If the last time you went to a theme park was in your primary school years you’d be forgiven for thinking that dagwood dogs are going to be lathering grease over your white knuckles post thrill ride. Fortunately with time comes culinary wisdom and theme parks these days are adorned with gourmet, gluten free, and all things guac and goji. I kid you not kids. Geared up food trucks and green smoothies are all within reach of the classic carbs for those of you that still need the indulgent sugary hit of nostalgia.
DID SOMEONE SAY COFFEE?
With Byron Bay Coffee brewed into a crema-y cloud of caffeine, your first stop has to be Parkway at Dreamworld. Open at 9am to the general public (not just ticket holders) it’s perfect for those early risers who are keen to be the first in the park but like to keep up their morning café insta posts. Hot tip- try the pancakes with grilled banana and butterscotch. Where to find it: The Parkway Patisserie and Grill, Dreamworld
I HAVE DIED AND GONE TO DELI HEAVEN
Fresh crusty artisan bread is filled with in-house smoked pastrami and your choice of trimmings to create sandwich heaven at Main Street Deli at Movie World. Try ‘The Rachel’ for a fresh yet filling lunch or the ‘Cuban Reuben’ for cheesy, spicy goodness (if not just to be able to say those rhyming words aloud). Where to find it: Main Street Deli, Warner Bros. Movie World
THREE WORDS: COTTON. CANDY. FRAPPE.
Top up your sugar levels for a happy drive home from Sea World with a colourful flurry of dairy and happiness. It’s your childhood fairy floss minus the mess. Where to find it: Village Bean, Sea World
TRENDY ASIAN DISHES
Tucked away in a bamboo bungalow, the Island Noodle Hut at Dreamworld combines fresh ingredients and authentic spices with a view of tigers casually strolling along the newly redeveloped Tiger Island. It’s like a holiday within your holiday. Where to find it: Island Noodle Hut, Dreamworld
DELISH AND GUILT-FREE
Stay light on your feet and refuel the kids with a guilt free lunch as you tuck into freshly made sushi, salads and build-your-own sandwiches. Madagascar characters cheekily spray water at unsuspecting passers-by – that should keep the kids entertained for a healthy lunch without the tantrums. Parents of the year. Where to find it: The Sandwich Shop, Dreamworld
WE ALL SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM
When life throws you tough decisions like which dessert to choose, Doughnut Fries lets you have your cake and ice cream too. Crispy churro sticks accompany your favourite cold dairy deliciousness at The Ice Cream Parlour for a between meal snack. Where to find it: Ice Cream Parlour, Dreamworld
HELLO LOADED FRIES!
The Dirty Harry’s loaded fries look more like an epic bowl of nachos that you made yourself to soothe your broken heart while delaying the inevitable task of cleaning your microwave. Choose from chicken or beef and load up on the guacamole ‘cause you know you’ll never smash your own avo at home. Where to find it: Dirty Harry Bar, Warner Bros. Movie World, home of the new Hyper Coaster
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Experience Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.