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Category: Eat + Drink

Home Category: Eat + Drink (Page 4)

The best pubs on the Gold Coast

When it comes to pubs, the Gold Coast might not give Sydney or Melbourne a run for their money – surf clubs are more our strong suit – but that doesn’t mean we’re short on character-filled watering holes. From historic hotels with stories to tell, to quirky themed pubs and country-style gems just a short drive away, there are plenty of spots worth raising a glass in.

Burleigh Town Hotel, Burleigh

If you thought James Street or Burleigh Hill were the only places to have fun in Burleigh, think again. Tucked out the back, by the M1, is the Burleigh Town Hotel – one of the best places on the Gold Coast to watch the big game, enjoy a good pub feed or just drink beers in the sunshine with your best mates.

P.S. Stick your head into the Sports Bar to check out the TV. Trust us.

www.burleightownhotel.com.au

Robina Pavilion, Robina

You’ve heard of the Burleigh Pavilion, and the Surfers Pavilion – but if you haven’t paid a visit to the Robina Pavilion yet, you’re missing out. Set on the tranquil waterways, the deck is dotted with lounges and umbrellas and the menu has something for everyone.

www.robinapavilion.com.au

Wallaby Hotel, Mudgeeraba

Step back in time (in the best way possible) at the Wallaby Hotel – a true local icon that’s been pouring beers and hosting good times since 1884. With live music cranking most weekends, hearty pub classics on the menu and an easy-going crowd, it’s the kind of spot where you instantly feel at home.

www.wallabyhotel.com.au

The Bearded Dragon, Tamborine

For a proper country pub experience without straying too far from the coast, the Bearded Dragon is hard to beat. Think sweeping mountain views, sprawling lawns perfect for a Sunday session, and hearty meals that hit the spot after a day exploring.

www.beardeddragon.com.au

D’Arcy Arms, Surfers Paradise

If you’re craving a slice of Ireland right here on the Coast, D’Arcy Arms has you covered. This Surfers Paradise institution serves up hearty pub grub with a Celtic twist, perfectly poured pints of Guinness and plenty of warm Irish hospitality.

www.darcyarms.com.au

The Cecil Hotel, Southport

A true Southport staple. Whether you’re stopping in for a post-work pint, catching the game on the big screens, or tucking into a pub classic with mates, this spot always delivers. Add in regular live music, icy cold drinks and a buzzing atmosphere, and you’ve got yourself one of the best hangs in the heart of the north end.

www.cecilhotel.com.au

Canungra Hotel, Canungra

Sitting pretty in the heart of the Scenic Rim, the Canungra Hotel is the kind of country pub that makes you want to linger all afternoon. Built in 1937, it’s full of old-school charm but still delivers on the essentials – icy cold beers, generous pub meals and a warm, friendly crowd.

www.canungrahotel.com.au

Rainbow Bay SLSC, Coolangatta

With unbeatable ocean views and some of the best sunsets on the coast, Rainbow Bay SLSC is the ultimate spot to kick back by the beach. Whether you’re grabbing a casual meal, enjoying an ice-cold drink after a swim, or catching up with mates on the deck, the sign on the roof is right: this is where you’d rather be.

www.rainbowbayslsc.com.au

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New Gold Coast restaurants to try this spring

Staying on top of the new Gold Coast 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!

The House of Bamboo, Coolangatta

Blending tropical Asian eats with disco beats is no mean feat, but The House of Bamboo delivers in spades. They’ve transformed a basement space into a vibey izakaya unlike anything Cooly (or the Gold Coast, for that matter) has seen before. Our top picks? The char-grilled pineapple Tommy’s marg (need we say more?) and the Filipina-Colada – if you ask nicely, they’ll even show you how they make it. And for food, start with the miso corn and work your way up to the BYO (build your own) bao plate. The eggplant is unreal, too.

www.the-house-of-bamboo.com

Fire Baby, Southport

Get set for the ultimate ‘twofer’ – two dining concepts, one roof. Fire Baby set tongues wagging when it opened its doors early this month, slinging authentic woodfired Italian pizza (and more) for hungry Southport locals. But there’s more to come – Embar is the highly-anticipated second course, promising a charcoal-fired dining experience like no other.

www.instagram.com/firebabysouthport

Italia Moto Pizza, Helensvale

It’s one thing to serve up authentic, delicious pizza and gelato – doing it with Italian edge, and clear care factor, is what sets Italia Moto apart. Already a fast favourite amongst Helensvale locals, they offer more than great food – a visit to Italia Moto is an all-encompassing experience, complete with custom beverages, cool merch and even their own comic book series.

