The 17 best restaurants on the Gold Coast

What is it? A fast-casual taqueria slinging real-deal Mexican street food, with only one Aussie twist in sight.

Why go? If you ask any local where to find the Gold Coast's best tacos, chances are they'll say Costa. From the taqueria’s humble beginnings as a pop-up at the Currumbin Community Market to the launch of its third joint in Broadbeach, Costa’s journey is a testament to its tasty tacos. Their young gun chefs, many of whom are Mexican and Latino immigrants, grill up street-style tacos filled with beef birria, pork carnitas and beer-battered snapper. We’d recommend ripping into their quesabirria, featuring two cheesy birria tacos grilled to crispy perfection, best enjoyed dunked in their legendary ‘consome' sauce. 

Time Out tip: If you're craving tacos while travelling, Costa also has a store in Byron Bay.

Address: 36 Armrick Ave, Broadbeach | 1,718 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Price: Affordable

What is it? One of the Gold Coast’s most celebrated restaurants, where you can savour a medley of pan-Asian flavours right on the gorgeous waterfront at Burleigh Beach.

Why go? For ten years, Rick Shores has set the bar high for fine dining on the Gold Coast. The glamorous and contemporary Asian fusion menu draws inspiration from Vietnam and Thailand, featuring their now-famous fried Moreton Bay bug roll with sriracha mayonnaise – arguably the Gold Coast’s most iconic snack. Rick’s cured king salmon sashimi and freshly shucked oysters with Thai vinaigrette go down a treat, while the roasted duck breast curry with lychees and Bangalow pork rack deserve a spot on your table for mains.

Time Out tip: You’ll need to book a table at Rick’s, but if you’re feeling spontaneous, arrive early and try to nab a table in the bar or on the sunny patio.

Address: Burleigh Pavilion, 3/43 Goodwin Tce, Burleigh Heads

Price: Mid-range to high-end

What is it? This glamorous bar and grill in Broadbeach serves fire-kissed food from one of the city’s only charcoal woodfire grills, along with seafood towers, caviar trolleys, roving Champagne and immersive cocktails.

Why go? The shiniest jewel in the Gold Coast crown of new-ish restaurants, Kōst impresses in more ways than one. For starters, there’s the extremely attentive staff and incredibly luxurious space, featuring glamorous indoor booths, bar dining, outdoor pavilion stools and a private dining room. That’s not to mention the purpose-built dry-aged cool room and Australia’s first two-metre Mibrasa charcoal grill and oven. Kōst’s rather extensive menu splits share plates between the ocean, land and earth, with heroes like their fire-kissed yellowfin tuna, steak tartare with crisps and cauliflower with whipped tahini. 

Time Out tip: Don't skip the sides. The blackened hispi cabbage is one of Kōst's signatures, served with pistachio cream and lemon. We can confirm, it slaps!

Address: Shop 135S/3 Oracle Bvd, Broadbeach

Price: High-end

What is it? Burleigh Heads' very own edition of the playful, pastel modern-Asian diner loved in Byron Bay and Noosa.

Why go? Expect shamelessly indulgent share plates served under sexy low lighting with a disco-heavy soundtrack. Start by ordering brioche buns loaded with prawns laced with yuzu tartare and furikake, plus delicately poached kingfish ceviche in smooth coconut and kaffir lime. Can’t decide between the crispy pork belly and the Wagyu beef rendang? Surrender control and leave ordering in the hands of the chef for a series of excellently balanced dishes at a reasonable $79 per person.

Time Out tip: Four-legged friends are invited to join you outside and will be welcomed with lots of pats. 

Address: 1848 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Price: Affordable

What is it? A vibrant coastal-inspired restaurant that takes diners on a journey across the Mediterranean, drawing inspiration from Greece, Spain, Morocco, Turkey, Lebanon and Italy.

