Where to eat in Surfers Paradise – the ultimate local dining guide
From restaurants offering elevated dining and sweeping sea views to sweet beachside bakeries and electric rooftop bars, Surfers Paradise is alive with unique dining destinations for every occasion. Read on for our list of the best places to dine, sip and snack in Surfers Paradise …
Fine Dining
Citrique at JW Marriott Gold Coast, Ferny Avenue
In the heart of Surfers Paradise, Citrique restaurant invites diners to experience the rich flavours our landscape has to offer by celebrating modern Australian cuisine. With a passion for sustainability and local sourcing, Citrique and executive chef Paul Smart are on a mission to enhance Queensland ingredients through collaboration, experimentation and international skills. Step inside the elegant interior to find the award-winning seafood buffet, with everything from Spanner crabs and fresh Pacific oysters to Mooloolaba tiger prawns, Moreton Bay bugs and more, or catch a taste of the signature bay bug dumplings with chilli glaze and kaffir lime or the oven baked snow fish with lemon myrtle beurre blanc sauce. Seasoned with herbs from its very own JW Garden, Citrique magnifies simple and local flavours with expert mastery.
Yamagen, Staghorn Avenue
Tucked inside QT Gold Coast is a unique dining destination where elevated drinks and a sultry atmosphere rule. Yamagen fuses refined technique with playful creativity, all underscored by the izakaya’s signature “unusual ambience” that makes each visit truly memorable. Across a robata grill, sushi counter and an impressive Japanese whisky collection, Yamagen’s dedication to cutting-edge equipment and thoughtfully selected produce means diners can feast knowing they’re in good hands. The melding of tradition and invention is showcased through a vibrant selection of market-fresh sashimi and intricate sushi creations, along with the menu’s standout dishes of dry-aged duck breast served with beetroot puree, witlof and sansho and the Hokkaido scallop sashimi with wakame, karkalua and pink pepper.
T’ang Court, Old Burleigh Road
Located within the Langham, Gold Coast is an elevated culinary escape devoted to bringing the essence of South China to the Surfers Paradise seaside landscape. T’ang Court embraces its cultural inspirations amid a lavishly furnished and modern interior where the finest local produce and elevated mastery take centre stage. On the contemporary Cantonese menu, diners can enjoy an intentional flavour selection across the stir-fried Imperial Blossom wagyu tenderloin, steamed Glacier 51 toothfish and raw Hiramasa yellowtail kingfish. With a focus on fresh and high-end local produce, T’ang Court follows the Cantonese tradition of using modest seasoning to preserve original tastes and letting natural flavours speak for themselves.
Palette, Bundall Road
HOTA isn’t just home of the arts – it’s also home to fine-dining restaurant, Palette, where the vibrant diversity of Australiana and the season’s current exhibition, is woven into every dish. Native ingredients from Southeast Queensland’s mangroves and rainforests are used to translate the work of artists, producers and the land itself, to create a menu layered with meaning and history. Each dish is elevated through storytelling, making a culinary experience where the food is more than just a meal – it’s a memory. For example, Palette’s current a la carte menu takes inspiration from the vivid and spontaneous work of beloved Australian painter Ken Done, through line-caught fish with sauce barigoule and locally farmed heirloom cauliflower with bush tomato and coconut. Plus, the menu features the names of people of who have farmed, caught or hunted each meal, bringing a personal and familiar feel to every dish.
Hotel Jardin, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre
As one of the newest additions to the Gold Coast’s dining and nightlife scene, Hotel Jardin brings a suite of elevated spaces to Surfers Paradise. SABA Kitchen is Hotel Jardin’s lush, pan-Asian restaurant where diners can find a menu that balances playfulness with polish within a moody yet modern setting. From robata-grilled skewers, yuzu sashimi, honey-glazed game-farm duck and the head chef’s spice-driven flair, SABA Kitchen offers a dining experience that’s both refined and adventurous. Enrich the experience with a visit upstairs to the Piano Bar where soulful performances of jazz and classic hits await. With more dining offerings to come in 2026, diners can discover a world of experiences in one destination at Hotel Jardin.
