The silly season is over, school traffic has returned, and we’ve well and truly dipped our toes into 2025. So far, the water feels just right, and it looks like we’re in for an absolute pearler of a year—especially if the latest wave of venue openings is anything to go by.
From swanky rooftop bars to hidden rainforest gems; special occasion spots to new weekly staples, it feels like the culinary gods have been smiling down on our sunny little corner of the world. Urban List has done the hard yards for you; here are the best new openings of late 2024 and early 2025, in chronological order, on the Gold Coast/Kombumerri Country.
ITSUKI
12 52/58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta QLD 4225
ITSUKI is serving up authentic Japanese fare in a cosy cafe setting, making it the perfect daytime companion to Harahetta Ramen—think of it as your go-to before the ramen pots start bubbling. Specialising in traditional lunch sets, expect an array of small bowls filled with perfectly steamed rice, miso soup, house-made ferments, and a standout main like crispy karaage chicken.
Sweet tooths will love the matcha floats and handmade mochi, as well as other traditional Japanese treats, each bite transporting you straight to Japan. With its thoughtful details and undeniable authenticity, ITSUKI is a must-visit for Japanese food lovers.
Gelato Gemelli
2217 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach QLD 4218
The brothers behind Gemelli Italian have brought their signature flair for Italian authenticity to gelato, with the opening of Gelato Gemelli in Mermaid Beach’s The Oxley 1823 precinct. This isn’t just a new venture—it’s a natural evolution of the Gemelli ethos, one that taps into their deep respect for Italian tradition while catering to the Gold Coast’s casual beachside lifestyle.
Gelato is certainly having its moment in the sun, but Gelato Gemelli is set to stand apart. Think: authentic Sicilian granita, dairy-free gelato, refreshing sorbetto, and your classic milk-based gelato—all crafted using time-honoured Italian methods and high-quality ingredients.
Norté
2217 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach QLD 4218
Image Credit: Norté | Two Birds Social
This latest venture from the Rick Shores crew is nothing short of breathtaking, with every detail of Norté thoughtfully designed and expertly executed. At this Latin American-inspired restaurant, the kitchen takes centre stage—both literally and figuratively—with a menu centred around a custom-made South American flat hearth.
Expect vibrant creations like raw scallops paired with mango, bee pollen, chilli, and grapefruit; a delicate Mooloolaba spanner crab churro topped with cucumber, apple, and jalapeño; and grilled coral trout with koji butter, white asparagus, and nashi pear. From raw dishes to masa plates, bar snacks, mains, sides, drinks and desserts, each creation is a work of art.
Sueño Rooftop
2217 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach QLD 4218
Image Credit: Sueño | Two Birds Social
Sueño Rooftop is the playful semi-open air counterpart to its downstairs neighbour, Norté, but don’t let its laid-back vibe fool you—it’s just as impressive. While inspired by the same Latin influences, the focus here is on lighter dishes like ceviches, skewers, and tacos.
Picture baby abalone with fermented habanero and pickled red onion, hiramasa kingfish and Ora King salmon ceviche, and al pastor-style Moreton Bay bug tacos with pineapple and crustacean butter emulsion. In terms of drinks, it’s all about tequila, mezcal, and creative twists on classic cocktails amidst the arid landscape-inspired fit-out.
Burly Bar
3/60 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Waters QLD 4223
Image Credit: Burly Bar | Clayten Fowler Photography
Burly Bar is a dynamic new addition to Currumbin, boasting a stunning fitout, artfully curated cocktails, and a standout small plates menu. Tucked into the newly built The Warehouses on Currumbin Creek Road, this sleek spot has quickly become the talk of the Gold Coast.
Each cocktail is an experience in itself—so good, you’ll be tempted to reorder the same one, but trust us, the entire menu is worth exploring. With its intimate atmosphere and expertly crafted offerings, Burly Bar is the kind of place where one drink effortlessly turns into an unforgettable evening.
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Bar Monte
2/3 Mountain View Ave, Miami QLD 4220
Image Credit: Bar Monte | Clayten Fowler Photography
Bar Monte is the brainchild of Arcade Agency; the team behind lauded venues including four (soon to be five) Light Years locations, Byron Bay’s Moonlight Hibachi Grill & Wine Bar, The Smoking Camel and Pixie Italian Food & Wine. So yes, they know what they’re doing.
From vodka sauce rigatoni topped with spicy nduja and creamy stracciatella to a mouthwatering linguine di mare al cartoccio, it’s clear that the focus here is serving genuine Italian fare, done simply and done well. Throw in a well-curated drinks menu and a cosy, intimate space and you’ve got yourself one of the best new openings on the Gold Coast.
