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Where to celebrate Cinco de Mayo on the Coast

¡Arriba, arriba!

Margaritas, La Diosa Mexicana (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)

We and the general public continuously crave Mexican food and who can blame us? Put simply; it’s one of the greatest and simplistic go-tos we think there has ever been, particularly when you’re tied between what food to grab with a bunch of people. One thing is for sure — it’s a crowd pleaser!

We’re encouraging and promoting the celebration of Cinco de Mayo after we couldn’t last year (since we have all learned to celebrate EVERYTHING!). But there are so many Mexican options to consider, right? True. Don’t fret, though. Our research has got you covered on the best GC places to enjoy some delicioso food — alongside a cheeky midweek margarita.

La Diosa Mexicana
This Surfers Paradise gem is an impressive venue that will cater for couples as well as large groups. There’s $3 Taco Tuesday if you feel inclined to celebrate early. Otherwise, you can grab some quesadillas, churros and burritos for a little taste of everything.
Where: Shop 11, Circle on Cavill, Surfers Paradise

Guzman y Gomez
Your favourite drive-thru Mexican mates are slinging the goods all day, every day, at their various Gold Coast locations. There are affordable burritos at every store and free delivery if you spend over $10 through Menulog — and if that’s not a reason to celebrate, we will eat our sombreros.
Where: Various locations.

Montezuma’s
It’s a Mexi-fiesta at Montezuma’s. Whether you find yourself at the Labrador, Surfers Paradise, Worongary, Burleigh Heads or Coolangatta venues with all their usual delicious eats up for grabs. Fill up on all of the nachos, chimichangas and (our fave) Queso Fundido, wash it down with some Sangria and that’s one night you won’t soon forget.
Where: Various locations.

Hail Mary interior (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)

Hail Mary
Aesthetically pleasing as they are charming, the Burleigh Heads side alley fave serves up exceptional mexi goodness you can get on the same page with. They’ve got every single delicious menu item you could possibly want and specials every day of the week. It just so happens Wednesday is Burrito night — Burrito Wednesdays….kinda has a ring to it, doesn’t it? We’ll pay it!
Where: 6/26 James St, Burleigh Heads

Bonita Bonita
One of the original players in the Gold Coast’s mini restaurant revolution, Mermaid’s beloved Mexi-eatery is a hive of the very best nachos, tacos and some of the most unsurpassed tasting cocktails around. Seating is intimate and dimly lit, so make sure you grab some friends and settle in for a night of Mexicana fused fun.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

Mexicali
The Nobby’s favourite is all about fresh, Cali-style Mexi eats, so you know whatever you order, it will be top-notch. From burritos to tacos and bowls, they’ve got every want and desire covered. You could hold off on the Cinco de Mayo celebrations until Thursday when all tacos are an unmissable $6 each. Winner!
Where: Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach

Taco, Frida Sol (Image: © 2018 Inside Gold Coast)
Taco, Frida Sol (Image: © 2018 Inside Gold Coast)

Frida Sol
They’ve been on the Palm Beach scene for a little while now and, in doing so, have made quite the mark on those on the southern end of the Coast. Feel like Frida Sol is somehow familiar? Very intuitive of you. They are, in fact, the sister venue to Bonita Bonita; so, it goes without saying you can expect flavoursome food and astounding cocktails from its prime rooftop location in Palm Beach.
Where: 1176 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach

Holy Jala
Relatively new to the Griffith Street dining scene is the red hot and fun infused Holy Jala! The menu is a twist on Mexican beloveds by mixing in some Mediterranean flavours and significant Spanish influence. Bold flavours and great ambience is waiting for you at this new Coolangatta venue, with live music and specials plenty.
Where: 140 Griffith St, Coolangatta

The Aztec
You are always promised a good time at The Aztec in Coolangatta, consistently making delicious dishes day in, day out. That is if you can choose from the vast array of eating options you have to pick from on the menu. Get ready to settle in here folks!
Where: 152 Griffith St, Coolangatta

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

The Aztec (image supplied)
The Aztec (image supplied)

Legendary Mexican establishment finds itself a new home in Burleigh

Montezuma's Burleigh House Margarita with a Combination Plate (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Montezuma's Burleigh House Margarita with a Combination Plate (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

When it comes to heartfelt and delicious food with little fuss, we imagine most people will find themselves siding with Mexican as one of their all-time favourite cuisines. What is there not to love?

Montezuma’s Mexican restaurant in its former spot in the Theatre Arcade of Burleigh was, well, a bit of an institution. For a little over 40 years, they were the go-to spot for many people’s taco and guacamole fix. When the proposed demolition of the arcade began to do the rounds not so long ago, most Montezuma fans began to shed a tear. But the owners had other plans…

Find yourself in the back lanes of Burleigh and you will come across the reincarnated venue, occupying a prime position on the corner as you come out of the Big B arcade and head up towards Park Avenue. You really cannot miss it!

