See inside: Apres Surf team reveal new Burleigh digs in long-awaited re-opening

The brains behind a popular Gold Coast eatery are swinging open the doors of its new “grown up” location after more than a year out of business. SEE INSIDE

THE team behind a popular Gold Coast eatery are swinging open the doors of its new “grown up” location after more than a year out of business.

Apres Surf, once a Mermaid Beach fixture beloved for its weekly specials and laid-back culture since 2016, has moved to Burleigh Heads Esplanade.

Co-owners Richard O’Hanlon, James Angell and Byron Taylor were forced to find a new home early last year as developers bought up the area just prior to Covid starting.

Head chef (name) with co-owners Richard O’Hanlon and James Angell. Picture: Kaitlyn Smith

“It was pretty frustrating at the time but I suppose it also came at a good time with Covid,” Mr Richard O’Hanlon said.

“We loved the old spot so that’s why it took a while to get a new one. We wanted a really good spot.”

“It’s very similar to the last Apres Surf but slightly more grown up. We opened really green last time, I’d barely worked in hospitality in Australia.

“It went really well but it was hard and very DIY.”

Mr O’Hanlon credited the trio’s now years of experience as a point of difference in the new venue’s look and feel, which took about six months of hard labour.

Apres Surf’s new home at Burleigh Heads esplanade. Picture: Kaitlyn Smith

“It’s been a really hard few months doing the fit-out all ourselves, but we’re excited, nervous and of course, really happy to be back,” Mr O’Hanlon said.

“Everyone’s pretty excited about our return. They’re definitely hoping it’s pretty similar to the last place; everyone wants to see the return of Apres Surf and not necessarily a new place.”

Head chef and co-owner Byron Taylor. Picture: Kaitlyn Smith

Vintage furniture, moody chandelier lighting and memorabilia pays homage to the adored Apres culture, while selections of local craft beer and wines again showcase The Glitter Strip’s own famous products.

“On tap we have Young Henry’s, Burleigh Brewing, Stone & Wood and Balter. We’ll also be rotating craft beers in the fridge and offering a range of natural wines,” Mr O’Hanlon said.

A smattering of favourite dishes will be on offer for guests. Picture: Kaitlyn Smith

Its famed burgers, nasi goreng and chicken parmas whipped up by co-owner and head chef Byron Taylor will be back, with speciality nights – which previously saw the business crowned as the city’s best Cheap Eats – to return in coming weeks.

“We’ll start bringing them back. We’ll also try and have DJs every weekend and possibly live sets later down the track as well.”

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