Bobby Bang’s
17 Lavarack Rd, Mermaid Beach QLD 4218
Bobby Bang’s is where cafe classics meet Asian-inspired flair, and they’re making waves in Mermaid Beach. Nestled in The Oxley, this new spot comes from the culinary duo behind the much-loved Lucky Bao, bringing their signature blend of exciting concepts and punchy flavours to an entirely new setting.
At the heart of Bobby Bang’s is a commitment to quality; think seed oil-free milk options, organic Nya Rituals ceremonial cacao and matcha, and food options that will linger in your mind long after you leave. It’s a place where every ingredient feels considered, and every dish is worth talking about.
Sunnyboy Espresso
168 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach QLD 4218
Image Credit: Sunnyboy Espresso | Two Birds Social
Sunnyboy Espresso is a bright and breezy beachside haven, capturing the essence of summer with sun-drenched charm and a laid-back atmosphere. From the team behind Elk Espresso, this Mermaid Beach gem serves up a top-tier menu featuring the likes of creamy Byron Bay stracciatella on sourdough, sticky pork hoagies, and buttery scrambled eggs with hot smoked salmon.
A custom yellow La Marzocco fuels the morning crowd, while a cheeky $49 bottomless mimosa deal ensures brunch effortlessly rolls into golden afternoons. Sunnyboy is more than just a cafe—it’s a nod to nostalgia and a celebration of what the Gold Coast does best: community, food, and sunshine.
Nude Amigos Coolangatta
25/80 Marine Parade, Coolangatta QLD 4225
Image Credit: Nude Amigos | Supplied
Authentic Mexican fare and an extensive margarita menu—it's clear that Nude Amigos Coolangatta is one of the best new openings on the Gold Coast. A sibling to the popular Kingscliff and Broadbeach locations, this tasty spot brings the same bold flavours and laid-back energy to the southern end of the coast.
Expect next-level signature tacos, loaded nachos, and authentic sizzling fajitas, all best enjoyed with a refreshing house-made margarita in hand—our favourite is their take on a chilli marg. With its lively atmosphere and beachfront location, Nude Amigos has already become a go-to for long lunches, sunset cocktails, and late-night feasts.
Sonder Broadbeach
12 Philip Ave, Broadbeach QLD 4218
When it comes to cafes on the Gold Coast, we’re absolutely spoiled for choice. As such, it takes a lot for a cafe to make a splash on these sunny shores, but we think Sonder Broadbeach has managed to hit the mark, and they’ve done so with style.
The interiors are inviting, the food is simple, yet delicious—think oozing truffle cheese toasties and refreshing ricotta and strawberry-topped bagels—and Sonder is run by Melburnian’s, so it goes without saying that the coffee is excellent.
Cook Club
55 Johns Rd, Mudgeeraba QLD 4213
Image Credit: Cook Club | Supplied
When you think of a golf course, great food probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind, at least that’s the case for us, but Cook Club is here to change all that. Perched on Boomerang Farm in Mudgeeraba, this new eatery from the creative minds behind Light Years and Hotel Panchos is making waves with its bold flavours, chilled vibes, and lush forest setting.
Equal parts funky lunch spot and hinterland escape, Cook Club serves up dishes that pack a punch. Think betel leaf grilled prawns with creamy coconut corn, daikon, and crispy sambal, or wood-fire grilled snapper swimming in coconut yellow curry and topped with crunchy toasted nuts. And we’ve not even mentioned the drinks yet—trust us, this is one escape worth making.
Saint Marthe Brasserie
13 Main St, Tamborine Mountain QLD 4272
This Parisian-inspired escape atop Tamborine Mountain has Gold Coasters eagerly making the trip up the mountain. Saint Marthe is the latest success from power couple Marcus McKay and Amalia Tambling, the duo behind Tambo's beloved El Burro Cantina.
Here, classic French flavours take centre stage, with sizzling garlic prawns, overflowing charcuterie boards, and a globally curated selection of wines and cocktails. Whatever you do, don’t leave without trying the crème brûlée—it’s the perfect sweet finale to an unforgettable dining experience.
Cora
50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach QLD 4218
Image Credit: Cora | Supplied
Cora is the kind of place that surprises and delights in equal measure, blending coastal refinement with a playful yet sophisticated take on Mediterranean flavours. Led by hatted head chef Tapos Singha, the menu offers a share-style feast of locally inspired dishes—think pillowy gnocchi primavera, zingy Hiramasa kingfish crudo, and brussels sprouts seared in apple balsamic.
The magic extends beyond the plate, with theatrical cocktails, a swoon-worthy wine list, and an atmosphere that invites you to linger. By the time you leave, you’ll already be planning your next visit.