Why go? Taking its name from the Greek word for a summer breeze, Meltemi combines the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean with a Gold Coast vibe. The generous share-style menu is designed for long lunches and dinners with friends, featuring a mix of crudo, breads and dips, mezze plates and larger share dishes that showcase bold flavours and seasonal produce. The standout feature is the traditional Cypriot rotisserie grill where meats and seafood are slowly cooked over open flames, producing dishes such as Turkish Wagyu kofte, spiced Lebanese chicken and Spanish-style lobster. The interiors evoke the breezy elegance of a Mediterranean seaside town with curved walls, coastal imagery and a bar where cocktails and Mediterranean wines are best enjoyed in good company.

Time Out tip: Try the weekday Meltemi Coastal Lunch special – a $60pp Mediterranean spread that offers excellent value and is made for sharing. 

Address: 17 Albert Ave, Broadbeach

Price: Mid-range

What is it? Australia’s first floating beach club, featuring a fine dining restaurant, expansive bar and gorgeous pool surrounded by sun lounges, day beds and private cabanas.

Why go? Ocean gazing meets Mediterranean-inspired grazing at this boho-luxe beach club on the glistening Marina Mirage. In winter, share mezze plates and local seafood at the heated alfresco Māre restaurant, overlooking the glistening water and sublime skyline. In summer, bask in the warm rays with a Spritz in hand, lounging on day beds or sun lounges to soulful melodies and soft grooves.

Time Out tip: Pack your swimmers – the pool isn't just for looking at, it's for swimming in, too. 

Address: Marina Mirage, La Luna Beach Club, 74 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach

Price: High-end 

What is it? A pan-Asian favourite in Broadbeach that celebrated its tenth birthday in 2025 with a striking new look and menu that builds on a decade of delicious hits.

Why go? Mamasan marked its double digits b'day in 2025 with a bold new look and menu that keeps locals coming back for more. The sunlit alfresco area adds a breezy dimension, while an intimate private dining room wrapped in Japanese charred timber offers the perfect place for big gatherings. In the kitchen, Mamasan's chefs continue to celebrate big, bold Southeast Asian flavours with a modern twist. Diners can share their way through a mix of small plates and larger dishes, from tuna tacos with ginger ponzu and Korean fried chicken ribs to Wagyu katsu sandos and seafood dumplings. Chargrilled seafood, slow-braised meats and indulgent specialties round out the offering. Tie your feast together with Asian-inspired cocktails, sake and an extensive wine list. 

Time Out tip: Mamasan's extensive menu caters to a variety of dietary needs, with plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.

Address: 3 Oracle Bvd, Broadbeach 

Price: Mid-range

What is it? Burleigh Heads’ highest-rated Vietnamese restaurant blends traditional and contemporary cuisines to a backdrop of 50s, 60s and 70s tunes.

Why go? Named after the charismatic bar owner in Robin Williams’ Good Morning, Vietnam, Jimmy Wah’s is as cheeky as it is charming. Long-time favourites include the soft shell crab banh mi, pork larb and prawn Vietnamese pancakes. But don’t waste time stressing over what to order and let the chefs decide with their multi-layered Feed Me menu.

Time Out tip: Got gluten-free friends? Jimmy Wah's is a great option, with an almost 100 per cent gluten-free menu. 

Address: 1724 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Price: Mid-range

What is it? Your go-to spot for a long lunch or a romantic sunset dinner, with stunning views over Burleigh Heads. 

Why go? This buzzing beachfront eatery is the fancy older sibling to The Burleigh Pavilion. With breathtaking ocean views and the sound of rolling waves, it’s perfect for a relaxed dining experience at any time of day. The Tropic’s menu weaves Mediterranean flavours into reimagined Aussie classics, such as prawn cocktails, oyster mornay, lobster frites and a showstopping cold seafood platter to share. Don’t be shy with the cocktails like the Tropic Bellini and Lights Out with chilli mango gin, passionfruit and citrus.

