Pipi’s Restaurant is a shore thing for your big day.
Pipi’s Restaurant is a shore thing for your big day.
Pipi’s has officially thrown its bouquet into the wedding world, and honestly, couples are falling for it faster than they fell for each other. Perched above the ocean at Point Danger in Coolangatta, this Mediterranean‑kissed beauty is serving up wedding packages that are equal parts refined, romantic and ridiculously photogenic. If you’ve ever dreamed of saying “I do” with the sea as your soundtrack, impeccable food, and a backdrop that does the heavy lifting for your photographer, Pipi’s is ready to turn your Pinterest board into reality.
Set against Cooly’s glittering coastline, this GC icon nails that sweet spot between effortless coastal charm and polished European elegance. Think light‑filled spaces, modern décor, soft neutral tones, moody ambient lighting, and 220‑degree ocean views that make every angle a good angle. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony, a chic reception or the whole shebang from aisle to after‑party, Pipi’s delivers a setting that feels timeless, elevated, and completely unforgettable.
And because Pipi’s is part of the Gambaro Group – a name that basically translates to “we do seafood better than anyone else” – you already know the nosh is going to slap. Their Head Chef crafts Mediterranean‑inspired dishes that look like they belong in a glossy magazine and taste even better. We’re talking award‑winning fare (literally – they’ve taken out Best Seafood Restaurant and Best European Restaurant in SEQ at the 2025 R&CA Awards), so you can bet the menu is going to cause more happy tears than the vows.
Couples can tailor the food offering to suit their style of celebration, whether that means refined sit-down dining or a roaming canapé party that keeps the dance floor within easy reach.
The two-course set menu begins at $119 per person with an alternate drop of two entrees, two mains and two sides. Mouthwatering options include elegant entrées like Kingfish Tartare with green apple and radish or Marinated Chicken Souvlaki with tzatziki. Mains keep the magic going with choices such as a 220g Angus Tenderloin with béarnaise sauce or the Fish of the Day served with cannellini bean purée, sundried tomato and olive salsa, plus shared sides like Greek salad and truffle oil fries.
For those who firmly believe dessert is non-negotiable (correct), the three-course option at $139 per person adds an alternate drop of two sweet finales, such as Vanilla Crème Brûlée or Chocolate Fondant with praline and vanilla ice cream.
Alternatively, there are two canapé packages with hot, cold, and dessert options to keep things social. Choose between six canapes for $60 per person or for the “go big or go home” crowd, why not opt for eight canapes for $75 per person? Think bite-sized delights like Natural Oysters with mignonette, Gnocco Fritto with prosciutto and parmesan, Swordfish skewers with puttanesca, and Pistachio Tiramisu. Or, if you’re leaning into the canapé vibe but expecting some seriously hungry guests, you can level up with heartier options like Prawn Rolls, a carving station (serving Angus tomahawk thank you very much) or even Lobster Linguine.
The beverage situation is equally dreamy, with packages that can be tailored to your taste, vibe, guest list. Choose from two and three hour basic or premium options ranging from $55 to $75 per person, with bottled beers like Balter Cerveza 4%, and wine options like Tai Tira Sauvignon Blanc, Red Claw Pinot Noir, and Bandini sparkling. Plus, you can add spirits or cocktails on consumption because love may be the reason you’re here, but a good margarita never hurts. Or, to really send your guests into a bubbles-induced chokehold, why not include a forever-insta-worthy champagne tower?
Guest numbers are flexible too. Pipi’s can host up to 90 guests for a sit‑down celebration or up to 120 for a cocktail‑style soirée, but they’re just as magical for smaller, more intimate weddings. If you want to keep everything in one place, ceremony and reception packages are available, making the whole day seamless, stylish and stress‑free. With venue hire included in all packages, a dedicated event coordinator, on‑the‑day management, personalised place settings and menus, and even a photographer and/or videographer locked and loaded, you can focus on the important things – like remembering your vows and soaking up every second.
