Opening a few weeks ago, Loco Lane has already been a hit with locals and visitors, according to owners Mark and Emma Petersen.

"We've been lucky enough to be booked out for every sitting since opening," said Mark.

"Whether it's the locals who have been waiting for something like this, or the tourists, we're finding everyone is absolutely loving it."

"Since COVID, it's been nice to have the return of ambience and to see people out with their family and friends," said Emma.

Turning their long held dream of running a bar into a reality, the duo said Loco Lane was brought to life when the pandemic slowed down their work in the events industry.

"We moved to Culburra seven years ago and we just fell in love with the place," said Mark.

"Probably five years ago we thought of the idea. So last year when COVID hit, our normal businesses slowed down a bit and we thought, 'now's the perfect time.'"

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With clubs already in the area, Mark and Emma said they sought to fill a gap in the market, offering a fresh venue catering for smaller groups.

"People can spend the day at the beach, then come here to have a drink and a nibble outside in the garden," said Emma.

The venue has also been busy with wedding bookings.

"Because of our event background, we also can host private parties," said Emma.

"We're finding lots of weddings are booking out the venue," said Mark.

"You can book the entire space and it's effectively like they're having their own cocktail party where we tailor a menu for them."

Located at the old dental surgeon on Prince Edward Avenue, which was vacant for 15 years, the venue offers a seasonal cocktail and food menu.

"You won't get the same thing every single time. We plan to stay on trend and seasonal," said Emma.

For now, the venue offers a set menu for $40 on Friday and Saturday evenings that includes guacamole and chips, a quesadilla, three tacos and a cocktail. Thursday and Sundays are an open menu, with taco specials on Tuesday nights.

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