www.italiamoto.com

AKA Asiatique Dining & Bar, Paradise Point

Another win for the northern Gold Coast, AKA Asiatique delivers a bold take on modern Asian – think Ballina king prawns, steak tartare and watermelon sashimi. Opening in late July, they’ve had some time to find their footing and are more than ready to welcome the crowds this spring (and beyond).

www.akaparadisepoint.com.au

Both Espresso & Wine, Runaway Bay

Finally, an answer to the question, “Espresso or wine?”… Both! Whether you’re looking for somewhere to spend your Saturday night or Sunday morning, this cosy café-cum-wine-bar does it all – and it does it well. Since opening their doors in early August, they’re showing Runaway Bay locals that they can have it all.

www.bothespressoandwine.com.au

REOPENING: Mamasan, Broadbeach

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, this Broadbeach favourite will reopen its doors in mid-September with a fresh new design. Expect dark, moody interiors an intimate private dining room and a menu that introduces new East Asian elements (and the cult classics). Co-founder Lauren Duitsch says this new chapter offers an exciting opportunity for Mamasan to offer the kind of dining experience Gold Coasters, and visitors alike, are hungry for.

“When we first opened, the Gold Coast was really just finding its feet beyond casual dining,” says co-founder Lauren Duitsch. “There’s so much more diversity on menus now, thoughtful wine programs have become the norm rather than the exception, and venues are thinking about the entire experience, not just what’s on the plate.

“People want the whole story now, not just good food. They want to understand where produce comes from, the inspiration behind a dish, and why certain ingredients work together. We’re getting noticed beyond the coast now, which gives us confidence to push boundaries with flavours and concepts that might have felt too bold in the early days.”

www.bothespressoandwine.com.au

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Five ways to put your health first this spring

The days are warmer, the air lighter, and suddenly it’s that much easier to swap your evening scroll for an evening stroll. Spring is the season of renewal, which makes it the perfect time to shake off the winter blues and reset your wellness routines. From nourishing meals to mindful micro-rituals, here are five easy ways to put your health first this spring (that you might not have considered).

Nourish your body, from the inside out

In the colder months, comfort tends to win – hearty roasts, baked pasta and more ‘treat yourself’ moments than we’d like to admit. But as the temperature rises, so does our craving for fresher, lighter fuel. That’s where Sol Cleanse comes in. This Gold Coast business is best known for its organic juice cleanses and wholefood packs, but their new regenerative meat-based meals are what seriously impressed us.

We got to trial their Organic Meat Whole Food Pack, which features three days of smoothies, juices, salads and frozen main meals. We can officially confirm, it’s the easiest way to get your health back on track.

The first thing we noticed was the variety. So. Much. Colour. Opening the pack on a Monday instantly set us up for success – we found ourselves looking forward to the next day’s menu. The smoothies held up beautifully (the berry-based Shine was a standout), and the Radiant green juice tasted as fresh as if it had just been pressed.

Each salad was tastier than the day before, though lighter eaters might want to top them with extra protein. As for the dinners? Somehow, Sol Cleanse has managed to make frozen meals taste better than most freshly cooked ones. The Lamb Ragout deserves a special mention. If you’re looking to nourish your body with whole, seasonal food that requires zero prep, Sol Cleanse is a local go-to worth bookmarking. Plus, we love their ethos.

Start your day with an ocean swim

There’s something about diving into cool salty water that feels like a total body reset – like you’re literally washing your stresses and sleepiness away. An early swim in the ocean doesn’t just wake you up; it boosts circulation, clears the mind and floods your body with feel-good endorphins.

But if braving the surf before coffee feels a little too hardcore, you can still capture that “ocean dip” energy at home. Try finishing your morning shower with thirty seconds of cold water – it’s invigorating, improves lymphatic flow and gives you that same fresh-out-of-the-sea feeling without sandy toes.

For those wanting to take it further, visit an ice bath. With a little practice and some guided breathing, cold plunges can be the secret to balancing stress and sharpening focus.

Find a moment for meditation

Spring can be busy – social calendars pick up, work deadlines loom, and life gets noisy. Carving out just ten minutes a day for meditation or mindfulness can do wonders for your mental health.

But meditation doesn’t have to mean sitting in silence. If stillness isn’t your style, try a mindful walk where you tune into the sounds, colours and scents around you. Even mindful dishwashing – paying attention to the warm water and repetitive rhythm – can work as a reset for your nervous system.

And if you want something a little more immersive, sound baths have been popping up all over the Coast. Think crystal bowls, gentle gongs and vibrations that wash over you – it’s meditation for people who struggle to meditate.

