The hottest new openings and experiences on Australia's Gold Coast

From a relaxing wilderness stay in the Gold Coast hinterland to a new luxury boutique cinema with restaurant service, here’s a list of some of the Gold Coast’s hottest new openings and experiences.

Tiny Wild Houses at Binna Burra Lodge – Gold Coast Hinterland

Embark on a sophisticated wilderness stay at Binna Burra Lodge’s brand-new accommodation, Tiny Wild Houses, perched atop the Bellbird clifftop overlooking expansive rolling hills deep within Woonoongoora Lamington National Park. Immerse yourself into nature and disconnect from the outside world on a solo adventure or enjoy some 1:1 time with someone special as you enjoy the convenience of self-contained facilities. Gaze through the full-sized glass wall from your cosy Queen-sized bed and perch yourself on the couch, coffee in hand, offering a front row view to the breathtaking vistas of the Ships Stern Range. Continue the morning with a visit to nearby Binna Burra Tea House, a short 3-minute drive away with comforting brekky eats like traditional pancakes with crisp strawberries, maple syrup and cream and the Binna Burra Breakfast, a wholesome serving of eggs, beef chipolata, bacon, roasted tomato and sourdough toast.

Rolling Playgrounds – a van life experience on the Gold Coast

Explore the Gold Coast and surrounds in the all-new Rolling Playgrounds campervan hire experience and uncover some of life’s greatest pleasures; travel, nature, adventure, and soul-enriching encounters. With three aesthetically pleasing vans to choose from including the G, Cub, and Wolf each offering a unique campervan experience from beginner to advanced, Rolling Playgrounds gives the novice camper the opportunity to experience van life while well-versed campers can enjoy a fully off-grid experience with Wolf, shall they wish. Venture through the Gold Coast’s famous beaches and uncover the lush Gold Coast hinterland with unlimited kilometres and after a day of exploring, sink into the buttery soft mattress, park under the stars, and enjoy some much needed down time either solo, with a loved one or best mate.

El Ranchero at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse – Burleigh Heads

A taste of Mexico City has arrived at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse in Burleigh Heads, and it goes by the name of El Ranchero, a traditional hacienda-inspired bar, and outdoor sun-drenched event space serving up cheeky Aperol margarita jugs, sangrias, local beers, wine, and good times. Home to Fix on 66, renowned for their famous Texas Toasty’s and other equally delicious Southwestern-style American eats, El Ranchero is eccentric and inviting, with its soul-filled Mexican interior design, array of Mexican-inspired cocktails and collection of traditional, vegan and preservative-free wines. Open for walk-ins and bookings from Thursday through till Sunday till late, begin with the Tequila espresso martini and pair it back with L.A Street Tacos like the Sloppy Joe Beef or Ragin Cajun Chicken, sandwiched within a flour tortilla and mixed with burnt cheese, Pico de Gallo, and Santa Fe sauce.

Franquette Bakery – Tamborine Mountain

A touch of France in the heart of the Gold Coast hinterland has arrived and locals are lining up for their French fix. Located in the heart of The Gallery Walk in Tamborine Mountain; the Gold Coast’s iconic outdoor shopping precinct, Franquette Bakery joins antique stores, wineries, cafes, and art galleries that also reside on the renowned mountainside street. Expect mouth-watering French-inspired artisan treats including Franquette’s famous French onion soup-inspired gourmet sandwich, a unique savoury take on the region’s indulgent soup that brings warmth and comfort on even the chilliest of days. Other note-worthy baked goods include the likes of artisan bread, pastries, stacked toasties and croissants in particular, their mouth-watering ham and cheese variety which includes gourmet ham off the bone, creamy bechamel sauce and lashings of Swiss cheese. Explore Destination Gold Coast’s guide to Tamborine Mountain here.

Lenny Pizzeria and Bar – Mudgeeraba

The new gourmet pizza joint helmed by the original Founder of Burleigh Heads favourite, Justin Lane, Lenny’s Pizzeria and Bar brings a hearty dining experience to the Mudgeeraba region, renowned for its picturesque historic architecture and homely village feel. A hidden gem of the Gold Coast perched at the base of the Gold Coast hinterland, Mudgeeraba is home to the original farmers markets, art galleries, restaurants and the gateway to Springbrook National Park. Lenny Pizzeria and Bar adds to the Mudgeeraba appeal with their 11 varieties of pizza made from 72-hour fermented dough including their Fancy 4 Cheese, a gourmet pizza option with copious amounts of fresh mozzarella, gorgonzola, whipped feta, shaved parmigiana, confit garlic, local honey, rocket leaves and fresh lemon. In addition, the porcini mushroom and pecorino arancini goes down a treat, as does their gourmet meatballs, a combination of beef, pork and ricotta paired with woodfired flatbread. As for the venue itself, Lenny’s offers an inviting yet sophisticated alfresco space catering up to 100 guests at a time, whether it be for an indulgent foodie affair or a cheeky beverage or two from their wine, cocktail and spirits list.

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Bar Leo – Sorrento

The newest bar and dining establishment to grace the chic neighbourhood of Sorrento, renowned for some of the Gold Coast’s most luxurious real estate, Bar Leo is the elegant new hangout for locals and savvy tourists looking to explore a local’s side to the Gold Coast. Located alongside ROY’s by Gemelli, Bar Leo transports guests to the Mediterranean with an open kitchen design, European-inspired share-style dishes and an extensive wine list showcasing Australian varieties and some of Europe’s finest wine regions in France and Italy. Locally sourced seafood and seasonal produce set the scene on Bar Leo’s menu, with delectable dishes including their Cuttlefish Ink Risotto, with local calamari, dressed with fennel, chilli oil and Manchego. In addition, their Handmade Chorizo dish paired alongside a serving of pickles, guindilla peppers and chilli oil is a crowd favourite, as is there selection of museum wines and small batch bottles. Perhaps the most standout feature alongside their elevated culinary offering is their stylish fit out, a cultivated dining space transporting guests to a Mediterranean oasis where feasting on fresh olives, woodfired bread and a glass of red is considered not a luxury, and instead, an essential rite of passage to one’s hedonistic pleasures.

Cinebar Licensed Cinemas – Coolangatta

Launching this month, Cinebar Licenced Cinemas brings a boutique luxury cinema and dining experience to the southern end of the Gold Coast giving luxury seekers and movie buffs a stellar night out. Originating and operating in Brisbane for the past 18 years, the licenced cinema has expanded and will provide locals and travellers the opportunity to wine, dine and be entertained in style. Located in The Strand, the cinema will showcase the latest in Hollywood movie releases as guests descend into the leather recliners, popcorn in hand and wine in the other. As for other culinary additions, guests will receive restaurant-service with menu items available in the stylish boutique lounge bar pre-movie and during. These include the likes of Steamed Chicken Dumplings, Cheese Platter, Peking Duck Spring Rolls, and Sizzling Mongolian Beef, the perfect winter staples. As for dessert varieties, a nod to nostalgic movie visits is present in the form of the Australian-favourite choc-top and other decadent over-the-top desserts like their Choc Cookie Sundae.