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What is Taupo Known For?
Nestled on the edge of New Zealand's largest lake, Taupo is renowned for its stunning location on Lake Taupo. However, this town is more than just a scenic spot. The region is also famous for its geothermal hot springs and the majestic Huka Falls. Taupo boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with diverse cafes, restaurants, and markets showcasing local produce at its finest.
Why You Should Spend a Day or Two in Taupo
To fully immerse yourself in the culinary and natural wonders of Taupo, a day simply won't do. This region demands a slower pace, inviting campervan travellers to explore at their leisure. Why rush through the gourmet eateries and cozy cafes when you can savour each meal with a view of stunning natural landscapes?
For the active foodie, the region offers hiking, biking, and a plethora of water sports. What’s more, after a day filled with adventure or culinary exploration, you can unwind in one of the many spas or hot springs. The flexibility of campervan hire means you can stay a stone's throw from the best dining spots and natural attractions.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
The Best Foodie Attractions and Experiences in Taupo
Whether you're angling for the freshest catch on Lake Taupo or indulging in a handcrafted beer tour, there's something special about the foodie experiences here. Here are a few of our top picks for the best Taupo food experiences to add to your foodie travel itinerary:
Trout Fishing on Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo isn't just New Zealand's largest lake; it's a fishing paradise, offering the chance to catch your own Kai (food) with a picturesque backdrop. Book a fishing charter and experience the thrill of catching rainbow or brown trout in the clear, volcanic waters. Best of all, the region's respectful fishing practices ensure sustainability and rich aquatic life.
Enjoy a Plate of Prawns at Huka Prawn Park
Huka Prawn Park offers a unique blend of fun and food unlike any other. Self-proclaimed as the “ultimate prawn-themed adventure park”, this is a fun addition to any road trip travel itinerary. Holding the title as the only geo-thermally-heated prawn breeding park in the world, this is a unique setting to learn all about prawn farming before enjoying a riverside feast of the freshest prawns. Without a doubt, this is one of the best restaurants in Taupo for a family day out, offering interactive experiences and delicious seafood dining.
Taste Local Produce at the Taupo Market
The Taupo Market Central is a vibrant showcase of the region's best local produce, crafts, and live music — with over 50 stalls to experience the best eats in Taupo! Held every Sunday, it's the perfect place to sample fresh fruits, vegetables, artisanal cheeses, and more. This is also the perfect excuse to top up your campervan fridge with local produce that you can transform into a feast from the comfort of your campsite.
Tour the Brewery at Crafty Trout Brewery
Crafty Trout Brewery offers more than just a refreshing spot to enjoy a beer. At the bar and eatery, you can enjoy a range of craft beers and ciders that perfectly match a menu that celebrates local flavours. Plus, the quirky combination of hunting, fishing, and ski lodge decor makes this a unique place to enjoy some of the best eats in Taupo.
Take a Honey Tour at the Huka Honey Hive
The Huka Honey Hive provides an immersive experience into the world of honey, beekeeping, and sustainable practices. Here, visitors can witness the fascinating process of honey production, sample a variety of honey products, and learn about the importance of bees in our ecosystem. The site also offers skincare products, candles, and mead tastings. Easily one of the best Taupo food experiences for anyone with a sweet tooth!
Explore Unique and Arty Cafés
Taupo's food and café scene is as vibrant and unique as its landscapes. Lava Glass Café and L’Arté Café and Gallery stand out as two must-visit restaurants to experience the best breakfast in Taupo and its artsy side:
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Lava Glass Café is nestled within a glassblowing studio, offering a mesmerising backdrop to your dining experience. Here, you can enjoy delicious, fresh, homemade meals, including a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, surrounded by stunning glass art.
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L’Arté Café and Gallery is another gem, combining the love for art with delicious food. Their slogan is “a visual and edible feast” – perfect for food lovers looking for unique Taupo food experiences. Situated in a mosaic and art gallery garden, this café offers diners the chance to sample some of the best eats in Taupo while visually feasting on the visual extravagance of the gardens.
Best Burgers in Taupo
Taupo is home to some of the best burgers you'll find on the North Island. Whether you're winding down from a day of exploration or fueling up for your next adventure, these burger joints are a perfect addition to any road trip. In this section, we’ll guide you through the spots to grab the best burger in Taupo — perfect for those on a campervan road trip looking for a quick and delicious pit stop to add to their travel itinerary.
Pauly’s Diner
Pauly’s Diner is your go-to for a slice of classic Americana right in the heart of Taupo. This retro-style diner not only serves up delicious American-style burgers with all the trimmings but does so in an environment that'll take you back in time. A standout dish is their signature Pauly's Burger, a juicy beef patty topped with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and Pauly’s special sauce, all encased in a soft, toasted bun. The diner's unique setting and nod to the classic American diner culture make it a must-visit.
