Cook Islands Food Guide: 10 New Zealand food Must-Eat Restaurants & Street Food Stalls in Avarua

February 28, 2021 Tambra Mccollister

Reviews on New Zealand food in Avarua, Cook Islands. At the base of the rugged, dramatic mountains of Rarotonga lies Avarua, a modest capital boasting a number of bustling outdoor markets, several restaurants and bars, boutiques and the National Museum of the Cook Islands. Along the Main Street you will find fine handicrafts and perfumes, as well as the black pearls for which the area is known. Although conditions are rarely reliable for swimming, there are dive sites in the area, including the famous Wreck of the Matai.
Things to do in Avarua

10. The Waterline Restaurant & Beach Bar

Arorangi Cook Islands Seafood, European, New Zealand, International Lunch, Dinner, Drinks, Late Night Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music, Waterfront, Beach [email protected] +682 22 161 http://www.waterline-restaurant.com
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4 based on 1038 reviews

The Waterline Restaurant & Beach Bar

Casual beach dining with all the frills.Open Tues-Sun for lunch and dinner. Enjoy one of our tasty cocktails and the breathtaking sunset before dining on Pacific style international cuisine. We have one of Raro's most extensive wine lists available.We can

Reviewed By Wayne W

Excellent service food .especially the seafood platters .great place to see the sunset and enjoy a cocktail

9. Flambe

Arorangi Cook Islands International, Mediterranean, European, Australian, New Zealand, Polynesian Dinner Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Free Off-Street Parking, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Parking Available, Live Music [email protected] +682 23 953 http://www.facebook.com/FlambeRarotonga/
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4 based on 151 reviews

Flambe

Exquisite Food, Divine Cocktails and Wonderful Service awaits you at Flambe.

Reviewed By sunsoakerNewZealand

I would go back in a heartbeat, made my 50th so special . Loved the seafood platter and the ostrich salad. The cocktails amazing. Staff friendly , attentive and professional. Fire show a lovely touch and singer on Friday night had a stunning voice. Do try if you get the chance

8. The Anchorage Restaurant & Bar

Sunset Resort, Arorangi Cook Islands Bar, Seafood, New Zealand, Polynesian, International Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music, Waterfront +682 28 028 http://www.thesunsetresort.com
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4 based on 370 reviews

The Anchorage Restaurant & Bar

Reviewed By Staffydog55

We were staying at the Sunset So was nice to wander through gardens to dinner .The food was really good.We dined most nights out of 10 so that alone says it!A varied menu,large portions and beautifully presented.Best Ati Mati (raw fish) I have had.We had a waitress that was outstanding,25 of us for birthday dinner and she took orders without writing down.All meals delivered perfectly.The Sunday BBQ night was excellent with a cultural show.

Top 5 European food in Avarua, Cook Islands

7. Kikau Hut Restaurant

Aorangi, Arorangi Cook Islands Seafood, New Zealand, Polynesian Dinner, Late Night, Drinks Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Street Parking, Free Off-Street Parking, Highchairs Available, Full Bar, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Cash Only, Reservations, Seating, Parking Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Se [email protected] +682 26 860 http://www.kikauhut.com
Food
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4 based on 1132 reviews

Kikau Hut Restaurant

A small intimate restaurant. The relaxed atmosphere, local art, beautiful gardens combined with excellent service give it a special ambiance for all diners. European food with island flair, coeliac friendly, gluten free and vegetarian options along with a

Reviewed By Kiwifromkiev

This restaurant was on my "to do" list for this visit to Raro. We wend there on our second to last day with some local friends. Meals were really nice, however the service and ambience left us disappointed with a feeling that it is unlikely we would be back. We were late-ish ona Friday night, the place was not busy (although a couple restaurants nearby were fully booked and in a full swing). The lady in charge was cold and unwelcoming, and the other waiter was trying to be nice but was lacking experience. We felt rushed (although it was barely 9 pm) and did not feel confortable continuing conversation as the staff were closing up windows as a sign the time was up. You might be luckier than us with the service, however this was our experience. Once again, the meals were good quality and well presented.Hello Kiwifromkiev Thank you very much for taking the time to review Kikau Hut. I am pleased to hear you enjoyed your meals, however, I am sorry to hear that we did not deliver on your expectations and your experience was lacking. We will be sure to take your feedback on board. Kind regards

Most Popular Healthy food in Avarua, Cook Islands

6. Cafe Ariki

Back Road, Avarua COK Cook Islands Barbecue, Grill, New Zealand Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Late Night Outdoor Seating, Seating, Full Bar, Table Service, Takeout, Reservations, Serves Alcohol +682 22 772 http://www.facebook.com/CafeAriki
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4 based on 147 reviews

Cafe Ariki

Reviewed By terahans

Family night out the family were craving some local food Cafe Ariki was recommended.We arrived early as per suggestion and we were Not disappointed.Ika Mata (Raw Fish) was so so fresh and the local fries which consisted of Taro Maniota It was just so divine!The atmosphere was so chilled n the local music awesome

