KEFI, Koolewong
This waterfront venue at Koolewong Marina has been given the Meraki Group Midas touch, with the recently opened Greek restaurant, Kefi. The name, which translates to ‘good times’ in Greek, is an exciting addition to the restaurant group behind Motel Mezza, Little Miss Mezza, The Pantry and Pinocchio’s Wine & Pizza. It has been given a complete makeover with a sun-drenched blue, white and natural timber and cane look to create a Greek holiday island feel and capitalises on the views over the marina’s moored yachts and sparkling Brisbane Water. There will also be outdoor dining on the water’s edge, so you can indulge in traditional dishes such as keftedes and souvlaki in the sunshine.
PIP AND FRANKIES CAFÉ, Davistown
Who doesn’t love an all-day brunch-style menu? This new café at Davistown, which is casting distance from the sparkling water and ferry service, serves soul-nourishing food such as smashed avo, French toast and B&E rolls from open to close. The converted century-old building that once housed the general store has been given a sensitive but refreshing reno, with its white picket fence and cosy vibes still intact. They also provide picnic rugs so on sunny days you can enjoy your fresh fare on the waterfront.
STUDIO LANE, Kincumber
The name may be familiar but the venue is spanking new. Studio Lane once served morning elixir to the bleary-eyed people of Erina, but after a short hiatus – and some new owners – it is back at a fresh new space in Kincumber. Adjoining chic co-working and events space Studio Co, this uber-cool hole-in-the-wall café serves coffee and jaffles for a fuss-free feed.
MERIBELLA at Crowne Plaza Terrigal
The iconic Crowne Plaza, Terrigal is set to redefine its dining experience with the opening of its new Meribella restaurant.
Michelin-starred head chef, Joshua Mason returns to the Coast to bring a new era of sophisticated dining to Meribella’s light-filled conservatory against a vista of ocean views. The re-imagined dining area features high ceilings, arches and restored marble, coupled with striking textures and natural tones.
The new menu takes full advantage of Meribella’s seaside proximity as well as taking its cue from Joshua’s internationally acclaimed European experiences. Supported by a passionate and talented local team, the wine list will feature eclectic choices and legendary cocktails.
LAGUNE ARTISAN PIZZA CO, Wamberal
So large is the cult following of this Neapolitan pizzeria in Wamberal that it has thrown open the doors of a second venue just down the road. Lagune is much-loved by locals for its authentic woodfired pizzas, moreish pastas and antipasti and now we can get our fix for breakfast and lunch too. Located near Wamberal Surf Club, its new location serves coffee, pastries and freshly baked focaccias, while its premium pizzas are on the menu for dinner. The original venue is dedicated to takeaway.
AMALFI, Pearl Beach
Seek out la dolce vita at this new absolute-beachfront restaurant and bar at Pearl Beach. This iconic venue (formerly Pearls on the Beach) has been reimagined into a relaxed restaurant and beach bar. With a bright and airy white-on-white aesthetic, combined with splashes of lemon, the indoor space is comfy for year-round dining while the alfresco deck is perfect for summer sips under its yellow and white-striped umbrellas. Designed to be shared in great company, the modern Italian menu features antipasti, pasta and fresh seafood. Enjoy with an Aperol spritz to the gentle soundtrack of the waves lapping the shore a few sandy footsteps away.
MAEW MAEW, Terrigal
Climb the stairs at this beachside venue to find kitsch Asian eatery Maew Maew, a blushing pink and aqua-hued space, styled with a clash of neon and delicate floral-shaped lights, inspired by Southeast Asia’s shophouses. Maew Maew (which means ‘cat’ in Thai) is Terrigal’s newest bar/restaurant, from the people behind beloved local diner Thaiger Temple. Serving Asian eats with funky beats, this is the place to come for some ‘late night noods’.
OAKBERRY AÇAÍ, Terrigal
Nothing beats a fresh, frosty bowl of Açaí on a hot summer’s day. Sourced from the Amazon region in Brazil, from the native açaí palm tree, this frozen berry is considered a superfruit. Oakberry’s version is found all over the world – and now counts Terrigal as its latest store. Top your bowl with an array of fruit, sprinkle with nuts and seeds, and add crunch with granola for the perfect beachside snack.
THE SWORDFISH CO, Budgewoi
Nothing beats fish and chips by the water on a warm summer’s day, and this newbie by Budgewoi Creek is slinging all the classics. The menu features your choice of catch battered or grilled, chunky chips, potato scallops and pineapple fritters, as well as burgers and salads. The Swordfish Co is both a takeaway spot and offers alfresco dining, serving beer, wine and gelato to top off a chilled-out sun-drenched lunch.
WORDS MEGAN ARKINSTALL
