Bars & Pubs

A three-storey dining and entertainment venue has opened with a glam piano bar, pan-Asian restaurant and soon-to-launch rooftop bar in Surfers Paradise. 

Southport is about to dial up the heat with the arrival of Kaktus Bar, a vibrant new Mexican-inspired venue serving next-level margaritas and a lively atmosphere, set to open mid-December.

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. 

The century-old Commercial Hotel Boonah has been lovingly restored, reopening with an on-site craft brewery—Boonah Brewing Co.

Familiar Spirits Distillery arrives in Burleigh Heads with an intimate cellar door experience.

Mona Lisa’s Lair is Miami Marketta’s new intimate restaurant and Champagne bar, serving up a French-inspired menu in a space that oozes moody Parisian charm. 

The Ducks at Hotel Brunswick, a highly anticipated culinary collaboration between the renowned Three Blue Ducks team and Hotel Brunswick, has made its debut.

Inspired by the lively oyster bars of New England and New York, this stylish new spot combines laid-back coastal vibes with an elevated dining experience.

Bringing together modern Japanese cuisine, expertly crafted cocktails, and hours of high-energy entertainment, Tokyo Doll is quickly becoming  Byron's go-to spot.

Queensland's ever-iconic floating club is back in full force, and YOT Club 2.0 has relaunched with a makeover that’s nothing short of jaw-dropping.

A dog-friendly sports bar and taproom has found its way to Tamborine Mountain. 

 Madame V will blend traditional and modern Asian flavours, offering an exquisite à la carte dining experience and signature Yum Cha Sundays.

Nestled away in the back streets of Bundall, this local suburban restaurant will transport you to a Mediterranean dream.

Surfers Paradise is about to level up its nightlife scene with the grand opening of Lulu Rooftop & Bar, and trust us—you’ll want to be there from day one.

Wood-fired steak, hyper-local seafood and a head chef with seriously impressive creds—Lars Bar & Grill has just opened in Mermaid Beach and we’re hyped about it. 

A touch of the Mediterranean has landed in Byron Bay with the opening of Gitana, a Spanish wine bar located in the lively Nourish Habitat precinct.

In seriously delicious news for Broadbeach locals, cult-fave Mexican restaurant Costa Taco has opened in Broady and we couldn't be more excited. It has ignited Broadbeach's dining scene, breathing new energy into the iconic yellow building on the corner of Armrick Avenue, proving that sometimes the most mouthwatering revivals come wrapped in a tortilla.

A new sports, entertainment and lifestyle hub has opened in Surfers Paradise, with the highly anticipated launch of Australia's largest Sporting Globe sports bar and brewpub. 

A feeling of devastation settled over the Gold Coast when Francie’s Pizzeria closed their doors for renovations in early 2022, with the only solace being that they would be back, with a promise of new and improved. 

Perched directly above Kirra Beach Hotel on the second level of Kirra Point Precinct, Kirra Beach House is a jaw-dropping 1200 sqm beachfront dining masterpiece. The dining, drinking and event destination boasts uninterrupted ocean views from every vantage point, unlike anything we’ve seen before.

Broadbeach is undoubtedly one of the Gold Coast’s most lauded foodie hubs and it has cemented its place even further with the opening of an opulent seafood restaurant. BLOWFISH Ocean Grill + Bar is brought to us from the restaurateurs behind Moo Moo The Wine Bar + Grill, Steve and Autumn Adams, so you already know it’s seriously special.

The Gold Coast’s first-ever surf park is set to be unveiled in Parkwood Village, which will be transformed into a world-class integrated golf and surf village, predicted to open in 2026. 

Nestled in an unassuming cul-de-sac overlooking the Broadbeach skyline, Six-Tricks Distilling Co. is Mermaid Beach's innovative artisan rum and whiskey distillery, tasting room, and cocktail bar.

The revamped Kirra Beach Hotel within the Kirra Point Precinct will open late November 2023, as part of a revival of the cherished coastal locale which has proudly stood as a Kirra icon since 1956. The essence of the pub remains the same—a casual, quintessentially Aussie watering hole which keeps locals at its heart.

Born from a desire to create a safe, judgement-free bar—with banging drinks and bites—E.L.E is the newest Burleigh bar on the bustling block. The team behind Burleigh institution, Oi Izakaya are the maestros behind E.L.E, affectionately shortened from ‘Everybody Love Everybody’. So, yes this means the cocktails and food are top-tier. 

Yamagen is a funky Japanese izakaya located inside QT Gold Coast in the heart of Surfers Paradise. With Queensland's largest Japanese whisky collection (over 65 bottles and counting) plus some of the most innovative and creative Japanese cuisine you'll ever taste, a night here is a serious treat. 

