From wood-fired brunches to boutique bakeries and degustation menus, these local gems serve up something special, perfect for sweet treats or a date with your sweetheart
The main event of the Regent Room
For a dining experience that feels like a royal affair, look no further than The Regent Room located in the heart of the city. This chic spot is open every day, serving up delicious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, along with tempting tapas, degustation menus, sophisticated cocktails, and high teas for those special occasions, no matter how big or small.The Regent Room is a visual delight. Playful studded rhino heads add a whimsical touch to the jet-black chandeliers and furnishings. When evening falls, the tables dressed in crisp white linens elegantly overlook the outdoor swimming pool and charming courtyard. Through the cooler months, the indoor-outdoor fire provides another layer of warmth and cosiness.
Executive chef Alan Haslem is the master behind the food. Hailing from Ireland, it was love at first sight for Alan when he laid eyes on Rotorua’s stunning lakefront. Captivated by the beauty, he decided to make Rotorua his home. This heartfelt connection to the local landscape and culture is evident in every dish he creates, as he turns fresh, local ingredients into culinary works of art.
Scenic bites at Eastwood Café
Located at Scion Research Centre, Eastwood Café boasts one of the most picturesque settings alongside Whakarewarewa Forest. Dine alfresco if the weather is fine or grab one of the tables indoors where the beauty of wood is the star of the space, with the minimalist design and exposed wooden beams a nod to Scion’s forestry connections.
Eastwood specialises in wood-fired pizzas but is also a brunch lover’s dream (it’s offered daily!). The hearty Green Bowl is heaped with seasonal greens, squeaky-salty halloumi, za’atar avocado and a runny poached egg, and the Turkish Eggs are a spicy-savoury indulgence. There’s also a range of picture-perfect brunch cocktails to accompany your meal, including two frozen flavours of frozen margaritas.
Sweet treats at 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. From the moment you step inside, you can feel the passion Patrick brings to his craft – a passion built over 40 years locally and abroad. What sets Patrick’s apart is the unwavering commitment to quality. Everything, from the filled rolls, flaky pies, or pastries of the day, is made on site from scratch, using top-notch ingredients, with a focus on traditional techniques. The “Boutique” in the name isn’t just for show, it reflects the care and skill that goes into every product, from the crisp layers of his croissants to the silky-smooth custards in his tarts.
Signature items like the chocolate eclairs, almond croissants, lemon meringue pies, and mille-feuille keep regulars coming back, while his Black Forest gateau and vanilla bean cheese tart are crowd favourites. With an open-plan kitchen, customers can watch the magic unfold, making the experience as authentic as the pastries themselves.
A quick bite at River’s Catch
At River’s Catch, you’re not just grabbing dinner on the go, you’re getting a feel-good experience crafted with care. An upmarket fish and chip shop, River’s Catch specialises in sustainable, seasonal, and downright delicious comfort food with a twist: genuine Filipino flavours subtly infused throughout the menu, showcasing owners Izzy and Norman’s heritage, while still catering to the local scene.Their signature Tackle Box includes fish and chips with Asian slaw and miso dressing, and homemade sauce for a unique flavour punch. Other popular items are the Adobo fish tacos (grilled or fried) and the double-patty smash burgers – juicy, tasty, and flying out the door.
River’s Catch is not just a takeaway. It’s a space where every bite feels personal, and every customer leaves with more than just a full belly – they leave with a bit of aroha.
Whether you're after a laid-back brunch, a quick bite, or a night of shared plates and fine wine, Rotorua’s vibrant dining scene has something for every occasion. With warm, inviting spaces and dishes designed to delight, these eateries are perfect.