Storehouse Taupo
Storehouse Cafe in Taupo is more than just a burger joint; it's a gathering place for those who appreciate a good meal in a unique and welcoming setting. Their Slow Cooked Pulled Prok Burger, featuring 18-hour slow-cooked pork with a tangy barbecue sauce, Asian slaw, and pickles, is a must-try. The industrial-chic décor, combined with a friendly atmosphere, makes Storehouse a standout location to enjoy one of the best burgers in Taupo.
Dixie Browns
Dixie Browns is a local favourite known for their hearty meals, an extensive wine list, and cozy vibe —their burgers are no exception. The standout Dixie Burger, a behemoth of a meal with a 100% sirloin patty, lettuce, tomato, onion, gherkin and aioli, perfectly captures the essence of New Zealand's love for loaded burgers. Located by the lakefront, Dixie Browns offers stunning views to complement your meal.
Crafty Trout Brewing Co
Already mentioned as a top spot for beer enthusiasts, Crafty Trout Brewing Co boasts an impressive burger lineup. Their Trout Burger is a unique take featuring locally sourced trout, a nod to the region's rich fishing culture. The lodge-style setting, complete with a cozy fireplace and rustic décor, makes it the perfect spot to enjoy a burger and beer.
Jimmy Coops Lakehouse
Jimmy Coops Lakehouse is arguably home to the best burger in Taupo with a view. Their Dusty Monday Burger, a sumptuous combination of two beef patties, cheddar cheese, and their IPA sauce, is perfectly complemented by the panoramic views of Lake Taupo. The restaurant's modern, stylish décor and waterfront location make it a special place to dine.
Best Breakfast Spots in Taupo
Starting your day right is crucial, especially when you have a full itinerary of adventures in Taupo. Luckily, the town boasts an array of breakfast spots, from hearty traditional breakfasts to light, health-conscious options. Here, we highlight the spots where you can grab the best breakfast in Taupo to kickstart your day, ensuring you're well-fueled for whatever Taupo has in store.
Shop at Replete Café & Store
Replete Café & Store is a Taupo institution known for its wide range of delicious Taupo food breakfast options and exceptional coffee. The café's inviting atmosphere, combined with its commitment to using fresh, local ingredients, makes it a standout. Whether you are feasting on their Best Ugly Bagel or their unique Vogels Toast with buffalo mozzarella and herb pesto — a meal here is bound to be a luxurious start to the day.
Storehouse Taupo
In addition to its standout burgers, Storehouse Cafe in Taupo shines bright in the morning light with its vibrant breakfast menu. The Avocado Smash is a crowd-pleaser, a simple yet perfectly executed dish with ripe avocado on sourdough toast, topped with feta, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of dukkah. The space itself is airy and filled with natural light, creating a relaxing environment for starting your day.
Cafe Baku
Cafe Baku offers a cozy retreat with its warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu catering to vegetarian and gluten-free options. This cafe specialises in smoothies, cold-pressed juices, toasted sandwiches and fresh baked goods. Most of all, it prides itself on its friendly service and commitment to quality, making it a beloved spot and one of the best breakfasts in Taupo among locals and visitors alike.
Baked With Love
Baked With Love is renowned for their freshly baked pastries and bread. The standout dish is their Quiche of the Day, made with fresh, seasonal ingredients and a flaky, buttery crust that melts in your mouth. The quaint and charming decor, coupled with their dedication to quality, makes Baked With Love a must-visit on any travel itinerary.
READ MORE: For more top spots for the best breakfast in Taupo, check out this comprehensive guide to the best restaurants in Taupo for breakfast.
Best Eats in Taupo
In this section, we're spotlighting the crème de la crème of Taupo's dining scene, places that offer not just great food but also contribute to making Taupo a must-visit destination for gastronomes. Whether you're looking for a sophisticated dinner spot or a cozy nook to enjoy local flavours, these restaurants are sure to enhance your campervan adventure with memorable meals.
The Bistro
Situated within the scenic premises of The Hilton Lake Taupo, The Bistro stands out for its sophisticated dining ambience and breathtaking views. The standout dish, the Grilled Scotch Fillet of Greenstone Creek beef, showcases the best of local produce, perfectly cooked to enhance its natural flavours. The Bistro's commitment to contemporary New Zealand cuisine and its picturesque setting makes it a prime spot for best dinner in Taupo.
Victoria's Cafe Kitchen Bar
Victoria's Cafe Kitchen Bar, nestled in a charming historic building, provides a perfect blend of atmosphere and culinary excellence. Their Eggs Benedict, served on a house-made English muffin with hollandaise sauce, is a breakfast favourite, offering a filling start to the day. If you find yourself looking for lunch, they also have a host of salads and soups.
