The Fat Brother Rotorua — Restaurant in North Island

I recently visited this restaurant with my family, expecting a great experience based on the reviews I’d heard. Unfortunately, it was a major letdown from the moment we walked in. The layout was not just poorly designed—it was downright unpleasant. I seriously considered leaving right then and there, but decided to give it a chance. As we looked over the menu, I noticed there were some appealing options, but the selection was disappointingly limited. And don’t get me started on the prices. Nine dollars for just four chicken wings? That’s absurd. How can they justify that? I ended up ordering the Fat American and some cheesy chili-loaded fries. The fries were a mess—soggy, with cheese that tasted like plastic. My sister and I also tried the chicken burgers, which were shockingly bad. They tasted like they were straight out of an air fryer, and they weren’t even fully cooked. It felt unsafe to eat. And then there were the mozzarella sticks, which arrived ice cold, like they’d barely been cooked. To top it all off, the table we were seated at was dirty, with leftover sauce from the previous diners. It was clear it hadn’t been cleaned properly. This experience was a huge disappointment, and I can’t see myself coming back. I really hope they improve, because right now, this place is far from the great restaurant it’s made out to be.

I also messaged my family and friends to NOT come here, saving them before the nightmare they might’ve...

First of all, I want to say, I Love BBQ Ribs. If you're looking for great tasting, succulent, drop off the bone, tender BBQ ribs, look no more. I found them at The FAT Brothers Rotorua restaurant.

Last Sunday, I treated my mother to lunch at The Fat Brothers (first time). It's one of those hidden gems around the corner from Eat Street on Whakaue. Aman greeted us at the door and convinced us to dine in. We sat by the window and took in the view of the park and lakefront.

I knew what I wanted - the BBQ Ribs of course, but what about mom. She ordered the fish fingers and jalapeño bites. She said, " I would love to have a salad with it, but it wasn't on the menu". Aman listened and said, "he would have the chef make something special", and he did not disappoint. Chef Sid, prepared a beautiful fresh salad, with avocado, finely chopped vegetables, sliced apple mixed in a honey mustard dressing. It was absolutely delicious, something you would expect from a 5-star restaurant. To top it off, Aman surprised us with a rich and decadent chocolate brownie with thick chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream. What more could you ask.

Our dining experience at The FAT BROTHERS Rotorua, was first class, the service impeccable. This is one place to remember and YES, we will be back. We learned, just because it's not on the menu, it doesn't hurt to ask. They may just...

Blown Away!

Fat Brothers has restored my faith in the hospitality industry and humanity as a whole.

As a former chef, fussy eater, and generally critical person I was amazed (and I don't often use that word) at the friendliness and warmth of the staff and the delicious food at Fat Brothers.

It was my birthday, and my partner and I normally have a yearly stop in at Lonestar around this time. Partly out of habit, and also because we're skeptical of a lot of places as online reviews and their negativity are sometimes hard to ignore. We opted to try Fat Brothers as I'm a bit of a burger connesir and it was about time to give Lonestar a pass and try something different.

Wow. From the time we entered Aman was welcoming and professional and made us feel right at home. Drinks came out swiftly are were right on point; Hazy IPA smooth and cold, Rum and Coke strong and full, not watery and weak.

We ordered a Fat Father, Fat Cow, 3 sides and dips. All came out together, hot, tasty and filling. I have not had a better burger in all of Rotorua. Soft brioche bun, juicy bacon, melted cheese, fantastic sauce, couldn't have asked for more.

Top notch food and staff - treated like a king all night.

Go. To. Fat....