Being perpetually drenched in the afternoon sun, this could very well be your new place to grab tacos (with margaritas of course) for a lunchtime treat.

Montezuma's Burleigh Interior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Montezuma's Burleigh Interior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

The interior remains true to the spirit of Montezuma’s with a groovy Aztec/Mexican feel which is by no means cheesy; certainly not as cheesy as their Queso Fundido dip boasting a blend of melted cheeses, onion, peppers and a stack of toasted corn chips. Perfect for sharing.

Once the ball is rolling, we recommend you tackle yourself a combination plate, or better yet a taco platter all with the freshest ingredients and tender as they come meats for you to choose from. Even that always-hungry friend will be satisfied.

For all you vegans and gluten-free folks out there, fear not, these guys have you well and truly covered with a great selection of dishes such as gluten-free tortillas, vegan nachos and the list goes on. Not just the standard one or two picks for you to choose from! Hallelujah!

Montezuma's Burleigh Bubble Gum Margarita (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Bubble Gum Margarita, Montezuma's Burleigh (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Keeping yourself hydrated is a serious job, so we highly suggest you try one of the array of margarita’s on offer there, which include: traditional, frozen or blended and a long list of flavours to choose from including bubble gum — yep that’s right. Warning, you may have more than just the one though.

For a refined Mexican experience with a dose of sunshine and genuine hospitality, be sure to check these guys out next time you’re in Burleigh Heads.

LOCATION: 1/19 Park Avenue (in the alleyway from James Street to Park Ave), Burleigh Heads
HOURS: Tuesday to Sunday – Lunch from 11.30am – 2pm and Dinner from 5.30pm – 8.30pm

Montezuma's Exterior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Montezuma's Exterior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Keep calm and tequila on this International Margarita Day

Margaritas at MexiCali, Nobby Beach (image supplied)
Margaritas at MexiCali, Nobby Beach (image supplied)

Feeling hungry? Science proves that you might in fact be thirsty and what better remedy exists than the holy grail of liquid love, the margarita. This rings especially true on International Margarita Day on 22nd February which side note; may just be the greatest day ever created.

Here’s our roundup of THE places to sip THE drink famous for making us go weak at the knees (quite literally….).

Franc Jrs, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Franc Jrs, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Franc Jrs
This joint can do no wrong. Delivering more than just a carb coma with their iconic mouthwatering pizzas, this cult fave also whips up a mean – and strong – frozen margi. And believe you me, nothing says happiness like a ten-outta-ten pizza washed down with an icy take on ‘Me-hi-co’s’ national treasure. No frills here but that’s part of the charm and bonus, you can sink one on the footpath while you’re waiting for your takeaway.
Our pick: Frozen margarita
Where: Shop 2/32 Lavarack Road, Nobby Beach

Cooly Breeze Margi and Classic Margi, Cooly Breeze Restaurant (image supplied)
Cooly Breeze Margi and Classic Margi, Cooly Breeze Restaurant (image supplied)

Cooly Breeze
The fare here is *chef’s kiss* but let’s talk the business; their epic cocktail selection, particularly their signature sip which just happens to be a margarita #obvi. If you’re not already acquainted with Cooly Breeze Rooftop and Bar, it’s time to be. Sitting (very) pretty on the 13th floor, it’s the Coast’s only fine dining rooftop restaurant with spectacular views to the southern coastline and the Tweed River surrounds. Bliss!
Our pick: Cooly Breeze Margi – tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime juice and homemade pineapple jalapeno syrup
Where: Level 13 of Beachcomber International Resort, 122 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

Cocktails at Veladora (image supplied)
Cocktails at Veladora (image supplied)

Veladora
This senorita needs a margarita (and we have the shirt to prove it, shout out to Sabbi Clothing) and where better than Veladora at The Star, Gold Coast. This Mezcal-inspired speakeasy bar with an extensive range of signature cocktails, Mexican beers, and unique snacks, serves up THE OG margi to beat all margis. Bonus incoming; there’s live music on Fridays and Latin-inspired beats on Saturdays. Salud (on repeat).
Our pick: The Margarita! Herradura Plata, orange liqueur & fresh lime juice
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Margarita at Siblings, Kirra (image by Brooke Darling)
Margarita at Siblings, Kirra (image by Brooke Darling)

Siblings
With some of the most exotic and creative margi’s we’ve ever seen (and, umm, sunk), rita-lovers unite at Siblings. Their expansive cocktail menu is the real McCoy, but in our humble opinion, the ‘Margarita Obsession’ section is pure Pegasus-material. Combined with the heritage-listed beachfront location, 1950’s Miami beach vibe fit-out, and a menu to dine for, marg our words – just go.
Our pick: Sex in an Hour – blueberry infused Olmeca Altos Plata, 100% agave tequila, Joseph Cartron Watermelon liqueur, fresh watermelon juice, a touch of Philippe De Bourgogne Crème de Cassis & Fiorente Elderflower liqueur, fresh lime juice, Herradura agave nectar, pink Himalayan salt, & sugar rim
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra

