If there’s a position worth coveting, it’s that of Glass. You could embark from your luxury yacht anchored on the sparkling Broadwater just beyond the windows, or fly by helicopter to the helipad at the end of the jetty… so it seems as we dine at Glass Restaurant, overlooking the Gold Coast at play.
In a venue covering the whole gamut of usage – from regulars and corporate lunches to tourists and international guests, from family dining through to the ‘who’s who’ of social figures, Glass caters for them all.
There’s a cosmopolitan vibe of Glass, fitted out with a tortoise-shell marble bar, tan leather banquettes and elegant dining chairs, with views through floor to ceiling glass at shimmering water. Much like the classy restaurants of capital cities, the international young staff bring a sassy vibe to the establishment, the ebb and flow of service and food appearing seamless.
There’s little room for elitism in such a competitive dining environment, which makes Glass an intriguing mix. Chameleon-like, Glass can be everything to everybody. Playground or gourmand’s bounty, it’s a reflection of the diner.
With an exceptional wine list, many available by the glass boosted by an elite cellar selection including Dom Perignon ‘P2’, Chateau D’Yquem and Henschke’s Hill of Grace, it’s as equally acceptable for the bloke beside you to order a local beer with his aged steak as for the ladies at the outside tables to become acquainted with white Moet & Chandon Ice Imperial to chase down some oysters! Somehow, the elegant cosmopolitan feel of Glass holds a disarming edge of casual that puts us all at ease.
A shared platter of Black Angus Chateaubriand with foie gras sauce and sides sits beside a hot seafood plate as alternate pinnacles of the share plates. It’s France vs the Gold Coast; the menu having travelled many journeys to reach this point.
Many dishes are light and bright, such as the classic Mediterranean slow-cooked charred octopus with roast pepper Romesco, olives and lemon, or classic Pan-roasted John Dory served with Byron bay salumi, potato fondant and cauli horseradish purée. Seafood and champagne overlooking water; it’s a winning combination!
Or dishes may be as pungent as Thai-style crispy pressed pork, made sticky with palm sugar, Kaffir lime, chilli and ginger caramel, embracing a range of bright and colourful world flavours to dance on our palates.
There’s nothing too confronting; no visual or culinary challenge to balk us on our dining journey. It’s a menu aimed to please, with gluten-free and vegetarian clearly marked, even with different pricing entry points. Though you’ll be served posh fish and chips if you request it, look harder and you’ll find real gems on the menu; dishes that bring the finest produce and exceptional technical skill together.
One such dish is the Sliced Wagyu bresaola, sourced from the Byron area, served with 63-degree hen egg and creamy truffled potato foam. Presented simply as a flower of meat around the mash, the dish is finished at the table, folded by our waiter Nico before we are invited to reach into the bowl. Messy never tasted so good, the truffle hypnotic, the mash velvet smooth, and the rich bresaola the best we’ve tasted.
If you are daunted by the extensive menu, opt for the chef’s selection, with instructions about your ‘food adventure’ level! In the end, whether you’re there for a gourmet experience or a long boozy Sunday lunch, the cuisine brings a refined classical influence to our upfront lifestyle.
As the seagull battles the cool winter squall outside, at Glass we have the chance to embrace elegance and some of the finest produce available from land and sea. So, why not put those chips aside for just a minute and embrace the adventure. It’s well worth it!
Marina Mirage, 74 Sea World Drive, Main Beach Ph: 07 5527 1009 Open: 7 days 12 noon – late
NOTE: Prices vary between à la carte and set meals. Lunch and winter specials are available.
Winter Degustation for Two:
4 courses including a bottle of wine $89pp;
6 courses including a bottle of wine $119.90pp.
Good Food Gold Coast dined as guests of Glass Restaurant on one occasion.
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