1st time and I award for the delicious food and payment method was via Kiosk. The wait time for our meal was around 10mins and the restaurant was not crowded, it was good. I had Lamb Berber which was my first time trying Tunisian food and their chicken kebab had enough meat to feel full after having 1/2 of it. The Berber was cooked in mildly spiced creamy tomato gravy and a side of fresh minty salad on a bed of turmeric rice. They were light and delicious. It reminded me of Biryani which is served part of Indian cuisine. It’s worth it and the total amount was $40 just for the two dishes, it’s a lil pricey but food is expensive in New Zealand. There were 2 men cooking, cleaning and serving. They were quick, on their feet and responsive if you need anything. The atmosphere was ok, a takeaway would be great.
Overview
Ali Baba's Tunisian Cuisine is a hidden gem tucked away at 1146 Tutanekai Street in Rotorua, New Zealand, offering a delightful experience for anyone seeking authentic flavors from Tunisia. If you're in the area and craving something new, this cozy diner should definitely be on your radar. The restaurant is known for serving up traditional Tunisian dishes that are rich in spice, flavor, and culture. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Ali Baba's provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the unique tastes of North Africa.
One of the first things that catches your eye when you enter Ali Baba's is the warm and inviting atmosphere. The interior is modest yet welcoming, with subtle touches of Tunisian decor that set the scene for an authentic dining experience. The staff are friendly, offering service with a smile, which immediately makes you feel right at home. The focus here is definitely on the food, but the welcoming vibe adds to the overall charm of the restaurant.
The menu is a journey through Tunisia’s rich culinary landscape. Whether you’re in the mood for something light or hearty, you’ll find plenty of options to tempt your taste buds. For those unfamiliar with Tunisian cuisine, dishes like couscous, tajine, and brik are staples that you simply must try. Ali Baba's Tunisian Cuisine brings these dishes to life with great attention to detail.
The couscous here is a standout, fluffy and perfectly seasoned with a mix of spices that give it a comforting, savory flavor. It's often paired with a stew or a variety of grilled meats, making for a filling and satisfying meal. For those who love seafood, the fish tajine is another must-try. It’s a slow-cooked dish, filled with delicate fish, vegetables, and a rich blend of spices that brings out the depth of flavor. The tajine is served in a traditional clay pot, which not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the dish warm until you're ready to enjoy it.
Another standout item on the menu is brik, a popular Tunisian pastry filled with egg and tuna. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft, savory filling, making it a delightful appetizer or snack. If you’re looking for something unique, the lamb mechoui, a slow-cooked lamb dish, is one of the restaurant’s specialties. The lamb is tender and succulent, seasoned with aromatic spices that highlight the rich flavors of Tunisian cooking.
For dessert, be sure to try the traditional Baklava. Sweet, flaky, and nutty, it’s a perfect way to end your meal on a high note. The dessert menu also includes a variety of Tunisian pastries that reflect the country’s love for nuts, honey, and delicate layers of filo pastry.
Ali Baba’s Tunisian Cuisine isn't just about the food; it’s about the experience. From the moment you sit down, you’re treated to a dining experience that feels both authentic and personal. Whether you’re enjoying a meal with friends, family, or even by yourself, there’s a certain charm to the restaurant that makes each visit special.
The location at 1146 Tutanekai Street makes it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders and vibrant tourism industry, is an ideal place for Ali Baba's to stand out with its unique offering. The restaurant’s reputation has been steadily growing, with many customers returning to try different dishes from the menu. The reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the high-quality food and attentive service, making it a go-to spot for those wanting to enjoy an authentic North African meal.
If you're looking to explore new flavors or dive deeper into Tunisian cuisine, Ali Baba's offers a perfect setting. It's an excellent place to gather with loved ones or enjoy a casual meal while discovering the rich culinary traditions of Tunisia. The combination of flavorful dishes, warm service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes Ali Baba's Tunisian Cuisine a standout in Rotorua, and one you won’t want to miss.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-inPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
âś“ Halal food âś“ Quick bite âś“ Small plates âś“ Vegetarian optionsDining options
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Dessert âś“ SeatingAmenities
âś“ ToiletAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ CosyCrowd
âś“ Groups âś“ Tourists âś“ University studentsPlanning
âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ Good for kids âś“ Has changing table(s) âś“ High chairs âś“ Kids' menuParking
âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Free parking lot âś“ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
Great place. I had a lovely lunch here. I had the Kascrute - a toasted wrap of Lebanese bread with meat, veg, and sauce . It was absolutely delicious and served with an excellent small salad and a mild mint sauce. The dish was well presented and tasted amazing. The lone staff member did an excellent job with the lunch time rush provided great service in a tough time. Decor was tasteful and suited the place. Great place all around.
The Berber chicken rice meal was awesome! The rice was perfectly cooked and the sauce was rich, creamy, and full of flavor without being overpowering. The spices were well balanced—mildly spiced but still very satisfying. Everything tasted fresh and comforting, and the portion was generous. I’d definitely order this again and recommend it to anyone looking for something flavorful but not too spicy.
We heard the place was good and the owner was kind, well spoiler: the food was delicious and the owner was amazing. No exaggeration, will be recommending people travel to NZ to eat here. Clean place, well decorated, extremely welcoming. The place is magic. We had the traditional noodles with lamb and the Berber with falafel but honestly think anything you get here would be great.
First time trying Tunisian food and I loved it! I got the Lamb Berber — huge portion, so I asked to have the rice and lamb separate to take the leftovers home. Food was really tasty, flavors on point, and the lamb was super tender. Can’t wait to come back and try the pizza! Thanks for having halal options too
So amazing ! It’s my first time trying Tunisian cuisine, and it surprised me the rice meals is my favorite
Absolute Flavor Bomb! Ali Baba's Food is a Must-Try! ​Seriously, stop what you're doing and go eat here. Ali Baba Restaurant is not just serving food; they're serving an experience, and it all starts with incredibly delicious, perfectly prepared dishes. ​I went in hoping for a good meal and left completely blown away. The star of the show for me was the Lamb Shawarma Platter. The lamb was marinated beautifully—tender, juicy, and packed with that perfect blend of spices. It wasn't greasy at all, and the way it was piled high next to the fluffiest rice I’ve ever had was just perfect. ​We also shared the Falafel, and they were exactly how falafel should be: crispy on the outside, hot and wonderfully green on the inside, without being dry. They tasted so fresh! ​If you like rich, hearty flavors, you must try the Arayes. The grilled meat-stuffed pita pockets are like savory little parcels of heaven. They’re charred perfectly, giving a satisfying crunch before you hit the juicy filling. ​Every dish here is clearly made with care and high-quality ingredients. From the perfectly spiced seasoning to the freshness of the accompanying salad and dips, Ali Baba delivers 5-star flavor every single time. It’s authentic, satisfying, and genuinely the best I've had in a long time. Go hungry!
We really enjoyed the Kebab wrap and Garlic fries. There was only one person as cook/cashier/waiter when we were there but he was doing all he could to make it seem like there was a whole team working. The kebab was very satisfying and the garlic sauce on the fries was a nice new flavor I hadn’t had before.