Get your Yum Cha fix at Chevron Renaissance.
Get your Yum Cha fix at Chevron Renaissance.
Glossy dumplings, pillowy, pork-stuffed buns, silken, stir fried noodles – what’s not to love about yum cha? Literally nothing. And if your mouth is already watering at the thought, just wait til you hear that Surfers has scored a new location to get amongst this time-honoured dining ritual, as Yum Cha Chevron Renaissance joins its ranks.
Chevron’s Cantonese-style newbie is as legit as they come, brought to you by Marco Hau, a man behind oodles of the authentic feasting locations smattered from here (Robina, more specifically) to Toowoomba – the latest addition officially rounding out his restaurant count to a solid ten. Safe to say we can officially go ahead and surrender to those cravings, guys.
Expect that hallmark Yum Cha feasting experience, brimming with delicious dumplings delivered every way you can dream of – alongside steamed, prawn stuffed rice noodles, and crispy Duck Spring Rolls, with some inventive twists thrown in along the way.
By now Marco and his crew have got this traditional Cantonese biz down to a ‘dine’ art. Scoping out a solid ten of a location, positioned in the heaving heart of the Surfers action in excellent company among Chevron Renaissance’s array of top notch nosheries. A stalwart spot that will always have a special place in our hearts – shout out to 2 hours free parking, the real MVP.
The venue’s sizeable footprint is one that lends itself to gathering groups en masse, special occasions, et al. Spot the signature sky blue finishes, and you’ll know you’re in the right place (though more likely, your nose will alert you long before that). Backdropped by neutral terrazzo pops and cool blue hues, there’s a mix of indoor and outdoor tables and booths bathed in the ambient light of Chevron Renaissance’s alfresco piazza (which has the added perk of providing impeccable lighting for those of us who love snapping food pics).
With those details all covered, we can get to the best part – taking a big ‘ole a swan dive straight in to the menu. With several pages of enticing dishes to drool over, the classics – such as Congee, XO sauce simmered seafood and sticky, sweet-sour Pork Skewers, are all well and truly accounted for, along with some unexpected, playful takes. The Crescent Dumplings are meticulously presented to mimic a miniature carrot, while the Fried Prawn Cheese Balls are playfully served to look like a pile of lychees. Truly a feast for all the senses here, folks.
When it comes to this fine Cantonese convention, we’re about as confident as a boomer in a comment section that there are two Yum Cha camps. Big fans and those who are yet to try it, which means no matter which group you fall into, there are about 64 excellent reasons to high tail to Yum Cha Chevron Renaissance… and yes, we are solely referring to the total number of dishes on the menu we counted before we got sidetracked and started mentally preparing our order instead.
Where: Chevron Renaissance, Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
When: Daily, 11:00am to 2:30pm and 5:00pm to 8:30pm
Website: www.chevronrenaissanceshoppingcentre.com.au
Instagram: @chevronrenaissance
Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.
STORY SPONSORED BY CHEVRON RENAISSANCE.
BARITALIA’s new menu is pastatively irresistible.
Ordinarily, us Gold Coasters take great pride in uncovering the hidden gems, preferring to frequent the more secluded spots tucked away from the action – leaving the visitors to duke it out over the bustling tourist hotspots.
But every now and again, we have to give in to that specific, insatiable craving that makes navigating the crowds (and the parking) #ohsoworthit. And when we find out an old favourite has unveiled a new menu, we know we’re gonna NEED to get ourselves a pizza that action #pronto. Because you know when the BARITALIA itch hits, it is gnoc gonna quit until we get a slice of those mouth-watering eats – they’re always worth the truffle.
BARITALIA is Surfers’ very own Italian institution. Uniting locals and tourists alike over their insatiable appetite for top notch Italian food, owner Simon has spent the latter half of his career dedicated to a srsly impressive 15-year stint as a restaurateur. Sourcing both imported products from Italy as well as supporting locally sourced Queensland produce, his knack for dishing up modern and authentic flavours just keeps us coming back forever amore.
Surfers’ little taste of Italy is perfectly placed to watch the world go by. Surrounded in cascading greenery, settle in among the alfresco style surrounds complete with classic black, white, and of course – trademark Italian red accents. With a limoncello spritz in hand, the vibe is enough to have you momentarily contemplating if you need to acquire a Vespa.
As cute as the interiors may be, it won’t take long for your attention to start drifting to sampling BARITALIA’s menu, once you catch those unmistakable aromas wafting from the kitchen. While normally the latter half of the day is where Italian food shines, don’t skip the breakfast here because they are starting the day stronger than an Italian coffee (and that’s saying something). The coffee machine is ready to serve Allpress Espresso from 6.30am. We’re faced with the age old breakfast conundrum: savoury or sweet? In this case, you truly can’t go wrong with either a pizza-oven toasted Croissant or breakfast Bruschetta – zucchini, Meredith goat’s cheese, garlic, mint and EVOO.
Though if you’re lucky enough to find yourself in the BARITALIA vicinity as lunchtime approaches, treating yourself to house made Panini is an absolute must – eggplant, mushrooms, olives, capsicum, pesto, rocket or prosciutto, rocket, artichoke, fior di latte will not disappoint.
