Eat your way through this 3 day southern Gold Coast foodie itinerary

There’s a lot to love about the southern Gold Coast: the endless beaches, world-class waves, and breathtaking nature to name a few. But with an abundance of local produce, ultra-fresh seafood, talented artisans, and a burgeoning food scene attracting top chefs and restauranteurs, it’s a gastronomic paradise too. From the best southern Gold Coast restaurants to cafes, breweries, and fresh food markets in this stunning pocket of the coast, we’ve put together a three-day foodie long weekend that will leave you beyond satisfied (but planning the next one ASAP).

Day one

Breakfast: Palm Beach Currumbin Farmers Markets 

The Palm Beach Farmers Market has become an institution for locals and visitors alike every Saturday. Treat yourself to a refreshing beach bowl, revitalising juice, or vibrant smoothie, or stop by Mio's Buckwheat Crepes (where you’ll probably spot a queue, but don't worry, they’re worth the wait). 

Explore the abundance of fresh, seasonal fruits, or pick up some locally produced products, from delicious raw snacks to homemade jams, sauces, and dips that will keep you happily snacking all day or stocked up for your pantry at home.

Lunch: Scott’s Luncheonette Bar | Palm Beach

Laze the morning away with a stroll or refreshing dip at oasis-like Currumbin Alley, then head for the whitewashed 40-seater space that is Scott’s Luncheonette & Bar. It’s the first Gold Coast venture from legendary mixologist Perry Scott, who’s now also proving his foodie finesse with sensational sandwiches and expertly-brewed coffee – alongside delicious drinks, of course.

These aren’t your average sandwiches, more artfully crafted gourmet stacks. Case in point: the Mexican Pork creation – eight-hour slow-cooked pork, pickled red onion, zesty salsa, crunchy corn chips, crumbled feta, and Oaxaca cheese. 

Dinner: Siblings | Kirra Beach

As the sun sets on an afternoon spent exploring Burleigh's boutiques or immersing yourself in rich Indigenous culture at Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, head for one of the southern Gold Coast’s best restaurants, Siblings in Kirra Beach.

This heritage-listed beauty exudes a breezy ambiance perfectly suited to its absolute beachfront setting. The deck has unparalleled views of the surf, and head Chef Blake Fewtrell skillfully pays homage to the fresh seafood and premium local ingredients of the coast. Start with small bites like the Ora King salmon paired with ginger and chilli ponzu, Kewpie mayo, and a crispy puffed rice cracker. Mains include standout dishes such as the prawn and bug meat risotto with pink champagne cream, while dessert and cocktail options are equally divine.

Day two

Breakfast: Niche & Co | Tugun

At Niche & Co. you'll be welcomed by a vegan and intolerance-friendly menu brimming with superfoods, from coffee and smoothies to cold-pressed juices and nourishing acai bowls. In fact, owner Haines Osborne made waves by creating the Gold Coast’s first ‘vegan egg’, designed to look and be eaten just like a poached egg, complete with runny yolk – but totally plant-based and dairy free.

It’s sure to hit the spot with the likes of award-winning mango, mocha, peanut butter cacao and coconut acai bowls, vegan bacon and egg burger, or the tapioca jackfruit to name a few. Wash it down with coffee or alternatives like red velvet coconut blossom, dandy chai, tumeric, mushroom or matcha-blended lattes.

Cute and cosy, there are good vibes aplenty with outdoor seating, striped umbrellas, a beach-themed laneway mural, and pink palm-themed decor. 

Lunch: Rainbow Bay Surf Life Saving Club | Rainbow Bay

Head south to Rainbow Bay, one of the southern Gold Coast’s prettiest and most sheltered beaches. After a dip, pull up a pew at Rainbow Bay Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC), one of the most sought-after spots in town due to its iconic palm-fringed view of the beach and lifeguard tower. Take your pick from the traditional pub-style menu, sip on a cold one, and take advantage of being perfectly positioned to spot dolphins and whales before the glorious sunset descends.

Pre-Dinner Drinks: Balter Brewing Company | Currumbin

Heading back to Currumbin for dinner, it’d be remiss not to stop by Balter Brewing as part of your coastal culinary odyssey. Legendary local pro surfers including Mick Fanning have created what is now one of Australia’s most popular boutique beer brands – best enjoyed just metres from where it’s brewed.

Dinner: Currumbin RSL | Currumbin

Settle into picturesque surrounds, drink in hand while the melodies of acoustic artists fill the air and the sunset’s glow dances on the water. Currumbin RSL is your dinner destination for tonight – a family-friendly dining haven tucked away with tranquil views overlooking the scenic Currumbin Creek.

This recently refurbished boutique-style club breaks away from the conventional notion of an RSL, with open-plan, contemporary spaces tastefully renovated to perfection, and award-winning chefs transforming quality fresh, locally-sourced produce into creative, vibrant dishes.

Day three

Breakfast: Refinery Coffee | Currumbin

Refinery Coffee is your next southern Gold Coast breakfast spot to savour. Recently extended and impressively refurbished, it now boasts a sleek, industrial-style aesthetic combined with a beachy, friendly vibe nestled in the industrial heart of Currumbin. 

You’re spoiled for choice with a menu brimming with nourishing dishes like buckwheat waffles with a chai baked apple, mascarpone, honeycomb, and seasonal fruits with lemon balm and spiced apple syrup; or luscious roasted field mushrooms with pearl barley, sourdough sauce and fried enoki. The excellent Blackboard Coffee is your caffeine source (or they’re licensed from 10am if you’re so inclined). 

Lunch: Pasture and Co | Currumbin Valley

Time to point your bonnet toward the hinterland – just 10 short minutes inland in idyllic Currumbin Valley is Pasture & Co, a serene green haven that feels like a world away.

Part of a conservation area and fronting the local EcoVillage, this wholesome cafe is nestled under towering 100-year-old fig trees and shares its outdoor space with resident kangaroos and other wildlife. 

Using only local, organic and sustainably sourced ingredients, the dishes are based on nurturing both people and the planet. The concept of breakfast, brunch, or lunch is gracefully blurred, allowing you to let go of timings and savour the experience.

Continue your commune with nature with a post-lunch sojourn to nearby Currumbin rock pools or the stunning Cougal Cascades.

Dinner: Las Palmas | Palm Beach

At Las Palmas delicate pastels, beachy furniture, and swaying ferns set the scene for tropical culinary escape, with the menu effortlessly fusing iconic South American tastes with the coastal charm of Palm Beach. 

Traditional flavours are elevated them with a creative twist. Categorised into 'from the sea,' 'from the land,' and 'from the earth', the highly-recommended chef's menu offers the best of each if you can’t decide. That said, seafood enthusiasts are in for a treat, with dishes like the kingfish tiradito with salsa criolla, aguachile, corn and lemon balm, and Sydney rock oysters served with a piquant mojito mignonette.

Creative house cocktails and an impressive wine list perfectly complement the diverse flavours of the food. With beautiful views and ocean breezes, there’s nowhere better to while away a balmy evening as you wind down your southern Gold Coast foodie escape.