Table of Content
When you think of Gold Coast, what comes to mind? Is it the endless golden beaches, the stunning fusion of blue skies and crystal-clear waters, or perhaps the bustling energy of the tourist crowds and world-class attractions? There's no denying the breathtaking natural scenery that soothes the soul and makes all worries seem to fade away.
But the allure of the Gold Coast extends far beyond its visual wonders. This coastal paradise is also a haven for food lovers! From bustling street food to Michelin-starred delights, you can discover whatever culinary experience your heart desires. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant city center or venturing to its scenic outskirts, the variety of food choices will make you pause and savor the moment.
So, who says the Gold Coast is only for sunbathing? While most are still marveling at the waves and sand, I've secretly planned an entirely different kind of adventure. Let me guide you through six must-visit restaurants in Gold Coast.
Stop 1: The Tropic – Seafood Delight
Location: 3b/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
Hours: Mon-Fri: 12-10pm, Sat: 11am-11pm, Sun: 11am-10pm
Average Cost: $100 per person
Website: https://thetropic.com.au/
Our first stop takes us to The Tropic, a renowned coastal gem. The unbeatable ocean view here is reason enough to visit, but the food is the real star of the show. This restaurant is a well-kept secret among locals and tourists alike, even attracting big-name celebrities like Jay Chou!
As soon as you step in, the stunning ocean panorama captures your attention. The clear blue waters blend with the horizon, and the chic, minimalist decor makes the space feel fresh and inviting. With an open kitchen, you can watch the chefs work their magic, ensuring every dish is a masterpiece of flavor and freshness.
Being a seafood lover, I was thrilled to see the variety on the menu. The dishes here maintain the natural essence of the sea while skillfully removing any overpowering oceanic flavors. We started with their signature oysters, each one plump and glistening, enhanced with a squeeze of lemon—a taste of the ocean at its finest. Next came the grilled lobster, perfectly tender and juicy, paired with a garlic butter sauce that elevated the dish to another level. The highlight, however, was the seafood risotto. The rice soaked up all the flavors from the fresh fish, prawns, and crabs, creating a hearty, ocean-inspired feast. Every bite was unforgettable.
If you’re a seafood enthusiast, The Tropic is a must-visit destination that will exceed all your culinary expectations.
Stop 2: Kamikaze Teppanyaki – Japanese Fusion
Location: 103 Foxwell Rd, Coomera QLD 4209
Hours: Mon-Sun: 11:30am-2pm, 4:45pm-8pm
Average Cost: $100-$150 per person Website: https://kamikazeteppanyaki.com.au
Our second stop brings us to Kamikaze Teppanyaki, a Japanese restaurant blending traditional techniques with modern flair. The open teppanyaki kitchen offers a spectacular show, with chefs turning the cooking process into a lively performance. From quick knife skills to fiery flashes, the experience feels like part meal, part magic show!
One of the highlights is the playful interactions with the chefs, who turn simple ingredients into delicious creations with a bit of humor and flair. Watching them masterfully cook wagyu beef to perfection or skillfully slice delicate scallops and prawns is mesmerizing.
As for the food, the teppanyaki dishes are top-notch. The tender wagyu beef sizzles on the grill, absorbing that irresistible smokiness, while the seafood is fresh and perfectly cooked. Every dish delivers an adventure for the taste buds, and the chef’s performance adds a dash of excitement to the dining experience.
Stop 3: SkyPoint Bistro – Casual Elegance with a View
Location: 3003 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
Hours: Mon-Sun: 7:30am-9pm
Average Cost: $50 per person
Website: https://www.skypoint.com.au/
Next, we head to the iconic SkyPoint, Australia’s only beachside observation deck. Located high above the Gold Coast, it offers unbeatable 360-degree views of the coastline, making it a must-see attraction. The SkyPoint Bistro & Bar is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed meal with a breathtaking backdrop.
Whether you're indulging in fresh seafood or a sweet dessert, every bite is complemented by the stunning ocean vistas. The seafood platter I enjoyed was packed with flavors straight from the sea, and the desserts were a delightful finish to a perfect meal. SkyPoint also offers a breakfast buffet daily from 7:30am to 10:00am—what better way to start your day than with panoramic views of the Gold Coast?