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Seascape Restaurant & Bar, The Esplanade
When the mood for fresh seafood strikes, there’s no better place to indulge than seaside. From its secluded vantage point above the Surfers Paradise Esplanade, Seascape Restaurant & Bar offers a multi-level dining experience that spans fine dining to casual sipping – all with sweeping ocean and beach views. Channelling coastal casual, diners can find the bar and bistro perched over the boardwalk and across the outdoor balcony that invokes alfresco dining. Head upstairs to find the restaurant, where unrivalled panoramic ocean views and an ambient atmosphere set the tone for the contemporary seafood menu with six fish species on offer daily. With its commitment to excellence, Seascape Restaurant & Bar offers ultimate beachfront dining in the heart of Surfers Paradise.
Nahm Talay Thai, Cavill Avenue
This is Thai, but not as you know it. From the owners of Chong Co Thai, this beachfront dining destination blends elements of traditional Thai cuisine with a modern twist to create a unique experience. Nahm Talay Thai brings wild theatricality to the cuisine, across dishes of soft-shell crab, kingfish ceviche and red duck curry. Even the cocktail menu has been infused with flair, with some sips crafted by liquid nitrogen and bubble guns. Situated by the ocean, diners can enjoy Thai fusion at its very best, paired with the sounds of waves and the shade of palm trees.
Edgewater Dining, G7 Via Roma
If you’re looking for a sophisticated dining experience paired with sweeping waterfront views, take a step inside Edgewater Dining located in the bustling Capri on Via Roma. Here, the menu is inspired by modern Australian cuisine and local produce with a European twist. Across signature dishes and seasonal standouts, seafood is the star at Edgewater, with Mooloolaba grilled prawns, lychee and chilli sorbet oysters, sashimi and caviar featuring on the menu. Signature dishes including king prawn and bug risotto and oven-baked whole snapper can also be found alongside a well-curated wine list and inventive cocktail menu. Ideal for special celebrations of all kinds, Edgewater Dining delivers waterfront dining at its finest to Surfers Paradise.
La Calabrese, Meriton Level 1
Here you can find real Italians cooking real Italian food where the motto is handmade freshness, no shortcuts. At La Calabrese, the experienced team has a self-described obsession with doing everything properly, from fresh handmade pasta to daily-prepared pizza dough. The team’s passion and experience can be found across the whole menu, from giant fungi arancino and prosciutto focaccia to spaghetti aglio olio prawns and golden brown gnocco pumpkin – and of course a range of premium pizzas. On a mission to bring real traditional food to the Gold Coast, La Calabrese is the go-to Italian restaurant in Surfers Paradise.
Bars and Rooftops
Hyde Paradiso, Peppers Soul Level 2
If you’re looking for a European escape, Hyde Paradiso brings Mediterranean summer vibes to Surfers Paradise with a prime seaside location. Sun-drenched brunches, an elevated shared tapas meal, a vibrant night out – Hyde Paradiso offers it all. The morning’s continental buffet and a la carte breakfast transitions into a euro-inspired tapas menu with the best of local produce designed for grazing. Think crispy skinned barramundi with green olives and smoked almonds, chive gnocchi with truffle grilled forest mushrooms and Moreton Bay bug on brioche bun rolls with harissa and jalapeno salsa. Pair a plate with a selection from the all-star cocktail menu while you soak up Surfers’ iconic ocean views.
The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise Boulevard
Perched above Surfers Paradise sits a vibrant rooftop bar serving up good times, sunny afternoons and ultimate entertainment. The Island Rooftop is Surfers Paradise’s sky-high escape, perfect for creating unforgettable moments with friends and family over a spectacular view. With a menu designed for sharing with loved ones, guests can find everything from wood-fired sangas, charcuterie boards, pizza, pasta and bar snacks along with a drinks menu of masterfully mixed cocktails and a wide range of beer, wine and spirits.
