Around Rarotonga

Rarotonga is one of the South Pacific’s true foodie paradises and dining around the island is one of life’s great pleasures. The quality of food generally ranges from good to great, and the portion sizes range from just-right to humungous. As for style, you can go from simple to haute, and flavours range the full gamut from island fare to Asian, Mexican to New Age, seafood to steakhouse, cafe to casual restaurant, burger joint to fine dining, dawn market to night market. We haven’t tallied it up but it’s quite possible that Rarotonga may hold the world record of more diverse international-style eateries per capita than anywhere in the world. Take your tastebuds on a trip around the island and feed your thirst for the new to your heart’s content.

Some restaurants offer a pick-up/drop-off service, you can walk to nearby eateries, take a hire car, a cab or the island bus. Revel in discovering your favourite authentic dining experience on Rarotonga. The island’s your oyster!

CLICK HERE to view our beach-restaurants walking map 

Here’s just a few notable island dining spots to look out for as you eat your way around Rarotonga:

Beluga

Beluga is a collaboration of excellent food and smooth rich coffee located in the heart of Arorangi between the Raemaru Mountain and the ocean, browse the giftware and artworks or just sit back and enjoy the stylish casual ambience we have created for you

Antipodes

Perched above the Pacific Ocean in Blackrock, Rarotonga rests Antipodes. A beautiful quintessential Mediterranean style villa- which has opened its doors to the public for a la carte dining -accommodation-weddings and events. Enjoy lunch or dinner and watch the sunset, the whales or the boats cruise by, over the beautiful blue waters of Rarotonga

Charlies

Charlies Cafe and Bar is on the edge of the Akapuao Marine Reserve. Enjoy light meals of chicken teriyaki cheese melt paninis tuna cheese melt paninis, fresh fish sandwiches, island infused fruit smoothies, beef, chicken and fish burgers, fresh salads, teas, milkshakes. We are now open for dinner until 8pm Monday through until Friday with live music EVERY one of those nights. Saturdays we open at 11 and close at 3.30pm. Try our cocktails, Charlies lager on tap- brewed by the Rarotonga Brewing Company, Matutu Ale and lager, Vaima still water and a selection of beers- corona, Heineken, Speights, Steinlager, wines- Sav, pinot gris, chardonnay, pinot noir, shiraz and merlot. Kayaks and paddleboards

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.

Vaima

We are situated right on the beach. Imagine sitting on the beach with the sun setting, sipping your favourite cocktail and enjoying some of the best cuisine on the island - how romantic! We also offer a pizza take away service - forget the cooking - enjoy our pizza in your room/hotel or just sit on the beach with your feet in the water enjoying the food. We can cater for small private functions and weddings. Look forward to seeing you at the Vaima.

Tamarind

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 experience. Whether your requirements are large or small, we are eager to accommodate you with an event that you will long remember. Tamarind House is a versatile venue offering five different areas to suit any occasion. Tamarind House Restaurant on the island of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands is situated on a large oceanfront property, with its stately beautifully restored historic colonial house, huge verandas and French doors, and a lovely garden shaded by coconut palms and green lawns sweeping down to the ocean. It is just a 3-minute drive from the town centre, and the round the island bus stops just by the entrance. You can enjoy a feeling of nostalgia for a bygone era in the peaceful seclusion of our truly unique tropical setting.

The Muri Night Market 

The Muri night markets in the Muri Beach Village are a great way to curate your own dinner from the various food trucks, stalls and stands all while mixing and mingling with tourists and locals alike. Open Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 5pm, the night markets offer a variety of food from local BBQ meals, seafood, fresh drinking coconuts, chicken curries, wok fried noodles, pizza, desserts and more.

Lonely Planet's local flavour dining favourites https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/what-to-eat-cook-islands