The award-winning Shiraz Persian Restaurant + Bar introduces banquet dining!
The award-winning Shiraz Persian Restaurant + Bar introduces banquet dining!
Hungry? Good, you’ve come to the right place and even if you’re not, starvin’ Marvin mode will be activated when we tell you about a FAVE GC noshery’s latest offering. Those of us who have experienced the unparalleled Persian paradise that is Shiraz Persian Restaurant + Bar, know that this taste-bud-titlliator is the duck’s you-know-what’s. This year, its gastronomic game has reached new palette-pleasing heights, cementing OMFG status (Officially Majorly Flipping ‘Gruel’… and srsly, any excuse to quote Mean Girls). How could it possibly get better you ask? A bonza Banquets Menu featuring five different options will do it every time.
Established in 2011 by local culinary royalty, Erfan Jalilian and Mohammad Shirmehrjerdi, Shiraz has been making Gold Coaster’s drool with authentic Persian cuisine for over a decade. And, with the recent addition of banquets, one’s thing’s fo’ sho’ – you won’t leave hungry. Serving up decadent feasts, meat lovers, non-meat-lovers, and everyone in between (including small peeps – there’s even a ‘Kid’s Banquet’), are chanting, “holy hummus” in unison.
Firstly, let’s unpack the ‘Standard Banquet’ which may we add, is anything but standard. With four starters including Mast-o-Khiar; a mix of yoghurt and cucumber with a touch of ground mint and rose petals pairs perfectly with the Mixed Breads. Our pick of the three mains is the Zereshk Polo, slow-cooked chicken Maryland in a tomato sauce with a hint of cinnamon and Persian spices served with saffron rice with barberries (zereshk) and slivered pistachios. It’s a bona fide winner winner chicken dinner. Then tuck into the two mind-blowing middle eastern desserts, including the Vegan Baklava with pistachios and walnuts. $59pp (minimum of four).
Next, we have the ‘Shiraz Feast Banquet’ with six starters, six mains, and three desserts. Think Zeytoon Parvardeh, Persian-style marinated olives with pomegranate sauce, crushed walnuts and Persian spices, Mahiche Lamb Shank; slow-cooked lamb neck cooked in a unique turmeric sauce and caramelised onion, and Persian Orange Cake made with fresh oranges and almond meal, soaked with Shriraz’ Middle Eastern spiced syrup, and finished with cream cheese icing and chopped pistachios. $79pp (minimum of four).
For vegie devotees, behold the ‘Greens Banquet’ inviting you to nom your way through six starters, six mains, and two desserts. The Kashk-E Badenjan is a Persian fave; eggplant dip with special Shiraz herbs and spices and served with a whey-like fermented dairy product (kashk), as is the Loobia Polo with green beans, mushrooms and plant-based minced meat, cooked with spices in a tomato base and mixed with rice. And for something sweet, have a go of the Bastani Sonati; ice cream with saffron, pistachio and walnuts. $59pp (minimum of four).
And of course, we’ve saved the best for last, which is aptly named the ‘Shiraz Ultimate Banquet’. It certainly lives up to its title with eight starters, eight mains, and four desserts #ded. Sink your laughing gear into Mirza Ghasemi; soft roasted eggplant in tomato and garlic sauce, with eggs, Meygoo; marinated king prawns grilled to perfection, Ghafghazi Kabob; a skewer combining grilled marinated chicken breast and marinated rib fillet, and it doesn’t get any better than Lime and Pistachio Cheesecake. $99pp (minimum of four).
So, don your stretchy pants, pack your appetite, and head to the multi-award winner named after our fave ‘grape juice’. With more A-grade eats and sips than you can poke a magic carpet at, the new banquets menu is pure Per(sian) perfection.
Where: Mantra Wings Surfers Paradise, 2893 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
When: 11.30am – 9.30pm, Monday – Sunday
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY SHIRAZ AUTHENTIC PERSIAN RESTAURANT + BAR
Taking kids out for a feed on the glitter strip has never been so easy!
Loading the kidlets into the car in search of a decent feed can be a wildly unpredictable sport. And by unpredictable, we mean slightly traumatic. But fear not — these Surfers Paradise restaurants are tried, tested, and given the ultimate seal of approval by many-a-small human (and therefore, relieved parents).
