Iconic Gold Coast restaurant Panchos Mexican Mudgeeraba to open

ONE of the Gold Coast’s most renowned Mexican themed restaurants is set to open its doors again — and locals are rejoicing.

Pancho's Mexican Restaurant at Mudgeeraba

ONE of the Gold Coast’s most renowned Mexican themed restaurants is set to open its doors again and locals are rejoicing.

The legendary Panchos Mexican Restaurant in Mudgeeraba, once voted in the city’s top 10 themed restaurants, has been brought back to life two years after its owners said “adios”.

While regulars can expect some slight improvements to the 37-year-old establishment, new owners Adrian and Marie Stolk are planning to keep the same Panchos charm that made it popular.

“We want to keep it very similar to what it was and what locals loved it for,” said Mr Stolk.

“When you walk in you won’t see much difference and that’s what we wanted because that is what people are familiar with.”

Founded in 1980 by Danny Church, Panchos quickly became a Gold Coast dining favourite with its delicious Mexican food and quirky wall memorabilia.

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Panchos restaurant, Springbrook Road. Picture: Supplied

Panchos’ new owners are no strangers to Mexican cuisine, having owned and operated Tex Mex restaurant on Sydney’s Northern Beaches for 30 years.

Panchos regulars may notice some new features including a renovated kitchen, new lighting and the addition of live music on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

While opening a Mexican restaurant some 30 minutes from the city’s dining hot spots of Broadbeach, Burleigh and Palm Beach may seem risky, Mr Stolk remains unconcerned.

Adrian and Marie Stolk at their Tex Mex restaurant at Mona Vale. Their son Jaan Stolk (middle) will be running the restaurant while they operate Panchos on the Gold Coast.

“There are definitely a lot more Mexican eateries on the Gold Coast now than there used to be, but most are just takeaway and fast food,” Mr Stolk said.

“This is a sit down restaurant and we provide people a great experience and atmosphere by coming here.

“People can have a drink of sangria or margherita, have a meal, enjoy some live music and just soak in the atmosphere.

“There is no other place on the Coast quite like it.”

Panchos Mexican Restaurant will open its doors on Friday, November 29.