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If you haven’t heard already, us lucky Gold Coasters are the new recipients of our a brand new Asian foodie precinct, and we’re pretty hyped about it. Serving up the very best of Asian street food, Chop Chop consists of 14 tenants, all specialising in their own style of Asian dining.

If there’s one thing we love, it’s when local businesses take off, and success stories don’t get much bigger than Alpha H. The beauty brand was founded on the Gold Coast by Michelle Doherty, who created Alpha H after experiencing her own skin struggles and desire for more effective treatments. In the two decades since it’s inception, the range has become the holy grail of beauty products, producing skincare that achieves clinical results with minimal effort. 

This locally loved fruit and flower shop is the best option for when you want to cruise down to Tugun Beach, acai bowl in hand and be grateful for where we get to live. It’s hard to leave this joint without a beautiful bouquet of flowers too. But their absolute star, has to be their acai bowls, which are so extra, they're more like containers of constant satisfaction with every mouthful. And because they are a fruit shop, they have the best and freshest toppings day in, day out. And each time you’ll get a surprise, it’s pretty much a whole fruit salad in there. 

Attached to the PLB Group’s wedding and events venue Ancora, this waterfront bakehouse is an absolute must do. 

The second you step inside Voco you’ll feel a sense of calm—which is ironic given its amazing location right in the hustle and bustle of Surfers Paradise. That’s probably down to its recent makeover which has breathed new life into the building—crisp white furnishings and touches of nautical navy and pops of fresh yellow. It’s coastal chic and we’re digging it. 

Sometimes you can find gems in the most unsuspecting of locations, which rings true for a newcomer to the top Gold Coast barbers list, Backbone Barbershop. Tucked away in a retail complex in the humming Currumbin Industrial Estate, Backbone Barbershop is the first solo venture for UK transplant and barber extraordinaire, Sam Squires. If you remember Sam from Alfred’s barber or Edwards & Co in Coolangatta, and were wondering where he’d disappeared off to, now you can book your seat for cutthroat shaves, fades, cuts and all the modern barbering services.

If there’s one thing we love here on the Gold Coast, it’s a new watering hole. But we give extra points if said new bar is thinking outside the box, and you can’t get quirkier than Rosella’s. 

Frankies comes to us care of Melbourne hospitality veteran Frank Heaney, with Dylan Cashman, formerly of The Blue Door On 5th, heading up the kitchen—so you know you’re in for a serious treat.

Serving up Byron Bay’s Marvell Street beans and a menu full of spray free and locally sourced ingredients, Highline in Palm Beach is an absolute must-do. 

The swanky restaurant and wine bar comes to us care of chef Jayden Barker and his father Andrew, the duo behind Nero Dining Room in Broadbeach.

Located just across the road from Mr Hizola’s and Jimmy Wahs, BKA is in good company and it has the goods to back it up too. BKA which stands for ‘be kind, always’ is the true ethos behind both the team and the menu. All ingredients are sourced locally and sustainably so expect to see their menu change often. Their dishes range from share plates and nibbles to larger, more refined meals.

Say hello to Frida Sol, the Coast’s newest Mexican bar and taqueria. Frida comes to us courtesy of the crew at Mermaid Beach hotspot Bonita Bonita who wanted to give southern Gold Coast a taste of their mouth-watering eats and cocktails. Their timing couldn’t be better.

Accessed via a non-descript Broadbeach laneway, this hidden gem is filled with all manner of nautical knick knacks and island-themed paraphernalia, creating a buzzing space with nooks and tiki-styled rooms that’ll sucker you in to keep exploring. Though you’ve come for Aloha's legendary selection of cocktails served in various fun vessels from hollowed pineapples and watermelons, to treasure chests and tiki mugs.

Heartfill is the passion project of local teacher-turned-sustainable living queen Corinne Russel, who believes in filling your heart, not filling the land. And this is the ethos she’s embodied through Heartfill, a one-stop-shop for flowers, clothing, art, craft, homewares, and vintage pieces.

The Sweet Fine Artist Studio has opened up shop in the ever-growing creative hub of Mermaid Beach. Located just around the corner from The Borrowed Nursery and Morena Espresso, this awesome new studio is the brainchild of artist Maree Quinn who has over 20 years of experience, creating, selling and teaching art. And now she wants to share her passion with people like us. 

Morena Espresso is so much more than just a coffee shop–although they do brew an excellent cuppa. The space, which is bright and airy with white washed walls, concrete floors, exposed beams and loads of natural light, is a booming creative hub. 

