3 Best Restaurants in Burleigh Heads and Beyond, The Gold Coast

At the far southern end of the Gold Coast, this bustling hole-in-the-wall punches well above its weight, serving Neapolitan-style pizzas from 5 pm every night to a friendly crowd of in-the-know locals and visitors. With quirky pop- and rock-inspired names like The Fennel Countdown, Sage Against the Machine, and the Dollop Parton, the menu includes a full range of vegan pizzas, with plenty of gluten-free options. Francies doesn't take bookings, so arrive early or be prepared to add your name to the list, then order a bottle of their own label wine, pour a glass and wait. Or if you prefer, order take away via text.

Tucked away down a side street, across the road from beautiful Kirra beach, Zephyr Coffee is the kind of unpretentious local café you wish was in your neighborhood. With house-roasted beans, coffee is the major drawcard, but the food is also delicious, with tasty options including acai bowls, homemade banana bread, and jaffle toasted sandwiches, all perfect for a beachside snack.