Time Out tip: Love a bottomless brunch? The Tropics hosts one on the last Saturday of every month, with exclusive terrace seating, a live DJ and a Mediterranean-inspired feast. You can sip on rosé, Bellini cocktails or Veuve Clicquot as you soak up the sunshine.

Address: 3b/43 Goodwin Tce, Burleigh Heads

Price: High-end

What is it? On the ground floor of the luxe new Mondrian Gold Coast, this all-day venue brings the breezy charm of an Italian coastal eatery to the heart of Burleigh Heads. 

Why go? Lito is basically a piece of Italy by the beach – think seasonal produce, classic Italian technique and cool, coastal vibes. In the AM, you can wake up to Sicilian-style poached eggs and focaccia breakfast sandwiches, paired with exceptional coffee (a non-negotiable in a city of 6am risers). Come lunch and dinner, there's vibrant antipasti, hand-rolled pasta and share plates so generous you might need a second stomach. Bring more friends, so you have more room to try other comforting classics, like wood-fired breads, lobster bucatini, crispy calamari and hearty meatballs. Drinks-wise, it’s all about wines, aperitifs and cocktails perfect for golden hour sipping. As for the vibe? Think total relaxed beachside bliss, with shaded alfresco tables, an open wood-fired kitchen and breezy indoor-outdoor spaces that connect to Burleigh’s beachside lifestyle.

Time Out tip: Get around Lito's Tuesday Pasta and Pinot special, where you'll pay just $30 for your choice of gnocchi, lasagna or cannelloni, with a glass of wine. 

Address: Mondrian Gold Coast, Ground/3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads

Price: Mid-range to high-end

What is it? A beautiful and airy 200-seat dining destination that embodies all the best parts of the Gold Coast, welcoming crowds from brunch to dinner.

Why go? This is a definite upgrade from your average surf ’n’ turf by the beach. The brainchild of brothers Jarrod Kyle and TJ Cianci, Siblings Kirra showcases the best of Australia’s seafood scene, moving from breads and raw bites to snacky plates, salads and mains. Bring the whole family to share classics like Baja fish tacos and salt and pepper calamari, or splash out with prawn and bug meat risotto or the daily catch – available pan-seared or battered. Your liquid journey is serious business at Siblings, whether you’re after a whitecap, a big-personality red or a summery Spritz.

Time Out tip: Got plant-based pals? Siblings has a dedicated vegan menu with everything from starters to dessert.

Address: 15 Marine Pde, Coolangatta 

Price: Mid-range

What is it? One of the Gold Coast’s top fine-dining restaurants, plating up spectacular seasonal menus inspired by the art at HOTA. 

Why go? HOTA isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a feast for the senses. At the gallery’s ground-floor Palette Restaurant, every plate draws inspiration not just from the seasons, but from the art hanging on the walls. Palette’s menu evolves with whatever major exhibition is on show, while tableside rituals and storytelling bring each edible work of art to life. Every menu is offered as both à la carte and tasting formats, featuring native ingredients foraged from the mangroves and rainforests, plus the finest seafood and meats from Southeast Queensland.

Time Out tip: Head upstairs to the striking Exhibitionist Bar for a pre-lunch or dinner cocktail and enjoy breathtaking views stretching across the coast to the hinterland.

Address: HOTA, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise

Price: High-end

What is it? A stylish and intimate Parisian restaurant centred around an open-plan kitchen with a charcoal grill. 

Why go? Who needs the Eiffel Tower when you can experience the flavours of Paris just a few streets back from Burleigh Beach? Seek out this sophisticated European-style bistro headed by owner and chef Alex Munoz Labart (Monopole, Cirrus, Est). The menu at Restaurant Labart moves with the seasons; you can watch the chefs work their magic from front-row seats near the charcoal grill. The shared set menu is a good shout, giving you tasters of signature plates – it could include white anchovy toast with stracciatella and smoked peppers; chilli spanner crab risotto; and roasted spatchcock with oyster mushrooms and Aleppo pepper. 

