One of the Gold Coast’s most esteemed fine dining restaurants, Little Truffle Dining Room & Bar, celebrates a milestone that few venues achieve - 15 years of continuous operation, creativity and community connection.
Founded in 2010 by award-winning Chef and restaurateur Daniel Ridgeway, Little Truffle was a trailblazer when it opened its doors in Mermaid Beach, a location that at the time was considered a culinary outlier.
"Back then, Mermaid Beach wasn’t a fine dining destination - Broadbeach and Tedder Avenue were the only places you’d expect to see a white-tablecloth restaurant,” says Daniel. "People thought I was mad, but I had a vision - and I had my family beside me.”
The vision was clear, to create a contemporary Australian dining experience with personal touches and an unwavering standard of excellence. What the Ridgeway family lacked in capital, they made up for in determination.
"My late father and I did everything ourselves. We demolished walls, assembled furniture, sanded and varnished tables by hand. My mum was our dishwasher and cleaner in those early years. We opened with just enough cash to pay our first week of staff wages and hoped for the best,” Daniel says.
That gamble paid off
Today, Little Truffle is considered a cornerstone of the Gold Coast’s modern culinary landscape, not only for its food but for its role in helping transform Mermaid Beach into a premium dining precinct.
"It was incredibly tough in the early years. We knew the food was good and the service was strong, but we were ahead of our time. Something shifted after year two word of mouth grew, regulars returned, and suddenly we were full most nights. Since then, the area’s exploded with great venues like Etsu and others opening nearby. I’m proud we helped create that momentum.”
A menu built on memories and mastery
As part of its 15-year celebration, Little Truffle will showcase a curated anniversary set menu throughout July and August, featuring three standout dishes that best represent its story and legacy:
Raspberry Soufflé with White Chocolate Sauce: more than 100,000 soufflés have been served over the years, occasionally rotating flavours, but raspberry has remained the enduring favourite.
Moreton Bay Bug & Prawn Tortellini with Sweet Mustard Fruit Beurre Blanc: a staple dish since day one, never removed from the menu.
Heirloom Beetroot, Whipped Ricotta & Goat’s Cheese Salad with Candied Walnuts: a signature entrée that has evolved over time but has always held a place on the menu.
"These dishes tell the story of Little Truffle — familiar, comforting, balanced, and seasonal. They’ve connected with our guests over the years in a way I never could have predicted,” Daniel says.
Little Truffle has also earned quiet acclaim among celebrities and notable guests.
"We’ve been lucky to serve some very high-profile people over the years,” Daniel shares."Hugh Jackman and Ron Howard are two that really stood out. Not just because of who they are, but because of how gracious and genuine they were with our staff. That always leaves an impression.”
Despite the recognition, Daniel has always chosen to focus on the experience for every guest, whether local or from overseas.
"We never wanted to be that place flaunting celebrity photos. For us, every diner is important. Everyone’s moment matters.”
Little Truffle is part of the Ridgeway Group, a growing collection of venues helmed by Daniel Ridgeway and his wife Ruggie that includes Madame V at Palm Beach, luxury wedding and corporate events venue, Kwila Lodge, BiN 232 at Pacific Fair and Ridgeway Catering, an exclusive offsite catering arm that caters for corporate & private events, weddings and functions.
Each venue offers a unique concept and energy, but all share the same DNA: thoughtful hospitality, consistency and culinary integrity.
As Little Truffle moves into its next chapter, the team remains as committed as ever to innovation, service and delivering unforgettable dining experiences.
"Fifteen years later, I still walk through those doors and feel proud - not just of what we’ve built, but of how we’ve built it,” Daniel says.
"We’ve been through the highs and lows, but we’ve never lost who we are. That’s what matters.”
