Palooka

Palooka is a contemporary modern European restaurant in Cairns North, with the venue describing itself as being in the heart of Stratford Village. Its offering spans breakfast, lunch and dinner, alongside pizza, vegan and drinks menus, giving diners several ways to visit rather than limiting the experience to one particular meal or occasion.

The website highlights a rotating Bottomless Lunch held from Friday to Sunday, featuring a three-course chef selection menu and a 90-minute drinks package, with a new menu released every four weeks. Regular weekly offers include Wednesday’s Pasta & Vino, with five pasta options and tiramisu available as an addition, and Thursday’s Steak Night, which includes house beer or wine and a choice of mash or fries. Takeaway pizza ordering is also available through the Palooka app, where customers can access deals and loyalty rewards.

Palooka’s chefs, Marco and Ashleigh, are introduced through the venue’s own updates, giving the restaurant a clear connection to the people leading its kitchen. The mix of all-day dining, set experiences, takeaway and gift vouchers makes it suitable for a planned meal, a group lunch or a more casual pizza order. The website also positions the restaurant as a place for celebrations, while its breakfast, vegan and drinks menus provide options for different dining preferences.