The new dinner menu features what feels like every Italian dish we’ve ever known and loved. Grab yourself some antipasti to start while you ponder a fully stacked, authentic fresh pasta, gnocchi and pizza menu. It’s impasta-ble to narrow down a lineup that’s a perfect 10 – but if the Veal Scaloppine – Northern Rivers milk-fed veal, white wine, mushrooms, onions & garlic in a light creamy sauce with broccoli & potatoes doesn’t say indulgent Italian feast, we don’t know what does.
Okay, okay – so maybe just a House Made Tiramisu to finish. Aaaand now it’s officially an indulgent, Italian feast.
Bellissimo!
Where: 3240 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
When: Thursday – Sunday from 7am-2pm then 5pm-9pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 7am-3pm.
Words by Kellie Leader.
STORY SPONSORED BY CHEVRON RENAISSANCE
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
For an un-pho-getable experience.
Oh Vietnam and Japan. Besides being two of our favourite Asian vacay destinations, they’re also responsible for two of THE most drool-inducing soupy faves eternally on our to-eat list. Pho and ramen, we salute you, never tire of your slurpy flavoursome goodness and we are getting one helluva craving right now #getinourbellies.
Thankfully, there are several Asian gems right here in our GC ‘hood who can help us get our ‘phomen’ (pho and ramen) fix, so let’s do this – from north to south.
Pho Vietnamese Kitchen
With a name like this, there really is no mistaking what you’re going to find here. With authentic flavours from the Saigon region, it’s the place to stop in when you’re mid-shop and in need of a healthy, yummy energy hit to recharge the batteries. There’s pho-a-plenty, plus other Viet wonders like their scrumptious grilled pork vermicelli noodles salad. Yummo.
Where: Westfield Coomera, 103 Foxwell Road, Coomera or Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach Waters
Can Tho Kitchen
A northern GC institution, Can Tho Kitchen has it all. Ridiculously delish meals, share platters, awesome service, and a super cool fit out and ambience which one may not expect from a northern GC suburban restaurant. Booking out regularly, people travel from far and wide to experience this husband-and-wife team’s traditional home kitchen recipes. Oh and the cocktails – legendary (and yes, we speak from experience).
Where: 5/465 Oxley Drive, Runaway Bay
Phở Việt (8 Street Harbour Town)
The Harbour Town Eats precinct offers its fair share of high-quality multi-cultural eats, and this is one of their bangers. Fresh, delicious and always consistent, it’s a sure-fire winner every day of the week (literally). The Tofu Pho Noodle Soup is a fave, as is the Combination Pho with rare beef brisket, chicken and beef balls.
Where: 147-189 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters
Ramen Danbo
If you’re a ramen fan in Southport or Surfers, let us give you some advice; get yourself a hit of Ramen Danbo stat. Their Tonkotsu broth is all time and is the secret base making the ramen so next level lush. But don’t just take our word for it!
Where: Kiosk 8.01, Chop Chop Cavill Lane, 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise or Shop 24, Mercato on Ferry, 59-73 Meron Street, Southport
Muso Ramen + Gyoza
Muso is oh-so famous for its ramen and gyoza goodness and is conveniently located in not one, but three suburbs. In other words, there’s really no excuse whatsoever not to chow down and fuel your ramen addiction. Cooked to perfection and nailing all the authentic flavours, it’s the best you’ll try outside of Tokyo.
Where: Shop1/58 Brooke Avenue, Southport or 2b/2484 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach or Shop 4248c “The Kitchens” Robina Town Centre
O-Me-Ly Vietnamese Restaurant
Pho doesn’t get any better than this! A humble fave that has stood the test of time, O-Me-Ly is a long time local hit for darn good reason. The Chicken Rice Noodle Pho is amazing, as are the Rice Paper Rolls which are the pinnacle of fresh, clean eating. Next time in you’re in Broady and channelling an unpretentious feed with flavour-o-plenty, this is the place.
Where: 15-24 Queensland Avenue, Broadbeach
I like ramen
This is legit Australia’s very first plant-based ramen shop, and that in itself deserves a hearty round of applause. The perfect spot for a bowl and brew, founders Bobby and Dom have hatched a vegan beauty here with the tastiest ramen you ever did eat. Also serving up some special Japanese whiskeys, signature cocktails and a range of our natty wines, what’s not to love?
Where: 2251 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Goukai Ramen
If you’re fanging for ramen, a rice bowl, karaage, gyoza or a famous Goukai roll, make your way to this Burleigh hot pot spot. Known for their sensational food – and cool staff sporting equally cool baseball caps which BTW, you can buy one too – this hidden gem never disappoints. If you like a bit of spice, here’s the hot (pardon the pun) tip: order the Red Hot Spicy Ramen.
Where: 3/1837 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
RaRa Ramen
If it’s authentic hand-crafted ramen you want, it’s precisely what you’ll find at RaRa Ramen. With a few RaRa’s getting around NSW, it was high time we northerners were also privy to the jaw-droppingly delicious authentic Japanese flavours. With handmade noodles, broths and some serious know-how on the art of ramen, this one is a must.
Where: 21a/50 James Street, Burleigh Heads
My Saigon Tuckshop
If only our school had a tuckshop like this! Looking for a cheap and REALLY cheerful Vietnamese hit? Call off the search – you’ve found it! My Saigon Tuckshop serves up the best-tasting pho with change left over to sample the other delectable offerings, like their infamous Banh Mi or the food of the moment, Rice Paper Rolls.
Where: 1/45 Taree Street, Burleigh Heads
Words by Bianca Trathen.
