I was raised in the Central Okanagan living in both West Kelowna and Kelowna for the vast majority of my life. Kelowna and the Okanagan area in general is a travel hotspot for Canadian and international travelers alike. Most people are drawn in by the beautiful scenery and sparkling lake yet there is much more to explore. A foodie's dream, a wine lover's playground, it even has something adorable for the shopaholic in your life. This three part series will tell you my favorite places for every occasion, focusing on Kelowna and a bit of the surrounding area, and all local.
Foodie Fun
Although there is an abundance of fine dining in Kelowna, fancy events may not be in the top of your priority list while on vacation. If you are looking for a fun atmosphere with food to match here are some places to try.
This place has not only food and beer but also a bowling alley. The food is absolutely delicious, the majority of which is elevated bar food. BNA carries a variety of their own beer and locals. Be warned this place will often have a wait and the top level with the bowling ally can be rented out for events.
A little less of a party than BNA this local gem has a pizza oven in house with an amazing selection of artisanal pizzas. The menu rotates depending on what the chef is feeling and I have never been disappointed by anything I have tried. I would consider the majority of their menu elevated bar food as well. I would recommend trying their curated drink menu as well for a little extra fun.
This sports bar has a beautiful patio or can overlook an indoor ice rink in the Sunplex Sports Club. Although Central is a sports bar if you judged it only by the food you would never guess it.
Be warned this place is always bustling though it is worth all the business it gets. As you could probably guess this Mexican place focuses on its tacos. Even a cilantro hater like me enjoys the food.
A Place to Chill
After a long day of walking around the beautiful scenery you may want a quieter place to rest your feet while you eat. Here are some lovely places for a quieter bunch.
This Fusion place is beyond creative with their menu and I love it. The first time I checked out this place was with my family and it was perfect for casual conversation while we ate.
This Vietnamese restaurant may seem like a chain but is a locally owned chain. There are three locations within Kelowna and West Kelowna. My favorites for a nice place to sit are the downtown Kelowna location and the West Kelowna branch. If you want authentic Pho this place is Pho-tastic.
This place is a little higher end from the previous places (the price reflects it) I mentioned but it is worth it. My family LOVES this place and will use any excuse to eat there. Perfect for a quiet group, although you may not get to chatting much since the food will take the words right out of your mouth.
Café's
If you want something good on the go, or a lighter meal, try out these delicious gems that are just as tasty as any other place (if not more).
Locals love this place on weekends so if you are going then expect it to be PACKED. If you have the luxury of going on a weekday you will be more than likely to find a spot to sit and chat with friends if you like. Bliss is a local chain in the Central Okanagan with locations in Peachland, West Kelowna, and Kelowna. My favorite location is the Peachland location as it is right on the water and has a beautiful patio in the summer. The Kelowna location isn't as beautiful as it is practical being downtown. Although this café may not be on the water in Kelowna it makes up for it in award winning baked goods and light food.
This is not a true cat café as there are no cats wandering around, but the vibes are just as good. It is located on Pandosy right next to some of the cutest shops in town. The café is artsy and fun with an eclectic décor style and the food is amazing. This café has many options for those with dietary restrictions although my favorite thing has all the problematic pieces. If you are able, try the ham and brie panini with the very berry tea.
Another local chain with two downtown Kelowna locations is a long term local gem. If you want a sandwich go here. Close to the water you can either eat in and people watch or take your sandwich to go and eat on the water I would recommend the latter.
Best Views in Town
If you're in Kelowna for the lake here are some places to check out so you'll never miss it for too long. This is the only section that will include non local chains and I will mention which ones they are.
This is a BC only chain and the downtown Kelowna location is the original. The restaurant has been in the same location for years right next to city park with a rooftop patio overlooking the lake. If you want the most fun cocktails in town give their huge menu a try. I also recommend two local favorites: Patchos and The McCracken rolls.
Beer is this downtown beauty's focus with a record amount on tap. Founded in Calgary, my current home rather than my hometown, they aren't particularly local but at least Canadian. I'd recommend their local beer flight for some fun on their rooftop patio right next to Kelly O's.
I think we all know this one isn't a local gem but they did manage to snag one of the best locations at their downtown Kelowna location within the Yacht Club itself. This location is a stunner just steps away from the lake overlooking a marina.
Another non local with a beautiful location. This one is particularly good on a colder day as the second level interior right next to Craft has panoramic windows overlooking the lake.
I do believe this beauty is the most expensive for its view but it's completely justified. Overlooking waterfront park and the lake, this beauty also backs onto a manmade stream that runs through the park. This restaurant is also located within Kelowna's finest hotel The Grand, and where I had my prom.
Honorable Mention
This plant-based restaurant is perfect for those with dietary restrictions. For those meat eaters in your life they will never know they are having a plant-based meal. Meatless does not mean bland or light when you eat here, there is a meal for everyone and it is all amazing.
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