LiTO Mondrian Gold Coast

WORDS: Ocean Road Editorial Staff PHOTOGRAPHY Supplied

A sun-kissed coffee spot, a laidback dining destination, a neighbourhood hub – LiTO channels the rhythm of Italian summers with a Burleigh state of mind. From post-surf espressos to aperitivo hour, this all-day restaurant – helmed by Italian-born Head Chef Andrea Morigi (formerly of Merivale venues Uccello and Jimmy’s Falafels, among others) – is built around connection, seasonality and the warmth of everyday rituals.

Located on the Burleigh Heads beachfront, on the ground floor of Mondrian Gold Coast, LiTO flows breezily from morning coffee to late-night conversation, soundtracked by coastal beats and live entertainment. Interiors by Sydney-based Alexander &CO. blend textured Mediterranean details with relaxed Australian charm, creating a warm, versatile space with indoor dining, alfresco tables and a semi-private chef’s table beside the open, wood-fired kitchen.

LiTO’s menu brings to the Gold Coast a vibrant, produce-forward take on Italian dining. This is food that feels familiar yet fresh, shaped by local ingredients and served with the relaxed generosity Andrea does best. “It’s about joy on the plate – handmade, wholehearted, relaxed. Like the kind of meal best shared among friends with something good in the glass,” Andrea said. “LiTO invites you to settle in without watching the clock — for a long lunch, a slow dinner or anything in between.”

Andrea’s menu celebrates simplicity and generosity. Dishes include wood-fired breads, hand-rolled pasta, slow-cooked porchetta, rotisserie chicken, lobster bucatini, crisp calamari and tableside tiramisu. Mornings bring Allpress coffee and Italian-influenced breakfast plates including Calabrian poached eggs, sourdough toasties and wood-fired calzones.

The wine list rotates with the seasons, spotlighting both Australian and Italian producers, while classic aperitivos, spritzes and signature cocktails round out a bar menu made to suit any moment of the day, capturing the pace of the coast and the soul of the Italian table. LiTO will begin to welcome guests from 5 June at its home within Mondrian Gold Coast – the first Mondrian hotel in Australia, powered by Ennismore in collaboration with Vitale Property Group.