5 Best Restaurants in Taupo, East Coast and the Volcanic Zone

This restaurant, while simple, is also an impressive eatery. The modern interior has a contemporary bistro vibe; the food follows suit, focusing on what’s fresh and seasonal. Try the kūmara (sweet potato) and ginger soup with a vanilla and lemon grass foam, crackled pork belly with kūmara and pickled red cabbage, and finish with a Belgian chocolate and hazelnut parfait.

The menu is updated seasonally at this converted 1950s town house on a suburban street not far from the shores of Lake Taupō. Sisters Prue and Felicity Campbell know what they're doing and use the best local ingredients and cook to satisfy all palates. Wines include those from emerging and boutique vineyards. Upstairs is an art gallery.

This café has been drawing the crowds for breakfast and lunch for 30-plus years, thanks to consistently excellent food. In the morning, try the Complete Replete Breakfast: honey-cured bacon, tomato relish, poached eggs, roasted field mushrooms, and grilled focaccia. Boston Beans with smoked tomatoes or satay chicken slaw are popular at midday. Plus there is an array of coffee and smoothies. Adjacent is a very good homewares store.

Whether you are after an espresso and something small as a pick-me-up, or a hearty breakfast before an adventure or lunch after, this café will deliver. Everything is made from scratch whether it's the macarons, cakes of all flavors, or delicious savories and sandwiches. Gluten-free and vegan options are available, too, and they will pack a hamper to go.

For a meal with a view of Lake Taupō, try Waterside with its huge picture windows and deck for sunny day dining. The team pride themselves in excellent food matched with a great drinks list and friendly service. The cooking is simple and hearty, fish-and-chips, steak, and as a bonus a menu for children. If you are in the sharing mood there are also platters covering seafood or traditional food from the land.