Rotorua is a city of adventure, culture, and unparalleled Maori history – and it’s also a city of incredible food. As one of the top tourist destinations in New Zealand, Rotorua has a wide selection of amazing restaurants to choose from. With so many delicious dishes and unique culinary experiences, it can be hard to decide which restaurants to visit while in Rotorua. Whether you’re looking for the best places to eat traditional Maori food, international fusion cuisine, or something else entirely, here are the top restaurants to check out in Rotorua.
Traditional Maori Cuisine
If you’re looking for a truly unique culinary experience, then you can’t miss a meal featuring traditional Maori food. This style of cooking uses traditional ingredients like hangi (a type of underground cooking), kumara (sweet potato), and Pipi Kairangi, a unique seafood delicacy. Here are some of the top places to check out if you’re looking for an authentic Maori food experience.
- Taupo Taupo: Taupo Taupo is a popular spot for traditional Maori cuisine. Their signature dishes include their Hangi meals and their famous Pipi Kairangi. Their warm and welcoming staff also offer a range of cultural activities, such as Maori weaving and carving demonstrations.
- Te Manuka: Te Manuka is a luxurious restaurant specialising in traditional Maori dishes. Every meal is cooked in the modern hangi pit and features the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Their signature dishes include the “Te Manuka Hangi” and the “Kai Moana Plate”, which is a seafood platter perfect for sharing.
International Fusion Cuisine
Rotorua’s international cuisine scene is vibrant and diverse. With a range of flavours from around the world, you’re sure to find a restaurant that appeals to your tastes. Here are some of the top places to try international fusion cuisine in Rotorua:
- Lemon & Lime: Lemon & Lime is a modern restaurant serving a range of Mediterranean-style dishes. The menus change with the seasons, offering dishes such as Crispy Halloumi Salad, Garlic & Parsley Prawns and Pappardelle with Spinach & Ricotta. This vibrant spot is perfect for a casual evening out with friends.
- The Pig & Whistle: The Pig & Whistle is an iconic local favourite, serving upscale British and European fare in a charming atmosphere. Their signature dishes include their Steak & Guinness Pie and Fish & Chips, perfect for a classic pub dinner. Not to mention their range of craft beers and cocktails.
Unique Experiences
Rotorua is also home to some truly unique culinary experiences. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner cruise, or a unique farm-to-table experience, there’s something for everyone in Rotorua. Here are some of the most unique restaurants to check out.
- Bluestone Room: The Bluestone Room is an award-winning restaurant located in a historic chamber beneath The Regent of Rotorua. Here you can enjoy a five-course dinner with spectacular lake views. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic evening out.
- The Redwood: The Redwood is a farm-to-table restaurant located on a private estate in the Waikato region. Here you can enjoy a farm-fresh meal that has been cooked with freshly picked ingredients from their own organic garden. It’s the perfect spot for a special, unique dinner.
No matter what type of cuisine you’re looking for, Rotorua has something for everyone. From traditional Maori dishes to international fusion, there’s a wide selection of delicious restaurants to choose from. So if you’re looking for the best places to eat while in Rotorua, don’t forget to check out the amazing restaurants listed above.