IT’S OPEN SEASON
From fromageries to fine fare, a string of new venues are poised to open in the coming months
Gotham Bar and Grill, Runaway Bay
Rooftop bars are a huge trend on the Gold Coast, and so is going north, so it’s only fitting the Ridgeways would do both. Daniel and Ruggie, the masterminds behind Little Truffle and BiNs 72, 89, 232 and 12, haven’t said much about their forthcoming project, but with the announcement that Rivea at Pacific Fair has closed, we can only assume that means more time and attention will be given to Gotham. It’s tipped to open in March.
Pinky’s, Nobby Beach
Taking shape on the Nobby Beach corner site that was destroyed by fire in 2016 is Pinky’s, a New York inspired diner. Owner Braydon Condon says Pinky’s will initially focus on breakfast and lunch. “When I moved here there were plenty of places that did good coffee but not that many doing a good breakfast and I felt that was a market I could capitalise on.”
Ally Chow, Nobby Beach
Expected to open by February, Ally Chow fuels the Coast’s Asian fusion obsession. From the original owners of Honeyeater Kitchen, Robina, they say it’ll rival some of Sydney and Melbourne’s favourites with its dark, eclectic fitout and modern menu.
Cubby Bakehouse, Chinderah
From Ben and Ursula Watts, the hospo couple who can’t sit still, comes Cubby Bakehouse. The pair sold their original project, Paddock Bakery, last year, freeing up some time for a newie — not that they’d have must free time while also juggling Mermaid’s Bam Bam Bakehouse and Tallebudgeera’s waterside Neptune Kiosk.
FuFu, Mermaid Beach
The fitout is progressing well for this American-Chinese eatery, taking over the circular spot formerly home to Burger Fuel. The lease has been nabbed by Poke Poke’s Morgan Walsh. The fun menu will feature classic Chinese dishes with a modern spin. Keep an eye out for an opening date in February.
Miss Moneypenny’s, Broadbeach
Many have heard word of Noosa’s Miss Moneypenny’s – the good news is soon you won’t have to travel to indulge in her Mediterranean fusion fare and cool cocktails. Taking the space beneath Avani apartments on Surf Parade, the GC version is tipped to open mid-year.
Cornerstone Stores, Currumbin
There’s a new addition coming to the border between Tugun and Currumbin that’s a little like a modern take on the classic cluster of cornerstore shops. On the foodie front, there’s Quince Fromagerie, featuring a cheese room and a selection of wines, and Stable Coffee + Kitchen, a licensed wholefood kitchen spilling out into the courtyard for sunny southern breakfasts.