Big Papi's Cocina

Big Papi's Cucino, tucked away in a charming character-filled space at one end of Coolangatta's main shopping strip, is one of the best Latin American restaurants in south east Queensland.

In the kitchen is hatted chef and owner Kevin Fredes (ex-Paella-Y-Pa-Mi), who takes inspiration and flavours from traditional Chilean, Peruvian, Colombian, Brazilian and Argentinian cuisine and, with creative flair takes it to the next level.

Diners can take a seat on the fairylit covered terrace out front or through the frosted glass door and down the hallway past a glass wine cellar to the rear of the building, where there's a lovely light-filled atrium-style dining room. 

All plates are designed to share, starting with the likes of vegan tartare (sundried tomatoes, olives and mustard sauce); coal-grilled baby cos with aleppo pepper, topped with sharp aged cheese; ceviche (must-try!); prawn brioche rolls and Papi's provolne (provolone cheese with oregano, chilli, honey, topped with caramelised onion and served in cast iron pan)

Highly recommended are the heavenly empanadas (soft melted cheese and prawn; Colombian flavoured crunchy vegetables or weekly special) while large plates include grilled pollo (chicken) with smoked red sauce and crispy fried potato; coal-cooked octopus with mashed potato and chorizo oil; and picanha (wagyu rump served with farofa and chimichurri).

Desserts (postres) are equally delectable and include Banana Bellena (stuffed banana with dolce de leche and flambeed meringue) and Choccotorta (chocolate sablee with whipped marscapone).

Drinks on offer include signature cocktails such as Maracuta Sour (pisco, lemon & passionfruit) and Papi's Paloma (mexcal, tequila, rosemary, lemon, grapefruit and spaice agave). beers (Balters Cerveza and Sierra Nevada Pale Ale); and a curated list of wines from Mexico, Argentina, Chile and Spain.

Need to know - There is angle street parking available along Grifiith Street.