The Gold Coast’s Oldest Restaurants And Pubs That Are Still Serving Today
Danielle Read
Contributor | Urban List
Gold Coast applauds new openings. We're here for the hype, proud of the pop-up, and go feral for a viral dish. We can't pass up the suspense of a slow launch, the novelty of a fresh fitout or the excitement of a new chef revealing their new menu in a new space. Then, when one place shuts up shop, we're quick to ask about what will open in its spot.
But decades ago, before limited time menus and cheap thrill features, there were humble family-run businesses feeding locals and dishing out the 411 on what's around to tourists. A rich tapestry of hospitality folk who migrated from across the globe, then opened their institutions on our shores. Tongs in one hand, tea towel over the shoulder, and weekly family rituals that saw the same booth at the same restaurant host the same family for 20+ years.
In the wake of 1980s tourism boom, Gold Coast/Kombumerri Country went from quaint seaside holiday locale to today's status of Australia's sixth-largest city. And luckily for us, there are a rare few restaurants that have lived to tell their tales through it all.
Perhaps these old restaurants and pubs aren't as shiny as freshly painted precincts, or as ground-breaking as culinary inventions or even multi-course degustrations. Though there's a deep level of respect and admiration for these independent establishments. Their community commitment, undeniable grit and financial adaptability to navigate some of the most trying times in hospitality history.
For restaurants on the Gold Coast, novelty is easy. But excellence is earned. And these institutions have certainly earned their recognition through the test of time. Here at Urban List, we're of the belief that best doesn't always mean new. And it's worth considering that the key players in hospo who have shaped our culinary landscape, have actually been here all along.
So here you have it, the oldest Gold Coast restaurants and pubs who've lived through every iteration of our dining scene.
Oldest Gold Coast Restaurants
Romana's
2233 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach QLD 4218
Image Credit: Romana's | Website
One of the last remaining heritage restaurants along the Gold Coast Highway, Romana's is the brainchild of Alfonzo and Carmelina Covino who migrated from Naples, Italy to Victoria in 1952. They opened a fresh produce company then relocated to the Gold Coast with their children to start this family business, Romana's, in 1984.
The menu's remained relatively unchanged. Because, there's no need to mess with a good thing. And this venue in Nobby's Beach has a loyal following of die-hard fans. Drop in for some of the best pasta on the Gold Coast. Honestly the Napoli is a dream come true and I can never pass it up.
Insider Intel
- The Covino family also run Valentino's restaurant in Broadbeach
Itoshin
3/2484 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach QLD 4218
Image Credit: Itoshin | Instagram
Itoshin—meaning dear, beloved, darling—first opened in 1988 by Tomy Ito and Chef husband Shin in Miami. Ten years earlier they'd opened and operated their first venue in Kyoto, Japan. They relocated to Mermaid Beach in 2003 and the menu evolved to feature more fine dining dishes. Their son Hibiki ended up cheffing here and joined his brother and dad in the sashimi bar. And in 2019, Hibiki opened his own location, Little Itoshin. It's got a more intimate vibe about it, and curates more of a modern selection of dishes, tucked away within Miami Village shops.
Both venues are thriving and feature many of the same recipes plated up over 30+ years. There's a lot to feast on, from sushi bar delicacies like duck tataki with sliced onion, through to rich bowls of spicy miso ramen with pork belly. Though, the banquet ticks all boxes.
Insider Intel
- Sister restaurant Little Itoshin is run by founders Tomy and Shin's son, Hibiki
George's Paragon
Various locations
Image Credit: George's Paragon | Instagram
It's one thing to survive the changing hospitality landscape over almost 40 years, it's a whole other feat to genuinely thrive. George's Paragon first opened their flagship restaurant in Surfers Paradise's Peninsula Building back in 1988. Since then, their reputation for food has seen more than its fair share of love. George and his team have become somewhat of local icons having opened multiple sea-celebrating restaurants across the Gold Coast. Perhaps, the most mesmerising is the one that backs onto Tallebudgera Creek and looks like its been plucked from the shores of Santorini.
With restaurants across Sanctuary, Coolangatta, Burleigh Heads and Mount Tamborine, there's a retro charm about this joint. From pizza bars and seafood restaurants to cocktail bars and wine. There's a version of this old Gold Coast restaurant for every mood.
Insider Intel
- The Tamborine Mountain locale has recently opened back up and its exactly where to g for saganaki and seafood platters with a side of fresh hinterland air
Alfresco
3/3018 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
image Credit: Alfresco | Website
The origin of Alfresco began in the 80s when an earthquake hit near Naples, Italy. Owners Silvana and Tony Velardo picked up their three-year-old son Raff, and packed their bags to join their family who lived on the Gold Coast. Zero English or kitchen experience made opening Alfresco no easy feat. But the proof's in the longevity of this place, they have nailed traditional Italian flavours on the Gold Coast. In its heyday, Alfrescos was giving party vibes every night, ith Tony singing and entertaining like an absolute weapon.
One visit here and you'll get a taste for why this family has operated hospitality venus for forty years. While Tony has sadly since passed away, his legacy lives on with the restaurant remaining in the family.
Insider Intel
- This restaurant is now run by Tony and Silvana's son Raff
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Oldest Gold Coast Pubs
The Cecil Hotel
42 Nerang St, Southport QLD 4215
Image Credit: The Cecil Hotel | Website
Founded in 1908, this historical Art Deco landmark has a rich history and is firmly one of the oldest Gold Coast pubs. A relic on the Nerang Street strip, The Cecil Hotel almost cracked the 120 years of operation mark and adds noteable character to the street with her soft curves and double decker appearance. And in case you want to sound like those who've headed there for yonks, call it 'The Sess'.
The original building was actually this beautiful timber construct, but that was relocated and a new two brick hotel was built in its place in 1938. The curved facade was a real talking point back in the day. After World War II, this hotel was leased for twenty years by the Eschendhagen family, and refurbished in 2000.
Insider Intel
- $15 daily lunch specials make me feel like it's still 1999
St. Bernards Hotel
101 Alpine Tce, Tamborine Mountain QLD 4272
Image Credit: St Bernard's Hotel | Instagram
Venture up Tamborine Mountain and its near impossible to miss the proud pub that is St. Bernards Hotel. It was built back in 1881, beame a hotel in 1915 and has kept its doors wide open ever since. Over the years, it's taken on many forms, from a guest house to a homebase for American military officers during World War II.
The look's a classic mix of white wash walls meets chocolate brown accents, and its hugged by century old trees that tower above Guanaba Gorge. The views are phenomenal and its proudly independently owned. Hang your hat here the next time you're on the mountain.
Insider Intel
- There are onsite Saint Bernards which are truly iconic and add to the charm
The Wallaby Hotel
45 Railway St, Mudgeeraba QLD 4213
Image Credit: The Wallaby Hotel | Website
Opening in 1884, The Wallaby Hotel isn't only home to one of the oldest restaurants on the Gold Coast, it's one of the oldest pubs in all of Queensland. Horses and their passengers made up some of the OG patrons at The Wallaby, and it remains a vibrant highlight in the township of Mudgeeraba. This neighbourhood watering hole was rebuilt in 1914 and had massive renovations in 2020.
This hotel is heritage listed and recognised as the oldest pub on the Gold Coast. Naturally, the menu features a mix of pub classics, like chicken schnitzels and more creative dishes like maple glazed pumpkin with roquette, Spanish onion and cherry tomatoes.
Insider Intel
- This hotel is home to a thriving live music scene well worth checking out
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