Looking for the best Gold Coast restaurants? Read on

The Gold Coast is most famous for its sunshine, sandy beaches and busy nightlife. But you may not know that Gold Coast restaurants are some of the best going around.

There are so many places where you can grab a scrumptious bite to eat, a quick coffee or sit down for some fine dining.

Here are five of the best Gold Coast restaurants for the hit-list. Make sure you grab a hire car from Surfers Paradise then head to these amazing eateries.

Hellenika Restaurant (pictured)

Hellenika is one of the best Gold Coast restaurants. Treat yourself to "simple authentic home-style food, designed to be placed in the middle of the table to share." This philosophy is at the heart of everything Hellinika serves up. Treat yourself to traditional Greek dishes, such as smoky meats and seafoods. The salads are also divine and presented beautifully.

Etsu Izakaya

This gorgeous Japanese bar/restaurant is a great place to spend an afternoon with friends. Red paper lanterns, traditional tatami booths and trees that are "growing" from the tables are some of the unique features of this eatery. Those who dine here enjoy the busy, fun and loud environment. Silken tofu, tsukune dunked in egg yolk and wagyu beef are some of the incredible dishes to choose from.

Justin Lane

This popular pizzeria and pasta bar is a loud and lively place to spend the evening. There's also the added option of rooftop dining, which sets a relaxing vibe at sunset or night. Admire views of Burleigh Beach and the iconic high rise buildings as you enjoy an antipasto place with company. Rustic pasta dishes and crusty wood-fired pizza are some of the most popular dishes on the menu.

Elk Espresso

Elk Espresso has a fantastic reputation among the locals. It's always buzzing with excitement, no matter what time of day you visit. Fantastic coffee draws diners in, but the scrumptious Australian food keeps them coming back for more. For breakfast, indulge in some pork belly and corn with chilli. Or perhaps the Persian feta and poached eggs on sourdough is more to your liking. There's plenty of healthy salads and burgers to choose from during the day.

The Fish House

This beachside dining room is elegant and charming. Feel at ease when you're handed the menu, only to spot the day's date, which proves just how fresh the produce here really is. Not to mention the fine wines that accompany the dishes. The restaurant is inspired by Southern Europe cuisine. Managers also proudly declare it "the finest Seafood Restaurant on the Gold Coast".

BRIANNA PIAZZA