From the glitter strip classics to crowd-pleasing favourites, this is your go-to guide for taking the rug rats out to eat for a tanty/whinge-free meal. Bless their cotton socks…
A feast with a side of thrilling theatrics?! Count us in! If the kiddos (or you) haven’t yet experienced the fire and energy of teppan dining, this is your cue. From family-friendly to elevated eats, Misono serves up fresh Japanese fare that’s as delicious as it is fun. Think Australian Wagyu, chicken, scallops, bug meat and more, expertly cooked over flame, with fresh sashimi and sushi on hand to balance things out. Even better, there are dedicated kids’ teppanyaki banquets, making it an easy win for families. The venue is bright and open, the staff are welcoming, and bringing the whole crew along is refreshingly fuss-free.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
If you’ve got little ones with big appetites, Wahlburgers is a win. Famous for its juicy, no-nonsense burgers and crispy fries, Wahlburgers almost guarantees a breezy family dinner out- like seriously, what kid is complaining about burgers for dinner?! Everything on the menu is totally kid-approved, with classics like cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, and mac & cheese. Don’t forget the shakes — another sure-fire hit.
Where: 2 Cavill Ave, Shop EP008/9 Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise
A classic family favourite, TGI Fridays has something for everyone. From baby back ribs and burgers to chicken fingers and loaded fries, the menu satisfies every craving. Kids can enjoy their own smaller portions of mac and cheese, cheeseburgers, chicken nuggets, and more. They’re also open for breakfast, with options like avo smash, eggs on toast, pancakes. Casual and fun!
Where: Paradise Centre, Shop E10/10A/2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise and Shop 1005B/19 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina
If it’s a family fiesta you’re craving, look no further than El Camino Cantina. Their shareable tacos, quesadillas, and nachos are perfect for little hands, and the colourful, lively atmosphere will be an adventure in itself for the kids. Head on down for Taco Tuesdays – 3 tacos of your choice plus an icy-cold drink, at only $35pp – or Wing Wednesdays – 1kg of saucy chicken wings for just $20, plus a chance to win a prize! How spec-taco-ular!
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Milky Lane is the ultimate kid magnet thanks to its retro milkbar-inspired fitout (perfect for Insta snaps) and epic menu. Think decadent burgers, loaded fries, and over-the-top milkshakes that even adults will envy. The kids’ menu is equally impressive and the desserts…well, you can’t go past them. Decadent, daring and downright delicious.
Where: 1/38 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Vapiano is perfect for families who love freshly made pasta, pizza, and risotto. I bet you can’t name a single person who doesn’t adore one or more of those things. And at Vapiano, they serve it hearty, yet elevated with everything from burrata and prosciutto with focaccia and roast pumpkin and quinoa salad to creamy carbonara and mini Hawaiian pizza. In other words, there’s something for every member of the family. Pop in any day of the week between 4-6pm for sips from $6 and snacks from $5. Hell yeah!
Where: Soul Boardwalk, T208 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise and Shop R006/103 Foxwell Rd, Coomera
As relaxed as the name suggests, and situated in the sunny Surfers Paradise, Longboards is perfect for families and any occasion. You will be hard-pressed to find a menu as loaded as Longboards, covering snacks, loaded fries, normal fries, mains, salads, wings, burgers, and sweets. The kids’ menu includes fun eats like mini sliders and chicken bites. But warning! They’ll be tempted by your popcorn chicken and cheesy garlic bread (assuming you would order such deliciousness), and will resort to stealing given the right opportunity!
Where: Q1 Resort & Spa, Corner of Hamilton avenue &, Northcliffe Terrace, Surfers Paradise
Nothing beats a surf club for that casual, welcoming family vibe, and BMD Northcliffe Surf Club is a real Gold Coast gem! They’ve got stunning ocean views alongside a menu of seafood, burgers, gourmet salads, pasta, and grilled classics for adults, and fish, burgers, pizzas, or nuggets with chips for kids. They’re also open for breakfast, serving favourites the kids will love.
Where: 51 Garfield Terrace, Surfers Paradise
La Playa is your little slice of Mediterranean paradise on the Gold Coast, serving vibrant eats by the beach. We’re talking chargrilled favs, exotic salads, pastas and skewers. The kids have it equally as good with chicken skewers with butter rice, chicken bites with fries, pizza, and spaghetti bowl. What’s more, kiddos eat free (yes, FREE) every day from 5pm to 6pm with a purchase of any main meal.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Hog’s Breath is a family favourite for hearty meals that everyone will love. Think prime ribs, steaks, burgers, and chicken schnitzels — proper crowd-pleasers for hungry adults. Kids are well looked after too, with options like crumbled calamari, chicken quesadillas, mac and cheese, sirloin steak and more. Every kids’ meal is served with a choice of curly fries, kids’ salad or vegetables, plus tomato sauce, a free drink and a free ice cream — now that’s a big win. And there’s more! Sweet tooths can add strawberry jelly for $1, or upgrade to a kids’ banana split for $3.50. Okay, now we’re just jealous…
Where: Soul Boardwalk, Building T2/9 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
After a day of balls-to-the-wall adventure inside the infamous Hijinx Hotel challenge rooms, one’s appetite must be nothing short of ferocious. Enter, Hijinx Hotel’s straightforward yet incredibly delicious lineup of burgers, pizzas, and snacks to save the day. There’s plenty of plant-based options too, so no tummy is left growling!
