Kai Caff Aye Rotorua

I don’t usually leave bad reviews, especially for our local Māori businesses, but I feel I need to be honest about my experience today at Kai Cafe. I was really craving a hāngī and spent $23 expecting a decent meal—but I was left disappointed. The portion was tiny, the stuffing was gluey, flavourless and water logged, the meat was almost nonexistent and full of bones. The fry bread was almost larger than the hāngī itself and wasn’t very nice either. With the cost of living so high, every dollar matters. I was treating myself with my last bit of money, and this just felt disheartening. Please consider putting more aroha into the kai you serve.

Was keen to try Māori dishes and this place was recommended. The Hangi was nicely cooked and really enjoyed the baloney-like soup (I can’t remember the exact name). The kawa- kawa tea was also nice, reminiscent of good quality Chinese tea. Appreciate the staff being patient with our questions.

Wow!! Fantastic little place, really nice staff, yummy food, atmosphere clean and tidy. Highly recommend

Pleasantly surprised with the variety on offer. The staff are very friendly .The coffee is great. No frills here just good wholesome home cooking. I ordered the pāua pie which I enjoyed, however the addition of some garlic woukd take it to next level. Ray the baker is passionate about his pies and the pastry is great. I would revisit when next in Rotorua.

I stumbled across this place while attempting to pass the time, and I was pleasantly surprised. The owner was great to talk to, she was freely willing to share her stories of living in NZ. The food is equally amazing, and they have a unique seafood pie. This place was so much better than I could have ever expected.

Chowder pocket an paua pocket was so good! The big breakfast on the other hand was horrible can't believe I paid $21 for that the sausage was the worst the eggs were not cooked I asked for the to be cooked more they said yup an they came back looking more raw. We got a frappe an it was pretty much water an chocolate flavour. The customer service was so bad wasn't a welcoming place neither was the girl who served us. Do not recommend.

Went here for the paua pies, first time trying today and they were onnnnn 🔥 worth every cent. My new fave pie!! 🥧 take my money man. Will be back for more pies but this time with the whaanau. Can’t believe a place that actually makes them properly. The pastry, the filling was perfect.

Food was so delicious. Fast service despite there being 1 cook the day we visited. Such a gorgeous atmosphere. Not too in the mix of the CBD. Parking close by around the corner. Was devoured our food. Will make this our usual eatery x