The 10 Best Lunch Venues Gold Coast for Hire

Gold Coast Lunch Venue Hire Guide

The Gold Coast knows how to slow down in the best way. When the sun’s out (which is often), the breeze is just right, and you’ve got something to celebrate, a long lunch is the move.

From beachside classics to hinterland hideaways, this part of Queensland does laid-back luxury like nowhere else. Here’s what to lock in before you book and where to do it so no one’s secretly checking the time.

First, Set the Scene

Before you go down the menu rabbit hole, work out the basics. Who’s coming, and how many? If it’s over 8–10 people, expect a set menu and honestly, it makes life easier. Less time ordering, no split bill drama, and the kitchen can keep things moving.

If you’re planning something more than just a casual feed (like a birthday, team lunch, or family milestone), mention it upfront. A lot of Gold Coast venues are happy to go the extra mile with better seating, a personalised menu, or maybe a small celebration touch if you ask ahead.

As always, weekends are a hot property. Lock in your date early, especially if it’s anywhere near school holidays or the event calendar. If your group can swing a weekday lunch, you’ll usually score better views, more parking, and bonus flexibility.

Picking the Right Kind of Venue

On the Gold Coast, you don’t have to pick between beachfront or bush. You can do both, sometimes in the same afternoon. Surfers Paradise is your go-to for lively lunches that roll into sunset drinks. Rooftops, beach bars, or oceanfront restaurants, take your pick.

Burleigh Waters leans more low-key luxe. Think garden courtyards, brunch-to-lunch menus, and natural wine lists without the snobbery. If your vibe is relaxed but considered, this is your area.

Upper Coomera and Nerang are rising favourites that need more space and less traffic. You’ll find modern bistros, and semi-rural venues with room to breathe. Great if you’ve got guests coming in from Brisbane or the Hinterland, or just want a more chilled atmosphere without losing the good food.

Menus That Match the Mood

A great lunch menu isn’t just tasty, it’s also timed well. You want food that holds conversation, feels generous, and doesn’t weigh you down for the rest of the day.

Most lunch events work off a two- or three-course set menu, usually priced between $70 and $110 per person. Expect seafood (always), fresh herbs, seasonal veg, and modern takes on coastal classics. There’s often an optional grazing starter or shared entrée, which is a win for groups who want variety.

For drinks, you’ve got options. A drinks package will usually cover two hours of wine, beer, and maybe a spritz or two. Otherwise, a tab gives you more control.

And always flag dietary needs early. Gold Coast kitchens are generally vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free but they do need a heads-up if you want the good stuff done right.

How Much It’ll Cost You?

Most group lunches on the Gold Coast sit around the $90 mark per person. You’ll find basic two-course options from $70, and the higher-end three-course menus or beachside packages reaching $110. That usually includes shared starters, mains, and at least one drink on arrival.

A lot of venues prefer a minimum spend model. You won’t pay to hire the space, but you do need to hit a total spend across food and drinks. It’s fair, especially if your group’s the kind that orders another round or adds desserts without thinking twice.

To stretch the budget, ask about lunch specials or midweek rates. And don’t be shy about asking what’s included and what’s not.

How to Get There (And Not Regret the Parking Plan)

The Gold Coast is spread out, but not difficult if you plan ahead. Most venues are car-friendly, but traffic and parking can still be an issue depending on time of day.

Surfers Paradise is central but busy. Great for public transport and ride share, not so great if you’re counting on street parking. Look for venues with dedicated lots or nearby car parks. If you’re lunching on a Sunday, factor in beach crowds and event closures.

Burleigh Waters is more forgiving with plenty of paid and free parking, especially near the local shops and commercial strips. The area is popular but manageable, especially for smaller groups.

Upper Coomera and Nerang are car-accessible and ideal for guests who don’t want to fight traffic. Venues here often have on-site parking or open surroundings. Great if you’ve got guests coming from Brisbane or planning to continue elsewhere after lunch.

Neighbourhoods That Make Lunch Feel Like a Holiday

Surfers Paradise. Big views and venues that know how to turn up the energy. You’ll find beachfront restaurants, hotel rooftops, and classic venues that nail food and service. Best when you want it to feel like a proper occasion.

Burleigh Waters blends polish and personality. You’ve got courtyard dining, wine-friendly menus, and venues that lean coastal boho without being cliché. Great for groups who love good food but want it served with sunlight and space.

Upper Coomera. Set slightly inland, Upper Coomera offers space and calm. You’ll find venues surrounded by greenery, menus focused on local produce, and a slower pace that works well for daytime functions. Good for guest lists with kids, relatives, or anyone who just prefers less noise.

