signature cocktails, and you’re a bona fide Burleigh-ite.
Where: Shop 3, Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If you’re looking for fancy food but with the relaxed vibe that’s quintessentially Burleigh, look no further. The stunning space offers incredible Vietnamese dishes inspired by trips to Vietnam, tasting some of the very best street food in the world every single day. Sounds epic! It’s a refined style of dining paired with mouthwatering cocktails and a sleek, pared-back vibe. Jimmy Wahs is one of the Gold Coast’s most impressive eateries, and we are big fans.
Where: 1724 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
The fine dining venue has become part of the fabric of Burleigh’s bustling heart, but it’s also become one of the Gold Coast’s premier dining destinations. Tucked away on West Street, the five-star, seasonal-produce-led restaurant is an absolute must-visit. Trust us, your dining experience here won’t be easily forgotten. The produce is sustainable, and the wine list features some of the most stunning natural wines in the world. The service is impeccable too, but in a fun, not-too-formal way. We LOVE.
Where: 2A/8 West Street, Burleigh Heads
Après Surf is your friendly neighbourhood bar in Burleigh. If a crisp beer, indulgent pub-style eats, and DJ beats sound like your pint of lager, this place is for you. It’s plain ol good vibes from 5pm daily (except Tuesdays) with DJs every weekend! Head there on a Thursday for $1 dumplings and free stand-up comedy from 8pm! Doesn’t get much better than that, and Burleigh locals know it.
Where: 1/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
They started off as a taco-slinging hole-in-the-wall in Palm Beach in 2021, instantly becoming a cult favourite. Now, they’ve levelled things up with a move to Burleigh. Think bigger and better space, with the same beloved laid-back Aussie beach culture, and big Mexican flavours we all know and love. The new location invites you to settle in, sip a marg (or three) and let the good vibes take you to Mexico. Batanga, anyone?
Where: 1718 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Looking for a Burleigh locals’ guide to the best fish and chips in town? Look no further. And this place doesn’t just stop at fish and chips (even though we wouldn’t recommend going past them). They also serve fresh poke bowls and vibrant superfood bowls, plus a range of Bali-inspired dishes that reel in people from all over; they’re that good. Think flavour-packed Gado-Gado, nasi goreng and Bali satay chicken sticks. Wash it down with a premium cocktail and watch Burleigh come to life (this place is in a prime people-watching locale).
Where: 1716 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
A true family-run gelateria, Al Bacio Gelato Naturale is run by husband-and-wife duo Craig and Rebecca Heininger, alongside their daughter, Jaime. Since opening in late 2025, they’ve been serving scoops of authentic, 100% natural Italian gelato to Burleigh locals (and visitors), and we cannot be more thankful. The signature Al Bacio, meaning “as good as a kiss” in Italian, is a rich chocolate-hazelnut scoop made with homemade hazelnut paste from Piemonte, Italy. Then, for those who like to gulp down their gelato, you can order your favourite flavour in thick shake form. Can we get a hell yeah?
Where: 7/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
As you cruise down the GC Highway, the striking red and white umbrellas and festoon lights grab your attention and give you a whiff of what awaits inside. Crispy Italian is where to head when you’ve got a hankering for wood-fired pizza done insanely well. You’ll get a fun, laid-back vibe and a menu stacked with la pasta, la pizza, woodfired gnocchi and desserts impossible to resist. Did someone say Aperol spritz? Oh yeah, that was us.
Where: 4/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Local is one of those venues that just gets it. Equal parts polished and laidback, this Burleigh favourite nails the brief from morning through to late arvo and beyond, making it the kind of place you pop into “just for one” and somehow leave with a full camera roll and a new core memory. With multiple spaces to suit every vibe, from the fairy light–lit beer garden and fully stacked tinnie bar to plush indoor booths and a main bar made for game days, Local is built for long hangs, big feeds and even bigger catch-ups. The menu covers all bases (classic pub grub, elevated plates and a few fancy moments for good measure) and the atmosphere is always buzzing.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
There’s a good reason this gem is heaving at all hours: the home of the iconic muffin top (IYKYK) and some of the best coffee in town. It’s not just locals who love it – you’ll find Gold Coasters and beyond flocking here for a taste of the goods. Come for a coffee and to get around their huge menu with something for everyone – literally, it’s impossible to not love something. Plus, we’re pretty sure it’s mandatory to leave with a pastry in tow – go on, you deserve it.
Where: 1748 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Locals know the only thing loose in this (top) paddock is scrumptious, buttery baked goods. Since opening its charmingly renovated doors in 2014, Paddock has been the ultimate spot for brunch, lunch and sweet treats that keep us coming back daily. With lush gardens, a cottage, loft, rooftop and barn to hide away in, the menu is just as endless as the spots to enjoy it – perfect for indulgence, people-watching, or a little bit of both.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
A local newbie that’s already earned its rightful place on this list (which is saying something). Start with a coffee- because there’s no other way, and theirs is superb- before diving deep into their menu full of hearty but totally healthy eats. Think Shakshuka Scramble with charred eggplant, peppers, tomato chilli salsa & charred bread. Chef’s hot tip: add brisket. Or, indulge yourself in a croque monsieur made with ham and gruyere, fried eggs, cheese sauce, green pea chef salad and parmesan that will blow your beret off. Everything here is made fresh, seasonal, and irresistible.
Where: 4 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
Serving Southern California vibes (think cactus, umbrellas, pastel greens) all day long, alongside morning margaritas (you read correctly), epic eats and epic coffee. If you didnt catch on, Palm Springs does things a little differently, and Burleigh locals love them for it. They said, ” We will give you avocado smash and serve you one better”. Better in the form of a morning marg with breakfast tacos. It may sound rogue, but don’t tell us it isn’t exactly what you’ve been waiting for. Ideal hangover feed, perfect weekend brunch. Thank us later.
