Taupō’s tastiest new restaurants and eateries

1. Kefi - Kokomea

With two Kefi locations already well-established in the Taupō cafe scene, this third one in the new subdivision of Kokomea has completed the perfect trifecta. So if you’re going to meet someone at Kefi, make sure you check which one!

Here you’ll find a modern, fresh offering of Greek-inspired food and beverages - all the favourites are covered too - and it’s a great place to grab a hot or cold brew without having to venture into Taupō township.

Catering to various food requirements, from gluten-free to vegetarian, vegan, keto and more, there’s something for everyone on the menu at Kefi.

2. Yuki Sushi - Kokomea

The new sushi on the scene is at Yuki Sushi, also in the recently-established hub at Kokomea (opposite Woolworths). After choosing from a selection of deliciously fresh hot and cold food, there are a few tables for dining in, or you can takeaway. With plenty of parking, it’s easy to grab a meal on the run, or to take to a nearby park or to the lakefront. The bonus is the extra friendly staff - it’s always service with a smile here!    

3. Yorokobi

While Taupō boasts a pretty epic dining scene, it had been missing a traditional Japanese restaurant. Not anymore! Yorokobi is a new addition to the other fantastic eateries in the Suncourt Plaza, and it offers diners an authentic taste of Japan. 

Their extensive menu provides all the favourites - such as ramen, donburi and nigiri sushi - and there’s a few extra special dishes on there too. Yorokobi means ‘joy’ in Japanese, and there’s no question it’s an absolute joy to have lunch or dinner here.

5. Lionel’s

This new-kid-on-the-block is here for a good time and a long time, with its fresh, Mediterranean-inspired menu paired with some of New Zealand’s best produce. Share small plates with friends, such as the mussel bruschetta with nduja butter, gremolata and shaved fennel, or the beef Carpaccio, with shaved mushroom, mustard creme fraiche, truffle oil, pecorino and watercress. Or indulge in a main like eye fillet steak or a Harmony pork chop.

A recent makeover has taken the ambience of the interior space to the next level, with plenty of room to host large groups, or smaller parties. The all-weather balcony also offers a chic, Instagram-worthy space to enjoy cocktails on a Friday afternoon, or tuck into a hearty weekend brunch.  

6. Popeyes

Popeyes Famous Louisiana Chicken has opened its second store in the whole of Aotearoa and it has made it all the way to Taupō! Here you’ll find all the classics that made this restaurant chain such a hit in the US - chicken that comes with bold seasonings, cajun spices and the famous shatter crunch.

There’s more than 4,000 stores worldwide, but only two in New Zealand (so far). Next time you’re in town, grab yourself a feed!

7. Starbucks

It may not be new per se, but Taupō hasn’t had a Starbucks in a long time and its new premises just off state highway 1 offers something rather special - a drive thru! Here you can get all your favourite hot and cold beverages without even having to leave the comfort of your car. Did someone say Caramel Frappuccino with extra whip?   

There’s no doubt all of these eateries and establishments sound super delicious, however it’s certainly not a case of ‘out with the old and in with the new’! More of an appreciation for these amazing additions to an already fantastic foodie scene in Taupō.

So when you’re next in town, do yourself a flavour (see what we did there) and check them out.