Pipi’s also comes to the (bridal) table with styling options are next‑level, thanks to partnerships with trusted suppliers who know how to bring any vision to life. Think florals, balloon artistry, AV setups, DJs, live music, 360‑degree photobooths and more but if you’ve already hand‑picked your faves, no dramas at all – BYO vendors are absolutely on the guest list. Finally, if you can’t get enough of this breathtaking venue (same), why not book a next-day recovery lunch at Pipi’s to keep the celebrations rolling?!
If you’re dreaming of a stress-free coastal-chic wedding that feels relaxed, romantic, and ridiculously gorgeous, call off the search – Pipi’s is your perfect match.
For more information, go here
Where: Level 1/275 Boundary Street, Coolangatta
When: All-year round
Website: pipisrestaurant.au
Instagram: @pipisrestaurant
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY PIPI’S RESTAURANT
Managing Director at Gambaro Group.
One of Brisbane’s most well-known restauranteurs, John Gambaro, has hospitality in his blood. From growing up surrounded by culinary legends to leading his own ventures as Managing Director of the Gambaro Group, John is serving up a slice of that famous Gambaro magic right here on the Coast. With the recent opening of Pipi’s and Awaken, he’s bringing Mediterranean-inspired dining and fresh, coastal vibes to Coolangatta.
We chatted with John about what inspired him to follow in his family’s footsteps, what makes the Gambaro brand so successful, and his thoughts on the Gold Coast food scene.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
It’s always tough to capture everything in a few words, but I am a perfectionist when it comes to delivering the best service, food, and presentation. I pay close attention to the details and take pride in the quality of my work. I also know that the food industry is always changing, and I’m open to learning and adapting to stay in tune with those shifts. On a personal level, I deeply value my family and friends. I consider myself a caring, compassionate and emphatic person, and I always try to be there for the people who matter most to me.
You come from a long line of hospitality legends—what inspired you to follow in your family’s footsteps?
I have always been deeply inspired by my father. Over the years, I’ve watched him not only serve exceptional food and provide outstanding service but also build meaningful connections with the wonderful people he’s met along the way. His passion for the hospitality industry goes beyond the kitchen—he was truly devoted to ensuring every customer leaves happy and satisfied. Seeing his dedication to making each guest feel valued and appreciated has had a lasting impact on me, and it’s shaped how I approach my own work. His ability to connect with people, combined with his commitment to quality, has been a constant source of motivation for me.
What do you think is the secret sauce behind the Gambaro family’s success in the industry?
I believe the key to our success lies in our complete commitment to engaging with and truly listening to our customers. We strive to understand what they want, while always maintaining consistency in both the quality of our food and the level of service we provide. Our strong work ethic, along with the dedication and support of the incredible staff we’ve had over the years, has been fundamental to what we’ve achieved.
Congratulations on opening of Pipi’s and Awaken on the Gold Coast! What made you choose this location?
The breathtaking location and panoramic views have been a constant source of inspiration for me. I’ve also been influenced by the work of developer Paul Gedoun, whose dedication to building world-class developments in this area reflects his deep love and passion for the community. His commitment to enhancing the area and improving the lives of those who live here has been truly inspiring.
Tell us a bit about what we can expect when dining at Pipi’s.
The space is beautifully designed to be both relaxing and welcoming, offering guests a perfect setting to enjoy. Our Mediterranean-inspired menu features the freshest ingredients, all sourced locally from across Queensland. While dining, you’ll have the stunning ocean as your backdrop, where you can watch dolphins, whales, boats, and surfers go by. It’s an unforgettable experience that truly captures the essence of coastal dining at its best.
How has the Gold Coast food scene evolved in your eyes, and where do you see it heading?
The Gold Coast has grown fast and is becoming a great spot for food lovers. The dining scene is thriving, offering a range of exciting options that are drawing attention from both locals and visitors.
What’s next for you and the Gambaro Group?
