As we roll into the festive season, there comes many reasons to celebrate. Ending the work year strong, family visiting from out of town and, of course, clinking some glasses to get into the Christmas spirit!
Planning large get-togethers around this merry time of year can get a smidge chaotic. To ease the pressure, we’ve pulled together some top spots to gather the gang for your end-of-year wining and dining celebrations.
The Collective — Palm Beach
This one comes as a no-brainer when feeding an army of different desires. The Collective, located just across from the beach in Palmy, is a literal one-stop foodie shop. Home to five different restaurants under one roof, any given table can bear the best of Mexican, Greek, Asian, American and Italian dishes. The dining area is bright, lush and vibey across lunch and dinner, and the rooftop bar goes off with uninterrupted views of the hinterland. A worthy pick for large groups of all ages and tastes. @thecollectivepalmbeach
La Luna — Main Beach
Ready just in time for the silly season, La Luna is a brand-new floating beach club located in the glistening Main Beach marina. With a few options to host group get-togethers, this is the spot to eat, drink and swim when you really want to impress your guests. They have a luxe list of extravagant poolside cabanas, with VIP service, mezze dining and drinks for up to 22 people. Or if you’re down for a lavish feast, their poolside restaurant, MĀRE, has a major al fresco flair with an Italian and Mediterranean-style menu and world-class chefs. @laluna.beachclub + @marebylaluna
Local — Burleigh
Burleigh newcomer, Local, is a laid-back eatery/bar reminiscent of the trendy pub houses scattered throughout Melbourne. This jazzy joint is perfect for mid-sized groups wanting to kick back and catch up over a margy parmy combo. With a roomy beer garden decked out with picnic tables, booths and high tables out back, their relaxed atmosphere is filled with friendly chatter, sunshine and salty ocean air; all shaded by a royal poinciana tree hanging overhead. A classic spot for long overdue catchups amongst friends and family. @localburleigh
Miami Marketta — Miami
Another happening spot that offers more food options than you can poke a toothpick at. Food night market, Miami Marketta, is a Gold Coast-certified classic. With live music, vibrant art installations and a bar flowing with local drops, there’s something for even the fussiest of friends. The twinkle light-lined roof homes food vendors from all over the globe. Pillow-soft bao buns, saucy Malaysian noodles and the chunkiest nachos swimming in generous servings of guac. You’ll have to be vigilant with the seating if there are less than eight of you, otherwise, jump online to snag a table ahead of time. @miamimarketta
Robina Pavilion — Robina
We couldn't make a group gathering hotlist without including one of the Gold Coast’s famous pavilions. Our nod of approval heads in the direction of Robina Pav; a lakeside restaurant and bar with pockets of seating suitable for any occasion and headcount. They have their large, light-filled eating space inside, a sunny bar and deck outside, waterside day beds and picnic tables in the park all serviceable by their restaurant and bar. The bambinos will love this one too, with a closed-off play area to keep them entertained for hours. @robinapavilion_
Balboa Italian — Palm Beach
Can’t get the group chat to commit to a European holiday? Let Balboa bring authentic Italian cuisine to you in the heart of Palm Beach. Like stepping into a Tuscan pasta house, this utopian restaurant caters for large groups with even larger appetites. With a refined wine list, saucy wood-fired pizzas and pasta to share and an indulgent dessert menu, the scene is set for an experience of excellent food and nostalgic notes of togetherness. Che bello! @balboaitalian
Gal.B Korean BBQ — Southport
If the team are after some hands-on action, gather around a grill at Gal.B Korean BBQ in Southport. This place is as authentic as they come, with family-style service, the freshest ingredients and a DIY cooking experience. Either elect a Grill Master of the group or take turns using the tongs to cook your meat and veg just how you like it. Throw a couple of Soju bottles into the mix, and you have yourself a party full of giggles, reminiscing and new memories made. @gal.b_koreanbbq
Light Years — Byron Bay & Burleigh
For the groups chasing flirty fun, tasty eats and instagrammable decor galore, Light Years has got you. With locations in Byron Bay and Burleigh, this spot can host long lunches and dinners perfect for family and friends. Their menu is modern Asian-inspired, with share dishes including build-your-own bao, the creamiest curries and a cocktail menu built for celebrating. The lights are dim and the beats are funky, so strap in for some high-flying vibes and a night of bold punchy flavour. @lightyearsasiandiner