Refresh your fitness routine

If your winter workouts have felt a little sluggish (or non-existent), spring is the perfect time to change it up. Instead of signing up for another gym membership, consider activities that double as both movement and play. Join a local tennis comp, try a stand-up paddleboarding session, or grab a friend for a sunrise hike. You’ll be surprised how quickly fitness goals fall into place when you’re having fun.

And for those who love a little tech-hack, spring is also the ideal time to explore “habit stacking” – like doing a five-minute resistance band circuit every time the kettle boils. Tiny bursts add up, and they slot seamlessly into your day.

Get back in the garden

Gardening ticks all the boxes: gentle movement, stress relief, fresh air, and the satisfaction of watching something grow. Even a few potted herbs on your balcony can give you that sense of connection to the season.

If you’re a budding green thumb who is looking to up your garden game, try planting edible flowers like nasturtiums or violas – they’re not only beautiful but can be sprinkled on salads for a spring-ready health boost.

Or start a compost bin; nourishing the soil is a surprisingly grounding activity and makes you think differently about food waste. And if you really want to make the most of spring’s ‘fresh start’ energy, consider a digital detox alongside your gardening sessions. Leaving your phone (and headphones) indoors while you potter outside is a small act of disconnection that creates a big sense of calm.

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The story behind… O Bagel

With so many incredible local businesses on the Gold Coast, one begins to wonder: how did they all come to be? In our series, ‘The story behind…’, we chat with local founders and owners about how their business started, their biggest learnings and their tips for other self-starters.

This time, we caught up with Nick Jang & Henry Kim, the directors of the coast’s cult-favourite lunch stop, O Bagel.

When did the idea for your business first come about? And how?

It all started with a simple question: “Is there a way to enjoy a well-balanced meal in a simple, convenient form?”. That’s where the idea of the bagel sandwich came in – and these thoughts were supported by a trip to the US. It was stunning experience where bagels were eaten in very simple ways, rather than a sit-down brunch.

We wanted to create something that was thoughtfully hand-rolled and baked, then paired with a variety of brunch-style ingredients to become a complete, satisfying meal – yet also fit into multiple occasions without being too time consuming.

Our goal was to make something that felt familiar yet new, convenient yet fulfilling; like our typical brunch styles in bagel sandwich form with a twist of difference. That’s what led to our brand slogan: “Ordinary but Unordinary.” It captures the heart of what O Bagel is all about.

Where did you start?

Our journey began on the Gold Coast Highway in Broadbeach highway. With only 15 seats and a compact kitchen, we were experimenting with bagels in the back kitchen for nearly a year to perfect the recipes. Then the real journey began.

What were some of the challenges you faced in the beginning? How did you overcome them?

It took a long time to bring O Bagel to life. We weren’t just making bagels — we were working toward the idea of a complete, satisfying meal in the form of a bagel sandwich. It took us a full year just to develop the recipe we were happy with.

Our first store opened in a small space along the Gold Coast Highway. At the time, bagels in O Bagel form were still unfamiliar to many people in the area, so one of the biggest challenges was introducing customers to what made ours special.

We also had to build everything from scratch. From the kitchen systems to the customer service and menu development, we did it all while running the shop. Every day, we listened closely to customer feedback and kept improving. Eventually, our efforts paid off. We started seeing lines forming outside the store, and before long, people driving down the highway would recognise us from the queue out front. That’s when we knew we were starting to build something meaningful.

What has been your biggest learning since starting the business?

One of the most important lessons we’ve learned is that every single detail matters to our customers. From the very beginning, we’ve been deeply focused on every part of the customer experience, from the very first bite of food to the moment they walk out of our shop.

Our customers notice when something changes, and they definitely notice when something improves. That awareness keeps us motivated to keep trying new things. We put in hard work and a lot of heart into our service, and we truly believe our customers can feel the difference.

And what about your biggest ‘I’ve made it’ moment?

There are so many ‘I’ve made it’ moments because we put ourselves 120% into every single project. The most extreme ‘I’ve made it’ moment was opening our Brisbane store. It was a huge challenge for us: it was our first location outside of the Gold Coast, and being right in the heart of Brisbane City came with a lot of pressure and uncertainty.

But one day, I looked out and saw a line of customers stretching not just inside the store, but all the way out along the street. In that moment, it really hit me that O Bagel was finding its place here too.

It was a heart beating moment and something I’ll never forget. That moment gave our entire team a sense of confidence and reassurance that we were on the right path, even beyond our home base.

What does a working day in your life look like?

Our day usually starts before sunrise. We begin by reviewing each store’s operations and carefully analysing the previous day’s sales data. Then, we often visit the stores in person to check in with the team and see how things are running on the ground.

