It goes without saying that we have summer sorted on the Gold Coast, with beaches, surf breaks and open-air bars by the bucket load. Our winter game, on the other hand, could be levelled up. The first place to start: cosy winters spent by the fire.
Did you know that there are plenty of places to enjoy a meal or a beverage by a fireplace? Whether it’s an intimate restaurant, a toasty pub or a cosy cafe, here are our top spots to unwind fireside.
Robina Pavilion
Robina Pavilion’s popular ‘Fire Pits by the Lake’ package is back – and it’s the ultimate winter date night. When you book one of their fire pits, you’ll score complimentary marshmallows and a designated fire pit attendant. They also have cheese platters available, if you’re feeling peckish. Keep an eye on their Instagram for updates.
D’Arcy Arms
The Gold Coast’s oldest Irish pub officially lit its fireplace on May 29 – an annual occasion that signals winter is properly underway. Settle in with a Guinness (or three), a Sunday roast or a plate of Guinness pot pie, and let the live Irish entertainment do the rest.
Hotel Panchos
An 80s hinterland icon with a very modern second act, Hotel Panchos in Mudgeeraba is where you go for a ‘quick dinner’ that stretches well into the evening. Because why would you leave? Once the fireplace is lit and the margaritas are flowing, plates piled with nachos and sizzling fajitas have a way of keeping you firmly in your seat.
Fox and Hounds
A traditional English pub set in the beautiful hinterland of Tamborine Mountain, the Fox and Hounds Country Inn screams winter cosiness. Serving up authentic British ales and interiors imported all the way from the UK, you can bet you’ll find a number of English staples on the menu – think toad in the hole, beef and guinness pies and Sunday roasts.
The Verandah Bar
When you think high-class dining, you think Sanctuary Cove – and The Verandah Bar at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort is about as fancy as it gets. Their extensive whiskey library boasts over 50 varieties, which you can enjoy by their large, roaring fireplace, alongside their all-day dining menu.
www.intercontinentalsanctuarycove.com
St Bernards Hotel
This Tamborine Mountain favourite has stood tall for over a century, beloved by day trippers, locals and guests from far and wide. Their breathtaking views are paralleled only by their delicious menu of winter warmers and, true to their name, the hotel is even home to two beautiful St Bernards, Molly and Syrah.
Garden Kitchen & Bar
Wine, charcuterie, and a private firepit – Garden Kitchen & Bar at The Star Gold Coast has your winter sorted. The Broadbeach venue is running its cosy fire pit sessions Fridays from 4pm and weekends from 12pm. Bookings are essential, so head to their website to lock one in.
Birchgrove Nursery
Sure enough, this is another Tamborine hidden gem that’s well worth the drive. After you’ve explored all that this town has to offer, relax by the wood-burning fireplace with a giant scone and a steaming pot of your warm beverage of choice.
The Wine Barrel
Tucked into the charming streets of Mudgeeraba, this family-owned tapas and wine bar has been nailing the cosy brief for years. The crackling log fireplace burns every evening through winter, filling the rustic dining room with warmth – and with slow-braised beef cheeks on the menu and live music on weekends, you’ll want to book ahead.
www.thewinebarrelrestaurant.com.au
Looking for all the comfort of a cosy fireplace in a mug? Check out our favourite hot chocolates on the Gold Coast.
