As Rotorua is a favourite destination for families to visit during school holidays, most eateries are family-friendly.
Here's a selection of establishments that go out of their way to make children feel welcome and special – music to parents' ears! Whether they have awesome children's menus, spaces for them to safely play and have fun until their meals arrive, or more than 40 flavours of ice cream to choose from (if they've behaved themselves, of course!), these spots should be your go-to for great dining experiences.
Lady Janes Ice Cream Parlour
Family Friendly
Lady Janes Ice Cream Parlour is a Rotorua icon! More than 40 different flavours of ice cream to choose from and great coffee too!
Capers Café + Store
Family Friendly, Central
Capers Café + Store is a contemporary café in the heart of Rotorua, providing great hospitality to locals and visitors alike.
Pig & Whistle Historic Pub
Family Friendly, Central
Visit the Pig & Whistle Historic Pub and enjoy the warm historic atmosphere of one of the most popular bars in Rotorua.
Charlie's Café at Chipmunks Playland
Family Friendly, East
Grab a bite to eat at Charlie's while the kids play at the number one choice for kids' entertainment in Rotorua!
Fat Dog Café
Family Friendly
Since 1995, Fat Dog has been the funky, quirky café in then CBD of Rotorua.
Sequoia Eatery Rotorua
Family Friendly, East
Sequoia Eatery brings you the freshest food with the friendliest service right on the doorstep of the lakes and Whakarewarewa Forest.
Okere Falls Store
Family Friendly, East
Espresso, beer and wine, cakes, ice cream, chocolate, take-home meals, pies, organics, gourmet and everyday groceries, Italian and German treats, New Zealand artisan foods plus lots more fantastic yummy things!
Scoop'd Ice Cream & Bubble Tea
Family Friendly, East
Scoop'd Ice Cream and Bubble Tea is your ultimate destination for mouthwatering desserts and refreshing beverages. Specialising in a variety of delectable treats, this is where you go to indulge in a sweet escape where every bite and sip celebrates flavour and fun!
Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar at Skyline Rotorua
Family Friendly, North
Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar offers one of the best buffets in town with incredible views overlooking Lake Rotorua and the city.
Trail Kitchen
Family Friendly, South
One of Rotorua’s newest cafés located at the stunning Waipa Mountain Bike Park specialising in casual dining and great coffee.