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.

The People Behind the Places: Meet Rotorua’s Hospitality Heroes

A man wearing a chef's outfit holding a tray of Maori food.
What separates a good restaurant or café from a great one are the people behind the counter or in the kitchen. Hospitality staff are the keys to bringing a venue to life, and Rotorua has no shortage of hospitality heroes. From chefs with decades of experience to community champions and service aficionados, here are the people who go above and beyond to make their customers’ experiences special.

Boasters Coffee Roasters

The busy cafe interior of Roasters in Rotorua.
Place Rotorua
Cafes key icon.

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
Cafes key icon.

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.

Okere Falls Store

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

The Okere Falls Store team is big on walking the walk when it comes to giving our environment a helping hand.

Artisan Café

Flatlay of a salad and juice on a table.
Place Rotorua
Cafes key icon.

An easy-going eatery that is deservedly proud of its authentic approach to good food, good coffee and good service.

Ciabatta Café and Bakery

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

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.

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.