Those expecting small town coffee in Rotorua have got another thing coming, as Rotorua cafes certainly deserve their place on the map.

A popular tourist spot throughout the year means cafes in Rotorua are well practiced at frothing milk for a cappuccino and whipping up the perfect cheese scone for those passing through. Combining comfort and cosiness with clever cooking, expect to feel right at home in cafes in Rotorua, where good food and coffee is just part of the everyday offerings.

Whether you’re after small-town vibes or something a little more fancy, Rotorua cafes have plenty to offer in either camp, and it pays to keep an eye out for local roasted coffee beans by Revolver Espresso too.

Eat Your Way Around Rotorua

Bowl of phở with rice and salad at Saigon ’60s Rotorua
Rotorua has always been a place people go for great experiences, but these days, the food scene is just as much a part of the exploring.

Smith & Co Café

Scones, slices and baking on plates at Smith & Co Café, Rotorua
Place Rotorua
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If you’re after a cosy spot for afternoon tea with a side of fascinating local history, Smith & Co Café is the place to be.

Fat Dog Café

The blue and yellow Fat Dog Café & Bar shopfront in Rotorua
Place Rotorua
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Fat Dog Café has been feeding Rotorua locals and visitors for more than three decades.

Secret Spot

Customer walking into the wooden cabin building of Secret Spot.
Place Rotorua
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Secret Spot is an award-winning forest bathing retreat tucked into the heart of Whakarewarewa Forest in Rotorua.

Mr Wolf

Exterior of Mr Wolf in Rotorua.
Place Rotorua
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Located in a beautiful, historic building in the heart of Rotorua, Mr Wolf has quickly become a favourite café for locals and working professionals.

Eighty Six

Eighty Six coffee spot on Rotorua's lakefront.
Place Rotorua
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Eighty Six is a charming coffee spot located at Rotorua’s lakefront, offering a steady stream of great brews and views.

River's Catch

Owners sitting outside River's Catch, Rotorua
Place Rotorua
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At River’s Catch in Rotorua, you’re not just grabbing dinner on the go, you’re getting a feel-good experience crafted with...

Boasters Coffee Roasters

The busy cafe interior of Roasters in Rotorua.
Place Rotorua
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A coffee roastery, cafe and retail store all wrapped up into one, Boasters is a family-owned business getting Rotorua on a good buzz.

Eastwood Café

The green entrance of Eastwood Cafe, framed by large triange frames.
Place Rotorua
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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.

Where to Eat in Rotorua: Best Places & What to Order

Syrup being poured onto a plate of brunch.
Whether you’re short on time or just eager to go straight to the best, keep scrolling to find out where to eat and what to order in Rotorua.

Artisan Café

Flat lay of a salad and juice on a table at Artisan Café, Rotorua.
Place Rotorua
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An easy-going eatery that is deservedly proud of its authentic approach to good food, good coffee and good service.

Okere Falls Store and Craft Beer Garden

Flat-lay of a table of sweet and savoury dishes and coffee and cocktails at Okere Falls Store.
Place Rotorua Editor's Pick
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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.

Ciabatta Café and Bakery

A female chef moves a tray of proving dough rolls.
Place Rotorua Editor's Pick
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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.

Zippy Central Café

The cafe interior.
Place Rotorua
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Fast-paced and a stone’s throw from the town centre, this local favourite café certainly lives up to its name.

Capers Café + Store

Syrup being poured onto a plate of brioche French toast.
Place Rotorua
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Capers is a fail-safe place to settle in for brunch, lunch, dinner, or simply a coffee and newspaper session.