Whenever I have friends visit from Melbourne or Sydney, they always tell me how lucky I am to live in such an incredible part of the world with amazing beaches, incredible weather, the beauty of the hinterland and wait for it… such amazing food! Yes, the Gold Coast has lifted it’s foodie game over the past few years and my goodness, are we a force to be reckoned with. Today, I share my favourite Gold Coast Eats. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!
Gold Coast Breakfast (From South to North)
Niche & Co – This is for the Acai bowl lovers having been voted the “Best Acai Bowl on the GC”. They have 3 different flavours including Cacao & Coconut (my favourite), Espresso and Peanut Butter. Coffee is also great here. There isn’t much else in the way of breakfast, but it’s a great place to stop by. Located in Tugun.
The Salt Mill – Again, for Acai bowls and coffee. Bring your own cups if you can as they only have take-away options and head across to Currumbin beachfront to enjoy. Located Currumbin Beach.
Barefoot Barista – One of the busiest cafes in Palm Beach with a great whole foodie vibe. My best advice is to get their early on the weekends or you may have to wait for a table. Located in Palm Beach.
Parlour Coffee – Delicious and beautifully presented breakfast options. Menu isn’t extensive, but quality is perfection. Coffee is also great here. They are located in Burleigh.
Canteen – Also owned by the same Parlour Coffee Team, this place is always busy! Food is modern and fresh, influenced by traditional middle eastern flavours and produce. Located in Burleigh.
Burleigh Baker – If you love bread and baked goods you have to stop by (note: the breakfast menu isn’t extensive). The baker is an ex-scientist who is incredibly passionate about preparing bread the old fashioned way. All flours are organic and fermented for 3-5 days in order to “pre-digest” the proteins, making it easier for us to digest. Located Burleigh.
Paddock Bakery – Again, not the best breakfast spot if you don’t enjoy bread but worth checking out. A little refurbished Queenslander styled home turned cafe. Very popular, so if you want to grab a seat under the trees, make sure you get there early.
Gold Coast Dining & Drinks (From South to North)
Balboa Italian Restaurant – My favourite Italian on the Coast! Their gluten free pizza bases are to die for (they make them in house) and the gnocchi is perfection. Staff are lovely! The menu changes regularly but my top recommendation: Gamberi Piccanti Pizza (local prawns) on a gluten free. Book ahead. Located in Palm Beach.
Rick Shores – Our go-to bar and restaurant on the Gold Coast. The view is enough to win you over, but then the asian inspired food and the amazing waitstaff will just blow your mind. Run by the same team who own Longtime in Brisbane, RickShores is definitely worth a visit but do book ahead! Located in Burleigh.
Jimmy Wahs – A fresh and light vietnamese feast also located in Burleigh (seriously, so good). Venue is small so please book ahead. Try the Vietnamese pancake and Prawn Curry – so yum! Located in Burleigh.
Justin Lane Rooftop Bar – Head to the Justin Lane Rooftop for a drink (or two) on a balmy summer’s night. The drinks available at the rooftop are limited but you can head downstairs and order a round of cocktails and take them back up to the deck. They also do some pretty tasty Pizza’s however their whole menu is Italian inspired. Get in early as it does get busy! Located in Burleigh.
Greenhouse – Hands down my favourite vegetarian restaurant on the coast. They also do some pretty amazing organic cocktails and spiked green juices! More of a relaxed feel. They have one restaurant located in Kirra and one in Mermaid Beach.
The Social Bar & Eating House – Again, one of my favourite places to eat on the Gold Coast. This restaurant is all about share plates, so it’s best to visit with large group of people and order up. We can’t go past the Slow Cooked grass-fed lamb (I’m salivating just talking about it). Order loads of salads/side plates to really experience what The Social has to offer. Great wine list also. Located in Broadbeach.
A short-drive from the Gold Coast, but well worth it…
Taverna – Located in Kingscliff (approximately 20mins drive from the southern end of the Gold Coast), this beautiful Greek inspired beach-front restaurant is to die for. Whether it’s lunch, dinner or a cocktail, I have no doubt the incredible team at Taverna will look after you. Grilled halloumi is a must. Book ahead.
Halcyon House – Probably the most Instagram-ed hotel/restaurant of the region. Again, stunning beach-side restaurant, perfect spot for lunch and a cocktail or two. Located in Cabarita – a quick 25 minute drive from the southern end of the gold coast. Just note, prices are a little higher than local GC restaurants, but well worth the experience.
Potager’s Kitchen – Located in the Gold Coast hinterland, this little cottage puts on a whole foodie feast. The drive is beautiful, the food is delicious and the serves are very generous. Highly recommend it – especially if you love real food served with love.
If you’re visiting the Gold Coast, this is a great list to get you started. Keep checking back regularly, as I will update the list as new places come and go.
Have I missed your favourite? Is there somewhere I have to try? Would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
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