The Gold Coast is calling me again for the weekend and the weather looks perfect. This time I’m actually hoping to hit the beach.
I’m heading to the Australian Travel Writers Association Conference at Palazzo Versace, Southport, but I’m staying in Surfers Paradise at Vibe Hotels which is right next door to a handy restaurant I visited on my last Surfers sojourn.
Helm Bar and Bistro has an enviable position overlooking the Nerang River on the Gold Coast Highway. You’ll find it easily by looking out for the boat and oars that decorate the entrance.
Walk through the bar area to find the bistro on the right and grab a table overlooking the river if you can.
The food here reflects the waterfront location with plenty of seafood and the prices very reasonable especially the weekly specials which don’t get above $12 for a meal.
We sampled the pasta of the day, a pizza and a parmesan crusted snapper fillet with a lemon butter sauce that had the three of us fighting for the last bit.
The Helm Bar’s Famous Seafood Sharing Stand for Two packed with prawns, oysters, tempura soft shell crab, grilled barramundi, Moreton Bay Bugs, salad, fries and dipping sauces, was another hit.
The wine list also has a few pleasant surprises that take it beyond the ordinary and a selection of cocktails that include a Bison Grass Mojito, a Smoking Texas Mary and Voodoo Jam which is tipped as perfect for
sangria lovers.
On my previous visit I stayed at Outrigger Surfers Paradise which has some great rates at the moment. The location is good – away from the central busy part of Surfers and with easy access to the beach front. The rooms were well appointed with balconies that had a great view. There’s a construction happening close by for the Gold Coast light rail project so that can be noisy at times, but not when you should be sleeping. Downside is no free internet and complicated parking arrangements.
Helm Bar & Bistro
Best tip: Good for families
Bottom line: This is casual eating but the food is above expectations.
Kerry Heaney
Disclaimer: Ed+bK was a guest of Helm Bar.