Fellas looking for fresh cuts and cool vibes on the northern end of the Coast need to book themselves in with The Lost Boys. The talented crew will hook you up with slick fades and perfectly tailored beards all in the comfort of their super sweet digs. The place has all the charm and class of an old school barbershop but with modern quirks. And by that we mean a bar serving up Stone & Wood to quench your thirst. The combination of a relaxed, chilled out atmosphere and top-notch service means you’ll no doubt make this spot your go-to. 

Who doesn’t love a little staycation? After all, we really do live in the best city in the world. So, if you’re looking for some local r & r or you’re an out-of-towner thinking of visiting the gorgeous Gold Coast, you’re going to want to check in to the new Pink Hotel Coolangatta. 

The Broadbeach eatery is the second location in the Sens Coffee stable, with the OG opening in Southport a few years ago. The breakfast and lunch menu feature a mix of vegan and vegetarian options as well as some truly indulgent dishes with both modern Australian, French and Asian influences. 

Say hello to Substance, an achingly cool boutique stocked with lust-worthy pieces. 

We’re not sure what we love more? The magic the team at HACQ work on our locks or their new beachside digs. After transforming the tresses of gals and guys on the Gold Coast for over 13 years, Marissa and her team have waved goodbye to their Burleigh Heads home and have relaunched in gorgeous Currumbin. And trust us, it’s the perfect little sanctuary for you to get pampered. 

The Coast is positively packed with talented creatives and Norton & Norton is one of our faves. Jo Norton’s passion comes from the fact her work will be held, used and will stay in people’s homes for what she hopes is a long time. Her pieces can be found in popular restaurants all over the Coast. Her palate of neutral tones makes for some seriously lust-worthy pieces, all hand made in her Currumbin studio. One of our fave parts? Her adorable dog Doug who’s often hanging around the studio. 

The much-loved eatery, located just a block back from the Cooly beachfront, is known for its seriously good coffee (they brew Bun Coffee’s 100% organic, fair trade blend, hand roasted in Byron) and their delish brekky and lunch options. Oh and did we mention the prices are very wallet friendly. 

Tucked away in an industrial corner of Currumbin this beautiful old warehouse aims to be a home to creative souls all over the Coast. Boasting a lust-worthy interior the Dust Temple is a community space that caters to just about everyone. Grab a friend and head to the popular café at the front of the building, serving up great coffee and even better pastries, then peruse the latest exhibition in the art gallery boasting local and international artists. Come night time the space is transformed to anything from a jazz club to a slam poetry competition and everything in between. Creativity has no limits here. 

Simple, elegant and inviting, Tasca, Coolangatta’s intimate wine bar uses a mix of white panelling, exposed brick, cement tones, dark wood and leather banquettes and booths to create a sophisticated space that’s a rare find on this end of the Coast.

If you and your crew haven’t paid a visit to Lumber Punks in Miami, then you’re seriously missing out. For $45 each you and up to 10 of your closest pals will get an hour and a half session. Don’t worry if you’ve never thrown an axe before (who has?) as one of the rad crew at Lumber Punks will taking you through all the basics to help perfect your skills—literally anyone can learn how to throw a good axe. Then you’ll have free range to challenge your mates to a game or two.

If you love natural, totally gorge hair then we’ve found the salon for you. At Gilston Four, the team are all about embracing your own beauty and know just how to take your locks to the next level. The intimate salon has only, yep you guessed it, four chairs, so you’re always made to feel super spesh, whether that be having your champagne glass constantly topped up or sampling one of owner Jason’s daily sweet treats—his creations are just as incredible as his hairdressing skills, delish! The space oozes luxury with sheer black curtains, lush hanging greenery and pendant lights. But despite its swanky appearance you won’t find an ounce of pretence here. You might arrive a stranger, but you’ll leave feeling like one of the family—and looking like a goddess. 

Hidden down an Orchid Avenue alley that’s filled with street art (look for the neon tiki head sign) is where you’ll find one of the coolest bars in Surfers Paradise, Taboo Tiki. Inside, there’s a huge rum bar slinging fabulous OTT  tipples that come served in traditional ceramic tiki mugs. As well as ample tables and seating, there’s also uber-cute South Pacific-style huts you can book for special events. This joint oozes holiday vibes and there’s nary an exploited lingerie girl in sight.

