Stratosfare Restaurant

Leagues above when it comes to the Rotorua dining scene (both metaphorically and literally), Stratosfare is an eating experience not for the faint-hearted – because the only way to get there is by gondola. Take a break from the mountain bike or luge scene and get your hungry self to this brilliant eatery, but don’t be surprised to find lots of other hungry guests there with the same idea.

The award-winning cuisine at this restaurant is set up buffet style, and that’ll be music to your ears once you set foot in this dark and glamorous place because filling up your plate more than once will be a given here. Offering a huge array of colourful salads, freshly baked breads, locally sourced seafood, and prime cuts of meat cooked right in front of your eyes, Stratosfare is a foodie's dream destination. Sweet lovers, you’re not left out here. From Kiwi favourites and seasonal patisserie delights, we can’t forget the assortment of ice cream and toppings that will put the usual buffet soft serve to shame.

Add in the stunning panoramic view of Lake Rotorua from the floor-to-ceiling windows and you can see why this restaurant (which fits 450 people at capacity) fills up at weekends and special events throughout the year.