Sofia goes from a 10 to a 10,000,000

Broadbeach has long been considered one of our restaurants, eateries and shops. With a number of ‘stayers’ boasting to be loyal followers for many moons, sprinkled with a good helping of shiny new restaurant and drink players, nothing can dull the luster of entertainer status. class A of this burb.

Here are precisely 17 reasons why locals – and Gold Coasters from afar – love each other for a piece of our beloved Broady.

Social catering house + bar
If you are a foodie, this is your place. A modern Australian sensation, Social has more hats than a millinery shop. Under the direction of Executive Chef Matthew Jefferson, you’ll discover a carefully selected range of bar snacks, charcuterie and small and large sharing plates, all made with the finest Australian ingredients and paired to perfection. A meal here is worth every penny.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach

The starry gold coast
If there was ever a reason to have a babysitter, it’s for a session at the Star. Between live music and incredible food at Garden Kitchen & Bar, award-winning Cantonese, Japanese and modern Australian cuisine at Uncle Su, Kiyomi and Nineteen at The Star, authentic Italian dishes at Cucina Vivo, the ultimate buffet experience at Harvest Buffet, a few bevvies at the new Atrium bar and/or Instagram’s favorite rooftop lounge bar at Nineteen, who needs to go anywhere else?
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Broadbeach Bowls Club
Nothing says chilled arvo GC like a barefoot set of bowls with a brew in hand. Another local favorite here on the GC, Broadbeach Bowls Club never fails to provide a pampering time for young and old alike. They serve large portions of all your pub meals and make a great canape package for a birthday or casual party.
Where: 169 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Dracula Cabaret
If you’re looking for a tried and true comedy cabaret, the good ‘ole Dracs have been serving up scares, food and frivolity since we’ve all been biting our ankles. Most people are sold when they hear there’s a ghost train alone, not to mention the show itself (which changes from time to time so there’s always a reason to go back), the dinner of banquet… and syringe injections!
Where: Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach

Aloha bar and restaurant
This hidden tropical treasure is synonymous with fun atmosphere, good food and good times. Popular for its hospo nights, taco Thursdays, karaoke nights, live music and upbeat DJs, there’s always something going on here. The tapas always deliver the sensations (bao buns… I’m dying!!), the Cucumber and Jalapeno Margi is (too) easy to drink, and we never get tired of its super cute layout.
Where: 18 Main Place, Broadbeach

Sofia restaurant and bar
With an impressive contemporary coastal European menu, we’re completely smitten with Sofia’s…and we’re not alone. A meal here is all about savoring and sharing simple, delicious dishes with your favorite people – as it should be, and perfectly sums up the famous words “That’s Amore”. Also, you heard it here first, but Sofia is on the move. Watch this place!
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

Elk Espresso
Have you ever seen this place anything other than bulging at the seams? Aaaand of course you don’t. Since its pre-migration days just up the road, it’s had an army of raving fans and yes, that obviously includes us. A hop, hop, and hop from the beach, the coffee is all time, the seasonal menus are heavenly, and they even do a Boozy Bottomless Brunch. And sold.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

Blues on Broadbeach
So unlike our other listings, she may not be here 24/7, but she’s such a Broady icon that it would be criminal not to mention her. As the name suggests, it brings us world-class blues and jazz music from locals and famous artists, performing in multiple venues over four unforgettable days. And it’s free, and sorry, but when does that happen?
Where: Various Broadbeach locations

Japanese restaurant CHA CHA
Gold Coasters has been CHA CHA bound for an authentic Japanese restaurant that won’t break the bank for years, and that’s not about to change. The banquet menu is divine and on each visit you will experience the same level of indulgence. But the soy on dim sum… it’s BYO and it’s hard to find an already affordable yet high quality restaurant with our favorite 3 letters. Score.
Where: 2705 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

The Oasis
A daily escape for locals, The Oasis is one of our number one malls and for good reason. Not only some unique fashion boutiques live here, but the number of amazing restaurants is very impressive. In addition to the ones we highlight in this article, we’re talking about Mario’s, Madisons Café and Patisserie, Spice Kitchen and Bar and The Broadbeach Tavern to name a few. It’s a #OneStopShop.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Soho house bar
Just look for the red London-esk phone booth and you know good times are waiting for you. An intimate, hidden gem adorned with graffiti and filled with people sipping and dancing to the soft sounds of live DJs, this joint is seriously cool. The cocktail list is on, the crew is super engaging, and they’ve even been known to host things like a Wild Flower Gin Masterclass. What’s not to like?
Where: Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach (between Queensland and Victoria Avenues)

Unicorn Seafood
You just know it’s destined for greatness with “Unicorn” in the name. This Mediterranean seafood-infused newcomer has hit the ground running with its all-day menu and jaw-dropping cocktail menu that boasts 20 deep #hellofriend options. You can’t help but exhale as you settle into the relaxing blue-and-white hued space, brimming with ocean murals and friendly smiles from the welcoming staff.
Where: Phoenician Resort, 24-26 Queensland Avenue, Broadbeach

Nameless lane
Okay, Blake Lively said her caffeinated No Name Lane hit was “the best coffee she’s ever had” and damn it, if it’s good enough for Queen Blake… Better than any boujee coffee in Melbourne fashion, the cafe here has a cult following. The all-day breakfasts and gourmet lunches are also a treat, so if you haven’t been there, remedy that immediately.
Where: The Oracle, Elizabeth Avenue, Broadbeach

Pacific Fair
Pacific Fair, oh how we love you. Whenever we want a new set for, well, any occasion (retail therapy is real, you know), we all rush to Pac Fair. With all the retailers you could want, incredible dining options, and seriously THE most gorgeous mall layout we’ve seen, there are luxurious, lush coastal accents at every turn.
Where: Gold Coast Hwy and Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach

The loose moose
Specialized in “dirty food made clean”, there are always bums on the seats of this Prohibition Tap and Grill House, one of the most popular establishments of the Gennari group. The delicious menu features the best of Canada’s best dishes like ribs, wings, hot dogs and burgers, and is always ready for a crowd at #GetLooseAtTheMoose.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Broadbeach

The Flamingo Spiegelclub
LBR, you had us at the Spiegelclub. The Pink Flamingo has become a favorite with locals, visitors and critics alike, with its four spectacular cabaret-style shows. Custom-designed with a touch of chic art deco decor and inspired by the original 1920s Spiegeltent and NYC Cabaret Club district, it’s five-star luxury and unmissable entertainment.
Where: Corner of Surf Parade and Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach

Kurrawa Surf Club
Ocean views don’t come better than this. With rightfully the most prime location, Kurrawa Surf Club has everything you expect from a Surf Club…and more. With amazing regular member specials and fresh ingredients, there’s no bad meal here. They host a quiz night and live music, and of course there’s the obligatory game lounge for those who like to float.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach

Lyrics by Bianca Trathen.