A New Mexican Restaurant is Coming to the Sunshine Coast
Construction is set to begin on a new Mexican restaurant, as a popular fast-food chain continues to expand its presence on the Sunshine Coast. The new Guzman Y Gomez restaurant will be located in the rapidly growing Aura community, with an expected opening in mid-2026.
The 200sqm venue and drive-thru will be situated on Aura Boulevard, opposite McDonald's, at Baringa. GYG's chief development officer, George Mandilis, praised the location's "great access and visibility", as well as its ability to offer the community a fresh choice in fast food options.
The restaurant will serve 100% clean, authentic, fresh, made-to-order Mexican food, with no preservatives, artificial flavors, added colors, or unacceptable additives. The menu will feature a wide range of fresh Mexican favorites such as burritos, tacos, bowls, and nachos.
The business will employ approximately 85 people and has already generated excitement among locals. Tanisha Kennedy expressed her eagerness, while Ronnie Y Young predicted its success. However, some residents have raised concerns about potential traffic congestion, and others have called for different fast-food options.
This new addition to the Sunshine Coast follows the chain's recent expansion, with a restaurant opening in the Glass House Mountains and another in Sippy Downs identified for a potential 2028 opening. GYG's rapid growth is evident, with over 250 restaurants in Australia, Singapore, Japan, and the United States, and a goal to open more than 30 restaurants annually globally.
The chain was founded in Sydney in 2006 by childhood best friends Steven Marks and Robert Hazan, who aim to bring their unique, healthy Mexican cuisine to more communities.