Authentic Mexican Cuisine Since 2017

Select your nearest cantina
Recognised and loved by diners across New Zealand.
Consistently ranked among the best Mexican restaurants in NZ.





Born from a love of bold flavours and authentic Mexican tradition, El Mexicano Zapata Cantina brings the heart of Mexico to New Zealand.From handcrafted margaritas and vibrant cantina atmosphere to time-honoured recipes passed through generations, every visit is about great food, culture, and connection.

From sizzling fajitas and handcrafted burritos to vibrant tacos and traditional enchiladas, every dish at El Mexicano Zapata is prepared fresh each day using quality ingredients and time-honoured recipes.Dine in for the full cantina experience or enjoy our flavours at home with takeaway and delivery.

The best way to experience authentic Mexican cuisine is to immerse yourself in the vibrant flavours and atmosphere of El Mexicano Zapata Cantina.From traditional recipes to carefully crafted modern classics, every dish is designed to capture the true spirit of Mexico — using quality ingredients and a passion for great food.Follow the aromas, explore the menu, and discover the flavours that keep our guests coming back.
From classic margaritas and handcrafted cocktails to a curated selection of Mexican and Latin American beverages, our drinks are designed to refresh, inspire, and bring people together.Join us for after-work drinks, weekend celebrations, or simply to unwind with something special in hand.
Whether you’re planning a family celebration, after-work drinks, a graduation, or a special gathering with friends, El Mexicano Zapata Cantina offers the perfect setting for every occasion.From intimate tables to group bookings, we’re here to help you create memorable moments over great food and vibrant atmosphere.
Choose your location or order online in seconds.
© 2018–2026 El Mexicano Zapata. All rights reserved.
Authentic Mexican Cantina • Dine-in • Takeaway • Delivery • Rotorua • Hamilton • Auckland (New Lynn)

Delivery • Takeaway • Private Functions
We offer food delivery in Rotorua with easy online ordering for takeaway, pick-up, and in-house delivery with contactless payment options. We also welcome private functions and group bookings.
See options below.
A 3% surcharge applies to credit card payments. No surcharge on public holidays.
Order Online Food Delivery via UberEats or DoorDash





El Mexicano Zapata Cantina is Rotorua’s destination for authentic Mexican cuisine and unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re joining us for a dine-in feast, grabbing a takeaway, or enjoying delivery at home, our menu brings the soul of Mexican flavour right to the heart of Rotorua.From hand-pressed tortillas and sizzling fajitas to fresh tacos and crafted margaritas, every dish is prepared with passion and respect for generations of culinary heritage. Join us for vibrant colours, bold aromas, and warm hospitality — the hallmarks of Mexican culture.
Enjoy El Mexicano Zapata Cantina your way:
• Dine-In — vibrant cantina atmosphere
• Takeaway — quick, delicious meals
• Delivery — order online for fast delivery
Whether you’re planning a night out or a cosy meal at home, we bring classic Mexican favourites to you with freshness and flair.
Opening Hours
Monday – Sunday: 11:30am – 3pm, 5pm – 9pm
Enjoy the experience with our delicious Mexican cuisine at El Mexicano Zapata Cantina in Rotorua. Dine in with us or order online for takeaway and delivery, and enjoy authentic Mexican flavours right here in the heart of Rotorua.
Contact Us
Address: 1148 Tutanekai St, Rotorua 3010 | Phone: 07 213 1175
Email: elmexicanozapata17@gmail.com

Order Online Food Delivery via UberEats or DoorDash
Opening Hours
Monday – Sunday: 11:30am – 3pm, 5pm – 9pm
Contact Us: 07 210 0769
211 Victoria Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton 3204
El Mexicano Zapata Cantina is Hamilton’s destination for authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant dining experiences. Whether you’re joining us for a relaxed dine-in meal, grabbing takeaway, or ordering delivery at home, our menu brings bold Mexican flavours straight to the heart of Hamilton.From freshly made tacos and sizzling fajitas to handcrafted margaritas and traditional Mexican favourites, every dish is prepared with passion, quality ingredients, and respect for generations of Mexican culinary heritage.
Find Us in Hamilton Central
© 2018–2026 El Mexicano Zapata. All rights reserved.
Authentic Mexican Cantina • Dine-in • Takeaway • Delivery • Rotorua • Hamilton • Auckland (New Lynn)

