24 BEST Restaurants on Tongatapu 🍨 2026

Last Updated: 2 January, 2026

The Best Places to Eat on Tongatapu

As important as swimming with whales, checking out amazing crafts at the markets, scuba diving in vibrant reefs, and seeing ancient Polynesian monuments, eating on Tongatapu is a top Tongan experience!

From authentic island dishes to international favourites made with fresh local produce, it can all be experienced on Tonga’s main island.

Check out some of the top recommendations in the nation’s capital, Nuku’alofa, as well as around the island, in this guide to the best restaurants in Tongatapu.

For more about the restaurants just in Nuku’alofa, see The Food Guide to Tongatapu: Places to Eat & Food Tours.

1. The TOP Restaurant & Lounge

Get amazing views of the Nuku’alofa CBD and the tops of the Royal Palace from The TOP Restaurant & Lounge. Easy to miss on Wellington and Taua’ahau Roads, the entrance is simply an elevator taking you to a large lounge and dining area.

Dine in or enjoy your drinks al fresco under the fairy lights as you gaze across the city as the sun goes down. The dinner-only venue specialises in Western cuisine with creative flair and Mexican-inspired dishes, featuring quality New Zealand meats alongside local Tongan produce.

Choose from signature appetisers like buffalo wings and mini tacos, premium steaks, fresh seafood, chicken and pork selections, or house-made tacos and Mexican specialities.

The extensive cocktail menu features tropical and classic preparations, while vegetarians can enjoy options like honey ginger tofu, pasta primavera and vegetable curry.

Opening hours: From 5:30 pm to 11 pm Monday to Saturday.
Location: Corner of Wellington and Taua’ahau Roads, Nuku’alofa city centre.

Guide to the Best Eats & Restaurants in Tongatapu

2. Friends Café

As one of the city centre’s hotspots, Friends Café rarely needs an introduction. Learn about the history of the 100+-year-old building on the notices found on each table and treat yourself to an extensive menu spanning all-day breakfasts with tropical twists (think caramelised banana and sweet potato), hearty soups infused with coconut cream and lemongrass, and mains covering everything from slow-cooked pork ribs to fresh fish preparations.

Sandwiches come on ciabatta with options like twice-cooked pork belly, while pasta dishes blend Italian classics with local fusion featuring coconut cream.

For vegetarians, there’s plenty to choose from including steamed vegetables, seasonal vegan salads and vegetarian moussaka.

Finish with tiramisu or ice cream, and wash it all down with fresh coconut juice or a milkshake.

Check out more eateries like this in the 10 Best Cafes in Nuku’alofa & Tongatapu.

Opening hours: From 7 am to 11 pm Monday to Saturday.
Location: Corner of Taufa’ahau Road and Salote Road, Nuku’alofa city centre.

3. Little Italy Restaurant

Probably the most out-of-place restaurant in the islands of the South Pacific, Little Italy Restaurant transports you to Europe in its cuisine, decor and architecture. Everything about it is charmingly Italian, including its darn-good pizzas.

Dine in or eat al fresco in a quiet location on the waterfront, a short walk from the west side of the Royal Palace. There’s a wonderful choice of creative pizzas, as well as safe favourites. Pasta, steak, lobster and fish are also on the menu.

Note that if you’re eating outside, you’re likely to eat your pizza to the sad eyes of a stray dog.

The restaurant also has a hotel upstairs – learn more in the 20 Best Hotels in Nuku’alofa.

Opening hours: From 3 pm to 9:30 pm Monday to Saturday.
Location: Vuna Road, Kolomotu’a, Nuku’alofa.

4. Bula Chef

A relatively new family-owned restaurant that’s quickly making a name for itself, Bula Chef brings a taste of Fiji to Tongatapu with its owner’s culinary background and vibrant plating style.

The menu showcases a beautiful combination of local Tongan ingredients with contemporary presentation, think lu Tonga purée with coconut bread and fresh ‘ota ‘ika. The standout salmon with kumara mash and coconut beurre blanc sauce is a must-try, while curry dishes come highly recommended.