We’ve just opened Black Hide Steak and Seafood at Queen’s Wharf in Brisbane, and now we’re searching for the perfect location to bring our renowned Gambaro Seafood Restaurant to its new home.
What are your Gold Coast Favourites:
Café: Awaken, Coolangatta
Restaurant: Pipi’s, Coolangatta
Bar: Nineteen at the Star, Broadbeach
Beach: Snapper Rocks
How do you choose to spend your days off?
I enjoy spending my time with family, whether it’s swimming, playing tennis, going for bike rides, or cooking a delicious dinner together.
Pipi’s Restaurant reimagines seaside dining.
Every now and again, a venue so spectacular struts into town that it immediately has us in its clutches and entirely turns the local dining landscape on its head(land). Making its grand entrance earlier this year, Mediterranean dining darling Pipi’s Restaurant was precisely that pivotal addition, turning the tides for foodie prospects in the cosy seaside locale of Coolangatta.
Boasting the dream trifecta of elevated eats, absolute oceanfront position and show stopping good looks, the latest jewel in the Gambaro Group crown has a lot going on. Earning itself a rep for impeccable service and quality to rival its coveted outlook, Pipi’s is now making fresh waves with some superb additions to its elevated eats offering. So, if you’re yet to meet the seaside venue that’s changing the game in the Southern GC, there has never been a better time to dive in to this dreamy dining destination!
Perched atop Point Danger, with an outlook spanning from Snapper Rocks across to D’Bah, Pipi’s is so much more than just a pretty spot for a bite. Unveiling a brand new destination unlike anything else on offer in the area, the arrival has totally transformed the Boundary Street strip. Occupying the first level of Coolangatta’s new luxury Awaken complex, the 100 pax showstopper has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for seaside revelling.
Perfectly positioned to host everything from casual drinks and family lunches through to luxury events like reunions and weddings; Pipi’s has redefined the way in which the tight-knit community can converge, carouse and celebrate in style – the world is your oyster, party people!
Leaning into its ocean proximity, Pipi’s is all about crafting Mediterranean-inspired fare that simultaneously elevates local produce and delivers a European escape for the tastebuds.
With renowned Brisbane establishments like Gambaro Seafood Restaurant and Black Hide Steakhouse in its bloodline, when it comes to building on that 70-year culinary legacy, Pipi’s isn’t pulling any punches.
At the heart of the light and airy space sits an expansive open kitchen and bar which connects both dining spaces. Meanwhile, the inclusion of central showpieces such as a dedicated oyster bar and open flame Josper grill have dual benefits of creating a lively and theatrical ambiance while churning out a superb culinary experience.
Bolstered by some tantalising new land and sea additions, the menu combines renowned signature dishes such as Steak Frites with vibrant new options like the Veal Tenderloin, served with orange, carrot and capers.
While tangy new inclusions like tomato and pickled cucumber King Fish Crudo and Seared Half Shell Scallops finished in brown butter and finger lime will have seafood connoisseurs hook, line and sinker… #Drool. For sweet tooths, the newly-added Baked Cheesecake with red wine and berries also teeters perilously on the verge of ‘drop everything to get a taste’ territory.
If you’re more in the mood to graze and sip, Pipi’s provides the perfect setting to do so. With a soothing interior inspired by the colours and textures of the pipi shell, perch up in the welcoming, light-filled surrounds and get cozy with the diverse snack and drinks selection – the latter loaded with distinctive cocktails and European wines.
Striking the balance between elegance and laid-back coastal, Pipi’s is truly a ‘choose your own adventure’ venue – effortlessly adapting to whatever level of indulgence you’re in the mood for. And really, when aren’t we down for Crispy Prawn Rolls, Seafood Platters and crafted cocktails!
Where: 275 Boundary St, Coolangatta
When: Wednesday – Sunday from 11:30am – 3:00pm, Wednesday – Thursday 5:30pm – 9:30pm, Friday – Saturday 5:30pm – 10:00pm, Sunday 5:30pm – 8:00pm
Website: pipisrestaurant.au
Instagram: @pipisrestaurant
Words by Kellie Leader.
