The Gold Coast’s Hottest New Restaurants, Cafes & Bars To Book A Table At
Order up
By Yana Van Der Byl | 9th April 2025The Gold Coast foodie scene is absolutely popping off, and if you’ve been struggling to keep up with all the new openings, consider this your deliciously curated cheat sheet. From hidden cocktail dens and matcha-dedicated cafés to NYC-inspired sandwich stops and laid-back Italian joints, there’s a fresh wave of flavour sweeping the coast — and we’re here for every bite, sip, and slurp.
So loosen that belt, charge your phone (because yes, because your phone will eat first), and get ready to taste your way through the Coast’s latest and greatest. Let’s dig in.
’94
It was only a matcha of time before Palm Beach got its own matcha-dedicated café — and ’94 has delivered the goods (and the green). This dreamy 20-seater is the brainchild of Ahmet Taskin, the wizard behind Oatopia, now whisking up hand-blended Japanese matcha with house-made syrups like strawberry, blueberry and salted caramel. With ST ALi coffee, nostalgic toasties, and espresso butter-slathered banana bread on the side, it’s a whole vibe. Think Tokyo café meets vintage bar.
Papa Rolly’s
Say ciao to Papa Rolly’s, the latest slice of Italian goodness from the legends behind Gemelli. Nestled in Carrara, this 85-seater is all about unfussy, feel-good fare — handmade pasta, blistered pizzas, and a few nostalgic nods to Nonno Rolando. It’s relaxed, it’s warm, it’s BYO (!!), and it’s got Gelato Gemelli on deck with up to 14 dreamy flavours. Whether you’re popping in for a quick margherita or settling in for dinner Papa Rolly’s is casual Italian done molto bene.
Butter Bodega
Butter Bodega has landed in Labrador — and trust us, this is not your average corner store. Dreamed up by Ivan and Monique, this NYC-style gem blends designer deli vibes with cool convenience culture. You’ll find loaded sangas, punchy lattes (hello, Biscoff and Pumpkin Spice Matcha), and shelves of curated treats that’ll make your pantry prettier. With retro tiles, a basketball hoop, and a cheeky Seinfeld tribute, it’s part sandwich slinger, part style icon. One step inside and you’ll get it — this is where culture meets carbs.
Cook Book Club
Golf course food? Forget what you know — Cook Club is rewriting the playbook from the lush heart of Mudgeeraba’s Boomerang Farm. Nestled on 200 acres of hinterland magic, this open-air oasis serves up bold South-East Asian flavours, knockout cocktails, and serious style (thanks to Studio Co & Co). Chef Rodrigo Paraboa is plating up wood-fired snapper, betel leaf prawns, and ceviche that’ll make you forget you’re mere metres from a fairway. Come for the food, stay for the jungle vibes, and maybe even swing a club — if you must.
Familiar Spirits
Tucked away in Burleigh’s industrial backstreets, Familiar Spirits is the Gold Coast’s best-kept cocktail secret — until now. This moody little distillery-meets-bar is all handcrafted spirits, sultry lighting, and “where have you been all my life?” energy. Founded by local legends Lana and Justin Bell, it’s serving up small-batch gin, vodka, and a tiramisu laced with Gentleman Pirate Rum (yes, really). With just eight bar seats, it’s intimate, elevated, and kind of addictive. Come for the cocktails, stay for the vibes — and don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Bar Monte
In a sea of trendy, “never-seen-before” spots, Bar Monte stands proudly by the classics – and it’s a refreshing breath of Italian air. Tucked in Miami, this neighbourhood gem serves simple, authentic Italian fare – think pasta, pizza, and good times, done right. From the team behind Light Years, Bar Monte adds style and soul to the Gold Coast. With interiors by Will Rathgeber, it’s an elevated yet laid-back trattoria with serious charm. Co-owners Kim Stephen, James Sutherland, and Lorenzo Toscani are just getting started – Bar Monte is a must for great food and a genuine vibe.
Norté + Sueño Rooftop
Nothing says autumn like warming Latin American flavours and cosy vibes! The talented teams behind Rick Shores, Brisbane’s Southside, and Central are bringing something special to The Oxley with two stunning concepts: Norté and Sueño. These Latin-inspired restaurants deliver a dynamic mix of bold flavours, artisanal craft, and cosy, inviting design. As the cooler weather sets in, the rooftop offers the perfect spot to sip seasonal cocktails, enjoy the crisp air, and let the good times roll!
Imagery: @wearefamiliarspirits / @ninetyfourcafe / @barmontemiami
