Top Gold Coast Restaurants: A Foodie’s Guide
I always make it a point to explore the local culinary scene wherever I go. The Gold Coast, with its vibrant and diverse food culture, did not disappoint. During my visit, I had the opportunity to dine at some of the best restaurants the Gold Coast has to offer, from beachside cafes to fine dining establishments. In this guide, I’ll share my experiences at these top eateries, along with recommendations on what to order and what makes each spot unique.
1. Rick Shores
Location: 43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
I kicked off my culinary adventure at Rick Shores, a restaurant that had come highly recommended by locals and travelers alike. Situated right on the beach in Burleigh Heads, Rick Shores offers a dining experience like no other. As I stepped inside, I was immediately struck by the breathtaking views of the ocean. The sound of waves crashing against the shore provided a serene backdrop to my meal.
Rick Shores is known for its modern Asian-inspired cuisine, and I was eager to dive into the menu. I started with their signature dish, the Moreton Bay Bug Roll. This delicacy features succulent, tender bug meat served in a soft brioche roll with a touch of sriracha and mayo. The combination of flavors was absolutely divine, and it set the tone for the rest of the meal.
Next, I sampled the Kingfish Sashimi, which was presented beautifully on a bed of ice. The freshness of the fish, paired with a tangy yuzu dressing and a hint of chili, was a burst of flavor in every bite. For the main course, I couldn’t resist trying the Wok-Tossed Mud Crab, a dish that was both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. The crab was cooked to perfection, with a rich, savory sauce that left me wanting more.
The service at Rick Shores was impeccable, with attentive staff who were knowledgeable about the menu and eager to make recommendations. The combination of exquisite food, stunning views, and top-notch service made this dining experience one of the highlights of my trip.
2. The Fish House
Location: 50 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
Just a short walk from Rick Shores is The Fish House, a seafood lover’s paradise. This upscale restaurant is renowned for its commitment to sourcing the freshest seafood available, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The ambiance at The Fish House is elegant yet relaxed, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the ocean.
I started my meal with the Sashimi of the Day, which featured a selection of the freshest catch. The presentation was simple, allowing the quality of the fish to shine through. Each piece melted in my mouth, and I savored the subtle flavors of the ocean.
For the main course, I opted for the Whole Grilled Snapper. The fish was cooked to perfection, with a crispy skin and moist, tender flesh. It was served with a side of lemon and caper butter, which added a zesty tang to the dish. I also tried the King Prawns, which were grilled and served with a garlic and parsley butter. The prawns were plump and juicy, and the butter sauce was rich and flavorful.
The Fish House also boasts an extensive wine list, and the sommelier was more than happy to help me select the perfect pairing for my meal. I ended the evening with a classic Crème Brûlée, which was rich and creamy with a perfectly caramelized sugar topping.
3. Hellenika at The Calile
Location: 48 James St, Fortitude Valley
Although technically located in Brisbane, I made the short trip to Hellenika at The Calile after hearing rave reviews from fellow foodies. Hellenika is a modern Greek restaurant that offers a dining experience rooted in traditional flavors with a contemporary twist.
The restaurant’s interior is chic and stylish, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. I started with the Dolmades, which were stuffed with rice, herbs, and pine nuts, then drizzled with a lemony olive oil. The flavors were vibrant and refreshing, a perfect start to the meal.
One of the standout dishes for me was the Grilled Octopus, which was tender and perfectly charred, served with a side of tzatziki. The dish was a testament to the chef’s skill in balancing bold flavors with subtle nuances.
For the main course, I chose the Lamb Shoulder, a dish that is slow-cooked for hours until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender. It was served with a side of lemon potatoes, which were crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The lamb was rich and flavorful, with a depth of flavor that can only come from slow cooking.
I finished my meal with a slice of traditional Baklava, layered with nuts and honey, and paired it with a strong Greek coffee. Hellenika provided a memorable dining experience, with dishes that celebrated the flavors of Greece in a modern, sophisticated setting.
4. Etsu Izakaya
Location: 2440 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
For something a bit more laid-back yet equally delicious, I headed to Etsu Izakaya in Mermaid Beach. This Japanese izakaya-style restaurant is a hidden gem, with a nondescript entrance that adds to its secretive allure. Once inside, the dim lighting, rustic wooden decor, and buzzing atmosphere transport you to the heart of Tokyo.
The menu at Etsu Izakaya is extensive, offering a range of small plates designed for sharing. I started with the Edamame, which was lightly salted and served piping hot. Next, I tried the Wagyu Beef Tataki, which was seared to perfection and served with a tangy ponzu sauce. The beef was incredibly tender, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that was simply divine.
One of the standout dishes at Etsu Izakaya was the Crispy Pork Belly, which was served with a sweet soy glaze and a side of pickled vegetables. The pork belly was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
For sushi lovers, Etsu Izakaya offers an array of fresh sushi and sashimi options. I tried the Chef’s Selection of Nigiri, which included a variety of expertly crafted sushi pieces that were as beautiful to look at as they were to eat.
I ended the meal with a scoop of Green Tea Ice Cream, which was the perfect way to cleanse the palate after such a flavorful feast. Etsu Izakaya is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Japanese cuisine in a relaxed and lively setting.
5. Social Eating House + Bar
Location: 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach
Located in the heart of Broadbeach, Social Eating House + Bar is a trendy spot that offers a modern take on classic dishes. The restaurant has a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe, with an open kitchen that allows diners to watch the chefs in action.
I started my meal with the Charcuterie Board, which featured a selection of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and house-made pickles. The variety and quality of the ingredients were impressive, and it was a great way to start the evening.
For the main course, I chose the Slow-Roasted Lamb Shoulder, which was served with a side of roasted vegetables and a rich jus. The lamb was incredibly tender, with a deep, savory flavor that was enhanced by the perfectly roasted vegetables.
One of the highlights of my meal was the Kingfish Ceviche, which was light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. The ceviche was served with a side of crispy tortilla chips, which added a satisfying crunch to each bite.
For dessert, I opted for the Chocolate Fondant, which was rich, decadent, and perfectly gooey in the center. Paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it was the perfect way to end a memorable meal.
My culinary journey through the Gold Coast was nothing short of extraordinary. Each restaurant offered a unique dining experience, showcasing the region’s diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood, modern Asian cuisine, or traditional Greek flavors, the Gold Coast has something to satisfy every palate.
I always make it a point to explore the local culinary scene wherever I go. The Gold Coast, with its vibrant and diverse food culture, did not disappoint. During my visit, I had the opportunity to dine at some of the best restaurants the Gold Coast has to offer, from beachside cafes to fine dining…