Gold Coast is undoubtedly a beach lover’s paradise, with long stretches of golden sandy beaches and azure waters breaking by shores. Beyond that lies the unique neighborhoods and a seemingly endless list of things to do that are enough to put this bustling town on any traveler’s bucket list. But what I loved the most about GC is the epic nightlife and the incredible food scene!
No matter whether you’re craving some fresh seafood tossed in delicious buttery sauce or the traditional fish-n-chips, or just looking for some great grilled meat with craft beer – Gold Coast won’t leave you disappointed! As they say, “Life’s too short to waste on a bad meal”, I thought of compiling a list of my favorite eateries along Surfer’s Paradise & Cavill Avenue (the MOST happening spots) in Gold Coast.
1. Southport Pavilion, Southport
Gold Coast is renowned for its countless incredible dining spots, and the Southern Gold Coast certainly boasts an abundance of foodie destinations. However, the Northern Gold Coast has been a bit sparse in comparison. But no longer!
Nestled on the edge of the Nerang River, the waterfront Southport Pavilion features a stunning coastal blue and white Euro-style design, offering magnificent views of the Surfers Paradise skyline and the hinterland. This grand, multi-level venue accommodates 300 guests and includes various dining and drinking areas. Enjoy sunset sips on the outside upper and lower decks, a relaxed dinner in the interior dining space, or experience waterfront cabanas with bottle service.
2. Horizon Sky Dining, Surfers Paradise
Formerly known as Four Winds 360 Revolving Restaurant, the beloved Gold Coast icon has been reborn as Horizon Sky Dining, offering 360-degree revolving views high above Surfers Paradise.
This unique experience allows you to enjoy the ever-changing beauty of both ocean and hinterland views with every bite. No need to choose between them when you can have both. Horizon Sky Dining boasts an expansive seafood buffet featuring some of the best dishes, including succulent lobster, fresh oysters, and a variety of sashimi. With space for 128 patrons and sparkling ocean views, this venue elevates the Gold Coast stalwart to new heights, marking the pinnacle of the Crowne Plaza’s multi-million dollar refurbishment.
3. Piknik, Burleigh Heads
Piknik is Burleigh’s charming new pint-sized sandwich store, offering plant-based sandwiches crafted with love. Inspired by owner Maddi’s passion for picnics, Piknik perfectly complements Burleigh’s laidback lifestyle. Their fresh and toasted sourdough sandwiches are generously loaded and made in-house daily, ensuring top-notch quality. With plenty of gluten-free options available, everyone is catered for.
This aesthetically pleasing sandwich shop also serves up Julius Meinl coffee, refreshing smoothies, and vibrant salads. Don’t miss their standout dishes, like the mouthwatering avocado toast and the savory mushroom melt. Piknik is the go-to spot for anyone struggling to decide on what to eat!
4. kōst Bar and Grill, Broadbeach
The epitome of a modern bar and grill, kōst features Australia's first two-meter Mibrasa charcoal bar and grill. This impressive venue has taken over three previous tenancies on Oracle Boulevard, creating a sprawling space with a stunning 130-seat restaurant and an additional 50 seats for cocktail-style dining.
kōst seamlessly blends elevated bar and grill cuisine with playful cocktails, fine wine, and live fuel cooking methods, delivering a high-level sensory experience. The extremely attentive staff and luxurious space enhance the experience, featuring glamorous indoor booths, bar dining, outdoor pavilion stools, and a private dining room. Highlights include a purpose-built dry-aged cool room and the two-meter Mibrasa charcoal grill and oven.
The extensive menu offers share plates from the ocean, land, and earth, with standout dishes like fire-kissed yellowfin tuna, steak tartare with crisps, dry-aged cuts cooked over embers, and an extravagant seafood tower.
5. Lenny Pizzeria & Bar, Mudgeeraba
Mudgeeraba has just welcomed a bustling new pizzeria, Lenny Pizzeria & Bar, brought to you by the ex-Justin Lane crew. Since its opening in March, Lenny has quickly become a beloved spot, so much so that they’re running out of food every night—an indicator of its popularity and not a lack of preparation.
This authentic Italian pizzeria boasts an extensive menu that will leave you drooling. From savory pork and beef meatballs to delicious arancini with porcini mushroom, every dish promises to make your dining experience delightful. In addition to a tasty selection of salads, there’s an impressive array of pizzas to choose from. Enjoy the flavorful garlic prawns or the sizzling pork and fennel topped with fresh mozzarella. Lenny Pizzeria is the perfect spot for even the pickiest eaters.
6. California Tacos, Broadbeach
California Tacos brings vibrant Southern Cali-meets-Mexican cuisine to the Gold Coast, making a name for itself with its signature dish—Australia's largest plate of nachos. No joke, California Tacos goes big with their enormous nachos stack and massive burritos, each weighing in at nearly 1kg.
A staple in Burleigh Heads, California Tacos has now expanded to The Oasis in Broadbeach, offering their delicious tacos, nachos, burritos, and frozen margaritas to the northern Gold Coast. Next time you're craving a flavorful Mexican feast, visit the new California Tacos Broadbeach (walk-ins only) and get ready for a delightful culinary experience.
7. Cheeky Waffles, Surfers Paradise
Chocolate-covered and sprinkle-topped anatomy-themed waffles are on the menu at this playful dessert shop in the heart of Surfers Paradise. Whether you find it cheeky, fun, or just unique, Cheeky Waffles is certainly offering a different take on desserts.
This bold new shop serves sweet treats in the shape of intimate body parts, and it’s quickly becoming a favorite. The phallic waffles come covered in melted chocolate and cookie crumble, with one called the Sugar Daddy, topped with caramel, Biscoff, and gold powder. For an extra $1, you can add a 'happy ending'—a drizzle of white chocolate sauce. Bookmark this 'sweet spot' for your next trip to Gold Coast, because you know you want to indulge!
8. The Tropic at Burleigh Pavilion
At The Tropic at Burleigh Pavilion, you'll discover a dining experience that beautifully blends coastal charm with modern elegance. With stunning views of Burleigh Beach and a menu showcasing fresh, local produce, it’s the perfect spot to relax and savor a meal while soaking in the ocean breeze. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely brunch or a sunset dinner, The Tropic offers a vibrant atmosphere that complements its picturesque setting.
9. Meda Deli, Mermaid Beach
Meda Deli is Mermaid Beach's new artisan gem, championing the zero-waste movement with an impressive range of European-inspired delicatessen products. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Meda Deli aims to lead in high-end artisanal products while educating customers about net-zero practices.
The venue itself is as stunning as its mission. The interior features gorgeous aqua blue tiles, terrazzo floors, and warm timber shelving reminiscent of 80s-style European delicatessens. At Meda Deli, you can stock up on house-made grab-and-go meals, charcuterie delights, organic groceries, gourmet baguettes, fresh pasta, Italian dips, cold cuts, and smooth coffee.
Needless to say, Gold Coast is a paradise for foodies, who love a little extra!
If you’ve traveled to Gold Coast and think I’ve missed out on something, do let me know in the comments below. Maybe the next time when I travel there, I’d stop by and grab something from your recommended place.
In association with Queensland Tourism
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