From what we’ve experienced, the extensive drinks menu is impressive, featuring everything from craft cocktails and gin and tonic variations to local and imported beers (including Maka, Fiji and Samoa varieties), plus New Zealand and Australian wines available by glass or bottle.

The family-friendly atmosphere is enhanced by awesome views from one of the best locations on the island, and live music Monday through Friday nights adds to the complete dining experience.

Opening hours: From 12 pm to 2 pm and 6 pm to 10 pm Monday to Saturday, 12 pm to 2 pm on Sunday.
Location: Taufa’ahau Road, Fangaloto, Nuku’alofa. On the inland side of the road between the swimming pool and Popua.

5. Momma’s Harbourview Restaurant

Just down the road from Bula Chef, Momma’s Harbourview Restaurant treats you to stunning ocean views alongside your meal. This welcoming spot serves up an impressive range of dishes, from fresh grilled salads and traditional island favourites like ‘ota ‘ika and poke with green banana to hearty comfort food that hits the spot every time.

The menu features homemade soups (think beef, pork belly, seafood and chicken), perfectly grilled meats including marinated chicken, sirloin, pork belly and lamb, plus tempting pasta dishes with creamy sauces.

Popular picks include the seafood platters and Surf and Turf, while breakfast lovers can tuck into big breakfasts and fluffy omelettes.

Pair your meal with a refreshing coconut drink or a glass of wine as you soak in those harbour views.

Opening hours: From 9 am to 10 pm Monday to Saturday.
Location: Taufa’ahau Road, Popua, Nuku’alofa. Just down the road from Sky Lodge.

6. Tupu’anga Café

While a little out of town, it’s worth making your way to Tupu’anga Café for their home-roasted coffee and house-made taro chips, both produced on-site from ingredients they grow themselves on their own farm.

The café offers complimentary casual tours of their coffee roasting area at the back, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at their farm-to-table approach.

Their breakfast menu features everything from omelettes and toasties to pancakes and eggs Benedict (complete with local touches like squid rings and potato fritters), while lunch brings panini options, beef nachos with manioke chips, traditional ‘Ota Ika (raw fish with fresh coconut cream) served with kumala or taro chips, and fish and chips using their signature taro varieties.

They also have free WiFi and a children’s playground – learn more about this experience and others in the 10 Best Foodie Experiences in Tongatapu.

Opening hours: From 8 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday, and 8 am to 1 pm Saturday. Closed Sundays.
Location: Umusi, Ma’ufanga, Nuku’alofa.

7. Chef Zero Restaurant

While a little out of town, Chef Zero is well worth getting to for an upmarket dine-in experience in Nuku’alofa. The family-run restaurant specialises in fresh ingredients transformed into European-style cuisine.

Have steak with a wide choice of sauces, pork with tasty apple sauce, or fish (their most popular) cooked Polynesian style, mornay or blackened.

Try some of the freshest sashimi platters or keep things simple with pizza or garlic bread. What’s more, the restaurant is B.Y.O wine or beer!

Opening hours: From 10 am to 10 pm Monday to Friday.
Location: Tamakautonga Road, Popua, Nuku’alofa.

8. Waterfront Restaurant

Situated right on the harbour in Nuku’alofa, Waterfront Restaurant is a popular choice for both locals and visitors looking for fresh, locally sourced cuisine in a relaxed waterfront setting.

The menu showcases the best of Tonga’s seafood, with mahimahi being a standout daily special alongside tuna served in various styles including sashimi, crudo and poke. The restaurant works closely with local export companies to source fresh fish, lobster and occasional crab.

From hearty breakfasts featuring French toast and eggs Benedict to dinner options of prime steaks, lamb cutlets and pasta dishes, there’s something for everyone.