No two days are ever the same because unexpected challenges come up all the time. That also means we’re constantly learning. At the end of each day, there’s a real sense of fulfilment in knowing we gave it our best.

What do you love about the Gold Coast community, especially as a business owner?

The Gold Coast is such a warm and welcoming place for locally grown brands. People here truly appreciate authenticity, and once they connect with a local business, they continue to support it for the long run. Thanks to the local support, we were able to grow naturally as a community-focused brand. It really is an environment for building something meaningful and lasting as the local community respects and enjoys the existence of local businesses.

So, where to next? What’s in the pipeline for your business?

We believe this is a defining moment for O Bagel. From here onwards, our focus is on how we can become a natural part of our customers’ everyday lives. But for that to be meaningful, the foundation, the core of our brand, needs to remain strong and consistent. Last year we successfully introduced O Bagel in South Korea as ‘Australia’s beloved bagel sandwich brand’ and this year, we’re preparing to open our fifth store in Brisbane’s South Bank. Looking ahead, we’re also exploring opportunities to expand into other states and, eventually, international markets.

What is your biggest tip for local business owners?

We would love to be humble and not suggest or tip anyone, but to share some of my experience in business, be humble and work together with people around you. Respect both customers and colleagues. Pay attention to every single detail. The thoughts you have will eventually come into one picture, like jigsaw puzzle.

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Food and wine cruises to have on your radar

From lazy river lunches to seafood feasts served straight from the ocean, these floating experiences combine the best of our coastal lifestyle with a splash of luxury. Here are a few cruises worth booking for your next foodie adventure.

Tweed Eco Cruises, New South Wales

Cruising the Tweed River is already dreamy – add a banquet featuring local produce and it becomes next-level. Tweed Eco Cruises offer everything from fishing tours to long lunches on the water, with menus designed around what’s fresh and seasonal in the Northern Rivers. Think mud crab, river prawns, tropical fruit and artisan cheeses, often paired with regional wines and craft beer.

www.tweedecocruises.com

Rottnest Luxe Island Seafood Cruise, Western Australia

If you like your lunch with a side of turquoise water and quokkas, Rottnest Island is hard to beat. This luxe half-day experience starts with sparkling wine and freshly shucked oysters, before diving into the star of the show: western rock lobster. Guests help haul in the pots, then enjoy their catch grilled onboard with paired wines. It’s part hands-on adventure, part floating degustation.

www.rottnestcruises.com/cruises

Peppermint Bay Cruise, Tasmania

Departing Hobart, this full-day trip takes you down the River Derwent to the award-winning Peppermint Bay restaurant. Onboard, the focus is Tasmanian wine and produce; once docked, you’ll enjoy a generous shared feast celebrating the island’s seafood, meats and cool-climate wines. It’s a perfect taste of Tasmania’s paddock-to-plate ethos, with the journey as memorable as the meal.

www.peppermintbay.com.au

Sydney Harbour Long Lunch Cruise, New South Wales

The Sydney Harbour backdrop never disappoints, but it’s even better with champagne in hand. A long lunch cruise lets you settle in for a multi-course travelling meal at Sydney’s most iconic waterside restaurants, paired with wines from the Hunter and beyond. Between courses, you can stroll the deck and snap those iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge views.

www.sydneyprincesscruises.com.au

Murray River Paddlesteamers, Victoria

For something slower and more nostalgic, step onto a paddle steamer and cruise along the Murray. The ‘Wharf to Winery’ and ‘Port to Plate’ lunch cruises offer gourmet experiences, pairing regional wines with hearty courses that showcase local produce. It’s more rustic than a seafood cruise, and wonderfully atmospheric – especially at sunset when the red gums and sandstone cliffs glow.

www.murrayriverpaddlesteamers.com.au

Darwin Harbour Cruises, Northern Territory

In the Top End, sunsets are almost a religion – and the best seat in town is on the water. Darwin Harbour Cruises combine those fiery skies with generous food and wine experiences, best enjoyed as you sail past historic wharves and mangrove-fringed coastlines. It’s an unmissable way to see Darwin at its most beautiful.

www.darwinharbourcruises.com.au

Swan Valley Wine Cruises, Western Australia

Just 25 minutes from Perth, the Swan Valley is one of Australia’s oldest wine regions – and the most relaxing way to get there is by river. Expect boutique wineries, chocolate and cheese stops, and a generous lunch paired with local drops. The return journey often includes more wine, live entertainment and sweeping city views, making it a full-day indulgence without needing to drive.

www.captaincookcruises.com.au

Travel tip: Many of these cruises book out months in advance, especially on weekends and during summer, so lock in early. And if you’re prone to seasickness, river and estuary cruises are a gentler choice than open-ocean adventures.

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