Burleigh Heads is set to usher in a luxurious new chapter – and it’s plated to perfection. As the doors prepare to open on the Mondrian Gold Coast, locals can look forward to more than just the glamour of a world-class hotel. Two spectacular ground-floor venues, Haven and LiTO, are poised to reshape the local dining scene, offering wildly different but equally exciting experiences that celebrate the Gold Coast’s natural abundance and laid-back lifestyle. Here’s what we know so far …
Overlooking the picturesque Burleigh Heads foreshore, Haven is the signature dining offering at the Mondrian Gold Coast. With its effortlessly chic design and breathtaking Pacific Ocean views, Haven is anticipated to offer a refined yet relaxed all-day experience where the bounty of the land and sea truly shines.
Leading the culinary charge is executive chef Aaron Teece, a name that resonates deeply within Australia’s dining scene. Born and raised in the Northern Rivers, his career has taken him from prestigious kitchens in London, including Harvey Nichols’ 5th Floor Restaurant, to serving royalty – literally, with a stint as private chef to Lady Margaret Thatcher and even the Queen. Now, he’s returning to his roots to deliver a menu that’s produce-led, seafood-forward and built on clean, honest flavours with a native edge. Think line-caught fish, spanner crab from the Tweed Coast and lobster frites.
“We’ve aimed for something refined but relaxed – food that’s thoughtful without feeling too fussy,” Aaron says.
From sun-drenched lunches to lively twilight evenings and beyond, Haven promises an atmosphere that’s both elegant and inviting, a true sanctuary for those seeking exceptional food in a spectacular setting.
Just steps away, LiTO brings a different kind of energy – Italian hospitality with a Gold Coast twist. Head chef Andrea Morigi (previously of Merivale fame) invites diners to linger over woodfired calzone in the morning and lobster bucatini by night, with coastal beats and spritzes flowing throughout the day. From sourdough toasties at sunrise to slow-cooked porchetta and tableside tiramisu after dark, LiTO is all about joy and generosity. The setting is no less inviting, with Mediterranean textures, Australian charm, an open kitchen and a breezy alfresco terrace made for people-watching and prosecco sipping.
As Andrea puts it, “LiTO invites you to settle in without watching the clock.” And really, who are we to argue?
With these two unique dining destinations launching simultaneously under one roof, Mondrian Gold Coast isn’t just arriving – it’s anchoring a new era for Burleigh. Whether you’re a local foodie, a visiting epicure or someone who just knows a good scallop pie when they see one, Haven and LiTO promise a flavour-filled welcome.
Mondrian Gold Coast opens this June. We’ll bring you all of the delicious details oh-so-soon.
Image credit: Food photography Content Lion | Venue Artist Impressions