Say hello to The Gin Parlour & Infusion Bar, the gorge new watering hole from the uber talented folk at Miami Marketta. Not simply content serving up some of the best noms at their night market, the team have created a stunning space that is pouring some bloody good drinks from their list of 90 (yes, you read that right) local and international gins.

Say hello to the White Rhino, the Coast’s $4 million, two story restaurant and bar venue located in the Circle on Cavill precinct in Surfers Paradise. 

Craft House is about to become your new fave local. Located in Tugun, the uber cool bar and restaurant is serving up 20 craft beers from 15 local and international breweries so you’ll never go thirsty. Not into beer? No worries, there’s also an impressive wine and cocktail list—we recommend the Tugun Ice Tea. Foodies will be impressed with their share-style menu packed with tasty noms. Think seared scallops with roasted and pickled cauliflower; citrus and Star Anise cured salmon with watermelon and whipped horseradish and lamb cutlets with roasted pumpkin and cucumber jus. This place is all about good vibes so expect live music, comedy nights, beer tasting classes from local breweries and cocktail comps. All in all it’s going to be a cracking good time at the Craft House.

You might recognise this address as the former home of Gold Coast institution Nobby’s Arc. Well the old gal has retired and in her place is The Arc, your new fave watering hole.

Is it just us or does a good brow make you feel like you can take on the world? If you’re nodding your head along with us then you’ll want to pay the talented gang at the iBrow Boutique a visit asap. The Mermaid Beach salon is a tranquil little oasis were, after a consultation on your wants and needs, the technicians will work their magic giving you the perfect set of brows. But that’s not all they do. They also specialise in lash lifts (this is a game changer) as well as spray tans, cosmetic tattooing, make up and a bunch of heavenly skin treatments—there’s even a mini teen facial, sah cute. So if you’re looking to treat yo’self (and you should, every damn day we reckon) then you know where to go.

Located in the heart of this surf-frenzied suburb and its restaurants and cafes, About A Girl is the perfect way to end an afternoon on the beach, by strolling through this friendly and relaxed fashion boutique. With a twist of chilled-out surfer-style pieces from brands like Mink Pink, One Teaspoon, All About Eve and Jorge—this fashion boutique is perfect for a girl who knows how to rock her swagger, without needing to show it all off. It’s the Gold Coast interpretation of the French’s 'effortlessly chic'; casual and unique style wear that suits you to a T.

Located at the northern end of their sprawling venue, The Tropic offers Gold Coasters a more refined experience compared to the laid-back vibe of The Terrace. Boasting stunning views of the coastline, the eatery’s jaw-dropping locale makes you feel as if you’re dining on the edge of the ocean.  

If you’ve been cruising along the GC HWY and spotted what looked like an adorable weatherboard house with a group of genetically blessed people hanging out the front, then you’ve found The Front Yard. The cute-as-a-button former home has been transformed into a creative hub with a gallery, coffee nook, nail bar and uber cool salon. So you can basically walk in looking like a hot mess and strut out looking like a 10! We dig that. 

Granddad Jacks, an epic distillery, is a welcome addition to the ever-growing hub of Miami. The building (formerly Bravo Boards) has been totally transformed into one seriously cool spot with a slick barber shop set up and uber cool barrel room. The space is serving up chic loft vibes with exposed brick walls, arched ceilings, lush hanging greenery, recycled wood and steel beams. And, we have to give a shout out to the epic concrete slab bar—it’s just begging for you to pull up a stool and settle in for the night. 

Calling on all modern, free-spirited brides—this adorable store is for you. Located in an uber cool tin house in Burleigh, inside the studio is a boho dream with warm wood, touches of lush greenery and ornate furnishings. In short—a stylish gal’s paradise. But the real star here is of course, the breathtaking dresses. The gang at Grace Loves Lace specialise in effortless, luxurious and timeless wedding gowns. Handmade from the finest European laces and silks, their beautiful creations are for the modern bride, the vintage lover, the rule breaker and everyone in between. The biggest issue you’ll have here, is narrowing your choice down to just one.

Finn Poké of Byron Bay has migrated north, opening it's doors in Burleigh. 

With a carefully-curated Asian fusion menu of contemporary dishes from Vietnam, Thailand and further afield, this Burleigh Beach waterfront favourite not only offers lust-worthy views across the table but some of the most delish dishes we’ve tucked our knife and fork into. Firstly, quality over quantity is the name of the game here, so you will not leave disappointed after the likes of soft shell crab on betel leaf, Rick’s famous Moreton Bay bug rolls, Kingfish sashimi and king prawn yellow curry. Hot tip? Rick Shores’ outdoor walk-in patio seats are all-time for a vino or frosty beer with a view, plus that golden hour around sunset is extra magical, so plan your night accordingly. Rick Shores is hands down one of the best restaurants on the Gold Coast.

