Trader Jacks bar and restaurant bar and restaurant is an institution in the Cook Islands, offering great food, great service, great drinks and a great time. Overlooking the waters of Avarua Harbour [location] the Traders' restaurant enjoys a stunning setting along with a reputation for quality dining, with superb, freshly-caught seafood a feature. The Traders bar is one of the most popular in the South Pacific. But Trader Jacks is more than just somewhere to eat and drink – it is a place where you can experience the Cook Islands, meet the local characters and enjoy the South Seas lifestyle. With its “bar-over-the-water” ambience, Traders retains a roguish charm – not least thanks to the larger-than-life presence of the proprietor himself, Jack Cooper (aka “The Trader”).

Since opening in 1986, the establishment has earned a reputation to rival that of Aggie Greys in Samoa, Quinn’s in Tahiti and the Dateline in Tonga. It has even been described by politicians and journalists as the country’s second parliament and true financial centre of the economy!

Open throughout the week from midday until late, bar snacks and meals are available throughout the day.

Traders has become synonymous with quality seafood and innovative dining. At lunchtime, it is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The cool sea breeze and beautiful views make it a wonderful location for a relaxing afternoon meal. As the sun sets over the water the bar area begins to fill up with the dinner crowd and those looking for a cool drink. Watch out for the colourful local characters, from politicians to business people who congregate at the bar to catch up on all the island gossip.

Trader Jacks also provides live music and, at weekends, guests are treated to sounds from some of best bands on the island. On Friday, traditionally the big night out on Rarotonga, the place is packed to the rafters with locals and tourists - dining, drinking, dancing the night away and enjoying the unique atmosphere of this now-legendary South Seas establishment
The latest incarnation of this Cook Islands landmark was launched in August of 2006 [opening] with completely redesigned and rebuilt premises and a new menu that takes full advantage of the establishment’s close association with Blue Pacific Foods and its state-of-the-art fish processing plant (also located in Avarua).

Red and white meat dishes are featured in the new menu but the emphasis is most definitely (and naturally) on seafood in all its wonderful variety.

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