There are a lot of awesome must do activities in Rotorua but you'll also be spoiled for choice when it comes to top places to eat in Rotorua; there are so many delicious places to try! Many people hear all about our famous Eat Street when planning things to do in Rotorua but we wanted to let you in on our other lesser known favourite local spots.

Locals top places to eat in Rotorua

1. Zippys Cafe

2. Oppies Takeaways

3. Ciabatta Bakery

4. Abracadabra cafe & restaurant 

5. Saturday Morning Kuirau Park Market

• Zippys Café

The first of our top places to eat in Rotorua is Zippys. This small, central café is a hit with the locals! Their coffees, smoothies and bagels are delicious and a must try. They are open early for all you early birds wanting to get your day underway - open from 7am – 6:30pm at 1153 Pukuatua Street.

Photo: You can't miss the bright & colourful Zippy Central Cafe for one of the top places to eat in Rotorua

• Oppies takeaways

If you are looking for simple and affordable top places to eat in Rotorua, head down to Oppies takeaways and get yourself some award winning fish and chips. Take your fresh order down to the waterfront and enjoy a picnic on the shores of Lake Rotorua while your children entertain themselves on the awesome playground. Find out what the fuss is all about at Oppies here. 

• Ciabatta Bakery

Ciabatta Bakery is Rotorua's hidden secret. Popular with the locals, it's located in the industrial area of Rotorua. Their coffee, pastries, pretzels and fresh bread rolls make this one of the top places to eat in Rotorua and are too good to miss out on. You might even find some of our Canopy Tours staff while on their lunch break as they can’t get enough of the sandwich rolls! Find Ciabatta Bakery here.

Photo: Our Rotorua Canopy Tours can't get enough of the fresh food at Ciabatta Bakery

• Abracadabra - Café by day & Restaurant/bar by night

Abracadabra is all about “good food & good vibes.” The unique café and bar is set in a 1949 vintage house with a rustic and bohemian feel.  It is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy evening drinks and dinner set in the garden bar after a long day of exploring Rotorua. They also have a range of gluten free options. Find them at 1263 Amohia Street where you will be greeted by friendly local owners Nadia and Justin.

Photo: Good food & good vibes at one of the top places to eat in Rotorua, cafe and bar Abracadabra

• Saturday Morning Kuirau Park Market 

Our final top places to eat in Rotorua are at the local markets. These markets are a must-do if you're around on Saturdays in Rotorua. They are packed full of locals enjoying freshly made breakfasts from 40 – 50 stores that also include fresh local produce, clothing and souvenirs. Find the locals at their stores here (just located off Ranolf Street) on Saturday mornings from 7am – 1pm and try the traditional rewana (maori) bread, fried bread and meat kebabs that are simply delicious!

Photo: SO much delicious food at the Kuirau Park Markets - this is where you will find all the locals on Saturday mornings