Cafe Catalina

Café Catalina is a waterfront restaurant in Southport, Gold Coast, set beside the Broadwater with a relaxed approach to breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks. Its coastal position is central to the experience, with indoor dining and an undercover alfresco area. The venue also welcomes well-behaved dogs in the alfresco space, provided guests mention this when booking; dogs are not permitted in the inside dining room.

The kitchen is led by Executive Chef Michele Palomba, with the menu built around local seafood and seasonal produce. Breakfast is served daily, followed by lunch and dinner options, while a dedicated tapas period runs in the afternoon. Drinks are also a focus, including a tequila bar featuring approximately 150 tequilas from around the world. The venue’s social updates also reference handcrafted cocktails and live music, adding to its evening offering without moving away from the Broadwater setting.

Café Catalina suits a range of occasions, from a casual daytime meal or sunset drink to a dinner with friends. Its regular programme includes Sunset Sessions from Friday to Sunday, Taco Tequila Tuesday, and an afternoon tapas menu. The restaurant also promotes sunset dinners from Wednesday to Saturday through its social channels. Taco Tuesday features $7 tacos according to the venue’s published updates, with bookings and walk-ins welcome for that event.

For larger occasions, the venue offers a range of spaces for weddings, celebrations and corporate events, with waterfront views and event-focused arrangements. Walk-in dining is accepted, although the restaurant recommends booking to secure a table. Waterside seating is allocated according to arrival order and group size, so specific table locations cannot be guaranteed. Paid parking is available next to the restaurant, and the venue advises that guests attending weekend long lunches, Sunset Sessions or dinner consider travelling by Uber. Café Catalina also caters for dietary requirements when guests advise staff about allergies or specific needs.