The Brantry
The Brantry is housed in a converted 1950s villa, offering an elegant ambiance that complements its creative cuisine. Their signature dish, the Lamb Back Strap, is a testament to the chef's ability to transform local ingredients into exquisite dishes. The Brantry's ever-changing menu reflects the best of what's in season, ensuring a fresh and exciting dining experience with each visit.
The Ploughman's Restaurant
Set against a picturesque rural backdrop, The Ploughman's Restaurant offers a cozy and relaxed dining experience. Their pub classics offer a hearty and comforting meal, perfect after a day of exploring Taupo. The restaurant's focus on homestyle cooking with locally sourced ingredients and its warm, welcoming atmosphere are what make this place one of the best restaurants in Taupo.
Embra
Embra is a celebration of modern Kiwi cuisine, blending French and British cooking techniques with locally grown produce. The Braised Beef Cheek, tender and flavorful, served with root vegetables and a rich jus, is a standout dish that exemplifies the restaurant's culinary philosophy. Embra's commitment to innovation, coupled with its use of fresh, local ingredients, makes it a noteworthy addition to Taupo's food and dining scene.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Malabar Nepalese And Indian Kitchen
At Malabar Nepalese And Indian Kitchen, guests can enjoy a blend of traditional Indian flavors and Nepalese dishes, such as the signature Momo Dumplings, served with a spicy tomato chutney. The restaurant's dedication to authentic flavors and its warm, inviting atmosphere provide a culinary journey through the Himalayas and beyond, right in the heart of Taupo. This is easily the best Indian restaurant in Taupo!
2 Mile Sailing Club
The 2 Mile Bay Sailing Club offers not just spectacular lake views but also a relaxed dining experience, especially during the summer months. Their specialty of pizza and bagels perfectly complement the laid-back, beachy vibe of the place. Its unique location and casual, friendly atmosphere make it a favorite spot for both dining and enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Taupo.
Sorrento Italian Dining & Wine Bar
Sorrento Italian Dining & Wine Bar brings authentic Italian cuisine to the heart of Taupo. The homemade Pasta, fresh and perfectly cooked, paired with their extensive wine list, offers a dining experience that's both sophisticated and deeply comforting. This is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a relaxing meal with friends on a campervan road trip.
Best Fish and Chips in Taupo
Fish and chips in Taupo are a must-try on any road trip around the area, perfectly capturing the essence of Kiwi cuisine against the backdrop of stunning landscapes. Here are the top spots for the best fish and chips in Taupo:
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Grasshopper Chip Bar: A local favourite for its golden, crispy batter and fresh-tasting fish and chips in Taupo:
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Spa Gate Fish and Chips: Known for their secret batter recipe and the use of fresh local fish, it is a must-stop for fish and chips in Taupo.
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The Fish Box: Offers a variety of fresh fish daily, focusing on sustainability and quality.
Where to Stay in Taupo
Choosing the perfect place to stay in Taupo in your campervan hire can significantly enhance your travel experience. Below are some top picks for accommodations in Taupo, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.
Taupo Top 10 Holiday Park
The Taupo Top 10 Holiday Park offers an ideal base for those exploring Taupo in a campervan. Situated within a 20-minute walk of the town centre, this holiday park provides easy access to all the culinary and natural attractions of the region. Facilities include powered sites, WiFi, kitchen and laundry facilities, BBQ areas, and a kids' playground. The park also boasts thermal pools, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure. Its central location and comprehensive amenities make it an excellent choice for campervan travellers seeking convenience and comfort.
Reid's Farm Recreation Reserve Free Campsite
Reid's Farm Recreation Reserve Free Campsite offers a fantastic option for those on a tighter budget or seeking a more rustic experience. Located near the banks of the Waikato River, this campsite provides a tranquil setting amidst natural beauty where travellers can enjoy three days in any 14-day period. Facilities are basic, with toilets and water supply catering to self-sufficient travellers. Its proximity to Taupo and the region's attractions, combined with its unbeatable free price, makes it a popular choice for campervan adventurers.
Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort
The Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort offers a luxurious base for your Taupo food adventures. This resort not only provides campervan sites but also access to its waterpark and world-class spa facilities, including mineral hot pools, a warm water playground for kids, and private pools. The resort's location, overlooking Lake Taupo and the volcanic mountains, adds to the serene experience. With its onsite café and close proximity to Taupo's top dining and natural attractions, Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort is a perfect choice for those searching for a mix of relaxation and exploration.
Ready for a Foodie Adventure in Taupo?
Taupo is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from fresh, local produce at markets to sophisticated dining experiences with stunning views. Whether you're fishing on Lake Taupo, enjoying a burger at a local joint, or indulging in fine dining, Taupo's food scene is not to be missed.
Ready to start your foodie adventure in Taupo? Book your maui motorhome online and pick it up from any maui branch before diving into the culinary delights of Taupo. Planning a more extensive New Zealand travel itinerary? Don't forget to check out our other foodie guides for more inspiration, including: