Pepé Italia, Burleigh Heads: The word ‘authentic’ is thrown around pretty loosely these days so let’s get one thing straight – Pepé Italia is, in fact, as authentic as they come. Our pick? Keep it classic with a cheesy pecorino-topped carbonara or Pepé’s Pappardelle Alla Bolognese. If you needed any additional reassurance, a picture of a scantily clad Sophia Loren with the words “Everything you see, I owe to spaghetti …” is adorned on the wall and frankly, that’s good enough for us!
Ristorante Fellini, Main Beach: If you’re talking primo pasta on the coast, it’s pretty hard to go past Ristorante Fellini. Every strand and shell is made in-house by Fellini’s resident master of pasta, Rafaelle Di Benedetto, who has been handmaking parcels of happiness the traditional way for over 40 years.
Pizzeria and Mozzarella Bar by Fellini, Main Beach: Squid-ink linguine not your vibe? Mosey next door to the brand new sister venue that boasts a more casual and relaxed experience and enjoy simplified versions of Fellini faves. Instead of a bowl, the pasta is served inside a pizza crust so once you’re done eating the innards you can scoop up the sauce with the crust – what a time!
Mario’s Italian, Broadbeach: From one institution to another, Mario’s Italian has been luring pasta lovers since 1989 so they are clearly doing something right. The best part is that the portions err on the side of massive so you’ll have some left over for lunch.
Goccia, Mermaid Beach: If you haven’t had an authentic Italian experience at Goccia, you need to rectify the situation immediately. Order a glass of Italian chianti (or birra) then settle in because this is one dinner you are definitely going to want to savour.
Justin Lane Establishment, Burleigh Heads: Known for its seriously top-notch sourdough pizzas, Justin Lane also dishes up some damn fine pasta that is made with an equal amount of skill and love and cooked fresh to order. The catchphrase here is eat, drink and be messy and you definitely don’t have to tell us twice!
Cucina Vivo, Broadbeach: Have you ever noticed how the Italians have a true gift for making every meal a celebration? Witness this firsthand at Cucina Vivo at The Star and enjoy a pasta feast Italian style. Go all out with the Maltagliati – bug tail, heirloom tomatoes, asparagus, lobster bisque, black caviar. Fancy.
Tella Balls, Surfers Paradise: Stop. Everything. Did you know that dessert pasta is a thing? Well, it is! If you have a sweet tooth, feast your eyes on the Pastatella – a massive plate of fettuccine made from crepes doused in white and milk chocolate sauce before being topped with vanilla bean ice-cream. Heaven on a plate.
Rivea Italian, Broadbeach: From its new home on Surf Parade, Rivea modern-Italian dining is the perfect place to while away an afternoon with a white wine and a bowl of spaghetti loaded with king prawns, mussels and squid. Delizioso!
Gemelli Italian, Broadbeach and Gemellini, Mermaid Beach: Paying homage to their Italian heritage and passion for produce, the Carney brothers have created a culinary empire that brings a refined-yet-rustic approach to dining. The gnocchi has been described by some diners as ‘life changing’ and we just so happen to agree. Keen for something a bit more low-key? Check out Roy’s by Gemelli at Sorrento.
Ioesco, Sanctuary Cove: For the past decade, Ioesco at Sanctuary Cove has been amassing legions of loyal fans including the likes of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, who once dined here on a trip to the Gold Coast.
Balboa Italian, Palm Beach: Last but in no way least, Balboa’s pasta is handmade onsite and is the manifestation of everything you love about Italian cuisine. Simple, classic and deeply satisfying. For something a little different, try the roasted lamb cannelloni with black cabbage, porcini bechamel, parmesan, tomato confit and black truffle mushroom sauce.
Honourable mentions: Friends, that is just the tip of the iceberg – there are plenty of top-notch pastas being thrown around all corners of the Gold Coast. Once you’ve eaten through this list, be sure to check out local faves like Pomodoro Pizza and Pasta in Coolangatta and Cicchetti in Isle of Capri.
