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If there’s one thing the Gold Coast sorely needed was a dedicated whiskey lounge. Lucky for us, the folks at Whiskey Lounge have basically read our minds.

If being confirmed at home this year suddenly sparked a newfound desire to spruce up your pad, we’ve got just the place to make all your interior design dreams come true.

Our friends over the border have opened yet another fresh eatery: Jordy’s in Casuarina. The sprightly sister venue to Tucker is a hop and skip across The Commons garden square and specialises in mouthwatering sourdough pizza, served alongside handpicked natural wines and local brews.

Inspired by the south of Italy, BASKK Italian has popped up on the Southern Gold Coast with gusto and is full of authentic flavours and bang-on woodfire pizzas.

The Lucky Squire is what craft beer-drinking dreams are made of. With an interior that mixes old-world charm with a bit of Gold Coast flair—think loads of timber, offset by accents of copper and zinc—this new Broadbeach brewhouse is big, beautiful and worth clearing your weekend for a visit. 

Colourful, authentic and just the kind of happy place we want in our lives right now, Lolita’s Mexican Cantina is the new Casuarina restaurant you need to know about. 

​Prepare to be blown away, because your favourite crew from Justin Lane have just thrown open the doors to an incredible, neon-lit Asian eatery and it’s the hottest thing we’ve seen in a long, long time.  

The Surf House is Byron Bay’s brand new boutique hostel, complete with the town’s first and only open air rooftop bar. No lie. 

Commanding the corner of Surf Parade and Albert Ave, Koi has always been the go-to spot in Broadbeach for a cheeky cocktail and moreish bowl of fettucine.

Located on Mount Tamborine, Songbirds Rainforest Retreat is up there with the best. Surrounded by tropical forest and more birds than your birdsong app will recognise, six rustic yet totally snuggle-worthy cabins come complete with a king sized bed, spa bath overlooking the trees, floor to ceiling windows, mini bar and tasty breakfast hamper delivered direct to your door each morning.

Realising a long-held career dream, Koki Anekawa opened his first Japanese eatery—Anekawa—tucked away in the unassuming suburb of Mudgeeraba.

Robina Pavilion (hidden behind the old school drive thru bottlo’) is worth hunting down next time you’re keen for a sunny Sunday brewski, a generous chicken parmy on a school night, or perhaps somewhere casual to treat the grandparents that you’ll both enjoy. 

Before you next hit the sand for a beach sesh or the James Street boutiques for a little retail therapy, set your hunger GPS for Crew. Perfectly located for people-watching over a smooth cuppa joe, Crew is the first Queensland cafe by Melbourne’s Inglewood Coffee who also run a bunch of breakfast spots in Victoria.

A super private hacienda set in the Byron Hinterland that sleeps up to nine guests, Temple Farmhouse oozes charm with a touch of global spice. With intimate outdoor areas for that stylish soiree complete with oversized outdoor troths to bath in, this property is as authentic as it is chic. The added touches and detail are what make this property special, like the quirky handmade cubby house and chook pen. A magical place that embraces its natural surrounds and where you’ll often find kangaroos roaming the property, Temple Farmhouse is one of the finest Airbnbs in Byron Bay.

Given the vast populous of the northern end, cool cafes are surprisingly few and far between. Which is why you should know about Helensvale's Bear Boy Espresso. We’re lusting over their on-trend colour palate with terracotta splashed throughout and an upbeat vibe. Perfectly complemented by a seasonal menu currently featuring chicken waffles, cinnamon-spiced fried mango bao, fresh berry hot cakes, acai bowls, Single O coffee and vegan raw treats. If you’re keen to mix up your breakfast routine, Bear Boy Espresso is one of the best cafes on the top end of town and worth the trip north.

Breakfast dates and caffeinated liquid goods all delivered with relaxed yet attentive service in a beachy, sun-drenched setting, Refinery Coffee has your all-day weekend brunching nosh covered. This Currumbin industrial estate-based cafe recently received a beautiful white and bright revamp—including the addition of a full-service kitchen and alcohol license—so if you’ve visited before, you basically won’t recognise it.