STORY SPONSORED BY PIPI’S RESTAURANT
Rise and shine at Cooly's Awaken Cafe.
If you ask us, Coolangatta has been looking particularly perky of late – no, not in a BBL kind of way, but rather, the kind of pep in your step that comes with scoring a couple’a delightful new dining additions in your neck of the woods.
Hot on the heels of the Gambaro Group’s latest gem, Pipi’s Restaurant, making its grand entrance mere weeks ago, comes the cafe-style sequel for suave new seafood nosher. Gold Coasters, say hello to Cooly’s bright-eyed and bushy-tailed new addition, Awaken Café.
Following in the footsteps of its Kingfish Tartare slinging big sis one level above, the lush, dual venue venture now reigns supreme over Point Danger; occupying the two lower levels of the recently constructed Awaken Complex. Already making some waves of its own, the caffeine-slinging counterpart is giving girl-next-door (but, y’know, downstairs) in the very best way, adding caffeine hits and relaxed, brunchy bites like Fresh Pastries and Blueberry Pancake stacks to the rotation for Rainbow Bay’s neck of the woods.
Sporting an aesthetic as dreamy as the offering is delicious, the seaside venture is impressive, but not totally unexpected – coming courtesy of the culinary heavyweights behind esteemed Brissy eateries Black Hide Steakhouses, Italian gem Persone, and Caxton Street mainstay Gambaro Seafood Restaurant.
Delivering a knockout Gold Coast debut, the Gambaro Group says embarking on this exciting new chapter is a “moment to cherish”. It’s a sentiment shared, now we can finally get in on the action Brisbanites have been hogging had to themselves for some six decades.
Between a pearler of a pedigree, and the legacy of its locally-beloved predecessor, Cafe DBar; there’s no doubt the new venture has had some rather lofty expectations to live up to.
With the (very welcome) aroma of freshly-brewed beans once again filling the air, the cosy, 40-pax venue sees the cliffside community’s iconic whale-watching site restored to its former, coffee slinging prime.
Offering breakfast and lunch, the new dreamboat cafe on Cooly’s block boasts panoramic views from Snapper Rocks across to Duranbah Beach, with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating at which to perch up for a cuppa or a bite to eat while you also ‘drink’ in those iconic views.
For the Gambaro gang, the goal was to create a contemporary yet inviting venue, with retro nods infused throughout in an ode to “classic cafes that have dotted the Queensland coastline for years”.
A joint collaboration between BYculprit. x S.SHYNE, the fit out is all about channeling that laidback Cooly lifestyle, while riffing on that of its upstairs counterpart, with chic, coastal tones and finishes featured throughout.
And look, we can (and will) gush Grand Designs style all day long, but let’s be honest – Breakfast Rolls and avo and runny egg studded Green Bowls are what we’re all really here for.
The Awaken menu is all about the quintessential, cafe-style classics, with Goat cheese studded Omelettes on sourdough served alongside crowd-pleasers like Cheese Toasties for the kiddos.
If you’re feeling famished, the Point Danger Full Breaky will be a no brainer – or for a lighter start, you can’t go wrong with the fresh and summery Corn & Zucchini Fritter, served with Siracha aioli. As the latter half of the day looms, the offering benefits from a couple of lunch additions, think staples like Fishermans Baskets and Wagyu Burgers, with a nom-worthy Pumpkin Salad that gives them a run for their money.
To wash it all down, Juices, Smoothies and all the usual caffeine-based suspects round out the rise-and-shine ready offering. Though, in quite the plot twist, the smoothie selection – like the Snazzy Snapper made with Mango, orange juice, Greek yoghurt, honey, mint, might just tempt us to forgo our usual coffee order. (Just kidding, we’ll be double parking all the way.)
Where: 275 Boundary St, Coolangatta
When: 6am – 2pm Monday to Friday, 6am – 3pm Saturday & Sunday
Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.
