Our Story

Kia Orana,

I’m Jill, the founder and owner of The Mooring Fish Cafe.

In my previous life as a busy real estate agent in Auckland, New Zealand, I used to holiday in Rarotonga. I fell in love with the island of Rarotonga, and made the big move to the Cook Islands with only a suitcase and a dream. After working in several businesses locally, I decided it was time to set up my own shop and offer visitors to the islands the type of food I was seeking (but never finding) on my visits here.

We have abundant fresh, organic and local goods here, not to mention a phenomenal quality of seafood. I wanted to combine these in a friendly, social atmosphere that made visitors feel at home away from home.

The Mooring Fish Cafe was born, and an empty shipping container became the bustling restaurant we know and love today. The Mooring Fish Cafe has grown a lot over the years, but through it all the original premise of simple, home cooked and fresh food has remained paramount.

Our location is incredibly special to us, and this small spot in the Avana Harbour waterfront is our little slice of heaven.

We hope to welcome you here soon. Our number one tip? Come early in your trip, as you will want to come back!

Meitaki,

Jill & the team at The Mooring Fish Cafe.