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Beachside Bites: The Best New Restaurants on the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast dining scene has grown up, and we’re here to try it all. These are the best new restaurants on the Gold Coast to explore.
The Gold Coast dining scene is glowing up. Once upon a time, the dining here was all about cheerful, casual, tourist-friendly cafes. Nowadays, you’ll find a sharper focus placed on local produce, immersive dining, and elevated venue design — all the hallmarks of unforgettable foodie experiences.
If you’re ready to give your regulars a rest and try something a little different, you’re in the right place. Scroll on to discover the best new restaurants on the Gold Coast to try.
The Best New Gold Coast Restaurants: February 2026
La Stradina
When you’re craving a slice of Euro summer, pop over to Griffith Street and take a seat at Coolangatta’s newest local, La Stradina. A vibrant sunset-hued palette sets the scene for bright, fresh cocktails, vinyl, share plates and an Australian-leaning wine list.
Stay for a couple of grilled bug skewers and an apertif or go the whole hog and settle in for bowls of house-made rigatoni, watermelon and feta salad and a glass of chianti.
16 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
The Best New Gold Coast Restaurants: November 2025
Kuroki Teppanyaki
With a vision to create an upscale teppanyaki experience, Kuroki presents a new take on Japanese fire-crafted cuisine in Sanctuary Cove. Named for the Japanese phrase for “black wood”, this new Gold Coast restaurant embodies the aesthetic and energy that its name quietly evokes.
Dine at the teppan for the authentic live experience, or opt for an intimate table to dine à la carte or from a bento box.
Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove
River House
Sitting pretty on the banks of Nerang River, this gorgeous new addition to the Gold Coast’s culinary scene is a celebration of simplicity and seasonality. Executive Chef Grant Madgwick is behind the menu which combines Asian and European ingredients and techniques with the flavours of coastal Australia. Guests can look forward to the likes of extra-large BBQ Moreton Bay bugs, Cape Grim eye fillet, duck confit XO and decadent seafood platters.
Letting the waterfront location shine, the interiors of River House fuse ambient lighting with a serene palette and natural textures.
2 Barney Street, Southport
Devoured Our Guide to the Best New Restaurants on the Gold Coast & Hungry For More? Read These Next:
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The Best New Gold Coast Restaurants: October 2025
Meltemi
Bringing the flavours of the Mediterranean to Broadbeach is Meltemi — named after the warm winds that blow across the Aegean ocean. This 120-seat restaurant is the latest venture from restaurateurs Dino and Kate Georgakopoulos (of the popular Xenia Grill at Main Beach and Coolangatta).
It’s safe to say that the Georgakopoulos’ know what the GC dining scene favours, and they’re here to deliver. Helmed by hatted chef Tapos Singha, the menu melds the best of the Med’s cuisine to create the ultimate banquet of share plates.
Dive into sizzling saganaki cheese, nibble at pickled vegetables, let filo cigars melt in your mouth and scoop up morsels of tajine as you send your taste buds on a European summer escape.
17 Albert Avenue, Broadbeach, Gold Coast
The Best New Gold Coast Restaurants: June
LiTO
\ Whether it’s your morning espresso bathed in sunshine, or a long, languid lunch reminiscent of an Italian aperitivo hour, you can’t go past LiTO.
There are three dreamy ways to dine at this seaside spot — indoors (with interiors that blend Mediterranean detail with Australian charm), alfresco with the fresh breeze, or at the semi-private chef’s table beside the open, wood-fired kitchen.
The wine list celebrates both Australian and Italian producers, while the menu (by Chef Andrea Morigi) focuses on Italian classics, reimagined with local produce, served with relaxed generosity.
Mondrian Hotel, Ground Floor, 3 First Avenue, Burleigh Head
Haven
The stunning new Mondrian Hotel isn’t just bringing luxury escapism to Burleigh, it’s also harbouring a tasty little dining destination… a Haven, if you will.
Blending homegrown favourites with nostalgic flavours, Haven is set to become quintessential Burleigh dining. This restaurant is designed to shift with you throughout the day, stretching over a third-floor dining room, pool club, private cabanas and a sunset bar. Expect fresh seafood from the Northern Rivers and Eastern seaboard, and a raw bar with chilled bites perfect for those warm summer days.
“I want people to feel the season and the source with every bite, because when ingredients are respected, simplicity speaks loudest. We’re not trying to overwork anything — the quality of the produce does the talking. It’s all about creating food that feels grounded but still sparks a sense of occasion in this beautiful part of the world.” – Chef Aaron Teece
Indulge in some beachside lounging in Haven’s luxurious surrounds, and enjoy the flavours of paddock-to-plate dishes and curated sips.
The Mondrian, Level 3, 3 First Avenue, Burleigh Heads
If your dinner plans are sorted now, thanks to our edit of the best new restaurants on the Gold Coast, lock in date night drinks next! Here are the newest bar openings on the GC. Making plans for the morning? These are the best beaches to hit when the sun rises.