Kirra Beach House Tommy’s Margarita (image supplied)
Kirra Beach House Tommy’s Margarita (image supplied)

Kirra Beach House
Margi’s land different here so don’t walk, run. With legend Kaden Pool (ex TOKOH) behind the divine drinks menu and hospo veteran Dave Galvin masterminding the whole operation, it’s Kirra Beach House for the win. Add immersive panoramic views of Kirra Beach, a Mediterranean-style grazing menu, and an exceptional selection of world-class cocktails, and perfection mode activated..
Our pick: Kirra Beach House Tommy’s Margarita – tequila, agave, fresh lime, & coastal salt
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Margaritas at Palm Springs Burleigh (image supplied)
Margaritas at Palm Springs Burleigh (image supplied)

Palm Springs Burleigh
Palm Springs Burleigh is a Southern Californian-inspired café, eats and drinks heaven on earth. With All.The.Things you’d expect from somewhere with Palm Springs in the name, you’ll find arches, cacti, Slim Aarons, plenty of green, mint and white hues and of course, M.A.R.G.I.S! A tried and tested Burleigh fave, extra points awarded for the get-in-my-belly-good nosh.
Our pick: Chilli Margarita – chilli infused 1800 silver tequila, Cointreau & fresh lime juice
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Margaritas at Bonita Bonita, Mermaid Beach (image supplied)
Margaritas at Bonita Bonita, Mermaid Beach (image supplied)

Bonita Bonita
As you’d expect from one of the most loved Mexi-venues around, Bonita Bonita’s margarita list is off the chain good. As is the chow and the vibe, hence why it continues to pull a sizeable crowd year after year. If you’re going to line your belly coz #tequila, go with the banquet and get the best of everything this GC fave has to offer.
Our pick: Tom-Yum Margarita – 1800 coconut tequila, fresh lime, habanero, lemon grass & ginger syrup, grapefruit juice, & a salt rim
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Watermelon Margarita, MexiCali, Nobby Beach (image supplied)
Watermelon Margarita, MexiCali, Nobby Beach (image supplied)

Mexicali
It’s always margarita mania at Nobby’s Mexicali! Served on the rocks and made using fresh fruit and house infused tequilas, all margis are crafted using 100% Blue Agave tequila or mezcal, freshly squeezed lime juice, and agave syrup. Choose from classic, watermelon, strawberry, passionfruit, chilli, cucumber & jalapeno, mezcal, and coconut. And we’ll take the lot #thx.
Our pick: Passionfruit Margarita
Where: Level 1/2223 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach

Cocktails from Pablito's Mexican (image supplied)
Cocktails from Pablito's Mexican (image supplied)

Pablitos
Nested in Sanctuary Cove, you’ll find this intimate quintessential modern Mexican cantina with a slight Caribbean influence and srsly, what more could one ask for?! Think terracotta, venetian walls, exposed concrete, Virgin Mary statues, and a cactus at every turn. The house tequila is made with wild agave and they only use organic, freshly squeezed lime in all their cocktails…including their iconic ritas. Gimme gimme!
Our pick: Watermelon Margarita
Where: Sanctuary Cove, 39 Masthead Way, Hope Island

Margaritas, Nude Amigos, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Margaritas, Nude Amigos, Broadbeach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Nude Amigos
Let’s lead with the fact that this place has a margarita bar. Umm, need we even go on? Claiming they serve up the best margis on the Coast, we’re pleased to confirm that this is anything but just a baseless flex. Their selection is lit and they even do happy hour every day from 12pm – 5pm, slinging Classic Margaritas or Frozen Tommy’s for just $15!
Our pick: Cool as a Cucumber – Patron tequila, Triple Sec, agave, house-made cucumber syrup, fresh squeezed lime & a sea salt rim
Where: Lot 1, 70 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

A Legendary Rita Lineup at El Camino Cantina (image supplied)
A Legendary Rita Lineup at El Camino Cantina (image supplied)

El Camino Cantina
Die-hard fans of El Camino Cantina’s legendary Margaritas are never left high and dry at this Tex- Mex institution. Served frozen or on the rocks, choose from 15oz or 24oz and duh, is there any contest here coz when it comes to a rita, #MoreIsAlwaysMore. El Camino Cantina isn’t just about celebrating National Margarita Day – they’re turning up the heat for an entire week of fiesta from February 19th to 25th! Indulge in a tantalizing array of turbocharged margarita flavors as El Camino Cantina serves up something new every single day. With their ever-rotating lineup of crave-worthy concoctions, there’s no shortage of reasons to raise a glass and toast to the spirit of margarita madness!
Our pick: Blueberry Margi
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Hail Mary (image supplied)
Hail Mary (image supplied)