There’s no doubt that the Southern Gold Coast is becoming a burgeoning bar haven and if you needed any more proof, this is it. The aptly-named Nacho Baby is Tweed’s new specialty tequila bar and after three years in the making, this vibey joint is set to be the go-to destination for tequila and mezcal lovers on the Gold Coast.

The Gold Coast is certainly a melting pot of flavours and cuisines, but every now and then, a new restaurant comes along which brings something truly unique to the table. Meet Tayta.

It might feel like everyone is living their best Euro summer lives right now but if you’re craving waterfront summer sips here on the Gold Coast, we’ve got good news for you. Luxury superyacht venue, YOT Club and Main Beach Superyacht Marina are teaming up to bring us an incredible summer pop-up entertainment venue.

Situated on the edge of the Nerang River, the waterfront Southport Pavilion boasts magnificent views of the Surfers Paradise skyline and the Gold Coast hinterland. While the literal waterfront location is undoubtedly the jewel in Southport Pavilion’s crown, the fit-out is seriously impressive with coastal blue and white tones paying homage to its prime location, reminiscent of Euro-style beach clubs. 

It’s no secret we have a passionate love affair with Mexican cuisine, and if you’re anything like us, then you need to make your way to Burleigh’s Mexican newcomer, Mex Cartel. Formerly Margarita Cartel, the revamped new venue boasts a boldly colourful fit-out, top-notch Mexican eats and impressive cocktails to boot.

We heart Etsu Izakaya. This flawless venue has been a raging success since the day it opened, and it’s not hard to see why. Be it the sexy fit-out, the energetic atmosphere, the loveable owners and their seriously cool staff, or that Etsu are plating up some of the most next-level modern Japanese eats the Gold Coast has ever seen.

The Gold Coast is bursting at the seams with top-notch Italian joints, but every now and then, one comes along which grabs our attention with a unique concept. And incredible pizza, of course.

If there’s one thing the Gold Coast loves, it’s hidden bars—the heat of a new venue is directly related to how hard it is to find. Entry via a back door alley? 10 points. A secret password required for entry? Getting warmer. An alleyway speakeasy nestled upstairs next to a tattoo parlour, on the site of a former massage parlour? Nailed it. 

While you might not be taking a trip to the sunny land of Florida anytime soon, you can be there in spirit—with a cheeky marg in hand, of course—at Tropic Vice. The expansive rooftop space overlooking the iconic Nobby’s strip first opened in late 2021 and has just reopened after a major revamp. 

Mo’s Desert Clubhouse, Burleigh’s thriving Americana psychedelic desert-inspired music venue, has a vibrant new bar and outdoor garden event space you need to check out, stat. El Ranchero is an eclectic bar and outdoor garden venue, inspired by a mix of colourful Mexico City culture and traditional hacienda vibes. It sets itself apart from standard bar and event spaces by boasting a sun-filled deck and spacious garden, bold accents like The Virgin Dolly's Margarita Bar and a Route 66-inspired silver bullet food truck.

Chef Ollie Wong-Hee has clocked time in the kitchen at Mr. Wong, Sixpenny, and Ester—some of Sydney's best restaurants—but these days you'll find him at Bar Heather in Byron Bay. 

FINEPRINTCO Art Bar is an upmarket art gallery-meets-cocktail bar that seamlessly blends the creativity of handcrafted cocktails with fine art. The elegant establishment is located within Brickworks Ferry Road and is the brainchild of the owners of St Barts and Gallery One, Jasmine Smith and Leanne Pearce. So yes, they know what they’re doing.

It’s been two years since Gold Coast institution Melbas shut its doors and finally, a luxe new venue has opened on the site and we couldn't be more excited. The sophisticated The Beverly has just opened its doors and is already bringing chic L.A. vibes to the Glitter Strip. The Beverly pays homage to its L.A. namesake with a vibrant colour palette of rich greens, blush pinks and golds, an A-list of cocktails and unforgettable live entertainment to match.

Legendary local pro surfers Mick Fanning, Joel Parkinson, Bede Durbridge and Josh Kerr, together with long-term mates and their main man, head brewer Scott Hargrave launched their first beer—the Balter XPA—in early 2016 and it is now one of Australia’s most recognised boutique beer brands.

The Northern Gold Coast has gotten a whole lot boozier with the opening of White Oat Distillery in Biggera Waters. The idea of White Oat Distillery was first conceptualised, strangely, over a beer. Three Gold Coast mates put their heads together to create a special space that’s not just about the drinks, but also about making connections, memories and all-around good vibes. Say hello to White Oat Distillery. 

