Backbone Bar

Backbone Bar is a relaxed, family-friendly bar and restaurant on the southern Gold Coast, with the village atmosphere of Tugun and a menu designed for both casual visits and longer evenings. The venue welcomes locals, visitors, families and solo drinkers, whether you are stopping by for a beer, settling in for dinner or looking for somewhere to watch sport and spend time with friends. Its menu takes an Asian fusion, tapas-style approach, with options intended for sharing or ordering as a full meal. Fish and chips are also available for those after a more traditional Australian choice.

Beer is central to the Backbone experience. The venue promotes a rotating selection of locally produced craft beers on tap, with new additions introduced regularly after being tasted and selected by the team. There is also a broader range of beer in cans and bottles, giving visitors plenty to explore beyond the taps. For non-beer-focused visitors and families, the venue also has a Gelato Bar, while the website highlights a Groms menu for children.

The food offering covers light bites, dumplings, bao buns, healthy bowls, larger plates and sweets. Standout dishes named by the venue include Karaage Korean Chicken with gochujang sauce and mayo, Spicy Edamame with garlic and chilli, Pork Belly Bao Bun with pickles and hoisin sauce, and Japanese Katsu Curry with crumbed chicken and a sweet Japanese curry. Vegan and gluten-free options are also referenced on the menu page, although the website does not provide enough detail to describe the full range.

Backbone’s space is built around a welcoming, social feel, with more seating at its current venue and entertainment that includes a dartboard, pinball machines and arcade games. Sport is shown on weekends, with AFL and NRL both mentioned. The venue’s story is closely tied to owner Gav, who is described as a builder from Melbourne and an enthusiastic AFL supporter. Backbone also preserves a piece of local history: the former Kirra Beach Hotel’s bar, from the 65-year-old Kirra Pub, was relocated to the venue after the hotel closed in 2021. That combination of craft beer, shareable food, games and an easy-going atmosphere makes Backbone a practical choice for families, groups and anyone happy to spend an afternoon or evening in a lively local bar.