River House

The Gold Coast has welcomed a refined destination with the opening of River House, a waterfront restaurant perched on the banks of the Nerang River in Southport. 

Helmed by acclaimed chef Grant Madgwick, known for his award-winning venue Artichoke in Sanctuary Cove and 40+ years experience, the new venue blends sophistication, modern Australian flavours and a relaxed coastal feel.

The menu showcases Madgwick’s signature style: local produce, simple techniques, and slight Asian and European influences. 

“Every dish tells a story of where it comes from. We work closely with local suppliers and producers, and we build layers of flavour that make each plate both comforting and surprising. The goal is to serve food that looks beautiful, tastes exceptional, and lingers in your memory,” says Executive Chef and co-owner, Grant Madgwick.

Dig into the likes of salmon carpaccio with soy ponzu, Japanese scallop ceviche with coconut broth, and tempura lobster rolls to start, before moving on to mains like XL BBQ Moreton Bay bugs with duck fat potatoes, Cape Grim eye fillet with shiraz grenache jus or duck confit XO with black cherry sauce and red currants.

Our favourite? The seafood platter for two that’s simply made for long lunches and stacked high with lobster, oysters, crab, scallops, sashimi and truffle fries. Or if you simply can’t decide (we get it) we recommend the ‘Trust The Chef’ option which is a bespoke dining experience personally curated by Madgwick. 

A thoughtful drinks list of boutique wines, premium spirits and coastal-inspired cocktails rounds out the experience.

Inside, River House pairs natural textures and soft lighting with panoramic river views and an easy sense of refinement. It's a seriously prime location for corporate events, birthdays, long lunches and special occasions.

Open for lunch and dinner, River House aims to deliver something the Gold Coast does best—laidback luxury with plenty of flavour.

Image Credit: Clayten Fowler Photography