The Gold Coast is a food lover's haven, bursting with a tapestry of flavours that reflect its vibrant culture and laid-back lifestyle. From classic comforts to innovative culinary delights, this coastal paradise has a dining scene that caters to every palate. Whether you're basking in the sun by the beach or nestled in a trendy bistro, there's no shortage of exquisite dining experiences to savour.
Manolas Deli Bar Bistro - Surfers Paradise, QLD
Find comfort, connection and joy by sharing food together at Manolas Deli Bar Bistro on Via Roma, nestled on the Isle of Capri. This beloved Gold Coast establishment has been a local staple for over 25 years, offering warm hospitality in a welcoming setting. Whether you're enjoying a sun-soaked afternoon on their alfresco terrace or settling into the charming indoor space where the pizza oven takes centre stage, the venue's delightful décor, complete with tiled counters and lush greenery, sets the perfect backdrop for your dining experience.
As you peruse the menu, prepare to be tempted by share plates that embody the essence of communal dining, such as char-grilled lamb cutlets marinated with orange, thyme, honey, lemon and Dijon mustard, or hiramasa kingfish ceviche paired with avocado, tomato, cucumber, chilli and crispy shallots. Sip on a well-selected glass of wine while contemplating mains that showcase culinary expertise, like the pappardelle with slow-braised beef complemented by prosciutto, Napoli and Parmigiano Reggiano. End your meal on a sweet note with a classic tiramisu, the perfect capstone to a remarkable dining experience.
The Glenelg Public House - Mermaid Beach, QLD
Embracing the simplicity and warmth of good food, drink and community, The Glenelg Public House is a must-visit destination in Mermaid Beach. Situated at the intersection of Glenelg Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway, this venue encapsulates the relaxed GC lifestyle with outside picnic tables that call for congenial gatherings and an interior thoughtfully designed with polished concrete, exposed brick and soft pendant lighting that exudes a trendy industrial charm.
The menu shines a spotlight on steak, celebrating the best beef sourced right from their own backyard. Indulge in a hearty whole flat iron 500g Angus Blank Onyx, marinated with robust flavours of chilli, garlic, parsley and lemon, paired seamlessly with a fresh salad and crispy fries. For those leaning towards lighter fare, options like the pan-roasted gnocchi in truffled cream, or the crispy Southern fried chicken wings served with a rich blue cheese dip, promise sheer delight.
Joe's Trattoria Pizza, Pasta & Ribs - Oxenford, QLD
For those ravenous for hearty Italian fare, Joe’s Trattoria Pizza, Pasta & Ribs beckons down Maudsland Road in Oxenford. This rustic eatery boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with recycled timber accents and sprawling greenery that create a homey yet stylish backdrop. Expect the lingering scents of sumptuous dishes wafting from the kitchen, making it impossible not to feel your appetite awaken.
The star-studded menu is replete with favourites, beginning with appetising buffalo chicken wings and jalapeño poppers that tease the tastebuds. Delight in a luscious pizza offering, featuring combinations like pesto chicken with avocado and a hint of sweet chilli, or a classic combo of Napoli, mozzarella, chicken and mushrooms. Pasta enthusiasts will find bliss in the spaghetti enriched with prawns and mixed seafood swimming in a decadent Napoli sauce, capped off with creamy Parmesan. And don't overlook the sticky date pudding—it's a must-try for dessert!
Little Itoshin Japanese Dining Bar - Miami, QLD
For a delightful twist on classic Japanese cuisine, food enthusiasts should flock to Little Itoshin Japanese Dining Bar on Mountainview Avenue in Miami. This intimate spot invites diners into a cosy izakaya-style atmosphere, where the selection of boutique wines, imported beers and creative cocktails perfectly complements a menu designed to tantalise. Each dish is presented with care, showcasing the essence of Japanese culinary artistry.
Dive into small plates that impress, such as ponzu-fried cuttlefish adorned with a fiery Itoshin hot sauce or savoury pan-fried pork gyoza accompanied by a fragrant dipping sauce. The sashimi selection of the day is a refreshing nod to traditional Japanese classics, while the Wagyu beef tataki is a tender delight, served with mixed salad, ponzu and spicy yuzu kosho. For a heartier option, the Panko chicken katsu curry or the tender teriyaki-braised chicken thigh with steamed rice is simply irresistible. Don’t miss the tempura ice cream with a drizzle of miso caramel for a unique and memorable dessert.
Bollywood Bar Indian Fusion - Helensvale, QLD
Step into Bollywood Bar Indian Fusion on Discovery Drive in Helensvale for an immersive dining experience reflective of the vibrant Bollywood film culture. The interior brims with colourful imagery of iconic Hindi films and playful details, creating a lively atmosphere that enhances the experience of exploring an enticingly diverse menu. This restaurant is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
Begin your culinary journey with tantalising starters like spiced lamb kebabs that promise an explosion of flavours, or marinated chicken tikka that sets the stage for what's to come. The main affair is equally thrilling, featuring dishes like the intensely spicy beef vindaloo, bursting with ginger and aromatic spices, or fish fillets enveloped in a luscious coconut sauce infused with curry leaves and mustard seeds. Each dish serves as a celebration of Indian culinary traditions, making every visit a joyous exploration of flavour.
The Gold Coast's dining scene is as diverse and dynamic as its coastline, offering a cornucopia of tastes that invite exploration. From casual eateries to vibrant bistros, each venue promises a culinary journey that not only fills the stomach but also creates lasting memories. Whether you're indulging in shared plates or experiencing exotic flavours, the Gold Coast is indeed a gastronomic paradise waiting to be discovered.
