The Falls Cafe — Restaurant in North Island

We took the family to the Falls Cafe' shortly after New Year's 2024/25 for lunch and did not have a rosy experience. While I understand it was busy, with many people on holiday and enjoying the summer weather, the service was almost non-existent. It took the wait staff nearly 30 minutes to clear the used plates etc. left by the previous diners, from the table we sat at. No cold water or glasses were available, and the cheese and mushroom toastie my brother ordered had practically nothing on it. Despite it not being a public holiday, they had a 15% surcharge with zero justification being added to every order! The biggest insult was that we had been on their website to check out the menu before we visited the cafe' and the on-site prices were on average 20% higher than their website or online menu images. A number of the online food items like burgers etc. included chips or wedges, but on-site everything excluded any sides whatsoever!?!? I understand hospitality businesses need to capitalize on the busy summer months and profit is essential to operate successfully. But this went from online perceived "reasonable" value for money, to an outright ripoff on site! I guess the owners know, it's hard to turn around with the family, when you've committed to lunch after a substantial drive. All in all a disappointing experience and we will not be back for...

This is a lovely place to visit. We often go for a coffee and lunch. The staff are lovely people, always friendly and happy and even remember our usual order. It's sad to see the hateful post below as we were actually sitting on the next table over from that family. Her review could not be further from the truth. She was incredibly rude to the owner who was nothing but polite to the family. We will never be put off by 1 disgruntled reviewer and will continue to visit and enjoy the hospitality of all at Falls cafe as well as recommend to friends and family. You guys do...

I was running an AIMS Games event at McLaren Falls and approached the cafe about providing food for our Officials. Although they were normally closed on the day of our event they very kindly went in and prepared 12 takeaway meals and coffees and drove them up to the competition for us. Above and beyond the call of duty - Outstanding service with a smile. The food was lovely and they'd kept it hot for us in foil and chilly bags until we needed it. Just fantastic!!! Thank you lovely ladies at...