Padre Brewing Co has opened a brewery in Miami.
Padre Brewing Co has opened a brewery in Miami.
We truly believe drinking beer is best done with mates, and Padre reckons brewing it should be too. Padre Brewing Co cares about two things: good company and great beer. They’re brewing up both in a brand new brewery in Miami.
After more than 20 years of friendship and countless convos over beers, mates Mitch Carlin and Pete Morris realised their thirst for both beer and good times were destined for something bigger. The idea soon fermented into a brewery built on the simple joy of sipping a great beer with even better company.
Head Brewer Mitch Carlin said, “We brew quality beer for people who care as much about the company they keep as the beer they drink.”
Before long, Mitch and Pete’s two-man operation became a full slab when hospitality legends Aaron Wilson, Nathan Zukerman and Joey Day – the brains behind one of Burleigh’s favourite burger joints, Ze Pickle – jumped on board. These blokes threw in their years of hospo wizardry, and with the gang assembled, the idea of “good company” wasn’t just a slogan anymore. It was the team itself.
From day one, the crew has believed anything worth doing is worth doing together. From suppliers to distributors, it’s a whole team effort to ensure every Padre beer hits the standard they’ve set for themselves… and the one your tastebuds deserve.
The venue itself is a creative playground, designed by Studio Y and built by DCQ Constructions. You can’t miss the massive “BEER” sign out front. Inside, the aesthetic fuses skate and street influences with concrete walls, curved wooden banks and paste-up art. It’s a celebration of the team’s creative roots and the Gold Coast’s laidback spirit.
Mitch said, “We’ve been intentional about creating a space that’s built for interaction and community, a place built by five mates for people who value the company they keep just as much as the beer in their glass.”
Padre’s 160-seat venue features indoor and outdoor dining, communal tables, a sunny beer garden and a stacked bar pouring 14 beers (all brewed on site!) making it easy to share great moments with friends, family, or even a new mate you just met at the bar.
And the beer lineup? It’s designed to keep everyone on tap happy. Expect crisp lagers for the purists, easy-drinking pale ales for the all-rounders, hop-forward IPAs for the enthusiasts and dark brews for those who like their beer with a bit more broodiness. There’s also a fridge loaded with takeaways for you to enjoy at home.
The food menu levels up classic pub fare, perfect for soaking up the good vibes. Think parmys, chicken wings, share platters and of course, epic burgers, all made with top quality produce.
So rally your crew and get your brew on at Padre Brewing Co.
Where: 9 Ozone Parade, Miami
When: Monday – Thursday 4pm-10pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm-late, Sundays 12pm-10pm
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Liam McDonald
Cat-ch a brew at Roji Cat.
In a very exciting Gold Coast first, a beer bar dedicated to Japanese brews has opened in Miami and it’s already a firm favourite amongst the locals. Roji Cat is vibrant, fresh and exciting and it’s perfectly at home, next to stalwart fave Granddad Jacks, on Lemana Lane.
Reminiscent of the neon-laden Dotonbori district of Osaka and downtown Tokyo’s Shinjuku district, the entirely indoor space has been decked out to resemble an authentic, local alleyway complete with signage, lanterns and a cabinet displaying a huge collection of Bearbricks (a beloved cartoon-style bear) all brought over from Japan.
High tables run along the length of the space, brew tanks take up a huge corner in the back and there’s an open kitchen so you can watch your dishes being prepared. The vibe is high instantly upon entering the space and it’s all exactly what you’d expect to see when visiting a Japanese beer bar.
Perhaps the most exciting part though, is a specialty (sound proof) karaoke room just off the main bar area where you and your crew can belt out a tune to your heart’s content without a single note being heard outside. There’s also an electric darts room with plenty of spots to play and couches to lounge about on while you beat your mates.
Now let’s chat beer. Head Brewer Toshi, whose work you would know from Black Hops, is the most passionate and knowledgeable man on the planet when it comes to beer. There are 12 brews on tap AND a diverse sake bar featuring 24 types of sake, all handpicked by Toshi who has over 20 years brewing experience.
Cocktails include the likes of a signature Tokyo Sour and the signature beer is Toshi’s Japanese Rice Lager which we tried and tested and can confirm, is the goods.
There’s food of course and the menu is filled with elevated, Japanese street food crafted by Japanese culinary expert and Head Chef Helen Rissen. Think Robata Skewers, sweet and spicy Roji Cat Karaage, Gyoza, Sashimi, Miso Corn (love you) and burgers including a Bug Burger with a tempura Moreton Bay Bug, spicy Japanese coleslaw and Kewpie mayo. We’ll take all of that thank you so much.
