Royal Copenhagen

Royal Copenhagen in Surfers Paradise is centred on a simple, well-executed pleasure: creamy Danish-style ice cream served in freshly made waffle cones. The brand began in 1982 with crisp, buttery waffles cooked on a gas-fired cone cooker imported from Denmark, and its second store opened on Cavill Avenue in 1984. That Surfers Paradise connection remains part of the story, with the venue continuing to serve locals and visitors in one of the Gold Coast’s best-known holiday precincts.

The signature choice is The Regular, which pairs a large, freshly baked waffle cone with two scoops. It was the first product Royal Copenhagen offered and is still described as its most popular option. The range has since expanded to more than 65 recipes, covering familiar favourites as well as distinctive combinations such as Toffee & Sesame, Pina Colada and Chilli Chocolate. Flavours are made from the brand’s recipes by individual franchisees, who can also develop new creations for consideration.

There is more to explore than a standard scoop. The menu includes junior cones, waffle baskets, shakes and take-home packs, while a self-serve toppings bar lets customers add extras such as fresh cream or a chocolate-dipped finish at no additional cost. The experience is designed around choosing, decorating and making a dessert your own, rather than simply ordering a fixed item. Gift vouchers are also available in-store for anyone looking to give an ice cream outing rather than a physical gift.

The tone is playful and welcoming, with the brand describing its stores as places for flavour discovery and a sense of childlike fun. That makes Royal Copenhagen a natural fit for families, groups and visitors wanting a casual dessert stop after time around Surfers Paradise, while the straightforward cone-and-scoops format also suits a solo treat. Some stores may offer the special sugar-free, lactose-free doggie ice cream, although availability should be checked with the individual venue. Packaging is plant-based or made from certified compostable materials, including the paper cups, clear cups, wooden spoons and paper straws.