MEDIA RELEASE, Tuesday 12th August, 2025
Little Truffle Celebrates 15 years of Culinary Excellence on the Gold Coast
The fine dining icon marks a heartfelt milestone, reflecting on humble beginnings, enduring passion, and the loyal community that made it all possible.
One of the Gold Coast’s most esteemed fine dining restaurants, Little Truffle Dining Room & Bar, celebrates a milestone that few venues achieve — 15 years of continuous operation, creativity, and community connection.
Founded in 2010 by award-winning and acclaimed chef and restaurateur Daniel Ridgeway, Little Truffle was a trailblazer when it opened its doors in Mermaid Beach, a location that at the time was considered a culinary outlier.
“Back then, Mermaid Beach wasn’t a fine dining destination — Broadbeach and Tedder Avenue were the only places you’d expect to see a white-tablecloth restaurant,” says Daniel. “People thought I was mad. But I had a vision — and I had my family beside me,” said Daniel Ridgeway.
The vision was clear, to create a contemporary Australian dining experience with personal touches and an unwavering standard of excellence. What the Ridgeway family lacked in capital, they made up for in determination.
“My late father and I did everything ourselves. We demolished walls, assembled furniture, sanded and varnished tables by hand. My mum was our dishwasher and cleaner in those early years. We opened with just enough cash to pay our first week of staff wages — and hoped for the best,” said Daniel Ridgeway.
That gamble paid off.
Today, Little Truffle is considered a cornerstone of the Gold Coast’s modern culinary landscape, not only for its food but for its role in helping transform Mermaid Beach into a premium dining precinct.
“It was incredibly tough in the early years,” Daniel reflects.
“We knew the food was good and the service was strong, but we were ahead of our time. Something shifted after year two — word of mouth grew, regulars returned, and suddenly we were full most nights. Since then, the area’s exploded with great venues like Etsu and others opening nearby. I’m proud we helped create that momentum.”
As part of its 15-year celebration, Little Truffle will showcase a curated anniversary set menu throughout July and August, featuring three standout dishes that best represent its story and legacy:
- Raspberry Soufflé with White Chocolate Sauce – Over 100,000 soufflés have been served over the years, occasionally rotating flavours, but raspberry has remained the enduring favourite.
- Moreton Bay Bug & Prawn Tortellini with Sweet Mustard Fruit Beurre Blanc – A staple dish since day one, never removed from the menu.
- Heirloom Beetroot, Whipped Ricotta & Goat’s Cheese Salad with Candied Walnuts – A signature entrée that has evolved over time but has always held a place on the menu.
“These dishes tell the story of Little Truffle — familiar, comforting, balanced, and seasonal. They’ve connected with our guests over the years in a way I never could have predicted,” said Daniel.
Beyond the Plate: People, Passion, and Legacy
The journey of Little Truffle has never just been about the food. It’s a story of family, loyalty, and long-term relationships, values that Daniel has carried through every part of the business which he and his wife Ruggie Ridgeway manage together.
“I’m incredibly proud that Dustin Sanderson, who was the first person I ever hired, is now Executive Chef of the entire Ridgeway Group,” Daniel shares.
“It says everything about who we are — we grow together. We invest in people who care.”
Other long-serving team members include Manager Josh Webber, who has been with the restaurant for over a decade, and Assistant Manager Ben, approaching six years of service. “They know our guests, they know our values, and they genuinely care about every service. That’s rare in this industry.”
The restaurant underwent a full renovation nearly two years ago, adding refined finishes and an expanded art collection, all exclusively from local artist Corrine Lewis, while preserving key sentimental details.
“Some of the original furniture still exists — the tables and pieces my father and I built by hand,” says Daniel.
“Keeping those around reminds me where it all started. It’s not about nostalgia — it’s about respect for the journey.”
A Quiet Favourite Among the Famous
Little Truffle has also earned quiet acclaim among celebrities and notable guests.
“We’ve been lucky to serve some very high-profile people over the years,” Daniel shares.
“Hugh Jackman and Ron Howard are two that really stood out. Not just because of who they are, but because of how gracious and genuine they were with our staff. That always leaves an impression.”
Despite the recognition, Daniel has always chosen to focus on the experience for every guest, whether local or from overseas.
“We never wanted to be that place flaunting celebrity photos. For us, every diner is important. Everyone’s moment matters.”
Little Truffle Dining Room & Bar was awarded 2 hats by the Australian Good Food Guide the past 2 years and just last week, Little Truffle was recognised as the winner of the best Contemporary Australian Restaurant – Formal in South-East Queensland at the annual Restaurant and Caterer’s Awards.
What’s Next?
While this milestone offers a time to reflect, it’s also a time to look forward.
Little Truffle is part of the Ridgeway Group, a growing collection of venues helmed by Daniel Ridgeway and his wife Ruggie Ridgeway that includes Madame V at Palm Beach, luxury wedding and corporate events venue, Kwila Lodge, BiN 232 at Pacific Fair and Ridgeway Catering, an exclusive offsite catering arm that caters for corporate & private events, weddings and functions. Each venue offers a unique concept and energy, but all share the same DNA: thoughtful hospitality, consistency, and culinary integrity.
Learn more: www.ridgewaygroup.com.au
As Little Truffle moves into its next chapter, the team remains as committed as ever to innovation, service, and delivering unforgettable dining experiences.
“Fifteen years later, I still walk through those doors and feel proud — not just of what we’ve built, but of how we’ve built it,” Daniel says.
“We’ve been through the highs and lows, but we’ve never lost who we are. That’s what matters.”