Smack bang in the heart of Tugun, Sticky Rice offers Southern Gold Coasters a refined and modern Thai menu—we’re talking curries and cocktails people. Here you’ll find a selection of small plates celebrating Thai culture with fresh and delicious flavours such as soft-shell crab with chili jam, salmon fillet with Penang sauce, Massaman beef cheek and whole Barramundi. Drooling yet?

Northern Gold Coast has a hidden gem on their hands with this adorable eatery. The second offering from duo Zoe Scorgie and Glen Hordern (their OG Paper Cup opened in Labrador in 2015) is a breath of fresh air in the busy business precinct of Southport. With crisp white walls, lush greenery and wood it’s a calm and relaxing nook to grab a cup of their seriously good coffee and chow down on their healthy noms.

If you, like us, were broken-hearted when Doughnut Time shut up shop then boy do we have some lip-smackingly good news for you—they’re back baby and they’re moving into sought-after Burleigh Heads. The store is set to open its doors next month, AKA the perfect time to grab one of their sugary creations and go for a stroll up Burleigh Hill—‘cause it’s all about balance right?

Move over ice cream sandwiches and Nutella crepes, the king of Hong Kong street desserts, bubble waffles, have landed on the Gold Coast—permanently. Born and raised in Hong Kong themselves, Brissy Bubble Waffle owners first introduced Queenslanders to their creations via various Brisvegas night markets, and have now opened their very own dessert cafe in Surfers Paradise—dubbed Bubbo Dessert. 

It may be across the road from the airport, but this cute AF beach shack style motel will have you forgetting about the plane noise in no time. Situated a hop, skip and a jump to the barely touched, squeaky clean sands of Bilinga Beach, and smack bang in the middle of Kirra and Tugun, you won’t know where to take the free bicycles to first. La Costa has a retro and nostalgic feel with the white picket fence and colourful deck chairs and umbrellas in the courtyard, while the rooms are beautifully simple and have everything you need for a comfortable vacay (and yes they include a minibar if you forget to grab something for a night cap). A short stroll to Mervyn Roy’s for your morning cup of joe and freshly baked scones and then watching the sun rise over the sea, followed by a mid morning acai (from our favs at Niche and Co) will make you never want to leave.

Step inside this moody, monochromatic store and you’ll be sure to find something unique and classic. A crisp white shirt from Viktoria+Woods or perhaps the softest Italian leather bag from Dylan Kain; these brands and many more sit in harmony within Moelleux’s slick designer walls. They stock something for the ladies AND something for the fellas, including a big range of Aussie designers which always brings a smile to our dial. Just be prepared to clean out your wallet and your savings and your entire bank account—ok you get the point—when you stop by because this shop is so damn lust-worthy. 

There’s no denying that Gold Coasters love sinking local brews in the dazzling Queensland sunshine, all year round. Hence why we're frothing over the Coast's newest craft brewery, Lost Palms. You won't miss their giant blush and mint green Miami warehouse, set against the street’s industrial backdrop and otherwise cement landscape. Chill in the outdoor drinking area and get amongst refreshingly unique beers brewed on site in a laid back setup bursting with charisma. 

Ladies, brace yourself for an ovary explosion the second you step foot inside Halo & Horns Company. This totally adorbs childrenswear boutique, located in The Strand at Coolangatta, is stocked with the cutest clothes, just perfect for the special mini-me in your life. 

If you’re after swoon-worthy hair – who isn’t? – then the talented crew at Edwards and Co have got you covered. The brand, which has a celeb following including the likes of Lara Worthington and Samara Weaving, has an impressive six salons across the country and we’re lucky enough to have one right here on the Goldie. Nestled in the heart of Budds Beach away from the hustle and bustle of Surfers Paradise, this little gem is absolutely one to pay a visit.

