Into the Woods: Rotorua's Creative Retreats and Eats
El Mexicano Zapata Express
First opening in 2017, El Mexicano Zapata Express is located in a spot once occupied by the beloved Joe’s Diner, famous for staying open until 2 or 3am and earning a...
Black Label Barbecue
Black Label Barbecue is Rotorua’s hot spot for a genuine barbecue fix.
Secret Spot
Secret Spot is an award-winning forest bathing retreat tucked into the heart of Whakarewarewa Forest in Rotorua.
Pig & Whistle
The Pig & Whistle is the quintessential Rotorua pub, where warm, friendly hospitality meets generous meals and a lively atmosphere.
Mekong Buffalo
In the heart of Rotorua’s CBD, Mekong Buffalo is a restaurant celebrating bold Southeast Asian flavours and culture.
The Regent Room
For a dining experience that feels like a royal affair, look no further than The Regent Room centrally located in the heart of Rotorua.
Mr Wolf
Located in a beautiful, historic building in the heart of Rotorua, Mr Wolf has quickly become a favourite café for locals and working professionals.
River's Catch
At River’s Catch in Rotorua, you’re not just grabbing dinner on the go, you’re getting a feel-good experience crafted with...
Spa City Noodle Bar
Spa City Noodle Bar, located in the heart of Rotorua, is a vibrant and modern eatery specialising in Sichuan-inspired noodle dishes.
Eighty Six
Eighty Six is a charming coffee spot located at Rotorua’s lakefront, offering a steady stream of great brews and views.
Snug
Nestled on Rotorua's Fenton Street, Snug is a charming coffee and smoothie bar that has quickly cemented itself as a favourite amongst locals.
Patrick’s Boutique Bakery
Patrick's Boutique Bakery is a hidden gem in Rotorua, perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth or an appreciation for artisanal baking.
Dine Around The World in Rotorua
Boasters Coffee Roasters
A coffee roastery, cafe and retail store all wrapped up into one, Boasters is a family-owned business getting Rotorua on a good buzz.
The Fainting Goat
A fun, funky and family-friendly gastropub located in the heart of Rotorua’s CBD, complete with a pinball machine.
Eastwood Café
Located on the open, airy ground floor of the Scion Research Centre, Eastwood Café in Rotorua is a tad off the beaten track but worth the detour.
Ani’s Gin Bar & Tapas
One hundred per cent Māori owned and featuring exclusively New Zealand-based produce and drinks, dining at Rotorua's Ani’s Gin Bar & Tapas feels like you’re...
6 Neat Rotorua Activities and Where to Treat Yourself After
Poco Tapas & Wine
The entranceway to Poco Tapas & Wine (“Poco” meaning “a little” in Spanish) in Rotorua isn’t immediately evident from the street, but once...
Te Pā Tū
Te Pā Tū in Rotorua is a celebration of Māori culture—history, traditions, aspirations, and, of course, kai (cuisine).
Yamato
Bowls of hot sticky rice, thick udon noodles and hot miso broth sound like your kind of thing? Then you best get yourself down to Yamato.
Ciabatta Café and Bakery
Come early enough and you’ll be privy to the glorious sight of fresh pastries being wheeled out of the kitchen and into the display cabinet.
Terrace
Strategically situated at the recently redeveloped Rotorua lakefront, this exceptional venue offers a number of beautifully designed event spaces paired with modern,...
Artisan Café
An easy-going eatery that is deservedly proud of its authentic approach to good food, good coffee and good service.
Zippy Central Café
Fast-paced and a stone’s throw from the town centre, this local favourite café certainly lives up to its name.
BREW
Loaded nachos, pizzas, burgers, fish and chips and rump steak; the best advice we can give you is to come to BREW bar hungry.
Okere Falls Store and Craft Beer Garden
The Okere Falls Store and Craft Beer Garden team is big on walking the walk when it comes to giving our environment a helping hand.
Atticus Finch
With a menu designed to share, it pays to come here with a friendly group who won’t mind you digging your fork into a dish on their side of the table.
Sabroso
Full of classic Latino warmth and hospitality, you can expect to feel like more of an old friend here than a customer.
One of the Locals: The Insider’s Guide to Rotorua
Capers Café + Store
Capers is a fail-safe place to settle in for brunch, lunch, dinner, or simply a coffee and newspaper session.
Social Club
Social in name and character, this eatery is a bright and vibrant place to park up with a group of friends any time of the day.
Stratosfare Restaurant
Get your hungry self to this brilliant eatery, leagues above when it comes to the Rotorua dining scene (both metaphorically and literally).
Night Moves: The Best Things To Do in Rotorua in the Evening
Eat Streat
Ever-changing fluorescent lighting and activity from hungry wanderers make this bustling inner-city food alley a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike.
