John Gambaro set to open Pipi’s restaurant and Awaken cafe at the Awaken residences in Coolangatta
The owner of two venues going into the new 12-storey tower where much-loved Cafe Dbah used to sit, has unveiled his plans to transform Coolangatta. See the fresh images
Gold Coast
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A Brisbane hospitality heavyweight with two venues going into the new 12-storey tower where much-loved Cafe Dbah used to sit has unveiled plans he says will transform Coolangatta.
Gambaro Group owner John Gambaro announced he would be behind a pair of new offerings going into the 12-storey Awaken Residences.
He would be opening a cafe called Awaken Cafe and a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant called Pipi’s, he said.
Mr Gambaro, who made a name for himself in Brisbane after the success of Black Hide Steakhouse on famed Caxton Street and Persone Italian said he was excited to open two venues on the southern Gold Coast.
The $42m tower which looks out onto the Point Danger parklands, Carlin Family Park and the Lovers Rock Park was a “truly iconic and exceptional location”, he said.
Mr Gambaro said he was excited to open his restaurant, Pipi’s, which was inspired by his family heritage.
He said the two-storey restaurant would boast a panoramic water view.
“(Guests can) observe whales breaching, dolphins playing and completely immerse themselves in the ocean experience,’ he said.
“Our focus is specific dishes of the Mediterranean region and our seafood platters - a highlight at Gambaro’s Seafood Restaurant on Caxton Street, where we offer an array of dishes and sides to cater to diverse preferences,” he said.
Mr Gambaro said the Gold Coast food scene had “evolved significantly” and they were excited to become part of it.
“It was crucial for us to secure an iconic location where we could extend our family’s 65 years of experience to people from the north and the south,” he said.
Mr Gambaro said Pipi’s menu would feature creamy lobster pasta, steaks from Blackhide Steakhouse, fresh grilled fish, or their famous seafood platter from Gambaro’s Seafood Restaurant in Caxton Street, he said.
Mr Gambaro said they planned to open the Awaken Cafe and Pipi’s from mid-to-late February.
“We’re thrilled about the upcoming launch of Awaken Cafe, where we aim to offer a health-conscious breakfast experience that caters to all preferences,” he said.
Mr Gambaro said while not a bakery they would offer danishes, pastries, doughnuts, croissants and fresh baked bread.
“Our goal is to complement existing offerings of the area while introducing a fresh approach,” he said.
“Awaken Cafe is intended to be a relaxed setting where people can leisurely sit and savour the experience, all while enjoying the breathtaking view at Point Danger and Duranbah Beach.”
The $42m development was shrouded in controversy as locals were sceptical the tower would mean more buildings like it would cast a shadow over the town.
“To the local community, we sincerely hope they enjoy our hospitality,” Mr Gambaro said.
“Our aim is to seamlessly integrate and become a supportive member of the community in the best way possible,” he said.
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