Paradise Arcade

It’s walk-ins only at this So Cal-style bar and diner. But don’t worry – there’s plenty of room to move. Split across two levels and a sprawling outdoor terrace, Paradise Arcade is one of the buzziest venues in Noosa Junction’s hospitality scene; all neon signs, religious paraphernalia, festoon lights and upbeat tunes.

As you’d expect, modern Mexican flavours rule here. Elotes (chargrilled corn) are elevated with the addition of spicy mayo, manchego and coriander; the citrus-cured kingfish ceviche gets a kick from chilli, red onion, coriander and peach. Naturally there’s a crowd-pleasing list of tacos, tostadas, burritos and bowls with all the trimmings. There’s only one dessert – but thankfully it’s cinnamon-sugar-dusted churros with cajeta (salted caramel sauce) and ice-cream.

The crew here is passionate about tequila and mezcal, and they’ve assembled around 150 agave-based spirits behind the bar. Go on a tasting flight for a curated selection of three, or spring for a house cocktail – including a standout Paloma and Michelada. When in doubt, you could do a lot worse than splitting a Margarita jug, poured straight off the tap.