Where to eat Seafood food in Avarua: The Best Restaurants and Bars

5. The Islander Restaurant

Main Coast Road Opposite Rarotonga Airport, Avarua 0682 Cook Islands Pizza, Fusion, Polynesian, Bar, Seafood, New Zealand Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night Buffet, Parking Available, Street Parking, Free Off-Street Parking, Television, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Wine and Beer, Cash Only, Reservations, Acce [email protected] +682 21 003 http://www.islanderhotel.co.ck/
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4 based on 308 reviews

The Islander Restaurant

The Islander Restaurant features fantastic cuisine using fresh ingredients supplied by local market gardeners as well as imports from New Zealand. Open for breakfast from 8am; and an all-day lunch & dinner service featuring light meals to hearty options t

Reviewed By sunsoakerNewZealand

I had the pizza which was far too much cheese and soft base like those at the supermarket. Made both my partner and I feel sick. Far better places to eat lunch

Where to eat Cafe food in Avarua: The Best Restaurants and Bars

4. Trader Jacks

Avarua Cook Islands Bar, Pizza, Seafood, New Zealand, Polynesian, Gastropub Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Free Off-Street Parking, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music, Waterfront +682 26 464 http://www.traderjackscookislands.com/
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4 based on 2756 reviews

Trader Jacks

The Cook Island's most iconic dining destination. Stunning views over the south pacific. Come in and dine with us on our al fresco deck or join our friendly team at the Vaka bar for an icy cold tap beer or the best cocktails on the island.

Reviewed By Zsusie T

We thoroughly love going to Trader Jacks it's our favourite eating destination the pizza's are totally unbelieveably and so delicious, they are just amazing and to die for, as they just melt in your mouth Not to mention the scenery is just gorgeous, having a chat with new people while having a few drinks or too just relaxing.

Most Popular Polynesian food in Avarua, Cook Islands

3. The Lazy Trout Rarotonga

Corner Puoromea Road and Vakatini Road, Avarua Cook Islands Cafe, International, New Zealand, Polynesian Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch, Drinks Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Street Parking, Free Off-Street Parking, Highchairs Available, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service [email protected] +682 22 025 http://www.facebook.com/The-Lazy-Trout-Rarotonga-106734389820326/
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5 based on 81 reviews

The Lazy Trout Rarotonga

The Lazy Trout Café is a hidden gem located in the Avarua District, a short walk from the Avarua Township. We offer stylish alfresco all-day breakfast and lunch, surrounded by our beautiful tropical garden, clear blue pool, and the stunning views of the m

Reviewed By Sue j

Came upon this spot by accident but glad we popped in for brunch.I had poached eggs on muffin with smoked salmon and shrimps on the side.Very tasty and thoroughly enjoyed it.Husband had poached eggs with bacon, tomatoes, hash browns, and spicy sausages.Lovely setting under the umbrellas next to the swimming pool.Great service with friendly smiles.

Best International food near Avarua, Cook Islands

2. Tamarind House Restaurant

Avarua Main Road, Avarua COK Cook Islands Seafood, European, New Zealand, Polynesian Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Private Dining, Seating, Parking Available, Free Off-Street Parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Waterfront [email protected] +682 26 487 http://www.tamarindrarotonga.com
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4 based on 1452 reviews

Tamarind House Restaurant

The exclusive, romantic and private restaurant venue on the island with delicious and world-renowned Pacific cuisine. Away from the crowds and the public eye, a fine dining evening with your loved ones or a wedding at Tamarind House is an extra special ex

Reviewed By ssteinway4

This is one of the nicer restaurants on Rarotonga,which doesn't say much (it's not really a dining destination). The food was decent, but nothing spectacular, and the service was just okay. We found that ordering a glass of wine or other alcoholic beverage tended to make the waitstaff more friendly. The view was gorgeous, though.

Best Contemporary food near Avarua, Cook Islands

1. Tuoro Restaurant & Cafe

Black Rock Villas, Avarua Cook Islands Cafe, New Zealand Lunch, Brunch Seating, Parking Available, Free Off-Street Parking, Highchairs Available, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music, BYOB [email protected] +682 21 233 http://www.blackrockvillas.com/tuoro.htm
Food
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4 based on 424 reviews

Tuoro Restaurant & Cafe

Reviewed By McrtoMel

So glad we gave this place a go!Friendly service from the owner, lovely view of the whales, fresh tasty food. Finding Nemo was a welcome lunch on our last day of the holiday. The mahi mahi was fresh tasty and the accompaniments complimented the fish. A shame that the only non undercover tables were smoking as the view from there and some warmth from the sun on the chilly day would have been spectacular. Friends who arrive at Raro next weekend will be advised not to miss this fabulous friendly eatery. Keep up the great work. Advise to book.

Cook Islands Food Guide: 8 Fusion food Must-Eat Restaurants & Street Food Stalls in Avarua

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