Kokomo – a hidden gem in a busy shipyard
There’s an abundant oasis of fruitful and vibrant offerings tucked away on the northern end of the Gold Coast that blends the mystique of a Caribbean hideaway with laid-back Queensland hospitality and mouthwatering cuisine.
Kokomo Kitchen + Bar is located on its own sandy beach in the northern yard at The Boat Works and has earned a loyal clientele of locals and visiting boaties for its enticing palm-covered decks and delectable menu.
Against a backdrop of the Coomera River fringed with mangroves, the impressive superyachts on the marina and the now marooned Maranoa, once a Broadwater party boat, Kokomo is a hidden gem in a busy shipyard.
By day, it’s a shady nook, perfectly positioned to enjoy the breeze off the water and fully family-friendly with grassed area and spotless sandy beach, as well as a kids’ menu and an anchor for the inquisitive. With a variety of dining options and locations, from a casual seat down on the Jetty overlooking the marina, or within the hidden secret garden dining areas, or alongside the sunken Pirate ship overlooking the tropical oasis. At night, it’s a truly special spot. Decked out in garlands of lights, surrounded by palms, hanging ferns and a grove of banana trees, the ambience transports guests to an island paradise.
“It’s a brilliant place to wind down after work, or catch up with friends,” says Mark, who was previously Executive Chef at Southport Sharks for a decade and worked in hotels and restaurants for many years prior to that.
“It has a great beach vibe and suits the clean, green ethos of The Boat Works. Thanks to Tony Longhurst’s vision and investment, Kokomo has grown to be the ideal venue for events, waterfront dining and afternoon drinks,” Mark adds.
Mark and his team cater to visiting yachts and The Boat Works tenants, as well as customers from all over the Gold Coast, lured by the lush surrounds and succulent specialties such as coconut prawns, prawn tacos, satay chicken bowl, classic Caesar salad and the epic Kokomo Club Sandwich.
“We change the menu four times a year, inspired by local produce and seasonal availability, but also by popular requests from our regulars,” Mark explains. “We listen to what people want. If people request something specific, we go to great lengths to accommodate them.”
Their reputation has spread across the region and Kokomo Kitchen + Bar has gone from opening Monday to Friday to opening weekends for breakfast and lunch. From October, they plan to open for dinner, with live music Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons.
So popular is the venue proving for birthdays, anniversaries and weddings, they have added a new deck for water’s edge dining.
Now gearing up for a tropical summer of entertaining, Mark is planning the calendar of events and a palate-pleasing menu complemented by a tantalising cocktail list.
“We’ll be open all summer and over Christmas, except public holidays, and we’re already booking work parties and end of year events. Kokomo is a unique destination venue. Its hidden location is part of its allure. Once people discover us, they will come back again and again.”
kokomogoldcoast.com.au Ph: 0432 574 108
Located in the North Yard – The Boat Works, 199 Beattie Road Coomera
Drive towards the end of Beattie Road cul-de-sac, and turn right, following the concrete driveway through to the north looking at for the 3 Palm Trees within the superyacht yard. Turn right when you arrive near the palm trees and park adjacent the Superyacht Marina.
Kokomo Kitchen & Bar is located on the waters edge near the Marina.
Kokomo Kitchen & Bar IMAGES: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/6ckdme6c8vydt0dasfn87/h?rlkey=ob6yerh85c6wxjf8kxz9xly4x&dl=0
