June 10, 2018

Checking In: The Star Gold Coast

The unique architecture has made The Star Gold Coast synonymous with the Gold Coast skyline. Formerly known as Jupiters Casino, until its rebrand in 2017, The Star is a hotel that carries a long history of memories.

Birthday lunches and dinners, Mother’s Day as well any other excuse to celebrate; we always ended up at The Star. Something The Star has always excelled in is the exquisite food and with the variety of different restaurants, there is something for everyone. With all the occasions celebrated, I have never experienced staying there. So when an opportunity arose to experience the newly renovated rooms and The Star Grand in all its glory. Well, I couldn’t resist.

The Hotel

Freshly renovated, The Star Grand at The Star Gold Coast is a five star experience. Sitting on 7 hectares of prime real estate in the heart of Broadbeach, this paradise within paradise is ideal to combine relaxation and fun on the sun drenched coastline. The hotel offers access to an abundance of amenities and as a result you will not want to leave. For sunny days make your way to the pool, bask in the sunshine on a day bed or take a dip. If relaxation is what you need, make your way to Azure Spa & Fitness. Boasting seven treatment rooms, a couple’s space, manicure and pedicure room and a gym. For all the foodies, The Star Gold Coast is a foodie’s heaven. A total of eleven restuarants and bars with an array of different cuisines on offer, for all times of the day. Everything from the mouth-watering sashimi at Kiyomi, Italian cuisine at Cucina Vivo or dumplings at Mei Wei Dumplings to name a few. As a result the abundance of choice is overwhelming.

The Room

With almost 596 rooms and each one is dripping with luxury. Offering rooms from a superior deluxe to the impressive ocean terrace suite, there is something for every taste. In addition to the luxurious rooms are the coastal and hinterland views. I was lucky to experience the superior deluxe king room and I was not disappointed. Walking in the blinds rise allowing you to take in the view. From the moment you step in it feels luxurious. Opulent wallpaper lines the long entry way and opens up to a large and spacious room. By far one of the biggest hotel rooms I have stayed in. Crisp white sheets adorn a super comfortable bed and a bespoke wooden and geometric headboard sits pretty making a subtle statement. The bathroom continues with the luxury, a rain shower for those resort relaxation vibes and L’occitane products to make you feel incredible. Most of all, every part of your stay is a luxurious experience.

Breakfast: M&G Cafe and Bar

Starting my day off the right way, with by far the best meal of the day breakfast at M&G Cafe and Bar. M&G opens early and closes late, the coffee machine is always on and the ability to grab a mouthwatering meal or snack is super easy. Most noteworthy is the extensive menu, full of everyones favourites and all made with locally sourced products. Consequently the menu will leave you wanting to order it all, which is exactly what I wanted to do. Having the sweet tooth that I do, I of course saw the pancakes and my decision was complete. My sister opted for a healthier option of a Avocado crush. In addition to the meals, it would not be complete without a chocolate brownie and almond croissant. Another factor of M&G Cafe worth mentioning is the stylish atmosphere. Wood, marble and gold finishes adds a subtle luxe factor, as well as feeling very European.

Lunch: Garden Kitchen & Bar

Greenery, stylish modern decor and a laid back vibe makes Garden Kitchen & Bar the ideal space for lunch or dinner. Whether you are enjoying the sun-drenched deck, sitting on the lush green lawn or enjoying the outdoor bar. Wherever you are it is going to be an amazing time spent with friends and family. We opted for the open air sun room, soaking in the rays while lounging comfortably and taking in the gorgeous decor. We decided to get numerous different dishes in order to be able to try the variety on offer. Plus it was to hard to decide on just one. From the delectable sea salt and bush pepper calamari to the share platter featuring bread, crackers, an array of meats and dips. In addition to the delicious food were the equally delicious drinks. The Star Gold Coast is known for their food, as well as their numerous bars that are a perfect match for their incredible drinks. Opting for a mocktail, we indulged in a fresh mojito that awoke the taste buds with just one sip.

Dinner: Cucina Vivo

Inspired by the Amalfi Coast, Cucina Vivo serves up authentic Italian classics and new favourites. A soft colour palette of pale blue mimics the azure waters seen along the Amalfi coast. Overlooking the pool, it is a perfect spot to sit back, relax and indulge in delicious Italian food. The wood-fire pizza oven is the centrepiece of the restaurant and adds to the Italian charm. Cucina Vivo very much the same as the numerous other restaurants, the menu is extensive and will leave you wanting it all. Needless to say, we like at lunch opted for a variety of different dishes to satisfy the tastebuds and to try a variety of different flavours. On our table was the Calzone Napoletano, Fettuccine Carbonara, Calamari Fritti and Patate. We couldn’t go past experiencing a cocktail from their extensive menu. Soon after dinner was done, the Amalfi Pearl made an appearance and put on a show. The waitress poured dried ice around it, giving it a whimsical appearance. You may be wondering what the Amalfi Pearl is, it is a pearl of white chocolate, pear sorbet, roasted hazelnuts, chocolate ricotta cake, pear compote and Frangelico foam. It is as heavenly as it sounds.

The Location

In the heart of Broadbeach, sits The Star Gold Coast. Walking distance to the best beaches and shopping in Queensland. It’s prime location allows you the very best in what the Gold Coast has to offer all at your doorstep. Across the road you will find the best in shopping at Pacific Fair. If you love luxury, Pacific Fair is for you. It is home to an abundance of international luxury brands, everything from Saint Laurent, Christian Louboutin to Hermes. Representing Australia, is the array of top Australian designers. From Alice McCall, Aje, Camilla to Zimmermann to name a few. If luxury shopping isn’t for you, don’t worry stores such as Zara and H&M also reside there.

Queensland and beaches go hand in hand. You won’t be disappointed with The Star’s prime location, allowing you the ease of walking to the best beaches along the sun drenched coast. Take a walk, work on your tan or take a dip.

In addition to the shopping and beach, the Gold Coast is known for the abundance of theme parks. With the likes of Dreamworld, Wet n Wild, Movieworld and Seaworld all within half an hour of The Star Gold Coast. It is a adrenaline junkies heaven.