Rotorua’s Top Restaurants for Family-Friendly Dining

Rotorua’s Top Restaurants for Family-Friendly Dining 

If you are looking for a fun and exciting destination for your next family holiday, look no further than Rotorua. It’s the North Island’s leading adventure hub, offering the most exciting and unique activities for all ages. 

Work up an appetite at Velocity Valley – there’s a bunch of thrilling rides ranging from a low to high adrenaline buzz in one beautiful location. Whether you want to pedal, free fall, launch, propel, swoop or splash, Velocity Valley has something for every family – from kids to grandparents, from beginner to seasoned pro. 

Velocity Valley Rotorua

But after a day of thrilling adventures, you and your family will surely need some delicious food to refuel and relax. Luckily, Rotorua has plenty of family-friendly restaurants and cafés to choose from, catering to all tastes and budgets. Here are some of our favourites that you should check out after you visit Velocity Valley: 

Fat Dog Cafe 

Fat Dog Cafe is a quirky and colourful café that serves generous portions and great flavours. The café has funky decor and a friendly atmosphere, making it a great place for families to enjoy. The menu has something for everyone, from burgers and pizzas to salads and wraps, as well as gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. The kids will love the play area, the colouring books and the special kids’ menu. 

Velocity Valley Rotorua Fat Dog Restaurant

Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar 

For views that are just as drool-worthy as the menu, head up to this stunning buffet restaurant that offers panoramic views of Lake Rotorua and the city. Stratosfare Restaurant is located at the top of the Skyline Gondola, which is an attraction in itself. The buffet features a variety of dishes, from seafood and roast meats to salads and desserts, using fresh local ingredients. The kids will be spoilt for choice as they can enjoy fun-filled luge rides before tucking into an all-you-can-eat feast. 

Velocity Valley Rotorua Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar

El Mexicano Zapata Cantina 

El Mexicano Zapata Cantina is a vibrant and authentic Mexican restaurant that serves fresh and flavoursome food. The restaurant has a lively and festive atmosphere, with colourful decorations and music. Say hola to traditional Mexican dishes, such as tacos, burritos, enchiladas, nachos, and quesadillas, as well as salads, soups and desserts. 

 

Velocity Valley Rotorua El Mexicano Zapata Cantina

Mamma Rosa Restaurant & Pizzeria 

In the heart of town, Mamma Rosa Restaurant & Pizzeria is a cosy and family-owned Italian restaurant that serves homemade and authentic food. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming ambience, with rustic decor and a wood-fired oven. The menu offers a variety of pizzas, pastas, risottos, salads – and don’t forget an ice cream to finish! 

Velocity Valley Rotorua Mamma Rosa Restaurant and Pizzeria
  • “My son and I did the agrojet and swoop then my son did vertigo. We had so much fun, definitely 10 out of 10 for us. The staff were amazing, super friendly and great sense of humours. Thanks guys.”

    Juanita B
    February 2024

  • “This is definitely a MUST DO!! 💯 They have an awesome team that operate all the attractions in their park. We went to celebrate our friends birthday We all had a blast here and the amazing team of workers made it much more funnier. I would definitely recommend this place to everyone and will definitely go back again!”

    Jo P
    March 2024

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