Get excited, because Brisbane’s best purveyors of gnocchi have brought their carb-loaded signature dish to the Gold Coast and our body is ready.

You’ll smell Custard Canteen the moment you step out of your car, with baked buttery goodness now wafting on the salty sea breezes.

Fabulous Broadbeach eatery Social Eating House + Bar has always sat high on our list of the Gold Coast’s very best restaurants. So, it’s an exciting day when they launch a sister venue. Now open within the glittering Oracle Boulevard dining precinct, Orzo brings sophisticated coastal Italian cuisine to the Gold Coast.

The Bucha of Byron, makers of premium kombucha in Byron Bay, have recently launched The Dirty Bucha—Australia’s first kombucha and premium spirits range. If you remember the OG Stone & Wood brewery, it has now been converted into The Bucha Shed, open this summer for tours and tastings.

Moxy’s Rooftop Bar is the Gold Coast’s latest addition to the rooftop scene. Its owners have worked hard to create a space that fits nicely between a thumping nightclub and a formal restaurant. It’s a place to come together, enjoy some drinks, have a nibble, and take in live music and DJ sets. Located on Griffith Street, it’s an easy walk from the sands of Coolangatta Beach (post-surf beer, anyone?).

Nightcap is brought to you by the familiar faces behind Bine Craft Beer Bar, Hideaway Kitchen, Mr Hizola’s, Soho Place and Nightjar. This crew has a loyal following—people seem to trail them everywhere they go—and you can trust this prime spot in buzzing Nobby Beach will be no different.    

Adjoining the iconic Cafe DBar, dramatically perched atop Point Danger, is where you’ll find the Gold Coast’s dreamy new boutique, Arche. A delicate revamp of the classic old 1925 Queenslander cottage has transformed the previous gallery into a luxurious lifestyle and design space. 

Mr. is a modern Australian restaurant in Nobby Beach, here for those times you’re eager to treat your faves to an intimate dinner in a refined setting or sip on a fancy cocktail before seeing where the night takes you.  

The team from Burleigh’s Justin Lane have swept into Nobby Beach with a swift revamp of an iconic restaurant and rooftop bar—launching their exciting new venture LOKI (pronounced lock-ee).

Located five minutes’ drive west of Kingscliff and based on a working avocado farm, Red Earth Brewing takes its name from the volcanic soil of the fertile Tweed caldera.

When it comes to Asian cuisine we’re kind of spoilt for choice on the Coast. But we think it’s time to draw your attention to a hidden gem that’s been quietly nailing it for years… we’re banging on about Arakawa, of course! 

Already loved in Noosa and Byron Bay, Light Years Burleigh Heads is a modern and distinctly upbeat Asian diner that’s sure to work its way into your heart, and most certainly your social life. 

A homegrown success story, Homebodii is one of Australia’s favourite bridal and loungewear labels. Sold in David Jones, Nordstrom, The Iconic, Anthropologie and Revolve Clothing and making its New York Fashion Week debut in 2016, Homebodii is bringing the brand back to where it all started, opening its first permanent retail store at Pacific Fair. 

Taking full advantage of its valuable coastal location and sweeping views that stretch from Miami Hill to Greenmount, the casual bistro upstairs and breezy Sports Bar downstairs at The Miami is a breath of fresh air.   

Fig + Frankie’s has stylishly converted a forgotten Broadbeach alleyway into an inviting social nook that we expect will be seriously popular under balmy, starry nights. They’ve made magic with the hole-in-the-wall bar space too, with white and terracotta washed walls, peach-hued brick, blonde wood, sophisticated pendant lights, solo booth at the rear and five bentwood stools lining the bar which you’ll totally want to nab for quality banter with the bartender.

The Doughnut Affair dessert bar in Mermaid Beach is like no other doughnut you’ve experienced before.

Originating on the sunny shores of Manly in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, 4 Pines has branched out with its first branded bar outside of NSW, landing right here on the Gold Coast—Coolangatta to be precise.

