Leading Gold Coast restaurateur announces shock departure from Broadbeach’s prestigious Nineteen at The Star

A leading Gold Coast restaurateur has announced his shock exit from one of the Gold Coast’s most respected restaurants. Find out why.

HIGH-PROFILE Gold Coast restaurateur Simon Gloftis has announced his departure from A-list playground Nineteen at the Star.

The owner of Hellenika, who is fresh from a trip to Greece, broke the news on Instagram.

“A little while ago I formally asked The Star Entertainment Group to release me from my contract and as of today I am no longer involved with (Nineteen at the Star),” he said.

“The decision was not made lightly, however, it had become pretty obvious to me that my own venues — and future projects — required my full attention, focus and energy.

“The Star have been incredibly understanding of my desire to concentrate on that path and I thank them for supporting me.

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Nineteen at the Star rooftop bar and restaurant hospitality dream team Billy Cross and Jackie Cross with Simon Gloftis (far left). Picture: Glenn Hampson.

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“In my heart of hearts I know I’ve made the right choice.”

The product of hospitality dream team Gloftis and good friends Billy and Jackie Cross, the celebrity roll call of A-listers to go through Nineteen at the Star is impressive.

Sprint champion Usain Bolt and movie stars Chris Hemsworth, Matt Damon and Margot Robbie are among those to dine on a decadent menu including lobster Bolognese and copious helpings of caviar.

Just over one year into operation, Gloftis said he’d always be grateful for the opportunity to be involved in the restaurant’s launch.

“I’m sure that Nineteen at The Star will continue to be a huge success and I wish my partners Billy and Jackie Cross, and everyone at The Star all the very best for the future,” he said.

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Simon Gloftis at his other restaurant Hellenika. Picture: Peter Wallis.

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“Finally and most importantly, I want to thank my team. Everyone knows my team is my life and I can’t thank them enough for following my vision with such precision and professionalism.

“I’m going to miss them deeply.

“I look forward to sharing with you details of my newest ventures.”