Lulu, Orchid Avenue
With electric energy and retro charm, this rooftop bar brings a splash of Miami Vice to the Gold Coast. Step into Lulu Rooftop Bar and discover a haven of vibrant delights, from standout cocktails to breathtaking views. The menu champions fresh, seasonal ingredients and bold flavours, serving up favourites like fish tacos, duck pancakes and cauliflower karaage, all paired with cocktails crafted for sun-soaked sipping. As the night unfolds, Lulu’s iconic dance floor comes alive with a dynamic roster of resident DJs, shifting the vibe from chilled and tropical at sunset to a high-energy late-night celebration when the stars come out.
COAST Beach Bar, Ocean by Meriton
Find Coast Beach Bar embedded in the Surfers Paradise coastline, a place where you can soak up the best of beachside living. Relaxed, welcoming and brimming with coastal charm, Coast is a destination venue designed for kicking back with a drink in hand. With a space shrouded in greenery and fitted with a retractable roof, guests can enjoy a side of sunshine with Coffin Bay oysters, coal-roasted baba ghanoush and steak frites from the bar snack menu. Sips, sun and seaside vibes – Coast Beach Bar offers the ultimate location for cooling off post-swim or sharing a meal with family and friends.
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Surfers Pavilion, Ferny Avenue
Surfers Pavilion sits right on the water in Surfers Paradise, offering a relaxed, open-air spot for long lunches, afternoon cocktails and laidback weekend sessions. The venue makes the most of its riverfront setting, with uninterrupted views, an easygoing atmosphere and its own private jetty adding to the appeal. The menu runs from hearty breakfasts to crowd-pleasing lunches and dinners, including burgers, parmies and trawler-fresh seafood platters alongside lighter bites and summer-friendly sips. With live music across the weekend and plenty of spots to settle in by the water, the ‘Surfers Pav’ is a breezy all-day destination that suits everything from casual catch-ups to sunset drinks.
Fu Manchu, Thomas Drive
Fu Manchu is a Chevron Island mainstay, serving up bold Asian-fusion flavours in a cosy, lantern-lit setting. The menu is made for sharing, starting with bao buns stuffed with bulgogi beef or Korean fried chicken, alongside loaded dumplings and other snackable bites. Bigger plates bring the heat, from lobster laksa-curry noodles to chilli prawn salad and Szechuan crispy-skin duck. The drinks list is just as tempting, with a huge line-up of inventive cocktails and an extensive selection of wines. If you’re unsure what to pour with your pick, the menu helpfully lists the perfect wine match for each of the larger dishes.
Cali Beach, Elkhorn Avenue
Cali Beach is Surfers Paradise’s sky-high beach club, blending relaxed resort energy with a lively day-to-night atmosphere. Perched above Elkhorn Avenue, the multi-level venue feels like a slice of Euro Summer, complete with sparkling pools, shaded cabanas, three buzzing bars and a fresh, coastal-inspired menu built for grazing. Think tacos, ceviche, sliders, sharing platters and playful cocktails served poolside while DJs and live performers set the rhythm. Whether you’re settling in for a long lunch, enjoying sunset sips with friends or are keen for some after-dark revelry, Cali Beach delivers a fun, free-spirited escape above the city streets.
The Exhibitionist Bar, Bundall Road
Perched atop the HOTA Gallery, Exhibitionist Bar delivers one of the most impressive views on the Gold Coast, stretching from Surfers Paradise to the Hinterland. It’s the kind of rooftop that suits every mood – a light lunch, sunset cocktail or relaxed post-show nightcap – all backed by a creative drinks list curated by renowned bartender Tom Angel. The cocktails change with each major exhibition, keeping the menu fresh and art-inspired, while the food offering ranges from steak frites with nahm jim bearnaise to playful bites like the banh mi pizza. Open seven days, Exhibitionist Bar a must-visit. Keen for more sky-high sips? Check out our list of the Gold Coast’s best rooftop bars.