Already a HUGE success in Melbourne and Brisbane, Zero Latency is a state-of-the-art VR experience set in a 200sqm warehouse-sized area in Southport. Zero Latency allows up to eight players to roam freely throughout the space and completely immerse themselves in virtual reality. Fight for survival amidst a zombie apocalypse, bound through outer space where you can rescue a space station, or walk through a fantastical dreamlike universe with a pack of your most loyal pals.

This striking, sun-drenched venue—with its Tasmanian Oak and pressed metal bar, salvaged hardwood beams lining high ceilings and dreamy cluster of rattan pendant lights completing the magazine-worthy backdrop—has just filled a gaping hole in the hearts of the Coast’s social northern set. Located in Benowa, Double Barrel Kitchen & Bar has an enviable waterfront location and lounge-worthy deck chairs out front—a special setting that simply draws you in to linger. 

Luring you in with $12 espresso martinis all day, everyday is Nobby Beach’s moody new cocktail bar and restaurant—Nobby’s Rock. The gin-driven bar menu featuring a range of slurpable gin-inspired medleys, including an Ink Gin Martini crafted with Husk Distiller’s favourite indigo-hued spirit, will see you stashing your keys and calling an Uber.

Stepping into Next Door’s alfresco cafe will set your heart aflutter with its crisp decor, understated styling and breezy Mediterranean vibes. From the solid teak tables imported from Jakarta to the inviting blue and white striped seating, designer rattan loungers, olive tree centerpiece, and freshly-planted white bougainvillea and jasmine vines that will soon creep their way around the outskirts, Next Door is laidback bohemian luxury.

Set in dew-draped Currumbin Valley is the splendid Eden Health Retreat, occupying a sheer 120 hectares of tranquil promised land and fresh country air. Built with sustainability in mind, this holistic earthy-inspired retreat covers all aspects of wellness: fitness, nutrition, naturopathy and life coaching to name albeit a few indulgences.

if your brunching decisions are largely influenced by the opportunity for likeable Instagram fodder, you’ll want to know about this new all-pink cafe.

St Barts—a brand that’s synonymous with flawless interior style and design—has revealed its third store and new headquarters: a two-storey homewares, furniture and fine art showroom in the Burleigh industrial estate, with an adjoining cafe by the team from Next Door Espresso.

We’ve all watched on with intrigue as a massive two-story, open-air restaurant has slowly taken shape on Burleigh’s main eating strip. Located directly next door to all-star favourite Justin Lane, we’ve no doubt this mega venue will be one of the most hotly anticipated openings of the season. And you won’t need to wait long. 

Located in Broadbeach, Miss Moneypenny’s coastal colour palette is dreamy and the styling is elegantly timeless. From the terracotta breeze wall entry way and stunning terracotta lined bar, to the walnut tables, plush heathered grey and sea foam blue couch seating—Miss Moneypenny’s is chic, grown up and very classy.

Shopping on the Coast never tasted so good, with The Bavarian bringing their signature German eats, German beers and warm hospitality to The Kitchens at Robina Town Centre.  

Located under the five-star Avani Apartments in Broadbeach, Fat Freddy’s is nailing the true American sports bar style, with a coastal twist. Picture: dark leather banquette booths and stools, dark wood rafters overhead and floorboards underfoot, while bi-fold doors allow those signature GC rays to flood inside—or, as owner Ben Walsh dubs it, “a clean cut dive bar”.

The benefits of tequila are bountiful. While you might not hear health gurus gunning for tequila like they do kale and kefir, the Mexican fave aids digestion, has probiotic components, and allows you to dance on a table without a care in the world—making the margarita the ideal Friday night cocktail.

Surfers Paradise Beer Garden has re-opened after a multi-million-dollar renovation, taking full advantage of its prime location.

Located high in the lush Gold Coast Hinterland is the famous Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat. Offering the perfect balance of fitness, nutrition and heavenly rest, Gwinganna will soothe your soul—just what the doctor ordered. A picture-perfect infinity pool overlooking the hinterland hills and ocean is a great place to spend your afternoon after a day of spa pampering.