Grab your gang, because Suzy BBQ, nestled in the heart of Burleigh Heads, is the funky Korean BBQ house we’ve all been waiting for. From the vintage Korean posters lining the walls to the red Coca-Cola chairs on the footpath to the vibrant atmosphere, everything about Suzy BBQ is eccentric, fun and something the Gold Coast hasn't seen before.

Sitting pretty on the corner of the iconic Nobbys strip, comes newcomer Zephyr Kitchen & Bar, but it’s not just your average Nobbys joint. Sure, it’s got the prime location, the trendy vibe and the impressive cocktail list to boot, but Zephyr sure is mixing up things on the south end of town.

If there’s one thing we can't get enough of it’s a crisp glass of vino. And if said vino comes from a gram-worthy vineyard nestled in the heart of the countryside, well, we’re packing our bags and making tracks there stat! Which is why we’re just a little bit obsessed with Ravenscroft Vineyard, Stanthorpe’s coolest boutique vineyard.

If there's one thing the Gold Coast is never short on, it’s breweries. But one thing she hasn’t seen before is a seltzer brewery. In fact, no one has. The world’s first immersive hard seltzer brewery has hit the Gold Coast and we’re ready for the fizz-tivities to begin.

Heads up, vino lovers: a glorious new specialty wine store has popped up in the burgeoning Nobby Beach shopping precinct and we are ready for it to quench our thirst. If you’re a wine connoisseur looking for some fun wines for your fun times, the sommelier-owned SOMM Wine Store has got you covered.

Capricorn Distilling Co. is Burleigh’s newest small-batch urban distillery and this newcomer to the craft spirits scene is already making waves. Recently opening its doors in Burleigh Heads, Capricorn Distilling Co. was originally established in Rockhampton, under the well-loved Saleyards Distillery name. Following their success, the masterminds behind this gem decided to expand production and bring their delicious tipples to the Gold Coast and we sure aren’t complaining. 

Don’t be fooled by the “wine bar” denomination—Destino has a few little tricks up its sleeve. By day it masquerades as a homewares store and espresso bar, and at night it turns into a vibing wine and tapas bar, without being gimmicky—it can be hard to flawlessly transition between three different specialties so seamlessly, but Destino does it well.

Hold on to your pint glasses, because we’re bringing you some breaking hospitality news: Surfers Paradise’s first and only brewery, BOBs Beer, has finally opened its doors and it’s what a beer lover’s dreams are made of.

Honour has long established itself as a firm favourite in the Brunswick brunch scene, but they’re changing the game with their new after-hours natural wine and salumi bar—needless to say, it was love at first sight for us. European-style charcuterie plates and natural wines take centre stage with their simple, authentic and delicious flavours, bringing uncomplicated yet indulgent delicacies into our lives. 

It’s raining Mediterranean-inspired joints on the Gold Coast lately and we are most definitely not complaining—we love it so much that we didn’t even bring an umbrella.

The Surfers Paradise Hilton has just undergone a massive $9M facelift over the past few months and Ms Margot's is one of the gorgeous results.

A big shock wave of excitement rippled through the Gold Coast last Friday 2 October when Maman opened its doors to the public.

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.

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. 

​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.

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. 

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.    

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

Nestled on the Gold Coast Highway, next to Little Maisy and few steps away from Hachi, is Suga, a new plantation-style rum bar that is the perfect anecdote to a long winter’s night. 

Outgrowing their original digs, Stone & Wood have opened a stunning 1,160-metre-squared space in Byron’s Arts & Industry estate. The sprawling venue has a whopping 31 brewing tanks pumping out all their much-loved classics like the Pacific Ale as well as Stone & Wood’s experimental Pilot Batch beers and limited one-off beers. Grab one their takeaway ‘Sharer’ bottles which you can do with any of their limited-edition brews for just $20.

Tucked behind the Vibe Hotel on Ferny Ave, Driftwood Social is a true hidden paradise. The sprawling space, which backs on to the Nerang River, has hanging greenery, poolside cabanas, lounge areas, loads of dinning space and a large bar. 

Nestled amongst a subtropical rainforest in Byron Bay lies a true gem, The Cape Byron Distillery.

Once a furniture store, The Henchman has been completely renovated and now boasts a huge outdoor boozing and dining area, complete with astro turf, white picnic tables, hanging chairs and fairy lights. 

Burleigh fave Harry’s Steak Bistro and Bar in Burleigh, known for their great service and excellent steak has converted part of the restaurant into a 70-seat specialised sports bar.

Hyde Paradiso is the perfect spot for Sunday sessions and long lunches that lead into dinner with live DJs setting the mood. If you’re after a European summer escape but can’t afford the airfare, then this is the place for you. 

Located in Circle on Cavill, La Doisa is further proof Surfers Paradise is becoming a true foodie hub. 

Say hello to Black Hops II.

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 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. 

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.

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.