13 New Gold Coast Openings To Try This Summer, From A Local
Get Golden
You deserve a summer escape, but if heading north to Noosa (NOO-sah) isn’t quite your vibe, cruise down the M1 and head south to the Gold Coast. They say this is peak season, and I couldn’t agree more. Alright, enough with the Gossip Girl meets Kath & Kim moment — let’s get down to business.
As a Gold Coast local, I’m here to share the thirteen best places to dine like you live here, all handpicked and approved by yours truly. From fun spots to chic aesthetics and, of course, food that’s downright delicious — these are the places you don’t want to miss.
Pen and paper at the ready, and in no particular order the best new offerings on the Gold Coast:
Bobby Bangs
Matcha and sandos? Count me in! The co-owners of Mermaid Beach favourite Lucky Bao have opened their new daytime spot inside The Oxley at Nobby Beach. This fresh eatery serves up café classics with an Asian twist. Think breakfast ramen and Japanese-curry-topped scrambled eggs. Chef Daud has crafted a stellar all-day breakfast menu, available from 7.30am daily, along with shokupan sandos, rice bowls, salads, and noodle bowls for lunch. It’s simple science: You can’t have a bad day if it starts with Bobby’s Benny —featuring torched miso mayo, miso-glazed salmon — and a chilled iced almond matcha.
Cadillac Supper Club
Time to hit rewind and step into a place that’s cooler than anything you’ve ever seen. Welcome to the Cadillac Supper Club in Palm Beach. With its retro charm, checkered floors, and wood-panelled walls, this spot oozes old-school cool. I’ll cut to the chase, the menu is a mouthwatering mix of Italian-American classics, including a spicy herbed bug roll, loaded eggplant parm, and perfectly cooked steak frites. And when it comes to drinks, make it a Paloma, Negroni, or martini — because that’s the kind of sitch you’re dealing with here.
Eska
Eska is here to make seafood sexy again. This sleek sashimi and oyster bar at Nobby’s Beach serves up the freshest sea-to-shore bites. Think mouthwatering caviar tots, zesty ceviche, perfectly grilled scallops, and creamy edamame hummus among the extensive menu of nigiri, sashimi and oysters. Pair it all with a glass of Taittinger Brut in one hand, chopsticks in the other, and you’ve got yourself a dining experience that’s nothing short of divine.
Gelato Gemelli
Sink your teeth into something a little sweeter without getting brain freeze – I dare you. That’s right, Brisbane and the Coast’s go-to Italian joint is stepping up their game this summer. Forget just pizza — this spot’s now serving up authentic Sicilian granita, creamy dairy-free gelato, zingy sorbetto, and the classic milk-based gelato you love, all made with top-tier ingredients. With 24 flavours on the roster, I know where I’ll be when the sun sets.
Hanks
Craving a European summer escape without leaving the coast? Head to Hanks in Kirra! Situated on the former Bread and Butter site, it brings a taste of coastal Europe with a laid-back yet elegant vibe. Created by the talented team behind Siblings — and yes, the chocolate mousse is a must (IYKYK)!
Harahetta Ramen
Hit the border and dive into some serious street-food slurping at Harahetta Ramen, right in Coolangatta. With a buzzing atmosphere and an eclectic mix of Japanese décor, beyond ramen Harahetta brings Tokyo’s flavours to life. Think bar bites, mouthwatering gyozas, crispy tempura, and juicy karaage chicken, all slathered in sauces like sweet chili and ponzu. Perfectly paired with a cold Japanese beer or a Chu-Hi cocktail. There’s also sake, whisky, and Aussie wines to round out your experience. No bookings, no takeaway — just rock up and enjoy epic ramen by the beach in Cooly.
JuJu
Looking for more surf, sun, and shenanigans? JuJu is the spot. This split-level venue brings you the perfect mix of fine dining and Euro-inspired nightlife with a side of fun. Expect bold, avant-garde dishes, killer drinks, and a vibe that’s all about great company. JuJu isn’t just a meal – it’s an experience. Downstairs, you’ll find a stunning restaurant that sets the stage, while the rooftop bar calls you to keep the night alive long after the bill’s been dropped.
Lars Bar and Grill
Lars Bar and Grill in Nobby Beach serves up a dining experience that’s all about fresh, local produce with no unnecessary frills. Start with the must-try Hand-Picked Crab Rosti, Baked Scallops, or classic Beef Tartare. For mains, don’t miss the Pan-Fried Red Throat Emperor with burnt butter, caper, and lemon, or the juicy Steak Frites. Pair it with Grilled Greens and pine nuts for the perfect balance. And when it comes to dessert, the Basque Cheesecake is a total game-changer. Every bite is perfection — this place is a flawless, unforgettable experience. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Moustache
Close your eyes and picture this: focaccia golden as the sunset, wine as crisp as a summer breeze. If you’re in the Mermaid area, this cute espresso and wine bar is a must-visit. Swing by in the morning for the best coffee in town (no brag, just facts — I’m a certified coffee snob) and pair it with their house-baked focaccia and eggs. Come evening, grab a spot under the umbrellas for prime people-watching with a glass of rosé in hand.
Norté + Sueño Rooftop
Nothing says summer like fierce Latin American flavours and a rooftop randevu! The talented teams behind Rick Shores, Brisbane’s Southside, and Central are serving up something special with two stunning concepts at The Oxley: Norté and Sueño. These Latin-inspired restaurants offer a dynamic mix of bold flavours, artisanal craft, and killer design. Meanwhile, the rooftop is the perfect spot to sip cocktails, soak up the sun, and keep the good times rolling!
Pipi’s Restaurant
Pipi’s Restaurant in Coolangatta is where beach vibes meet top-notch dining! With jaw-dropping 220-degree ocean views, it’s the perfect spot for both a chilled lunch or a romantic dinner. Think fresh local seafood, premium Aussie beef, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, all crafted from the region’s best produce. Cool atmosphere, great food, and amazing service – Pipi’s is your go-to for a seriously good time by the beach.
Sunnyboy Espresso
As you cruise down Hedges Avenue, those bold yellow and white umbrellas practically leap off the pavement — like a burst of sunshine shouting, “Welcome to Sunnyboy!” The latest venture from the crew behind Elk Espresso, this spot claims prime beachside real estate. And it’s all about that endless summer feeling. Think warm tones, cosy details that make you feel instantly at home, and a laid-back energy that says, “Pull up a chair, kick back, and watch the morning run clubs trot by.”
Imagery: @lars.barandgrill / @cadillacsupperclub_ / @m.o.u.s.t.a.c.h.e