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
This small but mighty wine bar has one of the largest selections of boutique wines (we mean, it is in the name) with some seriously epic eats to accompany. We can’t go past the cheeseburger – seriously, don’t sleep on this – and if you don’t know where to start on what to sip, the expert team always nail the reccos. Pop a Pet Nat on your must-try for something a little bubbly, or if you’re more of a red drinker, their signature chilled reds are the ultimate for a hot summer’s day.
Where: 12 James Street, Burleigh Heads
It’s the good time, slightly fancy Australiana bar of your dreams, and it is perfectly at home in Burleigh Heads. Rosella’s is a local haunt that’s been a firm favourite since its opening. With both a drinks and a food menu made entirely of Australian produce, we are in heaven. They’ve got cocktails inspired by Fantales, Blinky Bill and Bondi Beach, all the very best Aussie beers and some of the tastiest eats to pair. It’s refined, beautifully decked out and created by a couple of absolute legends. Love.
Where: 6/1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
This fam-and-friends-run distillery from husband-and-wife duo Justin and Lana Bell is serving up elevated cocktails designed specifically for sipping (and swooning), paired with snacky plates that absolutely understood the assignment. The space is a moody, deep-green, tropical-tiki dream and the drinks are bespoke and downright dangerous in the best way. Oh, and they’re big on collabs too, teaming up with like-minded legends to keep things fresh and fun, so consider this your official cue to keep a very close eye out for their next one. It’s intimate, it’s stylish, it’s packed with heart (and gin), and it’s proof that when you mix great spirits with great people, magic happens.
Where: 1/9 Calabro Way, Burleigh Heads
If Burleigh had a local hall of fame, Burleigh Pavilion would be its MVP. This beachfront institution sits right above the sand at Burleigh Heads, serving up panoramic ocean views, sunset vibes and reliably good times from arvo cocktails to dinner dates and everything in between. Within its sprawling space you’ve got casual beach-bar energy, breezy terraces and The Tropic, the coastal-meets-Mediterranean restaurant where you can settle in for a sun-soaked lunch or a long, leisurely dinner with views literally stretching to the horizon. Whether you’re here for the drinks, the eats, the views, or just to feel like you’re living your best summer life year-round, Burleigh Pavilion is basically Burleigh’s living room with a better wine list.
Where: 3a/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If there’s one thing Burleigh deserves (the big legend), it’s a brewery, and Burleigh Brewing Co. certainly delivers. since opening in 2006, Burleigh Brewing Co. has produced a lineup of delicious drops – all perfectly Burleigh. Get a sixer for Netflix and chill, or head into the brewery from Friday to Sunday afternoons to get amongst it.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads
This place is the ideal setting for a lil cocktail and antipasti moment. A wine with your significant other, cocktail hour with the gals, or dare we say, a quick shot to kick off an epic night. Alongside wines, beers, margs and cocktails, they serve ‘a quality shot’ for those who value efficiency or are known to be fashionable-late and need to catch up, as they say. That’s definitely not us…Okay, it’s totally us.
Where: 1740 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Hidden inside the opulent Mondrian hotel, Ciel Spa is the city’s first bio-wellness spa blending high-tech treatments with high-touch luxury. Forget cucumber slices and pan pipe music, here you’re getting a serious glow-up down to a cellular level. From zero-gravity dry float sessions and Himalayan salt rooms to LED facials and cosmetic doctor appointments, they have it all. It’s a bit of a treat-yo-self moment.
Where: Level 2/3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Well, hasn’t this simple little piece of Mother Nature become an icon? No matter the day of the week (but particularly Sunday arvos), “the hill” as it’s affectionately known, is packed with picnic rugs, ball games and groups of revellers basking in the sunshine. Looking out over the ocean and with the city in the distance, it’s the perfect spot for a late afternoon lemonade or early morning coffee date with the crew. Order some of your fav takeaway from James Street, and perch up on a picnic blanket to soak up the scenery. Better yet, sunset.
Where: The south end of The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads
If you’re feeling energetic, take a stroll around Burleigh Hill to Talle Creek for some Insta-worthy rainforest scenery. Or if you’re game, head up the vertical trail for a hill climb that’s rewarded with an epic view. Yes, some sweat may be involved, but it’s all in the good spirit of exploration. Cool down after with a swim at Burleigh Beach or Talle Creek, wherever you end up.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
A relaxing little beachside club loved by young and old alike, Burleigh Bowls has been around since 1937 and is certainly a prime piece of real estate these days. Barefoot Bowls rolls on from 12–5pm every Sunday, and it’s a measly $10 per person, including coaching and bowls (AKA ball whipper snappers). Get down and support your local while sipping on a schooner.
Where: Connor Street, Burleigh Heads
If you’re in need of some retail therapy, then James Street is the only place you need to go. The range of shopping has everything you need, whether you’re looking for some new additions to your home from Maison & Maison or to update your wardrobe at Emte, you’re guaranteed to leave suitably more stylish. If you’re looking for the perfect piece of art to dress your walls at work or home, Art Yarramunua is our pick for their incredible collection of expertly curated indigenous art.
Where: James Street, Burleigh Heads
Everyone’s favourite Saturday morning market adventure. Get up early, grab your basket and set out in search of fruit, veggies and of course, your first coffee of the weekend. These days, the farmers market also boasts locally made clothing and homewares, flowers, meat and seafood and delicious breaky and lunch options. Happy days! Open every Saturday from 7am–12 ‘rain, hail or shine’.
Where: Burleigh Heads State School, Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
