The Gold Coast’s culinary scene has stepped up a notch with a brand-new restaurant opening this week. River House, an elegant waterfront restaurant with award winning and respected, Chef Grant Madgwick at the helm. Positioned on the tranquil banks of the Nerang River, River House is where refined cuisine, effortless sophistication and relaxed coastal energy come together in perfect harmony.

From long lunches, intimate dinners, weddings and corporate events, River House offers a seamless blend of luxury and warmth, the kind of venue that instantly feels like home while delivering the elevated experience of a fine-dining destination. Its architectural lines, natural finishes and sweeping river and city views set the tone for a new kind of dining experience that is distinctly Gold Coast, yet internationally inspired.

At the heart of River House is Executive Chef Grant Madgwick, one of Queensland’s most respected culinary talents. With more than four decades of experience, Madgwick has built an impressive career across some of Australia’s leading restaurants and luxury hotels, including his own award-winning venues Artichoke at Ephraim Island and Sanctuary Cove and several acclaimed international kitchens.

Madgwick’s food philosophy is guided by simplicity, seasonality and sensory balance, by using the best of Australian produce to create dishes that are elegant, playful, and full of personality.

“River House is about creating connection between people, flavours, and place,” says Executive Chef and co-owner, Grant Madgwick.

“Every dish tells a story of where it comes from. We work closely with local suppliers and producers, and we build layers of flavour that make each plate both comforting and surprising. The goal is to serve food that looks beautiful, tastes exceptional, and lingers in your memory.”

The River House menu showcases Madgwick’s creative approach, merging Asian and European influences with coastal Australian ingredients. Guests can begin with a stunning range of carpaccio’s — from Salmon with Soy Ponzu and Red Chilli to Beef Carpaccio with nut crumble and Danish feta — before moving to showstopping entrées such as Japanese Scallop Ceviche, Duck & Pork Belly Spring Rolls, and Tempura Lobster Roll.

Signature mains highlight River House’s commitment to culinary craftsmanship:

• XL BBQ Moreton Bay Bugs with hollandaise and duck fat potato batons
• Eye Fillet with Cape Grim beef, potato fondant, and Shiraz Grenache jus
• Duck Confit XO with black cherry sauce, red currants, and pickled cabbage
• Seafood Platter for Two, a spectacular feast of lobster, sand crab, oysters, scallops, sashimi and truffle fries

For those seeking a bespoke dining experience, the “Trust The Chef” option invites guests to embark on a tailored tasting journey personally curated by Madgwick.

The River House space has been meticulously designed to complement its riverside location, blending elegant interior finishes with a relaxed coastal aesthetic. Natural textures, gentle lighting and a soft palette of stone and timber create an atmosphere of quiet sophistication — perfect for both day and night.

“River House was designed to feel timeless,” says River House co-owner Anthony Do Rozario.

“We wanted to build a place that celebrates the beauty of the Gold Coast, but in a way that’s understated and refined. Guests can come in for a long lunch or a sunset dinner and feel transported, and they’ve discovered something special right here on the river.”

With its breezy terrace, glass façade, and panoramic outlook, River House offers an intimate connection to its surroundings. Every element, from the tableware to the playlist has been considered to create a dining experience that feels personal, polished, and memorable.

The River House beverage list has been designed with the same care as the menu. A selection of boutique Australian and international wines, bespoke cocktails and premium spirits complete the offering. From crisp local whites to elegant pinot noirs and Champagne by the glass, the drinks program has been curated to match the venue’s sophisticated but approachable character.

Each cocktail has been created to celebrate the coastal environment — light, fresh, and beautifully presented — the perfect pairing to the restaurant’s signature seafood dishes.

River House is more than a restaurant; it’s a lifestyle destination. A space where locals and visitors alike can relax, indulge, and reconnect. Whether it’s an afternoon glass of wine by the water, an anniversary dinner, wedding, corporate event or a gathering of friends, every visit is designed to be an experience worth remembering.

“We wanted to build something that reflects the modern Gold Coast,” says River House co-owner Anthony Do Rozario.

“River House isn’t just about food — it’s about hospitality, design, and the joy of coming together. It’s refined, but not pretentious. The moment you walk in, you feel at ease.”

With a focus on impeccable service and attention to detail, River House aims to become a defining name in the city’s next wave of premium dining venues.

 

Giddy up! Melbourne Cup at River House.

To mark its debut season, River House will host an exclusive Melbourne Cup event on Tuesday, 4 November, celebrating the race that stops the nation with coastal elegance and culinary flair.

Guests will enjoy:

• A five-course Melbourne Cup menu crafted by Executive Chef Grant Madgwick
• Champagne on arrival
• Live race coverage, sweeps, and prizes
• River House’s signature hospitality in a stylish, waterfront setting & live music

With limited seating available, this will be one of the Gold Coast’s most anticipated Cup Day events.

Tickets are $249 per person.

Bookings are essential via www.riverhouse4215.com.au

River House, 2 Barney Street, Southport, QLD.

07 5613 1931

fox@riverhouse4215.com.au

www.riverhouse4215.com.au

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