Time Out tip: Seating is limited, so you'll definitely want to book in advance.

Address: 2a/8 West St, Burleigh Heads

Price: Mid-range

What is it? A slick, neighbourhood Italian joint in Miami, brought to us by the legends behind Light Years and Pixie (Byron Bay).

Why go? Effortlessly chic and endlessly appetising, Bar Monte is a love child between Italy and Australia. Just like a Roman trattoria, seating spills onto the street, inviting you to sip on a Limoncello Spritz and soak in the ambience. The wine list is  curated by Andrea Martinisi – once crowned the world’s eighth best sommelier by the Association of Sommeliers International – and is a blend of Aussie and French treasures. Pair your tipple with small bites like anchovy toast, chicken liver parfait and housemade focaccia with whipped butter and hot honey. For the main event, share Wagyu ragu and cacio e pepe along with heartier proteins, including a showstopping bistecca with marrow butter.

Time Out tip: Lunch like a Roman every Sunday, with Monte Sundays from 12pm. This set menu includes generous plates, bottomless focaccia and fries, plus flowing drinks. 

Address: Shop 2/3 Mountain View Ave, Miami

Price: Affordable

What is it? A taste of Tokyo in Surfers Paradise, featuring an izakaya-style menu crafted by ex-Nobu chef Adam Lane. Yamagen also boasts the largest Japanese whisky collection in Australia, alongside cutting-edge cocktails and premium spirits.

Why go? Neon lights and moody lighting set the scene at Yamagen, the QT’s signature restaurant and the Gold Coast’s first Japanese fine diner. Executive chef Adam Lane – of Nobu, Sake, Sushi E and Tetsuya’s fame – blends old-school techniques with bold Asian flavours, offering a feast of market-fresh sashimi, sushi platters, izakaya snacks, robata skewers and hot share plates. Trust chef Lane with one of his three premium omakase menus, showcasing delicacies like sashimi tacos, Wagyu beef gyoza, crispy pork belly, spicy popcorn prawns and miso-glazed glacier toothfish. Say kanpai with a yuzu or tea-infused cocktail, a sake flight or a choice from the extensive Japanese whisky and umeshu list.

Time Out tip: Yamagen only opens for lunch on Fridays, where you can enjoy the set menu for $65pp – almost half the dinner price. 

Address: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise

Price: High-end

What is it? A popular 'casual fine diner' with a strong Australian identity in Broadbeach.

Why go? If you’re in the business of being social while snacking, then this place has your name all over it. For more than a decade, this local hotspot, run by husband-and-wife team Matthew Jefferson (executive chef) and Dayna Cooper, has been serving sophisticated, seasonal dishes paired with excellent sips. Seafood takes centre stage on the bar snack menu, with the house charcuterie board and 12-hour slow-cooked lamb shoulder also bringing main character energy.

Time Out tip: Celebrating a special occasion? Social Eating House has a gorgeous private dining room available for groups of up to eight. 

Address: Shop 137/3 Oracle Bvd, Broadbeach

Price: Mid-range

What is it? A three-in-one dining, drinking and event destination that sits on the second floor of Kirra Beach Hotel. 

Why go? Kirra Beach House is the Gold Coast’s most ambitious and perhaps largest hospitality venue. The effortlessly chic 1,200 sqm space, with a capacity of roughly 700, features a full-service indoor restaurant, a sunny terrace with private cabanas, an intimate cocktail bar and a dedicated wine bar, along with private event spaces. That means you’ll have plenty of places to kick back with a cocktail in hand, as you take in uninterrupted ocean views over one of Australia's most famous breaks and indulge in Mediterranean-style grazing plates.

Time Out tip: Get around the weekly specials, including $28 steak with bottomless fries on Wednesday and $19 pizzas every Thursday.

Address: 4 Marine Pde, Coolangatta

Price: Affordable