A new Mexican buffet is now operating in the former Old North State Food Hall space at 67 J.R. Road in Selma's Eastfield Crossing development. Paradise Mexican Buffet held its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 15, serving Mexican specialties and made-to-order American favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to the Raleigh News & Observer.
Paradise says it is Johnston County's largest restaurant, a characterization reported by the Raleigh News & Observer. The restaurant occupies about 15,000 square feet in a space formerly used by Old North State Food Hall, which closed earlier in 2026 after operating in a former JRS cigar warehouse.
What's on the Buffet Line
The buffet includes Mexican rice, beans, tortillas, chips and salsa, along with tacos, fajitas, burritos, quesadillas, seafood and desserts, according to the report. American-style dishes are also prepared to order, giving diners options beyond the buffet line.
For customers ages 12 to 65, breakfast costs $14.99, lunch is $18.99 and dinner is $23.99. Military members and first responders receive 10% off every day, according to the Raleigh News & Observer. The confirmed schedule reported so far is Monday through Thursday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; weekend hours were not included in that report.
A Growing Corridor Along I-95
The buffet joins Eastfield Crossing's existing retail and dining businesses, including Target, Sheetz and LongHorn Steakhouse. The 435-acre development is owned by Adventure Development, according to AdVenture Development. Its president, Kevin Dougherty, welcomed Paradise Mexican Buffet to the development, the news outlet reported.
How Eastfield fits the I-95 corridor
According to AdVenture Development, Eastfield Crossing is positioned at I-95 exits 97 and 98 in Selma, with additional access from Highway 70, which the developer identifies as the future Interstate 42. The developer describes the site as a 435-acre mixed-use development combining manufacturing, retail, hospitality and single- and multi-family residential properties. That broader mix places the buffet within a planned commercial and residential development rather than as a standalone stop along the interstate.
Eastfield's retail expansion
Eastfield's commercial growth began before the buffet opened. According to the development's official website, its first retail phase opened in October 2024 with Academy Sports, Ross, Burlington, Five Below, Ulta, Marshall’s, Old Navy and Hobby Lobby among the tenants.
Owner Miguel Orozco said the restaurant is intended to serve both local residents and travelers using the I-95 corridor. “The Paradise is designed as a vibrant community hub where Johnston County residents and I-95 travelers can enjoy Mexican cuisine,” he said, according to the report.
An Entrepreneur With a Growing Portfolio
Orozco's other businesses include Gran Gala Event Center, Friday 445 Grill, Elisa's Commissary Kitchen, Second Hand Consignment, Orozco's Designs and Building, and a custom food truck and trailer business, according to the report. Johnston Now magazine recognized him with its Dynamic Entrepreneur Award for 2026.
The News & Observer reported that it had sought additional comment from Paradise Mexican Buffet. No other statement from the restaurant beyond Orozco's quoted remarks was included in the report.
