Light Years ahead of the rest

Words Emily Thomson | Photos Light Years Asian Diner

Boasting its trademark tropical interiors and a fresh menu paired with punchy cocktails, the Light Years brand was born from a desire to bring a fun, modern Asian dining experience to hungry East Coast diners.

With the initial restaurant opening in Byron Bay in 2017, followed by subsequent openings in Noosa and Newcastle, this bona fide beachside favourite eventually made its way to Burleigh Heads in 2019.

The interior’s white and pastel peach colour palette, palm leaf wallpaper and tasteful artwork blend perfectly together to reflect the quintessential laidback Burleigh vibe, enticing any would-be passers-by inside to indulge in the fun atmosphere and delicious Asian fare.

The Light Years brand has become synonymous with flavour-packed dishes, bold colourful cocktails, friendly waitstaff and an upbeat soundtrack, with thanks to Executive Chef Robbie Oijvall, Creative Director Kim Stephen and Managing Director James Sutherland.

We wanted to create a space with an electric, energetic atmosphere that matched the exciting dining experience

“Chef Robbie’s menu has been designed to share, with everything from mouth-watering dumplings, small bites, plus curries and more substantial proteins for mains.” says Kim.

Light Years’ cult classic dishes include the fresh and zingy kingfish ceviche with coconut, chilli and kaffir lime; crispy pork with sticky chilli caramel and charred pineapple, topped with peanuts and herbs; plus, the signature corn ribs drizzled in miso butter.

However, fear not non-meat eaters! You have not been forgotten. There are ample vegan options to try, including a delicious miso caramel eggplant with snake beans, coriander and sesame; wild truffled mushroom dumplings with tamari ginger sauce and turmeric, and the coconut cauliflower curry with kaffir lime.

Besides the food, there’s a substantial cocktail list featuring a range of creative drinks that give a subtle tip of the hat to the flavours of Asia.

We recommend the Lady Q, a delicious blend designed to refresh the palette, consisting of Ford’s Gin, cucumber and elderflower.

For the tequila lovers out there, order yourself a Lola Paloma, a refreshing mix of Herradura Plata Tequila, Campari, chilli, watermelon and lime.

There’s also an innovative take on an old classic – the Pineapple Margarita, featuring Herradura Plata Tequila, pineapple and lime.

There’s also an innovative take on an old classic – the Pineapple Margarita, featuring Herradura Plata Tequila, pineapple and lime.

It’s safe to say, Light Years has firmly established itself as a beloved Burleigh institution, and with good reason.

So, when it comes to arranging your next fun night out, you know what to do – grab your best mates, order up a few share plates and let the cocktails flow!

Cocktail recipe: Cherry Blosson

30ml Gin
30ml Cherry Heering Cherry Liqueur
20ml Lemon Juice
20ml Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice
20ml Sugar Syrup

Add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker and give them a good shake.
Add ice to the cocktail shaker and shake again.
Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with an edible flower.