Sofia's restaurant & bar

By Bianca Trathen

From its meticulously designed interior to the thoughtfully crafted menu, every aspect of Sofia’s Restaurant & Bar exudes a sense of refined simplicity. Housed within the renowned Oasis Shopping Centre in Broadbeach, it’s a testament to the enduring allure of Mediterranean flavours and the artistry of hospitality.

Owner Henry Hunt, with a keen eye for Euro-chic aesthetics, strikes a harmonious balance between classic Mediterranean elegance and a contemporary, on-trend charm. The entrance, adorned in duck egg blue, white, and brass, stands as an inviting prelude to the covered dining area. Flanked by fringed umbrellas in the same serene palette, it sets the tone for what lies ahead.

Marble tables are complemented by coastal wood and white chairs. There’s also a showstopping terrazzo bar offset with striking statement arched shelves and cascading lush greenery, creating an ambience rich in understated opulence. Accommodating up to 100 guests, it’s the perfect destination for any occasion, be it a leisurely lunch, dinner with friends, a sneaky cocktail, or an exclusive private event.

Executive Chef Dan Paulman commands the kitchen, presenting a tantalising array of handmade pastas, wood-fired bread, fresh seafood, and exciting shared plates. The journey starts with Sofia’s signature housemade bread, served with extra virgin olive oil, oregano, and a sprinkling of salt, plus an array of tastebud titillating starters. Live oysters, opened to order and served natural with a side of chardonnay mignonette are a must, as is the salumi and cheese menu, prepared using a flywheel slicer and served with a light drizzle of olive oil.

The pièce de résistance, however, is Sofia’s famous Cacio e Pepe. Fit for two people, the linguine enriched with cream, cracked pepper, and sea salt is ceremoniously served tableside in a 40kg Parmesan wheel, aged to perfection for 2.5 years. Levelling up this culinary masterpiece is the Heirloom Tomato Salad, a refreshing interlude of fresh basil, truffle, and balsamic reduction. Or diners inclined towards the grill will find solace in the mouthwatering 220g Yellowtail Kingfish, accompanied with braised fennel and salsa verde, or the Wagyu Striploin MS5+; 200g Westholme Wagyu Striploin with chimichurri, red wine roasted onions, and lemon.

For wine connoisseurs, Sofia’s offers an extensive selection of over 250 labels, ensuring that even the most discerning palate finds its perfect match. And for cocktail aficionados, it’s all about the The Spicy Margarita. A beloved favourite made with love by the expert Sofia’s mixologists, enjoy a tantalizing blend of bird’s eye chili-infused Olmeca Altos tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime juice, passionfruit puree, and house-made syrup.

For those seeking a taste of coastal European sophistication with fresh ingredients and the finest local produce, the name on everybody’s lips is Sofia’s.