Nerang. Often overlooked, Nerang also has gems. There are cafés with big-group seating, laid-back pubs with surprisingly great menus, and a few elevated spots that deliver more than you’d expect. Easy to access, less stress all around.

Before You Confirm, Double-Check the Essentials

Always ask how long you’ve got the space. Most lunch bookings run for two hours, but if you want speeches, photos, or toast time, confirm you can stay longer.

Find out what’s included in the minimum spend. Are drinks separate? Is AV access available? Will they hold your table if you’re running late?

Ask about wet-weather back-up if part of your lunch is outdoors. And don’t assume decorations are allowed as some places charge, others don’t, but best to be sure.

If you’ve never been to the venue, try to visit in person or at least check recent photos. You want to see the lighting, the vibe, and where your group would actually be seated.

Because when the space feels right, the food lands at the perfect time, and no one’s in a rush to leave, it means you’ve nailed it.

The Gold Coast knows how to slow down in the best way. When the sun’s out (which is often), the breeze is just right, and you’ve got something to celebrate, a long lunch is the move.

First, Set the Scene

Picking the Right Kind of Venue

Burleigh Waters leans more low-key luxe. Think garden courtyards, brunch-to-lunch menus, and natural wine lists without the snobbery. If your vibe is relaxed but considered, this is your area.

Menus That Match the Mood

A great lunch menu isn’t just tasty, it’s also timed well. You want food that holds conversation, feels generous, and doesn’t weigh you down for the rest of the day.

For drinks, you’ve got options. A drinks package will usually cover two hours of wine, beer, and maybe a spritz or two. Otherwise, a tab gives you more control.

And always flag dietary needs early. Gold Coast kitchens are generally vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free but they do need a heads-up if you want the good stuff done right.

How Much It’ll Cost You?

To stretch the budget, ask about lunch specials or midweek rates. And don’t be shy about asking what’s included and what’s not.

How to Get There (And Not Regret the Parking Plan)

The Gold Coast is spread out, but not difficult if you plan ahead. Most venues are car-friendly, but traffic and parking can still be an issue depending on time of day.

Burleigh Waters is more forgiving with plenty of paid and free parking, especially near the local shops and commercial strips. The area is popular but manageable, especially for smaller groups.

Neighbourhoods That Make Lunch Feel Like a Holiday

Before You Confirm, Double-Check the Essentials

Always ask how long you’ve got the space. Most lunch bookings run for two hours, but if you want speeches, photos, or toast time, confirm you can stay longer.

Find out what’s included in the minimum spend. Are drinks separate? Is AV access available? Will they hold your table if you’re running late?

Ask about wet-weather back-up if part of your lunch is outdoors. And don’t assume decorations are allowed as some places charge, others don’t, but best to be sure.

If you’ve never been to the venue, try to visit in person or at least check recent photos. You want to see the lighting, the vibe, and where your group would actually be seated.

Because when the space feels right, the food lands at the perfect time, and no one’s in a rush to leave, it means you’ve nailed it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Gold Coast lunch venues cost?

Based on VenueNow's historic data, on average, Gold Coast lunch venues cost between 60 per person and 90 per person. For example, a 30 person lunch would cost approximately 1800-2700. Costs may differ based on your food and beverage requirements, AV requirements, event date and time and the type of venue you decide to book.

What are the top Gold Coast lunch venues?

Here are some of our favourite Gold Coast lunch venues:

Beer Garden
The Island Gold Coast
voco Gold Coast
YOT Club
Burleigh Heads Hotel
SkyPoint Australia
QT Gold Coast
Wallaby Hotel
The Lucky Squire
Broadbeach Tavern
InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
Parkway

How do I find and book Gold Coast lunch venues?

Finding and booking a Gold Coast lunch venue is easy with VenueNow, simply follow these steps:1. Enter Gold Coast as your location and lunch as your event type into VenueNow's search engine.2. Narrow down your search results by entering more filters such as number of people, event date, room layout and budget.3. Send enquiries to venues to request pricing and availability (we recommend sending 3-5 enquiries to different venues to ensure you get the best price).4. Review your quotes and connect directly with your favourite venues to book a site visit and finalise your booking.5. Host your event!

How far in advance should I book a Gold Coast lunch venue?

On average, VenueNow customers book a Gold Coast venue 90 days in advance of the event. For larger events and event dates in December we recommend allowing additional time as there may be limited availability.

Can VenueNow help me find a Gold Coast lunch venue?

We sure can! VenueNow's team of Venue Booking Experts can help you find the perfect venue, collect quotes from multiple venues on your behalf, negotiate the best price with venues and book venues, all for free. Simply send us your event brief and our team will be in contact with venue recommendations within 24-48 hours.