Health-conscious diners will appreciate the popular health bowls, while vegetarians can choose from options like chickpea curry, falafel bowls, pesto pasta and loaded hummus. Learn more about vegetarian options in our guide to Tonga for Vegans & Vegetarians + 10 Best Restaurants.

Opening hours: From 7 pm to 10 pm (kitchen closes at 10 pm, restaurant until 11 pm) Monday to Saturday. Sunday service operates exclusively for lodge guests, with additional Sunday hours from 8 am to 2 pm for individuals without alternative dining options.
Location: Vuna Road, Ma’ufanga, Nuku’alofa.

9. Seaview Lodge & Restaurant

A little further along from Little Italy, Seaview Lodge & Restaurant offers an upscale dining experience with waterfront views and a cocktail deck that’s perfect for sundowners.

Under the expert guidance of Head Chef Soane Fakatava, who brings over 25 years of culinary experience from European kitchens, the restaurant blends European haute cuisine with fresh Polynesian flavours in sophisticated dishes.

We love their comprehensive menu that spans from traditional Tongan preparations like ‘ota ‘ika and tuna poke to premium offerings including New Zealand lamb rack and fresh catch of the day with housemade lemon butter sauce.

Don’t miss their daily happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm, where you can enjoy award-winning piña coladas alongside their curated wine selection from New Zealand, Australia and Europe.

The restaurant is also family-friendly with highchairs available, and vegetarian options are readily available upon request. Cash and credit card are accepted.

Opening hours: From 11 am to 10 pm Wednesday to Friday and 7 am to 10 pm Saturday and Sunday.
Location: Vuna Road, Tolosia, Nuku’alofa.

10. Dayang Restaurant

Tucked into a charming, modern building within easy walking distance of Nuku’alofa town centre, Dayang Restaurant serves up authentic Chinese cuisine that hits the spot every time. The menu is impressively diverse, covering everything from sizzling stir-fries and fragrant curry dishes to hearty noodle soups and perfectly steamed dumplings.

The beef noodles here are absolutely delicious, offering that comforting bowl of warmth you sometimes crave. The fried rice is equally outstanding and has earned legendary status among locals.

We’re particularly drawn to their sweet and sour preparations, both the chicken and pork versions are crowd-pleasers. Don’t sleep on the dumplings either, whether you go for fried or steamed, they’re consistently excellent.

Vegetarian diners will find plenty to love, with dedicated tofu dishes like mapo tofu, various vegetable preparations featuring bok choy and eggplant, and meat-free versions of classic favourites including vegetable fried rice and vegetable noodles.

Opening hours: From 9 am to 3 pm and 5 pm to 9 pm Monday to Saturday
Location: Corner of Railway Road and Laifone Road, Nuku’alofa, Tongatapu.

11. Moli Green Cafe

Pop in for a sit-down or use the drive-thru at Moli Green Cafe. This health-conscious café near Nuku’alofa city centre emphasises fresh ingredients and nutritious options, making it perfect for a wholesome breakfast or lunch.

The menu features toasties, sandwiches and paninis with various fillings, as well as heartier options like omelettes and full cooked breakfasts. We’re particularly drawn to their extensive smoothie selection with health-boosting blends including moringa preparations, tropical fruit combinations and green varieties packed with vegetables.

If you can’t kick the caffeine, they serve locally-roasted Kingdom Koffie beans alongside speciality drinks like their signature Banana Buzz coffee smoothie. Hot beverage options include traditional coffee preparations, teas and unique offerings like hot moringa juice.

Vegetarian travellers will find plenty of choices here. The café also features contemporary industrial-style interiors. Cash only.

Opening hours: From 7 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday and 7 am to 1 pm Saturday.
Location: Corner of Fatafehi Road and Laifone Road, Kolofo’ou, Nuku’alofa.

12. Lunarossa Deli

Lunarossa Deli proves that a fine dining takeaway is a thing with their eatery in Nuku’alofa. What used to be a reputable restaurant is now exclusively open as a deli and takeaway with just four seats to dine in!