With each taste of an Izakaya Midori dish, you’re transported straight to the simple, honest and calming pleasures of Japan. Except for this time, those Japanese eats you’re savouring? They’re completely vegan. On the menu, you’ll find everything from plant-based Katsu Don to rich ramen and bite-sized nigiri sushi topped with wild mushrooms, sliced apple and carefully carved tomato flesh. Although they’re the Gold Coast’s first-ever vegan Japanese restaurant, even the most seasoned meat-eater would be forgiven for mistaking these earth-powered dishes for the real deal. Sip sparkling sake and a selection of refreshing Japanese beers while you visit. Well worth the road trip to Reedy Creek any day of the week.

From the outside looking in, dimly lit Lupo has the essence of an Italian neighbourhood trattoria and late-night bar. It already feels worn and lived in, like it’s been there forever. Dark timber furnishings and Bentwood chairs join inviting forest green booths and banquettes; spherical ceiling lights, grey-washed walls and exposed cement floors all tie together seamlessly in the 40-seater dining room. 

Raw + Rice is one of the best dedicated poke bars on the Gold Coast, serving deliciously fresh bowls of goodness just a stone's throw from both Coolangatta and Greenmount Beach. 

Located on Tugun’s busy shopping nook, Caracara—named after the majestic falcon on the Mexican flag—will be a low-key tequila bar tucked away in the rear and a bright and welcoming cantina in the front, bringing some much needed after dark buzz to the 4222.

More than just a place to satisfy your growling stomach between shopping sprees, Crafty’s Sports Bar oozes fun times with the help of cornhole boards, ping pong and live sport. They’re doing a pretty sweet job in their mission to redefine the stereotypical manly ‘sports bar’ into an all day, approachable, family-friendly affair.

Who doesn’t love a gorgeous golden tan? What we don’t love is the harmful effect the sun can cause on our skin. Thankfully we’re blessed with a bunch of seriously good spray tan salons here on the Gold Coast, and they don’t come much greater than the crew at Bella Bronze.

Located on the popular foodie strip outside The Oasis, this Thai eatery is all about showcasing local produce and pairing them with Thai flavours. 

The authentic Italian eatery is headed up by husband and wife duo Fabio Rocco Ricciardi and his wife, Frederica Scalambra. Forget your regular Spaghetti Bolognese, here they’re serving up some seriously special dishes. Like the Gnocconi Ripieni, which is giant gnocchi, crispy on the outside and fluffy in the middle, filled with goat’s cheese and chives, topped with a chunky veal ragu sauce. 

The Studio Upstairs, which sits high above the hustle and bustle of Burleigh’s Connor Street, is a bright, calming oasis, home to a collective of talented hairdressers, make-up artists and yogis alike.

This boutique bed and breakfast, set on 28 acres, is the ultimate weekend getaway just an hour’s drive from the Gold Coast. The sprawling property, beautifully framed in acres of lush rainforest, comprises of three private pavilions. Each is thoughtfully fitted out with the latest environmentally sustainable energy saving 20kW solar system as well as modern luxuries, designed to ensure you unwind and zen out. Added features include a sauna, 10-metre mineral magnesium infinity pool and the option for a dreamy massage. 

The 1980s-inspired arcade covers a sprawling 400 square metres and is kitted out with all the latest gaming mod cons including the Coast’s first embedded tap-and-play card system. Simply load up your card with some cash and tap away to start your game. You can refill it whenever you want. 

Located along Gold Coast Highway, Sisterhood Coffee is the brainchild of mates Christie Graae and Sam Dunne, who after years in the hospitality industry decided they wanted to create a café that welcomed everyone, from hipsters to your gran.

A massive crowd favourite and located in Helensvale, Flour Of Life Bakery operates every day with vegan baked and sweet treats from vanilla slices, doughnuts and cronuts, croissants, ‘sausage’ rolls and savoury pies (cue childhood memories!) and more, baked fresh daily.