General Knowledge – Our Top 5 Gold Coast Watering Holes

As a small hardworking team that doesn’t fit the typical 9 – 5 mould, several months in to General Media we decided we shouldn’t miss out on the best part about the working week: Friday knock off drinks.

With the bar scene exploding on the Gold Coast, we challenged ourselves to try somewhere new once a month – putting our own spin on this traditional time to unwind as a team. With excitement building for everyone’s favourite time of the week, the ground rules were set – we couldn’t go anywhere any of us had been before, making each new quest a fun-filled mystery.

So, on our hunt for the ultimate after work watering hole, we’ve travelled to just about every corner of the city, trying everything from locally brewed beer to wine on tap (yes, on tap) to glorious rooftop cocktails – and these are a few of our favourite picks so far.

Wildernis                                                                                                                                                                              

1166 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach

We were lucky enough to visit Wildernis just days after it opened its doors and despite being the new kid on the block, it did not disappoint. The ‘Wild Thing’ house beer flowed and paired with a plate of delicious Karaage Chicken was one of our favourite spots to bring in the weekend.

Harvest Moon                                                                                                                                                                         

30 James St, Burleigh Heads

Tucked away in the Central Arcade is one of Burleigh’s best kept secrets. Not only home to the #1 Espresso Martini on the Gold Coast, but our Mojito and Summer Harvest cocktail went down a treat with the live acoustic tunes and relaxed friendly vibes.

Garden Kitchen and Bar                                                                                                                                                 

The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Lounges, croquet on the lawn and brews on the sun-drenched deck, we LOVED the Garden Kitchen and Bar in Broadbeach. Situated in the heart of an upbeat hub of entertainment at The Star Casino, the laidback vibe, cascading greenery and outdoor oasis gave us a very welcome surprise. Plus, the wine on tap was pretty hard to beat!

Balter Brewery                                                                                                                                                                        

14 Traders Way, Currumbin

If you’re a fan of a brew, this local icon is a must! We scored a bird’s eye view of the brewery from atop the loft and the $4 pots allowed us to get our hands around all the Balter varieties, but their original XPA is still a standout in our books.

Justin Lane Rooftop Bar                                                                                                                                       

1708-1710 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

We were so excited when Justin Lane unveiled their plans for a Rooftop Bar, and on their opening weekend, we were there with bells on. The window seat of Burleigh Beach, pumping music, Stone and Wood Pacific Ale on tap and fresh ocean breezes made for the perfect spot to celebrate the weekend. Neon game is strong.