Most choose to take home/back to their accommodation, however, to indulge in Italian-style dishes infused with seafood highlights. The menu rarely changes, featuring a range of pasta, ravioli and steak selections with beef, pork and chicken served alongside sauces like mushroom, garlic butter, pizzaiola and ginger creamy preparations.

Seafood lovers will appreciate the fish and prawn dishes prepared with specialty sauces including Lunarossa lemon garlic, pizzaiola tomato capers and Mornay cheese creamy.

Whatever you choose for mains, a must-try as an appetiser is their super fresh and beautifully seasoned sashimi, a long-standing menu favourite! On occasion, you might even catch the owner’s husband whipping up homemade lasagna. Cash and credit card are accepted.

Opening hours: From 5 pm to 9 pm Monday to Friday (last kitchen order at 8:30 pm). Potentially closed on Saturdays depending on order volume.
Location: Salote Road (across the road from the Fa’onelua Convention Center), Nuku’alofa.

13. Family Restaurant

For those seeking an interactive dining experience, Family Restaurant is a Chinese restaurant that stands out for its Korean BBQ setup, the main draw here.

The Korean BBQ comes as a shared platter perfect for groups, loaded with streaky pork, chicken wings, beef and vegetables like eggplant, plus fresh lettuce leaves to wrap everything up in. It’s all served with rice and makes for a fun, hands-on meal.

Beyond the BBQ, the menu spans a comprehensive range of Chinese dishes organised by protein and cooking style. You’ll find curry preparations, crispy options, stir-fries, braised dishes and sweet and sour variations across pork, seafood, chicken, beef and lamb sections. All dishes come with rice included.

It’s conveniently located right in the town centre.

Opening hours: From 9 am to 11 pm, Monday to Saturday, and 10 am to 10 pm Sunday.
Location: Vuna/Taufa’ahau Road, Nuku’alofa. On the main road in the town centre, opposite Federal Pacific House.

14. Builder’s Burger

Sure, there are a lot of burgers in Nuku’alofa. But nowhere else builds a burger like Builder’s Burger. They handcraft their own patties (or swap to fish for the same price) and stack them for all walks of life visiting them at their secluded waterfront location right by Nuku’alofa’s ocean swimming pool.

Needless to say, the “Builder’s Burger” is their most popular with double patties, double cheese, pineapple, eggs, bacon onion, lettuce, pickle and BBQ and white sauce! Wash it all down with a fresh coconut or a smoothie and let the kids loose at the pool or playground.

Opening hours: From 7 am to 9 pm Monday to Friday and 7 am to 3 pm Saturday.
Location: Taufa’ahau Road (at Touliki Ocean Pool, approximately 200 m/220 yards east of Villa Ishadora), Touliki, Nuku’alofa.

15. Mum’s Cafe

Experience a café Tongan style at Mum’s Café! This family-run restaurant serves everything from traditional Tongan feasts to hearty Western breakfasts, making it a versatile spot for any meal of the day.

Start your morning with their famous “Mum’s Big Breakfast” complete with eggs, meats and all the trimmings, or go local with traditional three-meal combinations from the food warmers. The menu spans from ‘ota ‘ika and ika lolo to curries, grills and pasta dishes, there’s truly something for everyone.

Whether you fancy fish and chips, a juicy burger or authentic Tongan preparations like Fisherman and Tongan meal platters, you’ll find generous portions lovingly prepared by Dad in the back while Mum and her daughters run the show out front!

Opening hours: From 7 am to 8:30 pm Monday to Saturday.
Location: Corner of Fatafehi Road and Laifone Road, Kolofo’ou, Nuku’alofa.

16. Hala Hihifo Kitchen and Grill

A local favourite for traditional Tongan cuisine, Hala Hihifo Kitchen and Grill is particularly renowned for their octopus prepared with coconut, a must-try dish that showcases authentic island flavours.

