How are we in August already?
Does anyone else feel like we have blinked and suddenly it’s August?
Soon it’ll be spring racing, long lunches, Christmas parties and family get togethers.
If you’re already being asked to “lock in a date,” this is your sign to get organised. Whether you’re planning a birthday, team lunch, Christmas celebration or just want to gather your favourites somewhere a little bit fabulous, we’ve got your list sorted.
From luxe private dining rooms to hidden chef’s tables and group friendly hotspots, here’s your ultimate guide to private dining and group booking venues across the Gold Coast.
BROADBEACH & SURFERS PARADISE
Kiyomi – The Star Gold Coast
Private dining for up to 14 guests offering sleek Japanese omakase menus, ideal for refined, exclusive occasions.
Uncle Su – The Star Gold Coast
Five private dining rooms and a semi-private space for groups of up to 36. Signature Cantonese menus in a vibrant setting.
T’ang Court – The Langham, Surfers Paradise
Elegant Cantonese fine dining. Private and semi private options, seating up to 80 guests. Perfect for formal celebrations.
Black Bar & Grill – The Star Gold Coast
Upscale steakhouse with private rooms up to 30 guests. Think Wagyu, seafood, and a stellar wine list.
Coast Beach Bar & Kitchen – Surfers Paradise
Ocean view private dining for up to 12 guests, with velvet seating and dedicated service. Luxe but relaxed.
Palette – HOTA
A culturally rich experience inside the Home of the Arts. Semi private dining overlooking sculpture lawns, with menus inspired by current art exhibitions.
Yamagen – QT Gold Coast
Private robata grill and sushi room for 10–20 guests. Bold Japanese flavours in a moody, modern space. We loved the wall full of Japanese Whiskey to choose from!
Le Petit Chef – Hilton Surfers Paradise
A 3D immersive dining experience like no other. Great for small groups wanting novelty and theatre with their meal.
ITALIAN & MEDITERRANEAN
Pipi’s Restaurant & Bar – Coolangatta
A coastal chic spot perfect for groups who appreciate a vibrant Mediterranean vibe. Pipi’s offers group dining options with shared menus, breezy interiors, and a buzzing atmosphere that works just as well for a long lunch as it does a dinner party. Their private dining room offers privacy along with views out to Pt Danger.
Gemelli Italian – Broadbeach
Warm, rustic Italian hospitality with group bookings and set sharing menus. Cosy and delicious. The owners are the italian legends of the GC.
Moo Moo Wine Bar + Grill – Broadbeach
Private event space for up to 140 seated. Premium steaks, curated menus, and classic Gold Coast glam. Perfect for a boys night or clients event with authentic service.
Balboa Italian – Palm Beach
Moody and sophisticated upstairs room (~14 seats) with incredible handmade pasta and wood fired mains.
Tommy’s Italian – Currumbin
Private mezzanine for 23–50 guests and full venue hire to 120. Ocean views and perfect for relaxed but stylish get togethers. Sunday afternoon, it’s a magical spot for a long luncheon with mates.
ASIAN INSPIRED OPTIONS
Fu Manchu Oriental – Chevron Island
Upstairs dining room for 55 seated (or 70 cocktail). Funky Asian fusion dishes and cocktails in a lively, eclectic space.
Ban Bao – Southport
Affordable, fun, and flavour packed Cantonese & yum cha. Great for casual, budget friendly group events.
Jasmin Room Chinese – Southport
Elegant private room within a luxe Chinese restaurant. Known for its fine Cantonese and banquet-style menus.
Uncle Su – The Star Gold Coast (yes, worth listing again!)
Because it ticks so many boxes for upscale Chinese with multiple room options and easy group menu planning.
WATERFRONT & SCENIC DINING
Edgewater Dining – Isle of Capri
Private room for 14 guests. Waterfront dining with modern Australian Italian flavours, beautful views out to surfers skyline.
Siblings – Kirra
Private beachfront space for 26 guests with cocktails and modern coastal dining, amazing food and service.
Destino – Sanctuary Cove
Marina wine bar with private dining for 40. Mediterranean small plates in a polished space with lots of local shopping and boating nearby.
The Boathouse – Runaway Bay
Relaxed, breezy venue with private seating for up to 30. Great for birthdays or easy group lunches when you don’t want to break the budget.
SUBURBAN & HIDDEN GEMS
Bumbles Café & The Blue House – Budds Beach
Three stylish event spaces with capacity up to 200 for cocktail style events. Super cute, Insta friendly and ideal for brunch style events or bridal showers.
The Glenelg Mermaid – Mermaid Beach
A delicious gem tucked into Mermaid Beach, The Glenelg Mermaid brings elevated modern Australian dining with a cool, creative edge. Perfect for intimate gatherings, small events or milestone dinners, their group dining options feel warm, personal, and a little bit special, like you’ve discovered a local secret.
Norté – Mermaid Beach
Private room for 40, fiery Latin American cooking and tequila cocktails. Bold flavours, fun energy and brought to you by the owners of Rick Shores.
Gianni’s – Carrara
Mediterranean style private dining, ideal for locals after a hidden gem. Think suburb sophistication without the drive.
IDEAS FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON
Corporate Christmas lunches or team celebrations: Moo Moo, Coast, T’ang Court, or The Star’s wide ranging offerings.
Family get togethers:
Tommy’s Italian, Balboa, Edgewater or Willow offer family style menus and easy going atmospheres.
Something different: Try Le Petit Chef for interactive fun, or Palette at HOTA for culture meets cuisine.
Budget but still group friendly: Ban Bao, Fu Manchu, or Bumbles Café (especially for daytime events).
PLANNING TIPS
Book early, especially for Nov/Dec weekends.
Ask about set menus and minimum spends.
Don’t assume websites tell you everything, phone calls are your best friend.
Plan around your vibe, luxe dinner, casual cocktail, creative experience, or brunch style.
The Gold Coast has a vast range of private dining options & whether it’s the work crew, a festive family reunion, or a long overdue celebration with friends, these venues are here to help you mark the moment in style.
Follow along @goldcoastinsder for more local insider tips.