Stop 4: Jimmy Wah’s – Modern Vietnamese Cuisine
Location: 1724 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12-2:30pm, 5:30-9pm
Average Cost: $50 per person
Website: https://jimmywahs.com.au/
Inspired by the 1987 film Good Morning, Vietnam, Jimmy Wah’s brings the vibrant flavors of modern Vietnamese cuisine to Burleigh Heads. Founded by chef Jake Cooley and restaurateur Shelly Greaves, this spot delivers a creative twist on traditional Vietnamese dishes, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Source: https://jimmywahs.com.au/
From the crispy soft-shell crab with green papaya salad to the banh mi and pho, each dish bursts with flavor and authenticity. The combination of tangy spices and fresh herbs in every bite will transport you straight to the streets of Vietnam. Jimmy Wah’s is a fantastic spot for a flavorful, laid-back meal in a welcoming atmosphere.
Stop 5: Double Barrel Kitchen & Bar - Light Brunch Café
Location: 1 The Concourse, Benowa QLD 4217
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 6:30am - 2:00pm
Average Spend: $30-40
Website: https://www.dbkitchenandbar.com/
Located by the riverside, Double Barrel Kitchen & Bar welcomes you with its cozy ambiance the moment you step in. The interior is adorned with warm golden tones, complemented by soft lighting, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Through the windows, you can enjoy the scenic river view, making it the perfect spot whether you're sipping coffee alone or sharing a meal with friends. Not only does this café offer a picturesque setting, but it is also pet-friendly, making it an ideal choice for a weekend outing with your furry companion.
The café serves breakfast seven days a week, ensuring you can start your day with a delicious meal anytime you visit. The breakfast menu offers a wide range of choices, from healthy yogurt granola bowls to various baked goods, bacon, and poached eggs. Whether you prefer something light and refreshing or a hearty traditional breakfast, you'll find something to suit your taste. Their coffee is especially noteworthy—rich and aromatic, it's a must-try with every visit.
By midday, Double Barrel offers a diverse lunch menu, catering to different appetites with everything from light bites to full meals. Their sharing platters, made with fresh local ingredients, are highly recommended for a truly delightful culinary experience. Additionally, on Fridays and Saturdays, the café serves dinner, making it an excellent choice for a romantic riverside dining experience.
Stop 6: Miami Rice - Asian Cuisine
Location: 2007 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
Opening Hours: Monday & Tuesday, 4:30pm - 9:30pm; Wednesday to Sunday, 11:30am - 2:30pm and 4:30pm - 9:30pm
Average Spend: $30
Website: https://miamirice.com.au/
Don’t let the simple menu fool you—this riverside restaurant is renowned for its variety and exquisite dishes, especially those that combine fresh local ingredients with Asian flavors, drawing food lovers from all around. Our culinary journey began with a standout appetizer: local wild prawns served with a Chinese-style salad. The prawns were tender and juicy, perfectly paired with the crispness of the salad, blending the seafood's freshness with the refreshing salad in a simple yet refined dish that leaves you craving more.
Another must-try is their Typhoon Shelter Crab, famous for its crispy, spicy flavor—a favorite among seafood lovers. The crab, deep-fried to perfection, retains its juicy, tender meat while the exterior is delightfully crispy. The dish’s essence lies in the generous topping of garlic crumbs, chili, and spices that cover the crab, filling the air with an irresistible aroma. Every bite brings the perfect balance of garlic and spice with a slight crispy texture, contrasting beautifully with the succulent crab meat. It’s the kind of dish that will turn any first-time diner into a regular.
Each of these restaurants offers a unique taste of the Gold Coast, making it not only a visual paradise but a culinary one too. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, Japanese teppanyaki, or modern Vietnamese fare, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Alison’s Story
Born in Hong Kong an moved to Australia, I have been associated with real estate all my life. As the plane slowly landed on the runway of Melbourne Airport, my life and career also changed to another runway. I changed from a Hong Kong real estate agent to an Australian real estate agent, and successfully obtained the Australian lawyer qualification.
When I was working in a law firm, I was surrounded by highly educated professionals. Even though their wages are very well, and they are absolutely the elites in society, but their lives are full of hard labor, and it’s hard for them to get rich through buying properties.
So I spend all my time and effort on learning financial and real estate investment knowledge, hoping to achieve financial freedom as soon as possible, and let my parents who have worked hard for many years live a good life.
Now I will share with you the knowledge and experience of investing in Australian real estate, and embark on the road to financial freedom together.
Alison Australian real estate information platform
The original intention of Miss Alison to establish investwithalison.com is to provide neutral Australian real estate information through this platform and help investors establish the most suitable investment strategy.
👉Website: investwithalison.com
👉Email: hello@investwithalison.com
👉Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/alisonwongaustralia/