Top 5 Places to Eat in Taupo

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
25/08/2025
Tranquil view of Lake Taupō with a boat and distant shoreline under a bright blue sky.
Gaurav Kumar, Pexels

Taupō's culinary landscape offers a diverse range of dining experiences, with restaurants and cafes utilizing fresh local ingredients, catering to a mix of families, couples, and discerning food enthusiasts, often with scenic lakeside backdrops.

1. Embra

Cuisine: Modern Kiwi with French and British influences

Embra provides a sophisticated dining experience, known for its degustation menu that thoughtfully combines Kiwi cuisine with French and British cooking techniques. The restaurant focuses on sustainably sourced, locally grown, and organic produce. It offers a refined atmosphere, often likened to Michelin-star quality, making it ideal for a special occasion. Expect exquisite, artfully presented dishes.

Price: NZD $100+ / USD $60+ per person (for degustation)

Getting There: Located at 97A Kaimanawa Street, Embra is in central Taupō and is easily accessible by walking or a short taxi ride from most accommodations.

2. The Bistro

Cuisine: European-inspired, Contemporary New Zealand

The Bistro offers a high-quality, European-style dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal New Zealand produce. The atmosphere is elegant yet aims to be welcoming for all, often featuring soft jazz music. Signature dishes include the Grilled Scotch Fillet of Greenstone Creek beef, showcasing local quality. It is consistently praised for its food and exceptional service, and is a two-hatted restaurant in the 2025 Cuisine Good Food Guide.

Price: NZD $50-$90 / USD $30-$55 per person

Getting There: Situated at 17 Tamamutu Street in central Taupō, The Bistro is within easy walking distance of the main town area.

3. Vine Eatery & Bar

Cuisine: Mediterranean Tapas & New Zealand Fine Dining

This eatery offers a delightful fusion of Mediterranean tapas and New Zealand cuisine in a cozy and inviting setting. It is a favourite among both locals and visitors for its extensive selection of over 150 wines, craft beers, and diverse cocktail list. Recommended dishes include their pork belly and the NZ beef tapas, with options suitable for sharing.

Price: NZD $30-$70 / USD $18-$45 per person

Getting There: Located at 37 Tūwharetoa Street, Vine Eatery & Bar is conveniently situated in the heart of Taupō, making it easily accessible on foot.

4. Two Mile Bay Sailing Club

Cuisine: Wood-fired Pizzas

Positioned directly on the shores of Lake Taupō, this club offers an unbeatable relaxed atmosphere with stunning lake views. It is renowned for its delicious wood-fired pizzas and is a popular spot for families, where children can enjoy swimming nearby. The vibrant setting and craft beer selection make it an ideal choice for a casual, lively meal, especially on a sunny day.

Price: NZD $20-$40 / USD $12-$25 per person

Getting There: Located at 331 Lake Terrace, the club is a short drive from the town centre. Taxis are readily available, or it is a pleasant walk along the lakefront.

5. K's Kitchen

Cuisine: Korean Fried Chicken & Asian Street Food

K's Kitchen is a popular food truck and local icon, celebrated for its tasty Korean fried chicken, chips, burgers, and dumplings. It's particularly noted for offering gluten-free fried chicken. Must-try items include their 'moon' bowl or burger, featuring chicken with cheese and garlic mustard, and the 'snow' bowl, dusted with cheese and garlic seasoning. This is an excellent option for a delicious and affordable meal.

Price: NZD $15-$25 / USD $9-$15 per person

Getting There: You can find K's Kitchen at 250 Spa Road. Being a food truck, its exact location may vary, but it's typically a short drive or a moderate walk from central Taupō.

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