Where to find the best Italian restaurants on the Gold Coast

Sofia’s Bistro & Bar is one of the snazzy new restaurants on Broadstreet with a coastal European menu. Less than a year old, the place is a local favorite for simple, hearty Italian fare in a homespun setting. Think sharing plates, kid-friendly dishes and more. Starting with their popular wood-fired bread, the menu boasts an extensive selection of house-made pastas, to meat, grilled to perfection over the charcoal grill.

BreadnButter over in Kirra is the perfect place for large gatherings and cocktails. With dazzling murals on cement walls, breathtaking ocean views and a well-lit interior, this place is the perfect backdrop for weekend brunches and banquets. Diners should not be fooled by the elegance of the venue, they actually do have a pretty affordable takeaway menu before 6pm daily. The in-house menu will leave diners spoilt for choice – a must-have here is the paella, made with a flavourful in-house stock.

Italian cuisine on the Gold Coast doesn’t get more authentic than it does at Double Zero Pizza. Opened by four young Italian restaurateurs, the welcoming interior transports diners to Italy by combining modern design with traditional elements like a wood-fired oven. The pizzeria focuses on Napoletana wood-fired pizza, which diners simply cannot miss out on when they’re here. Along with an array of wine, beer and signature cocktails, this establishment is a hotspot for locals and tourists.

Orzo is unlike your run-of-the-mill neighbourhood Italian restaurant. Their menu is small, but don’t expect anything less than ordinary. Run by the mavens behind Social Eating House + Bar, Orzo caters to the modern palette through a playful, yet subtle fusion of Asian and Australian ingredients. When it gets hard to decide, the $75 chef’s menu can help. Whether it’s an afternoon grub with friends or date night with a partner, the space here is designed to let diners feel relaxed, sophisticated and classy. All while chowing down on some fine Italian cuisine.

The search for delicious Italian cuisine will probably land many in Balboa Italian Restaurant. Known for their use of raw ingredients, local and imported, they believe in using only the finest ingredients. Diners will find an eclectic menu of traditional and modern Italian dishes through the chef’s own interpretation here. From simple wood fired pizzas to pasta, and even burgers, nobody leaves Balboa Italian unsatisfied.

The interior of Goccia Italian Pizzeria sees glass windows that let in a lot of daylight, while transforming into an intimate setting at night. Expect muted colours, warm lighting and candle-lit dinners. This place is ideal for couples, romantic dates and capturing special moments. They even have heart-shaped pizzas, for when date nights need a little sprucing up.

When jet-setting to the Amalfi Coast seems a little far-fetched, the Cucina Vivo brings the same pristine elegance right to the Gold Coast. Stepping in, patrons will be transported to the idyllic cliff-top restaurants in one of the top honeymoon destinations. Simple Italian flavours, done exceptionally well, is the motto here. There are options for a degustation menu with wine pairing or al a carte. Our recommendation is, go for either one, they’ll definitely not disappoint.

Tucked away in the Sorrento suburb, Roy’s by Gemelli is the quaint neighbourhood’s prized gem. Helmed by the brothers behind Gemelli, Roy’s is the former’s trendier, friendlier cousin. Built on the need for social eating, the space is designed for friends, family nights and large groups. The menu is created to serve anyone and everyone, offering alternatives like gluten-free bases. Come for a weeknight wine and dine, and experience superb service, and even better food.

It’s hard to mention Roy’s by Gemelli without bringing up Gemelli itself. The Broadbeach area is no short of groundbreaking restaurants, but Gemelli Italian is one that truly stands out. It’s packed most nights, so hungry foodies will have to remember to make a reservation in advance. Italian owners, great setting, and skillful chefs are the three ingredients that set this place up for success. The pasta recipes here tell a story passed down from generations ago. They have mastered their craft down to the appetizers – Gemelli has a pretty impressive rocket salad. But if there’s one dish that’s not to be missed, it’s definitely the gnocchi.