Runaway Bay’s hottest addition ever opens its doors

THE Coast’s newest rooftop bar is finally open and you won’t believe the backstory, how it looks and most importantly, the glorious food and drinks.

Gotham Grill and Bar is finally open. Photo by Richard Gosling

GOTHAM was a village in 13th century England involved in a clever ruse to prevent their town being turned into a hunting lodge by King John.

The residents acted like lunatics when the messengers came to survey the land, causing them hot-tail out of there with the message that Gotham was full of madmen.

The name was later applied to 1800s New York City, a place full of ingenious maniacs and now, Runaway Bay’s newest addition.

Daniel Ridgeway shows off Gotham’s food and views. Photo by Richard Gosling

From prolific restaurateur Daniel Ridgeway, Gotham Grill and Rooftop Bar will embody the look and feel of old New York. As for the madness, that’s where you come in ...

“We (Ridgeway Group) have always wanted to have restaurants spanning the Gold Coast,” Daniel says.

“The northern end was next on our list and we knew it had to be special.

“Gotham Grill and Rooftop Bar was chosen as Gotham was a nickname for New York City over a century ago.

“We love the architectural elements of old New York City, so we have added exaggerated elements of the style into the venue.

Gotham Grill and Bar has an old New York vibe. Photo by Richard Gosling

“We thought designing our venue in that style would work well with the steak house venue we wanted to do and we added the roof top to compliment the overall venue.

“With a name like Gotham, the detail and theming you can do is limitless and a lot of fun to do.”

As Daniel says, Gotham is separated into two parts.

Gotham Grill and Rooftop Bar the newest venue from Daniel Ridgeway. Located at Runaway Bay.

The steakhouse on level two he modelled after a classic, high-end American steakhouse “where celebrity couples would rendezvous away from prying eyes and corporate heavy-hitters would negotiate trade deals over lengthy lunches”.

Gotham Grill’s Greenstone NZ Porterhouse with Broccolini, roasted garlic, lemon dressing and Sauteed wild mushrooms and Baked potato gratin. Photo by Richard Gosling

The rooftop is a combination of the best parts of Manhattan and the Gold Coast — their style and our climate.

“Gotham actually is two restaurants in one building: Level two houses our Grill and level three our Rooftop,” Daniel says.

“The Grill is more intimate, showcasing some great fresh local seafood and steaks sorted from around Australia and New Zealand.

“Our steak selection ranges from grass-fed and free range to high marble score pure blood wagyu.

Gotham Grill’s Potato gnocchi with creamy mushroom and bacon sauce. Photo by Richard Gosling

“There is also whole fish to steak tartare on the menu.

“On the Rooftop you will find handmade pastas, pizzas and burgers — my favourite is the lobster roll and the southern style barbecue pork ribs.”

The Gotham City thick base pizza, Napoli, pepperoni, lots of mozzarella. Photo by Richard Gosling

Daniel says as guests enter the venue they are met with decadent 1920s art deco styling at every turn. Think red velvet covered stairs covering a winding staircase that leads to the twinkling skylights of the rooftop component.

Rich wooden panelling adds depth and detail to otherwise bland walls and geometric light fittings add splashes of metallic gold.

Sparkling light fittings illuminate the setting. Photo by Richard Gosling

The only thing left is the accommodating staff to make you feel relaxed and at home.

“Heading up the kitchen is Alex Kavanaugh who trained at the Stokehouse in Melbourne and worked with some of the best chefs in Melbourne,” Daniel says.

“Alex was recommended to me by friend of 20 years and executive chef Nick Bennet at The Arbory in Melbourne.

“Nick rarely talks highly of anyone, yet Alex was given high praise, so I knew I had the right person for the job.

Gotham Grill and Rooftop Bar cocktail, Alfred's Tonic.

“Cayle Lotus is our venue manager, previously manager of BiN 12 Burleigh Heads and Manager at BiN 931 Chermside.

“Cayle has been with us for many years and he knows exactly how to make our guests feel special and has a passion for all things beverage.”

Now all that’s left is for Gold Coasters to fill the tables and be transported back to old New York.

Gotham Grill and Rooftop Bar, Bayview Street, Runaway Bay