The entire operation is a family-run affair celebrating close family friend Toshi’s heritage and a shared love of Japanese culture, vibrant food scene and bustling nightlife. All of which has been very obviously and meticulously incorporated into Roji Cat to bring us the Japanese Beer Bar we didn’t know we so desperately needed.
Do yourself a favour and head down to Miami to see what all the fuss is about and find yourself transported to Japan, right in the heart of the Gold Coast.
Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami
When: Thursday and Friday 4pm to 10pm. Saturday and Sunday 12pm to 10pm
Please note: Roji Cat is a wholly indoor venue, so it is not dog-friendly.
Words by Kirra Smith
Images by Kirra Smith
All hail the almighty amber ale!
Fan of a frothy? Us too, and if there’s one thing the Gold Coast does just as well as its beaches, it’s breweries. From hinterland hideaways to beachfront beer havens, we’ve scouted the ultimate list of spots for you to sip, sample, and savour. Whether you’re chasing a session ale, a crafty IPA, or just a place to chill with your mates (and maybe your dog), these breweries have got you covered.
So ‘hop’ on down to one this weekend. And every other weekend after that.
The Northern GC’s (not so) best kept secret is undoubtedly the Aussie farm styled Hound & Stag. The Coast’s largest taproom and live music precinct, it’s famous for its abundant beer (28 beer taps) and cocktail options, stellar Modern Aussie food menu, huge family-friendly outdoor beer garden, and hosting epic live music events. Always bulging at the seams, even Aussie music royalty like Darryl Braithwaite grace the stage regularly.
Beer to sip: Struggling to pick the perfect pint from the huge range on offer? You can’t go wrong with the award-winning Red Baron for a spritzy and refreshing brew.
Where: 13 Wrights Place, Arundel
The good times keep on keeping on at Laughing Lizard with over 150 different beers! The best part, however, is that none contain any nasty chemicals or preservatives (yay, no hangover…well, that’s our story and we’re sticking to it…), and there’s even a gluten-free option #CeliacsRejoice! Here you’ll find a micro-brewery, beer and spirits shop, and every party planner’s besty – a keg hire service!
Beer to sip: You can’t go wrong with the Skini – light bodied, low carb, but full flavour.
Where: 27 Sinclair Street, Arundel
A hidden gem on the beer scene here on the Gold Coast, we reckon SOPO Brewing Co is one of the suburb’s best kept secrets. They’ve got house brews as well as monthly releases to keep those tastebuds on their toes, with the microbrewery delivering a tasty range of craft beers, lagers and ciders exclusive to the venue.
Beer to sip: When in SOPO one must drink the SOPO IPA of course!
Where: 146 Scarborough St, Southport
The ultimate Belgian beer experience awaits at Ashmore’s Madocke! Starting their commercial brewery in a tiny garage, proud owners Jimmy and Annelies are a bona fide local success story! Enjoy the complex flavours and richness of their brewskis at Thursday trivia nights, and pair your pitcher with some belly laughs at live comedy night every Friday. Skohl!
Beer to sip: The creamy and refreshing White IPA Celebration is the perfect night starter – see you on the d floor.
Where: 286 Southport Nerang Road, Ashmore
You’re always close to the action at The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines! Standing loud and proud on the ex-Hard Rock Café digs, this $6.5 million super venue serves up the ultimate trifecta; brews, bites, and a bumper line-up of the best sports viewing. Pouring everything from crisp Japanese-style lagers through to some sunny state-inspired limited release brews, this family-friendly sports bar is a beer (and sports) lover’s happy place.
Beer to sip: 4 Pines Pacific Ale
Where: Cnr Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Beers near the beachfront – you’d be hard-pressed to find a better way to spend an arvo on the GC arvo. Whether you’re a local or playing tourist, Surfers Brewery, formerly BOB’s Beer, is one of the best joints in Surfers for a cheeky brew. Nestled just a short stroll from the beach at Elkhorn Ave, it’s all about craft beers galore,16 in-house creations, all served alongside pizza, pasta and burgers.
Beer to sip: The Surfers XPA of course – a deliciously easy drinking pale ale with hints of passionfruit, perfect!
