The region’s pure waters and lush farmland produce export quality ingredients, including specialities like nourishing mānuka honey, grass-fed Taupō beef and lamb, wild venison and boar, and locally brewed craft beer, wine, and honey mead.
The region’s landscapes not only yield excellent produce and stocked farmers’ markets but also create one of the best places to enjoy your meal with incredible mountain and lake vistas.
And, of course, the rainbow and brown trout from Lake Taupō is a true local delicacy. A sign of its speciality, trout cannot be sold in local shops or restaurants. The only and best way to enjoy its unique flavour and delicate texture is to catch it yourself in Lake Taupō or its many waterways and rivers.
Taupō restaurants and lodges prepare local trout distinctively, whether baked whole in fresh herbs and produce, smoked for hours until tender, barbequed on your fishing charter or pan-fried in plenty of grass-fed butter. Local chefs and fishing guides will be happy to prepare your catch for you – just call and book in advance.
Taupō café culture rivals those of big cities with a plethora of options. Each café offers its own spin on local fare and trendy décor. There are heaps of cafes to start your day off right, whether you have a sweet tooth, craving award-winning local doughnuts, or prefer to stick to the savory side, opting for a Mediterranean twist on Kiwi classics perhaps.
There isn’t a better way to end your day than enjoying a meal while watching the rose-gold sunset over the Tongariro mountains and Lake Taupō. Between the one-of-a-kind scenery, the indulgent food and warm hospitality at the Taupō region’s restaurants, eateries, and luxury lodges, dining with us is sure to be an experience you will never forget.
Explore the cafes, restaurants & eateries, local markets and craft breweries below to inspire your next Eat & Drink foodie getaway in the Taupō region.