Hail Mary
With no less than 12 ritas to choose from, we’d be here all day listing them all and srsly, just get down there and drink people! Colourful and bold like the staff, everything they do is inspired by the vivid heritage of Mexico, with a nod to our coastal home. With a juicy taco in one hand and a salty margi in the other, life made and happy International Marg Day!
Our pick: The Illegal – Illegal Joven mezcal, triple sec, blanco tequila & lime juice
Where: 6/26 James Street, Burleigh Heads

Margaritas, The Collective, Palm Beach (image supplied)
Margaritas, The Collective, Palm Beach (image supplied)

The Collective
There’s no better place to celebrate margarita month than at The Collective in Palmy! In fact, this lot have taken it one step further offering cocktail masterclasses, one of which heroes our fave tequilla, Patrón. For $80 per person, learn how to whip up five Patrón-based beauties Collective-style, plus enjoy bubbles on arrival, two of your delicious creations, and a selection of the venue’s most popular grazing dishes and canapes. Please and thank you.
Our pick: Mango & Chilli Margarita – Patrón Blanco, mango, chilli & lime
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

The 'House Hot Marg', The Exhibitionist Bar, HOTA (image supplied)
The 'House Hot Marg', The Exhibitionist Bar, HOTA (image supplied)

Exhibitionist Bar
We can tell you first-hand (far too many times over) that the resident Margi at Exhibitionist Bar (unpacked below) is one of the best. Sitting high atop the striking HOTA Gallery, this artsy watering hole delivers great flavours and explosions of tastes you won’t forget in a hurry…both in edible and drinkable varieties. Whether you want a light lunch with friends, a cocktail at sundown or a nightcap, this is where it’s at.
Our pick: House Hot Marg – Herradura Blanco tequila, marionette orange, lime & house made hot sauce
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, Top Level, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise

Words by Bianca Trathen.

Frida Sol’s next-level expansion

If, like us, you’ve long dreamed of a quick little jaunt in Tulum, Mexico but spend way too much money on things you definitely don’t need (same), your life is about to change in a big way.

No, we’re not sending you all to Tulum (sorry) but we are letting you in on something even better, a little slice of the far away paradise right here in our own backyard.

It can be found at Frida Sol in Palm Beach and yes, we know you’ve been there already to drink bulk Coconut Margaritas and take a million Insta-snaps, but where you haven’t been is the newly opened upstairs section that we are here to introduce you to.

The fitout is the work of Morgan Walsh, owner of FuFu Chinese Diner and Poke Poke in Mermaid Beach and, as you’d know from her work there, she’s quite the eclectic interior design extraordinaire.

After opening (and designing) five restaurants over the course of the past five years, she has decided to dedicate more of her time to projects such as the fitout of Frida Sol and we are pretty excited about it.

So, obviously, Frida Sol is a Mexican venue (owned by one Ryan Renwick) and the design is extremely reflective of that with giant succulents and cactuses planted throughout, brightly coloured artworks and copper adornments to bring the space to life and textured tables and walls giving it an authentic Mexi-feel but in Palmy (yay). It’s all whites and greens and rattan furniture and the vibes are high there. Love it.

In the new upstairs area, the sophisticated, earthy vibe is the same but the space has been absolutely transformed from it’s previous 8th Ave Terrace life.

It’s an intimate space, inspired by the beachside location, with louvered windows opening out to 180 degree views of the pretty Palmy ocean and while it’s an extension of the downstairs area, it’s also got a few fun little additions.

The floors are polished wood and offset by concrete-esque high tables that all back onto rendered, highly textured walls that look like they would be quite the challenge to make (for people who have no idea how to make things i.e. us). The entire space has a stunning sandy, seaside cave-like feel but it’s refined and beautifully lit and we would like to move in.

The bar looks like it belongs on a balmy Mexico beach with shaggy grass sprouting out the top into the room and giant cactuses and succulents (that we would like for our house please) are placed into planters along the side walls and through the middle of the space while the prettiest round pendant lights hang from above.

Morgan has used polystyrene that she chipped away to give the appearance of a natural rock formation on the walls and honestly, how does she come up with this stuff.

There are also water features along the back wall and quirky little touches that you’ll recognise as Morgan’s unique touch throughout.

The space can be hired for your next party and it’ll also be open for sunset drinks and a little plate of Mexi-goodies or two with the gang. It’s casual but also fancy and perfect for any good times you might be planning in the future.

It’s a real stunner gang, get in there and prepare to be amazed.

LOCATION: Level 1, 1176 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
HOURS: Open nightly from 5pm

Words and photos by Kirra Smith

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