The Gold Coast: the land of sand, bling and lifesavers. And while it’s a lifestyle where bikinis and thongs form a part of the cultural dress, the GC continues to develop artistically – especially in hospitality. Gold Coasters are noticing a steady increase in the number of quirky coffee and dining venues offering a combination of lifestyle services in a one-stop location with a wealth of options for unique, relaxed spaces. We delve into the Hidden Treasures Of The Gold Coast.
Doughtnut Time, Mermaid BeachThe well-loved chain has arrived in Mermaid Beach. Everyone goes crazy over the Willy Wonka-esque doughnuts where just one trip to Doughnut Time reveals why. These delicious sticky treats have hilarious names such as ‘Wake Me Up Before You Vovo’ and ‘Melon Degeneres’ made from high-quality ingredients with gluten-free options. Oozing with extravagant fillings and topped with everything from bacon to Cherry Ripe, this Australian-made sweet is an instant classic.
Culture Kings, Southport
Entering Culture Kings feels more like stepping into a club than a clothing store so let the loud music beguile where classic R&B and hip-hop underpins the relaxed ambiance. When it opened a few years ago, this Southport store was one of the first to provide skate style menswear and a barbershop in one location. The store carries a wide range of the latest styles in hip-hop and skate clothing, headwear and shoes. Their walk-in barbershop offers a relaxed and convenient way to get excellent and inexpensive haircuts and styles including fades and tracks. The glossy chrome fixtures and in-house DJs enhance that luxury club experience.
Alfred’s Apartment, Mermaid Beach
As a clothing store, barbershop and restaurant all-in-one, Alfred’s décor is inspired by a 1960s beachside aesthetic, mixing vintage furniture with exposed brick, timber and leather details.Featuring regular live music jams and recording sessions with local bands, Alfred’s has particularly become popular with surfers and skaters. The clothing store stocks a great range of beach and surf style menswear along with watches, flat caps and even pomade with the authentic 60’s style barbershop the perfect place to get a fresh style or cut. The menu from the diner offers gourmet American street food, including the delicious Alfred’s Royale with Cheese and Vegan Dog. The in-house cold brew coffees are a refreshing option on hot summer days.
All-Time Coffee Co., Mermaid Beach
Since opening in September, quaint cafe All-Time Coffee Co. is attracting serious coffee lovers. A focus on sustainability is reflected in the clever use of reclaimed wood and up-cycled furniture making a comfortable setting to enjoy rich, complex, extra dark-roast coffees with one of the scrumptious vegan doughnuts. Maybe two doughnuts.
Larder At Burleigh Waters, Burleigh Waters
The season of self-indulgence provides the perfect excuse to drop into Larder At Burleigh Waters and sample their decadent delights. Caramel popcorn milkshakes and their famous Salted Caramel injected doughnuts – served with a syringe filled with salted caramel – are unmissable treats. Not every dish in Larder go on the naughty list. Choose a side of fried chicken, hand cut chips and a trademark shake. There’s also the Bread or Bowl menu items to opt out of unwanted carbs. Larder also offers locally brewed Pickled Pig ciders and rich-roasted coffee.
