THE BEST NEW OPENINGS ON THE GOLD COAST- MAY 2023
Woodlands Family Luxe Tents at Cedar Creek Lodges- Gold Coast Hinterland
A brand new addition to the Cedar Creek Lodges property in Tamborine Mountain amongst 112 hectares of lush rainforest, the Woodlands Family Luxe Tents are a wonderful choice for families seeking a fun escape amongst nature, inclusive of luxury comforts. Consisting of a private plunge pool, large sundeck and outdoor barbecue representing the quintessential laidback Aussie lifestyle, mum and dad can enjoy kicking back with a glass of wine in hand perched on a sunbed as the kids splash about. A cohabitant alongside family-favourite Thunderbird Park, Australia’s largest adventure playground, renowned for their thrilling high rope courses, zip lines and interactive family activities such as laser skirmish, adventure mini golf, bird feeding and 4WD buggies experiences, Cedar Creek Lodges is also great for couples and solo travellers who enjoy rainforest dining, cascading rock pools, exploring waterfalls and bushwalks.
Isla Cantina- Isle of Capri, Surfers Paradise
One of the hottest new waterfront Mexican eateries on the Gold Coast, located in the Isle of Capri retail precinct, Isla Cantina is Mulpha Hospitality Group’s latest restaurant venture bringing a taste of Southern California and Mexico to the waterside Capri on Via Roma Joining the likes of other high end and casual dining establishments, Isla Cantina presents with an inviting waterfront deck for outdoor dining and a cocktail bar serving up authentic Mexican cocktails including their Signature Margarita, a tantalising combination of cenote green-orange liqueur, tequila, agave syrup, napoleon mandarin liqueur and lime. The perfect spot for a cheeky Friday beverage or a Sunday afternoon sesh, this dining destination offers a modern twist to Mexican-Southern Californian fusion offering delectable bites including their Corn & Oaxaca Cheese Croquette, a tasty snackable consisting of melted cheese sandwiched atop chili-lime crema. As for other note-worthy mentions, the Blue Swimmer Crab Tostada, a crunchy and fresh concoction of crab, jalapeno lime mayonnaise, avocado and radish is a must-try as is the Guacamole with totopos, lime and coriander before the main dish.
Sofi Restaurant and Rooftop Bar- Surfers Paradise
Spread over two luxurious levels, Sofi Restaurant and Rooftop Bar is the Gold Coast’s newest swanky Mediterranean-inspired dining and rooftop bar experience. Located in the heart of Surfers Paradise with expansive views of the Gold Coast skyscape, Sofi is the place to be for the discerning diner who enjoys the finer things in life, from premium international spirits and globally recognised wines to some of the best ingredients from the sea, land and earth. It’s not just one menu to choose from, but two, starting at the rooftop bar with “Petites” including the likes of their Cornetto dish, a delicious concoction of crab rillette and roe and Confit duck brick, a creation of brick samosas and dipping sauce. As for the drinkables, there is a generous selection of signature cocktails including the Agrio, a combination of Macallan 12 Sherry Cask, Dom Benedictine, house made salted peach syrup, citrus, orange bitters, wonderfoam and peach medallion. In addition, their extensive margarita and martini list gives traditionalists the opportunity to escape their comfort zone while remaining loyal to their favourite cocktail. This, all while sinking into one of their chic cabanas or cosy lounges, makes for a luxurious and relaxing afternoon that turns into night. As for the fine dining restaurant, Sofi continues to impress with a selection of dishes designed for intimate social gatherings surrounded by delicious food sourced locally and seasonally. Standout menu items include the Seared Scallops consisting of fennel, truffle cauliflower cream, lyonnaise and jamon and Pappardelle, made perfect with field mushrooms, leek, peas, charred prosciutto, spinach, Grana Padano and truffle.
Happy Endings Speakeasy Bar- Broadbeach
Adding to the abundance of distinguished bar and dining experiences in the heart of Broadbeach, the all-new Japanese-inspired Happy Endings Speakeasy Bar is on everyone’s lips with its mysterious feel and inviting space. Hiding in an unassuming location above its sister venue, laneway bar, Fig + Frankies and next to a tattoo parlour, Happy Endings is amongst it all yet tucked away in secret; the perfect recipe for hedonistic pleasures, delicious eats and a sneaky cocktail (or three!). Cosy up into a booth, take a seat at the bar or grab a chair at a table, and choose from late night-style Japanese eats including their Kimchi and Cheese Taiyaki, a glorious combination of homemade kimchi, mozzarella and kimchi yuzu mayo. Their Wagyu Tataki also goes down a treat with crying tiger sauce and baby cos lettuce, the perfect accompaniment to the noteworthy list of Japanese spirits and beer, signature cocktails, soju and sake. Cocktail standouts include the Tokyo Drift, a harmonious pairing of gob-smacking wasabi infused mezcal, house made melon liqueur and pineapple oleo. The China White is also a worthy mention with totorri whiskey, milk tea, pandan syrup, lime and grapefruit- a comforting yet zesty flavour, paired perfectly with good vibes, great company and a fabulous beginning to the cheeky night ahead.