Order Online Food Delivery via UberEats or DoorDash






El Mexicano Zapata Cantina is more than just a restaurant — it's the continuation of a dream that began in 2017 in the heart of Rotorua. Within just one year, our dedication to authentic Mexican cuisine earned us recognition as the premier Mexican dining destination, becoming a landmark cherished by Latin American visitors and local food enthusiasts alike.
Our passion for sharing genuine Mexican flavours and cultural experiences led us to Hamilton in 2022, where we quickly captured the hearts and palates of a new community, again earning the title of Best Authentic Mexican Restaurant in the region.
Now, we bring our culinary legacy to Auckland’s vibrant New Lynn neighborhood. Each dish tells a story of Mexico’s diverse culinary heritage — from the coastal inspirations of Veracruz to the rich traditions of Oaxaca. Our recipes honour generations of Mexican families who perfected these flavours long before they reached New Zealand’s shores.
Real reviews from diners in Auckland (New Lynn)
Review 1
★★★★★
“Excellent - The food was really good and the service as well, we enjoyed the dinner it was our first time visiting. But for sure will visit again.”
— Venture30515968630
Review 2
★★★★★
“DONT WALK, RUN TO EL MEXICANO ZAPATA CATINA - Best Mexican food we’ve had in Auckland. The fajitas and margaritas were incredible.”
— Ritisha P
Review 3
★★★★★
“Vegetarian and vegan mexican food - Great food with vegetarian options. They also do a vegan option the Burrrito was good. We all left very full. Friendly staff.”
— Maps30851196945
Dine in, order online, or find us in New Lynn.
• Hand-pressed tortillas made fresh
• Authentic fajitas, tacos & regional Mexican dishes
• Crafted margaritas & classic Mexican cocktails
At El Mexicano Zapata Cantina, we’ve created more than just a place to eat — we’ve built an immersive experience where vibrant colors, intoxicating aromas, and a lively atmosphere transport you straight to Mexico. Our carefully curated space celebrates Mexican culture through authentic décor, traditional music, and the warm hospitality that defines our heritage.Our mission goes beyond serving exceptional food. We aim to become the southern hemisphere’s premier Mexican cantina, starting by capturing the hearts of New Zealanders one unforgettable meal at a time. Join us at 11 Totara Avenue, New Lynn, and discover why our restaurants become beloved destinations wherever we open our doors.
© 2018–2026 El Mexicano Zapata. All rights reserved.
Authentic Mexican Cantina • Dine-in • Takeaway • Delivery • Rotorua • Hamilton • Auckland (New Lynn)
© 2018–2026 El Mexicano Zapata. All rights reserved.
Authentic Mexican Cantina • Dine-in • Takeaway • Delivery • Rotorua • Hamilton • Auckland (New Lynn)
© 2018–2026 El Mexicano Zapata. All rights reserved.
Authentic Mexican Cantina • Dine-in • Takeaway • Delivery • Rotorua • Hamilton • Auckland (New Lynn)
© 2018–2026 El Mexicano Zapata. All rights reserved.
Authentic Mexican Cantina • Dine-in • Takeaway • Delivery • Rotorua • Hamilton • Auckland (New Lynn)
© 2018–2026 El Mexicano Zapata. All rights reserved.
Authentic Mexican Cantina • Dine-in • Takeaway • Delivery • Rotorua • Hamilton • Auckland (New Lynn)
© 2018–2026 El Mexicano Zapata. All rights reserved.
Authentic Mexican Cantina • Dine-in • Takeaway • Delivery • Rotorua • Hamilton • Auckland (New Lynn)