During our last visit, we also sampled their lu (meat and taro cooked in coconut cream), but the menu extends beyond traditional fare with a solid selection of burgers featuring steak, beef, chicken and fish options, plus hearty pub-style meals with chips.

For breakfast lovers, you’ll find everything from eggs benedict and omelettes to indulgent french toast and pancakes. The establishment caters well to groups with party packs available, and vegetarian diners will appreciate having dedicated options on the breakfast menu.

Opening hours: From 8 pm to 10 pm Monday to Friday, and 8 pm to 9 pm Saturday.
Location: Railway Road, Nuku’alofa. Between Sunshine Rental Cars and the Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua/Catholic Cathedral.

17. Muna Mei Moana

A hidden local gem tucked away in Nuku’alofa, Muna Mei Moana is the place to go if you want to try authentic Tongan food! This unassuming spot serves up fresh fish dishes and feke (octopus) that locals rave about.

From traditional preparations like ‘ota ika (raw fish salad) to classic fish and chips, everything here is prepared the way Tongans love it. The menu features genuine island flavours that give you a real taste of local cuisine, as we’ve experienced ourselves.

Find more like this in The Top Cheap Eats in Nuku’alofa.

Opening hours: From 9am to 5 pm Monday to Friday and 9 am to 2 pm Saturday.
Location: Hala Pili, Nuku’alofa, Tongatapu.

18. Siva’s Dream Cafe

If you have plenty of time on your hands and want to get out of town, escape to Siva’s Dream Cafe. Food is made with love at this locally run cafe in the village of Te’ekiu, which can take a little bit of time but is well worth the wait for the “Waimanalo Burger” marinated in honey soy sauce or the creamy chicken pasta.

Look out for one of their floor shows between November and December, as described in The 10 Best Cultural Shows in Tonga.

Opening hours: From 8 am to 8 pm Tuesday to Saturday.
Location: Signposted off Hihifo Road, Te’ekiu village, west side of Tongatapu.

20 BEST Restaurants on Tongatapu ???? [2023]

19. Waterfront Restaurant & Lodge

After strolling down a quaint garden pathway, you’ll arrive at the spacious Waterfront Restaurant & Lodge. A Tongan flair is present right across the restaurant, from its decor of carved pillars to its menu.

Try large “Tongan-style” portions of seafood prepared in many ways, succulent steaks, homemade pasta and more. Tongan-inspired dishes include lu as an entree, as well as fish of the day, such as mahimahi beautifully pan-fried or grilled.

Leave room for dessert, whether it’s for the cassava tart or refreshing tropical cheesecake.

The Waterfront also offers accommodation – see our 5 Best Luxury Accommodations in Nuku’alofa for more details.

Opening hours: From 7 am to 10 pm Monday to Saturday.
Location: Vuna Road, opposite Faua Wharf, Nuku’alofa.

20. Billfish Bar and Restaurant

An open-air restaurant on the waterfront, Billfish Bar and Restaurant has been a popular option with locals and visitors for more than 20 years. There’s so much to see here between the woven ceiling to the mounted bills and taxidermies of award-winning game fish caught throughout the years.

The menu spans multiple cuisines with Thai-style and red curry dishes, chargrilled steaks including sirloin and surf and turf, pasta options like chicken, prawn and lasagne, and burgers featuring local options like the Ifo Ifo Ika burger. Starters range from spring rolls to seafood dishes, with vegetarian and gluten-free choices available throughout.

Later in the evening, the bar often livens up with DJs from Wednesday to Saturday from 8 pm, plus karaoke every Tuesday night and a charity quiz on the last Monday of each month.

Learn more about its bar in the 5 Best Bars in Nuku’alofa.

Opening hours: From 11 am to 12:30 am Monday to Friday, 11 am to 11:30 pm Saturday. Closed Sunday.
Location: Vuna Road, Ma’ufanga, Nuku’alofa.

21. Pizzeria Royale

At the swanky location of Faua Wharf on Nuku’alofa‘s waterfront, Pizzeria Royale fires up some of the best pizzas in town that are worth paying a little extra for.

