Spring has sprung, and sunny days are ahead! There’s no better time to head out and explore the best new restaurants that the Gold Coast has to offer. From Cantonese chicken to bountiful burgers, this list has something for everyone.
Address: 1730 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
Get transported across the globe with authentic Cantonese fair in a beautiful, inviting setting with hanging lanterns overhead. The menu is designed to be shared and are served as they are ready, so settle in for the evening and order away! With crowd-favourites like General Tso’s Fried Chicken, and traditional dishes like Shanghai Curry with Snake Beans, you’re guaranteed to go home feeling satisfied.
If you’re feeding a crowd, the Emperor’s feast allows you to build your own banquet experience, perfect for groups of 2 or more. Wash it all down with one of their signature cocktails like the Cherry Blossom, made with Cherry-infused Sake.
Book Mr Hizola’s now
Address: 86 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
Award-winning Executive Chef Rhett Willis (you might know him from MasterChef) is leading the kitchen at this new local favourite. The menu is modern, polished and premium, using amazing local ingredients and a unique charcoal Josper oven.
Willis is backed by over two decades of culinary experience in some of the country’s best venues, so it’s no wonder that Coast is an instant classic. Soak up the uninterrupted views of Surfers Paradise beach with a drop from their collection of 140 global wines.
Book Coast Beach Bar and Kitchen now
Address: Unit 3002, 9 Lawson St, Southport QLD 4215
For traditional Japanese dining, head down to GOTO. The restaurant boasts fantastic fresh sashimi and sushi, as well as a packed menu of signature mains and small plates. Feeling adventurous? Book in for a traditional Omakase, where the menu is specially curated by the head chef, and based on the freshest seasonal produce.
Each dish is exclusive to the Omakase experience and won’t be found on the standard A La Carte menu. The spots fill up quickly, so be sure to book in advance! The GOTO team can cater to food preferences or allergies so theres something for everyone.
Book GOTO now
Address: Shop 6/28 Chairlift Ave, Mermaid Beach QLD 4218
From the pastel walls to the unique and innovative menu, everything about Mr. is fresh. With a seasonal east-meets-west menu, this is the perfect place to settle in for a sophisticated evening after a day soaking up the sun.
Date night? Split some of the popular shared plates, like seared Mooloolaba sea scallops with a lemon and hazelnut beurre noisette, or Mr’s fried tacos with slow cooked beef and an okonomi emulsion.
Book Mr. now
Address: Shop 5/1863 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
For the perfect spot to soak up the warm spring air over dinner, look no further than Kami. Featuring a Japanese menu packed with fresh ingredients, there’s something for everyone. For something light, the Kingfish sashimi with a sour and spicy nahm jim dressing.
Looking for something a bit heartier? The yellow curry is filling and comforting, with a great vegetarian option. Wash it all down with one of their signature cocktails or great craft beers.
Book Kami now
Address: 455 Golden Four Dr, Tugun QLD 4224
For a fun meal that the whole family will enjoy, dig into some authentic Mexican at Caracara. There are amazing meat-free options on the Caracara menu, like the Mushroom Fajitas or Bean Nachos, and a kids menu for the little ones.
For your next date night, grab some tacos at the Cantina out front, then wander back to the tucked-away tequila bar and grab a Margarita or two. The pickled watermelon rind with chilli salt is the ultimate bar snack – trust us.
Book Caracara Cantina now
Address: Shop 12/15 Victoria Ave, Broadbeach QLD 4218
Step back in time to an inviting, cozy jazz bar right in the heart of Broadbeach. With live music 5 nights a week, there’s always a buzz in the air at Den Devine, and the menu is packed with comforting favourites like Beef Ragout or Camembert & Apricot Chicken.
There are plenty of options for gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan diners and the front of house staff are incredibly warm and knowledgeable, so if you get stuck you can pick their brain for a food or drink recommendation!
Book Den Devine now
Address: 3240 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
Do you sometimes feel like you’re surrounded by ‘Karen’s? Well you certainly will be if you eat here! Karen’s Diner is an infamous interactive dining experience, where you can get a hearty serving of attitude from all of the staff. It’s all just for fun, but definitely bring your sense of humour!
Serving up an American-style menu with heatty burgers, wings and hotdogs,, all of the dishes are Karen-inspired like the ‘Fiery Karen’, a wagyu beef burger with onion rings, swiss cheese, jalapenos and a peri-peri mayo. Are you a Karen yourself? Grab a free drink on your birthday!
Book Karen’s Diner now
September in the Gold Coast is all about fresh ingredients, exciting combinations and fantastic dinners with friends. Whether you’re looking for sensational sashimi or fiery fajitas, get in to these restaurants before they book out!
