Rotorua is known for its geothermal wonders, Māori culture, and stunning natural landscapes. However, the city offers more than just beauty; it boasts a vibrant culinary scene that shouldn’t be glossed over. Exploring the local restaurants offers more than just a meal when travelling with Rotorua Taxi’s– it’s an experience worth enjoying!
Rotorua offers a range of dining options to cater to every palate and preference. There is something for everyone, whether you want to experience innovative New Zealand cuisine, traditional Māori flavours, or international dishes with a local twist – the decision is yours. Below is a list of some of our favourites - make sure to check them out, or better yet, let us take you to discover them all!
Skyline Rotorua is not just for the adrenaline junkie, perched atop the Gondolas you’ll encounter the serene Stratosphere restaurant. The stunning views from Mount Ngongotahā of the surrounding geothermal landscape, and Lake Rotorua provide an unparalleled experience, guaranteed to relax and delight any visitors. While taking in a bird’s-eye view of the city, enjoy the buffet-style feast featuring a mix of local and international dishes - this restaurant promises a truly memorable dining experience.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Rotorua’s dining scene, Terrace Kitchen emphasises fresh, locally sourced ingredients. All of these are expertly innovatively crafted into dishes, that not only tantalise the taste buds but also showcase stunning presentations for you to devour. This local hotspot is renowned for its laid-back ambience, complete with a children’s outdoor play area where you can unwind and savour a glass of red wine alongside your hand-crafted meal. Support local when you stop by here at your next family gathering.
Immerse yourself in the essence of traditional Māori cuisine at Whakarewarewa Geyser Café with their signature Geothermal Hangi Meal. Back by popular demand enjoy tender meats, vegetables, and steamed pudding, all cooked in natural geothermal steam and hot pools. Due to its high demand, booking is recommended, as this popular dish boasts the authentic flavours of Māori culture and is only available from 12 pm to 2.30 pm daily. While you wait why not explore the Living Māori Village and learn the history of the unique cooking method, whilst gaining insights into the first people of Aotearoa.
Also located looking over the magnificent Te Whakarewarewa geothermal valley is Te Puia. An extraordinary attraction offering dining experiences throughout the day and evening. Begin your day at 9 am with a superb cup of coffee and freshly baked treats at Hai Kai Café, where skilled baristas ensure a vibrant start to your morning. After exploring the scenery, indulge in the Hangi Buffet lunch at Te Puia Pātaka Kai Restaurant, starting at 11.30 am. This lunchtime feast blends Māori and international flavours, featuring dishes like corn and watercress soup and steamed chicken. In the evening, the restaurant transforms with gourmet appetizers, mouthwatering mains, and the renowned Hangi Buffet Dinner from 5.30 pm. This evening offering showcases a diverse Hangi experience with fresh seafood, salads, smoked Akaroa salmon, tender lamb, and the iconic Kiwi dessert, Pavlova.
Located close to the lakefront on Tutanekai Street, Eat Street stands as Rotorua’s premier dining district. This vibrant street is lined with a variety of restaurants and bars, many of which offer an al fresco dining experience. Its central location provides easy access to both the picturesque Lake Rotorua waterfront and the town centre.
The choice does not end at Eat Street, further down Tutanekai the choices continue, White Tiger, an all-you-can-eat Asian Fusion. You can also explore Mexico in a matter of a few steps at El Mexicano Zapata Cantina for authentic Mexican cuisine. Adjacent to Tutanekai street is Awara Street, which also boasts notable dining establishments including the iconic Fat Dog Café, the popular Lonestar Bar and Café, and an authentic Indian restaurant.
Taking a taxi to one of Rotorua’s restaurants is a convenient and enjoyable way to start your outing. Rotorua offers a wide array of options; enjoy stunning views at Stratosfare, innovative dishes at Terrace Kitchen, or authentic Māori flavours at Whakarewarewa Gyser Café. Whether you’re visiting the vibrant Eat Street or savouring a geothermal hangi meal, taking a taxi with us ensures a seamless beginning to your dining experience.