John Gambaro announces the opening of Pipi’s by Gambaro at the Awaken Residences in Coolangatta
A Mediterranean-inspired restaurant featuring lobster pasta and seafood platters will open this month – the first Gold Coast venture for one of Queensland’s most popular restaurateurs. Watch the inside tour
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A Mediterranean-inspired restaurant featuring lobster pasta and seafood platters will open this month – the first Gold Coast venture for one of Queensland’s most popular restaurateurs.
The Gambaro Group owner John Gambaro, along with his brothers Frankie and Donny, said the was thrilled to be “finally” unveiling the hotly anticipated Pipi’s by Gambaro on February 28.
Mr Gambaro announced in December he would be opening two new venues in the 12-storey Awaken residence at Point Danger in Coolangatta: Pipi’s and Awaken Cafe.
He said Pipi’s by Gambaro was a two-storey restaurant, boasting a panoramic water view where “guests can observe whales breaching and dolphins playing”.
Mr Gambaro said he was ready to add his “distinctive touch to the Gold Coast’s culinary landscape”.
The hospitality boss, who made a name for himself in Brisbane on the back of Black Hide Steakhouse and Persone Italian, said his new venues were unlike anything else.
“It’s an incredible feeling to see our new restaurant come to life after months of hard work and anticipation,” he said.
“Every detail, from the decor to the menu, reflects the careful planning and creativity we put into this project.”
Despite early controversy around the $42m tower – which saw the longstanding Cafe Dbar demolished – Mr Gambaro said he had received “great enthusiasm and support” from the community.
“We’re confident that our unique concept will resonate well with the local residents and visitors,” he said.
“What excites us the most for the locals to see is the careful attention we’ve given to every detail of the ambience and the array of flavours on the menu.”
Mr Gambaro said the Pipi’s menu would boast creamy lobster pasta, steaks from Blackhide Steakhouse, fresh grilled fish, and their famous seafood platter from Gambaro’s Seafood Restaurant in Caxton Street.
He said an extensive wine list would hero vinos from across Australia, Italy, Spain and France.
“We genuinely believe that the result is a captivating space where our guests will indulge in exceptional food, delightful drinks, and a charming ambience.”
Mr Gambaro said “if all goes to plan” they were expecting Awaken Cafe to open on March 11.