Sometimes the best meals come from places that break the mould entirely. Whether it's a café tucked away in Scarborough dishing out a ricotta doughnut that borders on genius or a Japanese bar in Adelaide channelling the cool of Tokyo’s lost era, these venues don't just serve food—they serve surprises. We've rounded up four standouts that throw culinary curveballs in the most delicious ways.
The Avenue – Surfers Paradise, QLD
In the glittering epicentre of Surfers Paradise, The Avenue is more than just a restaurant—it’s a time capsule of Gold Coast nightlife. Since 1984, it’s hosted everything from late-night karaoke sessions to boisterous live gigs, all wrapped in retro-chic interiors with recycled timber, cascading greenery and deep banquettes. It's the kind of place where the energy hums through the walls and the cocktail list is as bold as the crowd.
On the plate, the unexpected comes in the form of the
Seanitzel—a brilliant twist on a pub classic. Think golden chicken schnitzel
taken up several notches with King prawns, creamy garlic sauce and fresh
avocado, all perched atop a bed of fries. It’s surf-meets-turf, but with an
unapologetically indulgent flair. Looking for something shareable? The bao buns
with sticky pork belly and the sriracha-kissed prawns will do the trick.
Reserve your table early to catch the
live music in full swing.
Tucked into the vibrant streets of Kiama, KG Café is where the South African spirit finds a coastal Aussie home. The vibe is comfortably laid-back, with a warm décor filled with traditional patterns, bold artwork and plush seating that invites diners to linger. It’s the kind of place you stumble upon and then wonder why it took you so long to find.
The menu is a cultural journey through Cape Town and Durban, with dishes steeped in heritage and spice. Standouts include the bobotie—a savoury-sweet baked delight made from curried mince topped with egg custard and served with fresh salad. It’s the kind of dish that balances warmth, tang and comfort in one nostalgic hit. The tasting board is a must for anyone wanting a little bit of everything, from boerewors sausage to spicy bunny chow.
Pop in for a taste of South Africa—just
make sure to leave room for the koeksisters.
Hidden in plain sight on South Terrace, Chacha Bar is a portal to the Tokyo of yesteryear. Styled after Japan’s iconic kissaten cafés of the 80s and 90s, this compact bar is a moody, minimalist escape where time slows and the tea flows. Dim lighting, booth seating and a central communal table create a mellow backdrop that’s equal parts nostalgic and effortlessly cool.
The menu is full of clever riffs on Japanese comfort food,
with the katsu prawn sandwich standing out for its unexpected punch. Layered
with crunchy rainbow cabbage, wasabi mayo and a fiery chilli teriyaki, it’s a
complex mix of heat and creaminess packed between two slices of perfection.
Don’t overlook the chicken wings either—tossed in gochujang with a sprinkle of
sesame, they bring the kind of umami fire that lingers.
Book ahead for a quiet evening that feels straight out of Shibuya.
Grace St Café – Scarborough, WA
A stone’s throw from Scarborough Beach, Grace St Café captures the essence of casual coastal living with a side of culinary flair. The space radiates charm—sun-drenched interiors, relaxed outdoor seating and the kind of community vibe that has regulars greeting each other by name. It’s a sanctuary for post-swim catch-ups, dog walks and spontaneous brunch dates.
The all-day menu doesn’t play it safe, and the Grace St
Doughnut is proof. A ricotta-based stack that’s equal parts doughnut and
pancake, this fluffy creation is as unique as it is indulgent. Whether you pair
it with coffee or a late brunch mimosa, it’s a dish that redefines what a café
sweet can be. For those leaning savoury, the corn fritters with smoked salmon
and slaw pack both punch and crunch.
Grab your spot early—this neighbourhood gem fills up fast on sunny mornings.
In a dining landscape flooded with trends, these four venues stand out by embracing the unexpected. Whether it's with a bold twist on a classic or a complete culinary detour, they remind us that food is best when it surprises us.
