East Coast and the Volcanic Zone Restaurants

Rotorua has the area's most diverse dining scene. You can order anything from Indian to Japanese fare, or, for true local flavor, try a M?ori h?ngi (a traditional meal cooked in an earth oven or over a steam vent). Hawke's Bay is another hot spot; its winery restaurants emphasize sophisticated preparations and food-and-wine pairings. Around Eastland, which is so laid-back it's nearly horizontal, the choices are simpler, and you'll be treated with the area's characteristic friendliness. One thing you won't find on any menu is fresh trout. Laws prohibit selling this fish, but if you catch a trout, chefs at most lodging establishments will cook it for you.

Dressing up for dinner, or any other meal, is a rarity, expected at only the most high-end lodges and restaurants.

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  • 1. The Marina Restaurant & Bar

    $$$$

    Originally the ballroom of a stately home, this high-ceilinged restaurant lives up to its pedigree and brings French flair to Gisborne. Attention to detail from start to finish is the hallmark here. On the menu, look for the steamed fresh fish fillet with crushed new potatoes and bell-pepper confit. The dark chocolate mousse cake with praline crunch and cocoa sorbet is a divine dessert choice.

    Vogel St., Gisborne, Gisborne, 4010, New Zealand
    06-868–5919

    Known For

    • <PRO>modern French fine dining</PRO>
    • <PRO>local ingredients</PRO>
    • <PRO>deck seating with beautiful views</PRO>

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon. No lunch Tues. and Wed., Credit cards accepted
  • 2. The Rivers

    $$$

    A casual place to hoist a few pints while dining on hearty pub fare, the Rivers is popular with Gisborne locals. Stained-glass partitions separate the dining alcoves, which have brass chandeliers, dark woodwork, and green leather upholstery. Guinness pie with creamy mashed potatoes and chicken calypso topped with a tangy mango sauce are two favorite dishes that are always on the menu. Also on offer are platters and seasonal specials.

    At Reads Quay and Gladstone Rd., Gisborne, Gisborne, 4010, New Zealand
    64-06-863–3733

    Known For

    • Friendly atmosphere
    • Great Irish pub food
    • Central location
  • 3. The Works Café & Winery

    $$$$

    This eatery in the former Gisborne Freezing Works embraces its industrial roots (note the large driveshaft and pulleys on the brick walls). The menu builds on local products and seasonality, from cheeses to fruit, scallops to calamari. The sticky pork ribs served with a rich barbecue sauce, potato wedges, and coleslaw is one popular choice; the panfried fish of the day in white wine sauce is another.

    41 The Esplanade, Gisborne, Gisborne, New Zealand
    64-06-868–9699

    Known For

    • Excellent panfried fish
    • Cool atmosphere
    • Local wine
  • Recommended Fodor’s Video

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