Cafés and eateries

You’ll come across some of the best food in the country tucked away in unexpected spots throughout the Taupō region.

It might be Industrie French Kitchen, with its drool-worthy cabinet brimming with French pastries, sweet treats and savoury delights. Or Pauly’s Diner, a gourmet burger and Southern fried chicken joint that’s chattered about on foodie forums. Or Knoll Ridge Chalet – perched on the edge of Mt Ruapehu where the views are nothing short of spectacular.

In Turangi, tucked away in quaint surrounds behind a tackle house, you will find Creel Café, where delicate pastries and tarts, hearty pies and savoury quiches are handmade daily.

Taupō’s artisanal eateries are (mostly) small in scale, but their food is created with aroha. From the delicious Argentinian empanadas to flavourful Korean dumplings and fried chicken at the weekend markets, to expansive contemporary cafés such as Baked with Love, Storehouse, Café Baku, Kefi, Lava Glass, Replete and L’Arte, this is food from and for the soul.

Taste