Where: 40 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Why fly to the States when you can get the Yankees right here on the Gold Coast?! Let your kids get a taste (literally) of the USA: from American nachos and loaded fries to ribs and wings. While there’s no kids’ menu specifically, one meal can be made to share, or choose one of their epic American Platters for the whole family to enjoy! Go get your Yankees on!
Where: 4 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise
For something a little different (and seriously delicious), Shiraz Persian brings bold Persian and Middle Eastern flavours to a relaxed, family-friendly setting. The menu is extensive, spanning generous banquets, salads, soups, seafood, slow-cooked dishes, kabobs, plus plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. New to Persian cuisine? Expect fragrant rice, succulent grilled meats, warm breads with dips, and colourful sautéed vegetables. It might sound slightly outside classic kid territory, but trust us — one bite in and even the fussiest eaters are converted.
Where: 2893 Gold Coast Hwy, Surfers Paradise
And if all else fails, there’s the trusty buffet, the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure dining destination with something for everyone, and then some. You literally cannot go wrong. Check out our buffet list here.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
There’s nothing middle of the road about this Middle Eastern award-winner
If we were asked to describe restaurant heaven, it would go a little something like this: We’d be perched on an outdoor terrace with our posse, rocking our cutest #OOTD and soaking up the beautiful GC rays. We’d naturally have an exotic cocktail (or mocktail) in hand, before tucking into a delicious modern Persian feast. For the keen foodies playing along, we just described a lunch or dinner at the famous Shiraz, which has recently climbed even higher up the food chain of GC eats venues. With the recent addition of a terrace, this Middle Eastern mindblower will eternally have us in its corner. And let’s be real, when you share your name with our favourite tipple, we were always coming along for the ride #PowerMove.
A well-established local hero, Gold Coasters and tourists alike have been flocking to Shiraz for over a decade. It became so popular that owner Erfan Jalilian and business partner Mohammad Shirmehrjerdi moved to a larger venue allowing Shiraz to spread its wings…ironically into Mantra Wings Surfers Paradise. Occupying the world-famous site where The Pink Poodle once thrived, the GC Highway site is iconic once more with Shiraz’ army of stage five clingers growing by the day.
The one thing diehard devotees wished for was a sun-drenched area with a bar vibe, where they could catch up with mates, hydrate with a beverage in the afternoon and/or evening, and enjoy our city’s enviable climate. Erfan and Mohammad certainly listened, delivering a stunning terrace space accommodating up to 60 bods, with a tasty side of people watching.
Using only the finest and most authentic Persian ingredients, the food is as phenomenal as ever. To wet your whistle, there are a variety of Persian style entrees, lamb shanks, marinated lamb cutlets, chicken skewers and kebabs, and seriously why have abs when you can have kebabs? There are plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options too, plus the likes of baklava and saffron ice cream sandwich to keep the sweet tooths smiling.
The unmissable signature dish is Gardan, which is slow-cooked lamb neck cooked in a unique turmeric sauce and caramelised onion. Served with Baghali Polo (green rice mixed with broad beans and dill), it’s an Iranian party in your mouth. Pair it with either the signature cocktail, Persian Love (vodka, cherry liqueur, cranberry juice, mixed berries, lemonade and Persian fairy floss), or the non-boozy Persian Gold made in house with saffron, rose water, sophia seeds and honey, and you’ll understand why Shiraz has more awards than you can poke a pistachio at.
Catering to couples and families, it’s also a great choice for a large group thanks to its central location and easy access to parking. They have numerous food and drink packages, available to individuals and corporates too, so keep this one in mind for those Christmas parties! Plus, there is a new jam-packed schedule of events offering a different drawcard for each day/night of the week, including live music every Friday and Saturday night. Our fave has to be Tight Tuesday (extra points awarded for the name), as diners who spend $99 or more will score a complimentary mezze platter. Yes please!
So do yourself a favour with flavour and head to Shiraz for the best Persian on the Coast (with the gongs to prove it), and a look at the brand-new outdoor terrace. You’ll quickly realise why it’s been in the top 1% of Trip Advisor reviews Australia-wide for nine years running, and make it your new local haunt.
Where: Mantra Wings Surfers Paradise, 2893 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
When: 11.30am – 9.30pm, Monday – Sunday
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY SHIRAZ AUTHENTIC PERSIAN RESTAURANT
