Directory

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.

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. 

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?! 

Fitness mavens, if you’re lurking around the southern end and NEED a new something-something for your activewear collection, this one is for you! Walk through the doors at Prae Store in the beautiful Cornerstone Stores precinct, and you’ll be whisked into a calming boutique lined with hand-selected active wear pieces from P.E. Nation, First Base and Nimble. Together with a range of teas, incense and natural skin care ranges; Prae Store stocks make up by Inika, serums and creams by Cedar + Stone and Edible Beauty, plus more. Not forgetting a wellness-focussed collection of fine jewellery and stones from By Charlotte and Violet Grey, respected for their therapeutic characteristics, and you’re practically gliding into an I-want-to-buy-everything dream. 

A scenic drive south across the NSW border is where you’ll find Taverna, and a slice of Santorini in the sleepy seaside village of Kingscliff. This adorable Greek-inspired eatery will spoil with saganaki-like haloumi, charred octopus with pickled vegetables, and 48-hour slow-cooked lamb; paired perfectly with salty ocean breezes. With its cute peppermint front door and crisp white interiors, you’ll wanna Instagram the heck out of everything. You have been warned. 

Burleigh Heads has another mouth-watering addition to add to its foodie portfolio with Sydney chef Alex Munoz Labart opening his first restaurant in the neighbourhood.   

If you prefer your fruit n veg without copious amounts of sprays and toxins, then you should make your way to Queensland’s only truly organic grower’s market, selling only the best quality produce. Did you know that organic fruit, vegetables and meat have 40 to 90% more antioxidants than commercially-grown food? Us neither, but that coupled with completely affordable prices is a good enough reason to visit Miami’s Organic Farmers Market. Some weekends you’ll find community stalls promoting environmental awareness and natural health practices. So, if you want to get a little more educated on our planet and our produce, pop down and spin a yarn with one of the stallholders. Held every Sunday morning at Miami State High School between 6am and 11:30am.

Held monthly on a Saturday afternoon, at The Green Marquee Twilight Eco Markets expect all the feel-good community vibes as you wander around market stalls adorned with handmade jewellery, recycled clothing, ceramics and vegan skincare; plus delish food trucks, live music to get you grooving, fresh produce from Ground Grocer, coffee and cakes from Pasture & Co., activities for the kids, plus local brewskies from Black Hops, Balter and Ink Gin for the adults. BYO picnic blanket is essential! 

In the 1980s, husband and wife team Vien and Thao started life in Australia as refugees. Today they are the faces behind Runaway Bay's popular Can Tho Kitchen and we’re so glad they chose to call the Gold Coast home. Sharing with us all the mind-blowing Vietnamese flavours we adore, like beef pho, rice paper rolls, and steaming wok and clay pot concoctions; all wrapped up in an energetic and colourful package.

Strategically located at the entrance to Currumbin’s fertile valley—meaning a shorter distance from source to market—this boutique farmers market is certain to become your mid-week ritual. Held every Thursday morning, at the Currumbin Community Markets you can fill your basket with organic fruits and vege, meats, jams and baked goods, then stay for the breezy live music, picnic blanket hangs and activities for the little tots. 

Since opening in early 2014, Bonita Bonita has been a runaway success, delivering some of the best Mexican on the Gold Coast. This is undoubtedly one of our fave restaurants in Mermaid Beach, and it’s all thanks to the tight-knit local team busting their beautiful backsides to bring us next-level foodie fare and ambiance. While we could go on forever, start with the crispy snapper tacos, ceviche, sweet pumpkin empanadas, Bonita Margaritas and tequila with a verdita chaser. The latter are best consumed next door at sexy BonBon Bar. Hola!

On the hunt for a super welcoming coworking space on the Gold Coast? Sometimes you just want to hang out in a spot that doesn’t make you quiver with fear if you accidentally drop a pen. Sure, working in absolute silence can be good for productivity, but you can do that at your own place. The Communal House always has the tunes cranking and comes pre-packaged with people to bounce ideas off across their 12 desks. 

Offering a few different class options from beginner, intermediate and reformer to HIIT and Met Con (metabolic conditioning) this compact Miami studio will help you on your way to a toned bod and refreshed mind in no time. Precision is a huge focus at Pilates and Co. and because of this your workout ensures you stay incredibly mindful as you concentrate on aligning your posture, lifting your pelvic floor, keeping your spine in neutral, lengthening your limbs and the timing of your breath. Complicated much? The smiling staff are superb at talking you through each step with the goal being inner control, and complete coordination of body and mind. Located upstairs of Kira & Kira on the Gold Coast Highway, Pilates & Co.’s introductory offer of four sessions for $80 is one not to be missed. 

If you’re on the hunt for some of the best breakfasts on the Gold Coast we recommend hunting down Mermaid Waters local gem, Double Barrel Kitchen. Get cosy with a cuppa surrounded by rustic décor and friendly baristas while tucking into a seasonally changing menu including the likes of hot smoked trout and zucchini fritters with a side of homemade melting moments cookies. 

Part of the Ground Currumbin collective in the Currumbin Valley Ecovillage, Pasture & Co. cafe offers numerous reasons to jump off the well trod path; think: kangaroos, cold pressed juices and a co-op farmer’s markets. And when you’re finished sipping hot chai and lounging over your scrambled tofu, you can head upstairs for a healing therapy like Shiatsu massage or Kinesiology. 

Another veteran among the best Italian restaurants on the Gold Coast, Ristorante Fellini has been operating, very successfully, for a staggering 20-plus years, so know you’re onto a winner. Located overlooking the water at stunning Marina Mirage, family run Fellini has every element of Italian cuisine absolutely perfected. From meticulously crafted pasta and stuffed zucchini flowers to fresh-off-the-boat seafood, traditional desserts and an extensive wine list. With a team of heavyweight restaurateurs, chefs and sommeliers, Fellini is one of the city’s most respected institutions and will no doubt be sticking around for another few decades yet. Date night, anyone?  

We all feel a little bit spesh when we walk into the historic ex-Southport ambulance station turned cafe and coworking hotspot. Oh, the things those walls would have seen. The creative community at Gold Coast's best coworking space, CoSPACES, has been growing since 2012 and now includes neighbouring building The Station, offering a huge lettable space including over 100 co-working desks, five meeting rooms, larger rooms for private functions, event spaces and a photography studio. 

The eclectic musings of 19 Karen Contemporary Art Gallery are a serious showstopper. Boasting around 100 artists and revolving exhibits, this arsty hub in Mermaid Beach showcases styles ranging from urban street art to Abstract and Surrealism.

With only six reformers, The Pilates Pad boasts an intimate setting where each session is tailored to your request with the instructors focussed on helping each individual achieve their goals from injury rehabilitation, to increasing strength and stability, staying active during a pregnancy or just for overall body tone, The Pilates Pad really benefits everyone. This is the kind of space where you will form friendships and feel part of a tight-knit family. With locations in both Nobby Beach and Varsity Lakes, there will almost always be a reformer free at this, one of the best Pilates studios on the Gold Coast.