Staying on top of the Gold Coast’s latest restaurant openings is a full-time job – and one we take very, very seriously. We’ve hunted down, sipped and sampled the newest offerings and served them up right here, for you. Happy dining!
Papa Rolly’s, Carrara
Since opening their doors in April, Papa Rolly’s has cemented itself as the go-to neighbourhood Italian spot. It’s the kind of place where Nonna’s spirit lives on – slinging wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas and gelato so good it might make you weep into your cannoli. It’s BYO wine, so grab that bottle you’ve been “saving,” and prepare for a carb-fueled family dinner, courtesy of the Gemelli family.
Rossa Pizzeria, Southport
Yep, we’re serving up two servings of piping hot Italian. Rossa Pizzeria is where your pizza cravings meet their match, with wood-fired pies, housemade tiramisu, and live tunes that’ll have you dancing between bites. With its laid-back atmosphere and cheeky motto, “no great story ever started with a salad,” this is the spot to carb-load like a true Italian.
Lito, Burleigh Heads
More Italian – only this one is a ‘lito’ more elevated. LiTO has moved into Burleigh’s hottest new address, the Mondrian, and is ready for you to bring your appetite – and your best stories. As they say themselves, some restaurants are for eating: “LiTO is for feasting.” It’s your new favourite spot for long lunches, golden hour hangouts and a relaxing bite after a day at the pool club (check out Haven for more).
Mona Lisa’s Lair, Miami
Hidden away behind stained-glass windows in the bustling Miami Marketta, Mona Lisa’s Lair is a sultry speakeasy where Parisian charm meets Gold Coast cool – think velvet couches, candlelight and a champagne list straight from Paris’s Latin Quarter. Come for the fondue tart and coq au vin blanc, stay because the French man of your dreams could walk through at any second.
Familiar Spirits, Burleigh Heads
Tucked away in Burleigh’s industrial backstreets, Familiar Spirits isn’t your average distillery. Here, you’ll sip small-batch gin, snack on fancy cheese, and eye-off which bottle you’re going to take home to make your bar cart feel special. Run by a husband-and-wife duo, with dishes created by their sister and wine from their cousin’s vineyard, Familiar Spirits is truly a family affair.
