Nestled in the vibrant heart of Burleigh Heads, Light Years infuses the Gold Coast’s dining scene with an eclectic energy and unparalleled sophistication.
Since its grand opening, this restaurant has swiftly become a beloved locale, renowned for its modern Asian cuisine and inviting atmosphere.
The allure of Light Years in Burleigh begins with its exquisitely designed interior. The restaurant’s decor, inspired by beach charm, seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with playful accents. Colourful murals, chic furnishings, and ambient lighting come together to create a space that is both fun and welcoming.
Whether you find yourself at the stylish bar, the cosy dining area, or the inviting outdoor patio, every corner of Light Years is thoughtfully crafted to elevate your dining experience.
The inception of Light Years was driven by the visionary ambitions of founders and long-time collaborators, Kim Stephen and executive chef Robbie Oijvall.
Their journey began in Byron Bay in 2017, where they quickly captivated the hearts and palates of locals and visitors. This success paved the way for their expansion into Southeast Queensland with locations in Burleigh Heads and Noosa, and further afield to Newcastle and soon, Perth.
“We’ve worked really hard on the whole offering from the food to the drinks, the venue design, the music, and of course the team,”
From the outset, the mission was to create an experience that transcended exceptional food, aiming to craft a lively, vibrant space where everyone feels welcome.
This ethos permeates every facet of the restaurant, from the meticulously designed venues to the carefully curated music playlists that set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.
What truly sets Light Years apart is its unwavering commitment to delivering memorable experiences.
The team has spared no effort in perfecting every detail, ensuring that the food, drinks, ambiance, and service meld flawlessly.
“We’ve worked really hard on the whole offering from the food to the drinks, the venue design, the music, and of course the team,” says Kim.
This vision, coupled with strong ethics and a modern aesthetic, ensures that each visit to Light Years Burleigh (and all its venues) is a sensory delight where fun and urban sophistication blend effortlessly.
At the culinary helm is Robbie Oijvall, the Swedish-born executive chef whose expertise and passion for bold, modern Asian cuisine have been instrumental in shaping the menu. Robbie’s dedication to crafting visually stunning and delicious dishes has solidified Light Years’ reputation for culinary excellence.
The menu at Light Years is designed to encourage sharing, promoting a communal dining experience that brings people together.
The modern Asian share-style dishes allow diners to sample a variety of exquisite flavours, colours and textures, ensuring that no one misses out.
This approach not only enhances the dining experience but also fosters a sense of connection and celebration around the table.
Complementing the dynamic food offering is a drinks menu that embodies the Light Years ethos – fun, bright, and colourful.
The vibrant cocktails and meticulously selected beverages add an extra layer of excitement to each visit, enhancing the overall experience.
We signed up for a lot of work when we committed to a quick expansion of the brand. While this has its challenges, we wouldn’t change it for the world.
Running a restaurant chain is no small feat, and the team behind Light Years has faced its share of challenges, particularly with the rapid expansion of the brand.
“We signed up for a lot of work when we committed to a quick expansion of the brand. While this has its challenges, we wouldn’t change it for the world,” says Kim.
Despite the hurdles, the passion and dedication to delivering an exceptional dining experience remain unshakable.
Ultimately, Light Years aims to create more than just a meal – it’s about crafting special memories.
Whether diners are celebrating a milestone, enjoying a night out or spending quality time people they love, Light Years strives to make each visit memorable.
“A full stomach is a given! But we also love creating special memories for people whether they’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying some quality time with friends and family,” says Kim.
As Light Years continues to grow and evolve, their commitment to excellence remains at the forefront.
With plans to open a new space in Perth in early 2025, the team is excited to bring their unique blend of fun, flavour, and flair to even more diners.
“With our seasonal cues and low-waste ethos, our bar team crafts a range of special digestifs and drinks that elevate the experience.
“At the end of the meal, we give everyone a map of our local farmers and producers, hoping that dining with us has inspired them to explore and support our area and its uniqueness.”