Where: 10/2 Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
In case you haven’t put two and two together, this brewhouse brings to life the story of Australia’s first brewer, the rogue swindler James Squire (cue ‘aha’ moment). Celebrating quality craft beers and modern pub grub, the custom-designed full-functioning microbrewery pumps out small, exclusive batch brews, and it’s a cracking spot to round up your crew for an arvo sesh.
Beer to sip: Check out their limited-release small batch brews rotating the taps. Our current fave is Chivalry – because of course it’s not dead.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
Bursting onto the Miami arts precinct scene with a rapacious welcome, Precinct Brewing now has solid status as the place to pull up a stool, grab a freshly made beer, and forget all of life’s woes. They make matters much more bearable with the tastiest of pizzas, stand-up comedy, and some captivating, limited releases like their recent Big If True, Hazy IPA — yummy!
Beer to sip: Check out their weekly Friday releases for exclusive flavours!
Where: 17 Christine Avenue, Miami
Step into the backstreets of Tokyo, without leaving Miami, at Roji Cat, the Gold Coast’s very own Japanese beer den. This vibey laneway bar brings together the holy trinity of izakaya dreams: cold Japanese brews, sizzling street eats, and neon-lit nostalgia. With twelve taps pouring Japan’s finest and over twenty sakes on standby, it’s a sip trip you won’t forget. Add in a mouthwatering menu of Robata skewers, karaage, sashimi, and the now-iconic Bug Burger (yes, with actual tempura Moreton Bay Bug), and you’ve got a spot that’s as cool as it is crave-worthy.
Beer to sip: Japanese Rice Lager
Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami
The runaway success of the original Black Hops in Burleigh spurred the creation of its spacious and upscale sibling, Black Hops II in Biggera Waters. Both serve up 16 beers on tap and have popular food trucks on site to feed hungry punters. So whether you’re north or southside, round up your mates, the fam and even your pooch for some award-winning amber ales.
Beer to sip: Black Hops Send It Session Ale, light, fruity, and not too strong
Where: 15 Gardenia Grove, Burleigh Heads and 671 Pine Ridge Road, Biggera Waters
With gold medals for days from the World Beer Championships, you know you’re in for a good ale here! Famous for their paddle boards, relaxed atmosphere, big smiles and super friendly service, it’s the perfect way to spend a lazy Sunday arvo (or Friyay / Saturday sesh). There’s even awesome live music to set the mood while you quench your thirst. Cheers!
Beer to sip: Burleigh Brewing Burleigh Bighead – no carb, no-fuss big flavoured thirst quencher.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads
This Varsity based microbrewery may produce ‘petite’ batches, but their list of return customers is anything but small! Consistently producing and supplying chemical and preservative free beer and cider that exceeds expectations, the boutique beers here are on point. The staff are uber friendly and knowledgeable and the prices will blow ya mind (in a good way).
Beer to sip: For something fresh, opt for the GC Crisp – a seriously refreshing light coloured, crisp beer perfect for a brewery sesh.
Where: 13 John Duncan Court, Varsity Lakes
With awards up the wazoo, the amazing Balter Taproom never disappoints. Its line-up of founders includes some seriously famous sporting legends, and it just oozes chillax and cool in equal measure. Whether it’s from the tap or can, there’s a variety of styles to get your tastebuds singing. Kick back in the beer garden and enjoy live beats with your brew, along with food truck goodness.
Beer to sip: Balter XPA – Balter’s most awarded beer can be yours fresh from the production line.
Where: 14 Traders Way, Currumbin
Complete with a 10hL Rolec copper cladded brew house (brew-speak for ‘legit’), the Currumbin Valley Brewing HQ offers choice aplenty, including 16 beers on-tap. This artisanal farmhouse brewery combine crafted burgers, bowls, bougee bar snacks, and boutique beverages in an environmentally-conscious space that is as much about community as it is craft beer.
Beer to sip: The Alley – Session IPA (aptly named after Currumbin Alley!)
Where: 27 Traders Way, Currumbin Waters
Another beachfront favourite of ours, but this time nestled on the Cooly shoreline is 4 Pines Coolangatta. The relaxed Southern Gold Coast vibe makes this little brew spot the perfect place stop in for a session. With six taps of their finest beers and two Keller door taps pumping out fresh flavours, as well as a dedicated Doggos of 4 Pines polaroid wall, it’s loved by locals for a reason.
Beer to sip: Nothing says 4 Pines like their Pacific Ale – fresh, fruity and floral, it’s impossible not to love.