You know from the name this place is going to be straight-up adorable, and it totally is. The former convenience store-turned-café is honestly so gorgeous you’ll find yourself dropping ‘so cute’ comments the second you step inside. There’s wall to wall bookshelves crammed with colour-coordinated reads, fairy lights strung up next to a chandelier and Persian rugs cover the floor. But despite its obvious beauty, Bumbles – nestled in the heart of Budds Beach - is homely and warm, serving up a menu that makes the simplest thing unbelievably tasty. Or, if you’re feeling daring, you can have what we at The Urban List call a backwards day, where you eat dessert for breakfast and work your way back until you’re having breakfast for dessert. In this case, red velvet cake for brekkie is a safe bet. One of the best breakfasts in Surfers Paradise? You bet! They also make a cracking cuppa and offer high tea on the weekend. What are you waiting for? 

Here at The Urban List we’re absolute suckers for a gorgeous interior. So from the moment we stepped foot inside The Milkman’s Daughter we were positively squealing with delight.

An adorable addition to the Cornerstone Stores precinct is Little Loves Studio. Little Loves brings together local and national kidswear brands including Children of the Tribe, Sweet Child of Mine, Kaisea Swim, Two Tykes, Pop Ya Tot, Our Folk and the Scared Bundle bassinets of your mummy dreams. They can help you out with a sweet selection of nursery finds for all those upcoming baby showers too. 

You know those sunflower field photos that are blowing up all over Insta? Yep, those sun-worshipping beauties are from this place! Farm & Co. is harvesting a variety of crops, and you’re invited to peruse their sunny fields, pick yourself a new yellow friend for $2 and say howdy to some happy chickens. Best enjoyed with a Blackboard coffee in hand (catch the mobile coffee Land Rover most weekends), spend all day filling your camera roll before stopping into their cosy shop stocked with a range of fresh produce, barn-made soups and the friendliest farmers you’ll ever meet. Open seven days, this 30-year-young avocado farm has transformed into something much bigger—a place for Kingscliff locals and visitors to enjoy fresh produce without harmful chemicals, every day of the week.

Burleigh eatery Osteria Del Mare, which is set to open in late June, will offer up fresh pasta daily plus moreish pizza, 100% homemade, naturally risen for 48 hours and cooked straight from the stone. While most of the ingredients will be imported direct from Italy, Chef and Owner Andrea Riva will also source meat and fish locally. With the ethos that everything will be made from scratch, Andrea, who has 20 years’ experience behind him, is hoping his signature charcoal seafood lasagna is a winner with diners. Yeah, we have a good feeling about that one, our mouths are watering just thinking about it. 

If you’re the kind of person who won’t add anything to a space without some serious thought, or who puts in hours of contemplation for that perfect birthday gift, Kind Curations is your store. Minimalist yet perfectly pieced together, Tugun local Kasey is bringing a bunch of new-to-the-Coast brands together under one roof. Such as LA’s Garrett Leight eyewear, Stone Cold Fox and the only Australian stockist of Christy Dawn womenswear. You’ll also lust over footwear by Woven Palm, ceramics by locals Jo Norton, Hunchmark and Sunny Coaster Kim Wallace, or glass wear and candles by Maison Balzac. Yep, we’re already coveting wayyy too much for our bank balance.

For top-notch pizza, pasta and share plates that won’t break the bank, it’s obvious why locals have fallen head over heels for Mermaid Beach’s Goccia. Cosy up inside close to the wood-fired pizza oven or dine alfresco under the festoon lights, Goccia (pronounced ‘gotcha’) is like a warm hug from family, made all the more authentic by the Italian accents taking your order with a smile. In all seriousness though, we’re going to be bold and claim Goccia are serving up some of the absolute best pizzas on the Gold Coast. Bellisimo! 

Size definitely does not matter when it comes to creating a tranquil space, so sashay upstairs at Cornerstone Stores to Earth Essence’s private treatment room. With its leafy outlook, here you can indulge in an organic spa menu from facials to manis and pedis, waxing, microdermabrasion, eye lash extensions and tanning. Or, benefit from a technology originally developed by NASA to grow plants in space—infrared light treatment for cell generation and anti aging. Ah, it sounds like we all need a little Earth Essence in our lives.

An evolution on the typical shopping centre food court experience, The Kitchens is a jaw-dropping foodie precinct within Robina Town Centre. Shop ‘til you drop then be spoilt for choice with 20-plus foodie retailers, purveyors, artisans, interactive cooking workshops, open kitchens and pop-up market stalls, plus rotating musos and buskers. Take your pick from teppanyaki at Saiko, vegan eats from Elixiba, Asian street eats from Roti & Buns and Muso Ramen, plus oh so much more. Did we mention there’s even an espresso martini bar?!