Casual Dining
Janus Deli, Hanlan Street
The classic American deli meets Korean flair at Janus Deli, the go-to spot in Surfers Paradise for everything sandwiches, donuts and mouth-watering baked goods. Dedication and passion are baked into everything served at this sweet seaside venue, from Janus Bakehouse donuts to Korean-Australian style sandwiches. Pick up gourmet sandwiches like the Seoul Sub with Korean Galbi meatballs and poached egg or the Truffy Mushy with truffle, provolone and mozzarella, and pair it your choice of sweet treat – with favourites like the creme brulee donut and a range of cinnamon scrolls on offer, there’s plenty to sink your teeth into.
Sandbar, The Esplanade
There’s no other place in Surfers Paradise to wine, dine and take your time quite like Sandbar, an alfresco style venue with a premium esplanade and beachside location. As warm days ease into breezy nights, pop into Sandbar for a post-swim snack or a coastal feed with friends, to find quality brekky favourites, gourmet burgers, fish and chips, steaks, seafood and more, paired with a range of cocktails, wines and the Gold Coast’s crispest ales. Stay for the range of weekly events and specials, from kids eat free on Mondays to Wednesday night trivia and live music every Saturday night.
Uni’s Bakehouse, Orchid Avenue
Surfers Paradise recently became home to a sweet new vegan and gluten-free focused bakery where pastel hues and friendly service take the cake. From the owners of Southport’s Blendlove, Uni’s Bakehouse fills a gap for dietary-friendly baked goods without sacrificing flavour or indulgence across cabinets stacked with sweet and savoury treats accessible for all. Get your fill with Uni’s range of cookies, focaccia, brownies, banana bread, croissants and more on offer, before checking out the selection of specialty drinks, including organic Bun Coffee from Byron Bay, black-sesame lattes and strawberry matcha. Keep an eye out for Uni’s sunny yellow-and-blue fit-out bringing fresh colour and flavour to the Surfers Paradise cafe scene.
Ramen Danbo, Merivale Street
For authentic tonkotsu ramen made with fresh and quality ingredients, Ramen Danbo delivers the goods to Surfers Paradise with unwavering consistency. Since beginning its journey in 2000 in Chikushino, Ramen Danbo has grown from a small, family-owned shop to an established brand across more than 35 locations worldwide. The premier ramen restaurant prides itself on featuring ingredients of the highest quality, sourced both locally and from Japan. Explore a menu of ramen dishes featuring traditional flavours and ingredients and make it your own with the chance to alter soup richness, noodle firmness, spice, saltiness and toppings to your taste.
Shiraz Persian, Gold Coast Highway
With a decade’s experience serving authentic Persian cuisine, Shiraz Persian Restaurant has built an award-winning reputation for its traditional flavours and fresh ingredients. Being well-versed in the recipes, flavours and ingredients of Persia, diners can find an authentic cultural dining experience at Shiraz Persian alongside delicious cocktails and live entertainment. From the banquet menu, diners can enjoy delicacies such as Torsh Kabob, grilled marinated lamb in pomegranate sauce along with Gardan, slow-cooked lamb neck cooked in turmeric and caramelised onion.
Pappa Flock, Paradise Centre
A Sydney-born fried chicken favourite recently set up shop in Surfers Paradise, bringing good-old-fashioned comfort food to the coast. The cult-favourite fried chicken joint, Pappa Flock, is famous for its tenders of crispy perfection, alongside buttery toast, seasoned chips and freshly squeezed house lemonade. Whether you’re popping in for post-surf nosh or prepping for a group feast, this takeaway joint has something for every occasion with loaded fries, wraps and bowls also on the menu. Nestled in a bright and cheeky venue, complete with neon accents and laid-back atmosphere, Pappa Flock has already become a fried chicken favourite in Surfers Paradise.