Where: The Strand, 28/72 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
A LITTLE FURTHER AFIELD
Perentie Brewing Co. is an exciting new addition to the local brewery scene, located in Eagleby. This $6 million-dollar brewery, part of the Distillery Road Market (DRM) entertainment hub, offers authentic lager beers, seasonal bar bites, and a sprawling beer garden on the banks of the Albert River. With 68 taps of beer, including three signature products and a seasonal menu, Perentie Brewing Co. is set to become a central craft brew hotspot, attracting visitors from far and wide.
Beer to sip: Summer Dry – a classic well-rounded lager.
Where: 124 Distillery Rd, Eagleby
Froth fanatics, Fortitude Brewing Company sees you! This hinterland spot has 15 taps, each pouring something different from the range of Fortitude and Noisy Minor beers – all brewed on site! Visitors can nom their way through a variety of made-to-order pizzas whilst sinking a tasting paddle…or two, or… Enjoy the venue’s rugged exteriors and soft-hearted interiors and on weekends, soak up the beats from talented muso’s.
Beer to sip: Fortitude Pacer – the perfect session pale ale.
Where: 165 Long Road, Eagle Heights
Dogs, decks, and delicious beers, Boxer Brewing Co. has brought all the good stuff to Mt Tamborine with their brand new brewhouse, The Kennel Tap Room. From the award-winning crew behind Witches Falls Winery, this dog-friendly hangout is pouring joy by the pint with a core lineup that includes an IPA, Pale Ale, Lazy Ale and crisp Cerveza. The open-plan space gives you front-row seats to the brewing action, while the leafy outdoor deck offers vineyard views and pup pats aplenty. Whether you’re nibbling on a DIY cheese board or dreaming of the soon-to-land pizza menu, this one’s a must-sip in the Scenic Rim.
Beer to sip: Boxer Brewing Lazy Ale
Where: 79 Main Western Road, Tamborine Mountain
Just across the water, you’ll find this three-level architecturally designed showstopper. The ground floor welcomes you with double-height glass windows and the awe-inspiring brewery. Up the stairs you’ll find a 90-seat taproom with eye-popping art installations, and the top deck featuring panoramic views of the BrisVegas CBD skyline, the Glasshouse Mountains, and the stunning Redlands Coast #ShowUsYourSunsets. Plus there’s a menu with plenty of fancy local seafood inspired sharesies.
Beer to sip: Amity Pale Ale – tropical hops and rich, moreish malt with a friendly, easy balance.
Where: 5 Junner Street, Dunwich, North Stradbroke Island
Country charm just got a cold one. Boonah Brewing Co has rolled into the Scenic Rim with a fresh pour of local pride, taking up residence inside the beautifully restored Commercial Hotel Boonah. With natural spring water from the Ghanem family farm, brews crafted on-site, and a paddock-to-pint ethos that’d make any beer nerd misty-eyed, it’s a true blue gem. Sip a crisp mid-strength or dive into the rotating taps of rice lagers, Galaxy-hopped XPA, or cheeky hard lemonade, all best enjoyed from the leafy beer garden out back. Add in next-level pub fare (hello, Boonah Bull + Bug) and you’ve got yourself one froth-worthy road trip.
Beer to sip: Boonah Brewing Co Mid Strength Lager
Where: Commercial Hotel, 39 High St, Boonah
Ventura Brewing is Australia’s first craft hard kombucha taphouse. With 12 taps, there’s an array of options to suit every taste. If you’re a fan of a destination venue that is serving up good vibes, tasty beverages and world-class views in spades, Ventura Brewing is your new favourite Sunday arvo sipping spot.
Beer to sip: Mercado Classico Cerveza – pays tribute to the timeless staple of Mexican-style cervezas.
Where: 10/141 Lundberg Drive, South Murwillumbah
Ahh, Stone & Wood, the OGs of the Pacific Ale. Born in Byron and still proudly calling it home, this iconic brewery is tucked into the chilled-out Arts & Industry Estate and is packed with good vibes and even better beer. With 31 tanks pumping out the goods, a buzzing tasting room, leafy beer garden, and a canteen run by the local food heroes at 100 Mile Table, it’s the kind of place you could easily lose a lazy arvo. Take a tour, bring your pup, sip your way through their full range, and get to know the legends behind one of Australia’s most loved breweries.
Beer to sip: Stone & Wood Pacific Ale
Where: 100 Centennial Cct, Byron Bay
Words by Bianca Trathen
