Arakawa, on Ross Street in Benowa, is a modern Japanese restaurant at RACV Royal Pines Resort. With a name meaning ‘wild river’, Arakawa blends tradition and innovation seamlessly, transforming every visit into a meticulously curated culinary and beverage journey. Prepare for an immersive experience the moment you walk through the door - vibrant murals depict Japanese women in traditional attire, evoking a sense of grace and movement, bringing a piece of Japanese customs to the Gold Coast.
Why should you drop in for a meal at Arakawa? Here are three good reasons:
What is a must-try dish/drink?
A true standout on our modern Japanese menu is the salmon puri - a dish that’s as visually striking as it is flavourful.
This unique creation features delicate salmon tartare nestled inside a crisp, golden puri shell, offering a playful crunch with every bite. It’s crowned with ikura caviar, adding bursts of briny richness and finished with a drizzle of yuzu tamari ponzu - a citrusy, umami-packed sauce that ties it all together with elegance.
It’s a dish that bridges tradition and innovation, combining the street-food charm of puri with the refined flavours of Japanese seafood artistry. Perfect as a starter or a shared plate, the salmon puri is a must-try for anyone seeking something truly memorable and uniquely Arakawa.
At Arakawa, the perfect sip begins with our extensive Australian-focused wine list, curated to complement the bold flavours and delicate nuances of modern Japanese cuisine.
If we have to name just one drink that captures the spirit of Arakawa - elegant, inventive and unmistakably Japanese - then Kyo Nocturne would be the answer.
This crafted cocktail is a symphony of flavours: Japanese vodka, traditional sake, yuzu juice, plum wine and miso-chamomile syrup introduces a savoury, floral complexity with a whisper of sweetness. It’s bold yet balanced, familiar yet surprising - just like our menu.
Pair it with our izakaya-style small plates or enjoy it as a prelude to the teppanyaki experience - it’s a must-try for cocktail lovers and curious palates alike.
What is your point of difference, what sets you apart?
At Arakawa, we redefine Japanese dining with a modern izakaya-style à la carte menu that’s designed for discovery, sharing and delight.
Unlike traditional formats, our menu invites guests to explore Japan’s culinary diversity through small, artfully crafted plates that blend authenticity with innovation.
What truly sets us apart is the freedom to curate your own experience. Whether you're indulging in a solo tasting journey or sharing plates with friends over craft cocktails, Arakawa offers a dynamic, flavour-forward approach that’s both elevated and approachable.
Add to that our teppanyaki theatre, curated Australian wine list and inventive cocktails and you have a venue that’s not just a restaurant, but a destination.
Tell us something not many people know about the venue?
Tucked within the lush surrounds of RACV Royal Pines Resort, Arakawa holds a quiet secret: it was named after the Arakawa River in Tokyo, a symbol of flow, tradition and renewal. Much like its namesake, the restaurant blends timeless Japanese elegance with a modern edge.
Are you always on the lookout for a new café, bar or restaurant to indulge yourself, family and friends?
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