East Coast and the Volcanic Zone Restaurants

Rotorua has the area's most diverse dining scene. You can order anything from Indian to Japanese fare, or, for true local flavor, try a M?ori h?ngi (a traditional meal cooked in an earth oven or over a steam vent). Hawke's Bay is another hot spot; its winery restaurants emphasize sophisticated preparations and food-and-wine pairings. Around Eastland, which is so laid-back it's nearly horizontal, the choices are simpler, and you'll be treated with the area's characteristic friendliness. One thing you won't find on any menu is fresh trout. Laws prohibit selling this fish, but if you catch a trout, chefs at most lodging establishments will cook it for you.

Dressing up for dinner, or any other meal, is a rarity, expected at only the most high-end lodges and restaurants.

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  • 1. Brantry Restaurant

    $$$$

    The menu is updated seasonally at this converted 1950s town house on a suburban street not far from the shores of Lake Taupo. Owners Prue and Felicity Campbell know what they're doing and use the best local ingredients to make delicious things to satisfy all palates. Wines include those from emerging and boutique vineyards.

    45 Rifle Range Rd., Taupo, Waikato, New Zealand
    64-07-378–0484

    Known For

    • Ever-changing innovative menu
    • High-quality ingredients
    • Unique wines

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon. No lunch Tues.--Thurs., Reservations essential
  • 2. The Bistro

    $$$$

    This joint aims for simple but nice and has fittingly become an impressive but unpretentious eatery. Large cylindrical lamp shades brighten the modern interior, creating a contemporary bistro vibe; the food follows suit, focusing on what’s fresh and seasonal. Try the crackled pork belly with kūmara (sweet potato) and pickled red cabbage or the sweet corn cakes with roasted red-pepper sauce, either of which can be topped off with a selection of house-made sweets.

    17 Tamamutu St., Taupo, Waikato, New Zealand
    64-07-377–3111

    Known For

    • Standard European fare with a local twist
    • Good wine list
    • Excellent pork belly

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No lunch
  • 3. The Replete Food Company

    $$

    This café draws the crowds for breakfast and lunch thanks to its outside tables and excellent food. In the morning, try the Complete Replete Breakfast: honey-cured bacon, tomato relish, poached eggs, roasted field mushrooms, and grilled focaccia. The Vietnamese pork clay pot and prawn linguine are especially popular at midday. Tasty salads, including Thai beef with coconut-lime dressing or Asian chicken with crispy noodles, are top picks, too.

    45 Heu Heu St., Taupo, Waikato, 3330, New Zealand
    64-07-377–3011

    Known For

    • Popular breakfast spot
    • Tasty coffee
    • New Zealand dishes with an Asian twist

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No dinner
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