Enjoy all the usual pizza flavours with a good crisp-to-soft-dough ratio, while “A Mafia” is the “spoil yourself” option with BBQ sauce, bacon, ham, minced beef, pepperoni, bacon, mozzarella and parmesan.

When you’re done, you can enjoy drinks at Nauti Ruby’s next door – as listed in our Nuku’alofa & Tongatapu Nightlife Guide + 5 Things to Do at Night.

Opening hours: From 11:30 am to 9 pm Monday to Saturday.
Location: Faua Wharf, Vuna Road, Nuku’alofa.

30 BEST Restaurants on Tongatapu ???? [2023]

22. Three Men’s Fastfood

The kings of fast food in Nuku’alofa and Tongatapu, Three Men’s Fastfood is a chain that’s fast become the number one go-to for locals and visitors alike! Their extensive menu covers all the bases, from juicy burgers (including specialities like the BBQ Moa and Baba Saine Burger) to crispy fried chicken, paninis and classic hot dogs.

But it’s their pizza selection that really shines, with over twenty varieties ranging from traditional Hawaiian and Pepperoni to unique local creations and seafood options. Sizes go from kids’ portions right up to super family sizes, perfect for feeding the whole crew.

Head to their pizzeria in the container restaurants at the Vuna Wharf/Bus Station or indulge in their full menu at their flagship takeaway at Taufa’ahau Village.

Opening hours: From 8 am to midnight Monday to Friday, and 3 pm to 11 pm Saturday.
Location: Vuna Wharf/Bus Station on Vuna Road & Taufa’ahau Village, Taufa’ahau Road, Nuku’alofa.

23. Chand’s Curry House

A long-established hole-in-the-wall eatery at the Tonga Post Building food court, Chand’s Curry House is a popular Indian takeaway that doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon.

Treat yourself to a variety of curries with various boned and boneless meats, all served with rice, roti and a chilli chutney – amazing value for the price!

Opening hours: From 11 am to 9 pm Monday to Saturday.
Location: Tonga Post Building (between Tonga Post and BSP Bank), Taufa’ahau Road, Nuku’alofa.

24. Little India

Finally, across the road from the café mentioned above, Little India offers an attractive setting for authentic Indian cuisine spanning starters through to traditional desserts.

Find a cosy corner of the undercover courtyard decorated with garden furniture and artificial plants and grass for that urban garden chic vibe.

The menu features an extensive selection including various pakoras, traditional curry preparations served with roti, and specialities like tikka masala, korma and butter chicken. Vegetarians will appreciate the range of options including mixed vegetable curry, palak paneer and paneer tikka masala.

Complete your meal with stuffed parathas, biryani or a traditional Indian dessert like gulab jamun!

Opening hours: From 7:30 am to 10 pm Monday to Friday and 8 am to 8 pm Saturday.
Location: Corner of Taufa’ahau Road and ‘Alaivahamama’o Bypass, Nuku’alofa.

More About Restaurants on Tongatapu

That’s it for our list of the best restaurants on Tongatapu. For more about treating your palate, take a look at the following:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Food Guide to Tongatapu: Places to Eat & Food Tours.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across Tonga and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Tonga Tourism Authority (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
Tonga Ministry of Tourism (FAQs about visiting Tonga - Updated [2025])
SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Revenue & Customs (Customs and immigration contacts - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Agriculture & Food, Forests and Fisheries (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Infrastructure (Land and aviation transport info - Updated [2025])
Tonga Meteorological Service (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
Tonga Statistics Department (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for Tonga - Updated [2025])
Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for Tonga - Updated [2025])
Travel.State.Gov (U.S. travel advisory for Tonga - Updated [2025])

Our editorial standards: At Tonga Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura (Lola) S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of Tonga Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Tonga. She knows the islands inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Tonga’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.

About Laura About Our Team

24 BEST Restaurants on Tongatapu