Housed in the former Verve restaurant on Sunshine Boulevard, Nero is the latest addition to Broadbeach Waters’ burgeoning culinary scene. With only 40 seats, the quaint venue favours quality over quantity, a philosophy that evidently extends through to the succinct one-page menu. Rather than rambling over multiple pages, co-owner and head chef Jayden Barker has compiled a satisfying selection of modern Australian share plates with Spanish and Italian influences inspired by his time working at Pablo Pablo and the former Cavalier Bar and Italian. Start with a bite of jamon serrano and beef carpaccio with smoked turnip before moving on to one of the more substantial serves of house-made gnocchi with pumpkin and mushroom or char-grilled lamb with coal roasted radicchio. Adorned with a scattering of edible flowers and swathes of colourful sauces, the dishes are certainly pretty however for Jayden, it’s all about the taste with everything, including the burnt butter that is served with the complimentary bread, made fresh on-site daily.

Whilst Jayden heads up the kitchen, his father Andrew Barker looks after front of house to ensure the service matches the casual yet refined culinary experience. If you’re in the mood for a quick dine and dash, you might want to skip this one because Nero is the kind of place you want to sit back, relax and stay a while. Oh, and did we mention there was wine? Lots and lots of wine.

For opening hours and contact details, see our Stumble Guide.