Bean Scene: Our flight attendant friend Holly told us we had to come to Bean Scene for A) their delicious coffee and B) one of her favorite cookies in the world, their “Cosmic Cookie”. We’re proud to report that both were so incredible, we went back every day (and bought a handful of cookies for the road)! (@beanscenecoffeeworks)
Pulp Fiction Coffee House: A vintage bookstore meets coffee shop, Pulp Fiction is definitely unique - and definitely worth a stop! Browse through their books and collectables while you wait for a cup of their tasty London Fog Tea Latte… it’s a booklover’s dream! (Pulp Fiction Coffee House on Instagram)
Third Space Coffee: We oftentimes judge a coffee shop based on their flat whites, and this spot passed with flying colors. Not to mention we love its hip and minimal decor! (@thirdspaceculture)
Esther and Sons Cafe: We love this quaint little family-run coffee shop for its open & airy vibes, friendly service, and quality cappuccinos. Don’t leave without trying one of their fresh baked scones! (@estherandsons)
Breakfast
The Jammery: Breakfast all day, flavorful homemade jam (hence the name), and all-you-can-eat waffles? Count us in! Don’t forget to leave with a jar or two - and you can even watch them making their famous jam from the window in the gift shop! (@the_jammery)
Bobby’s pick: Classic Benny
Alli’s pick: Jammery Favourite!
Bohemian Cafe & Catering: Just ask the Kelowna locals where to find the best breakfast in town, and chances are they’ll send you to the Bohemian Cafe! And they’re right. It’s fresh and hearty portions that often attract a line… but don’t let that deter you, it’ll go fast. (@thebohemiancafe)
Bobby’s pick: Boh Egger with bacon
Alli’s pick: Blueberry Oatmeal pancakes
Sunny’s Modern Diner: Named after the restaurant owner’s adorable golden retriever, Sunny’s is a playful, modern, and creative breakfast joint right in the heart of downtown Kelowna that shouldn’t be missed! Make sure you try the “Chicks on a Raft” - featuring a toasted baguette topped with eggs, cheddar, and peanut butter! (Don’t hate - it’s good.) (@sunnysmoderndiner)
Bobby’s pick: Chicks on a Raft (obviously)
Alli’s pick: Garden Bowl (I like to add an extra poached egg!)
Lunch/Dinner
Antico Pizza: You know a pizza restaurant is legit when you can watch the chefs make the dough through the window… and that’s exactly the case at this downtown Naples style pizza joint! Enjoy it on your patio, or order your pizza to go and take it to the beach! Regardless, you’ll love it. (@anticopizza)
Bobby’s pick: Carne-Val
Alli’s pick: Margherita Di Bufala
Krafty Kitchen + Bar: Whether you go for brunch or dinner, we’re positive you’ll leave this Kelowna hot spot with rave reviews. While they take farm-to-table Canadian cuisine very seriously, it’s apparent they have a lot of fun. Make a reservation in advance if you can. (@kraftykitbar)
Bobby’s pick: Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Alli’s pick: Curried Carrot Risotto
The Curious Artistry & Alchemy Cafe: With a name like that, we were too curious not to try it! And with craft beers, comfort food, and wood-fired pizza on the menu, we’re glad we did! They have a great happy hour and several vegan options - including a vegan, nut-free pizza! (The Curious Cafe on Instagram)
Bobby’s pick: Perogi Calzone
Alli’s pick: Moroccan Chickpea Stew
Okanagan Street Food: Is this the best spot for lunch in Kelowna? We think so. Begin with their fresh cut fries (that comes with the most amazing homemade blackberry ketchup!), and then feast on their mouth-watering pulled pork sandwich and mac & cheese (add the house bacon for only $3)... Then plan on taking a nap! ;) (Okanagan Street Food on Instagram)
Raudz Regional Table: Our pick for a fun date night spot! Everything they serve is made/grown locally - even their wine! It’s hands down one of the best restaurants in the region, and worth the splurge. Make a reservation in advance. (@raudz)
Bobby’s pick: The RJB
Alli’s pick: Baked Fish & Chips
Wine taste! There are over 120 wineries in the Okanagan Valley, and over 40 of them are in Kelowna! We had no idea what an incredible wine region it is, as the varietals, the vineyards, and the views all rival Napa - and they’re a fraction of the cost! A couple of our favorites were: Hatch Wine, Quail’s Gate, Mission Hill, and Arrowleaf Cellars.
BNA Brewing Co: A hip craft brewery with a bowling alley, arcade, bocce court and more… you could easily make BNA Brewing Co an all-night destination! They serve solid food and drinks (make sure you get the zucchini fries), and laid-back and friendly service, it’s a must! (@bnabrewing)
Kelly O’Bryans: This neighborhood Irish bar & restaurant is perfectly lively and their outdoor patio has beautiful views of the lake. Order a plate of pachos and a round of Guinness, and you’re in for a treat! (@kellyobryansdowntown)
Delta Grand Okanagan Resort: While there are other good options in Kelowna, we highly recommend you stay at the Delta Grand Okanagan. You can’t beat the location, the amenities (pools, boat rentals, etc), and the friendly service. They’re also extremely dog friendly! (@deltagrandhotel)
Wine tasting tour: Like we said, Kelowna is right in the heart of wine country, so you really should dedicate a day to exploring the vineyards. If you don’t feel confident going on your own, or you plan on drinking at each one, take a tour!
Hike! There’s tons of beautiful hiking trails in and around Kelowna, and it’s primie hiking conditions in the Spring and Summer. Our favorite is the hike to Crawford Falls!
Bike through Myra Canyon Trestles: This scenic stretch of the Kettle Valley Railway is a 40 minute drive from downtown Kelowna, and boasts 2 tunnels and 18 trestle bridges that are absolutely breathtaking. It’s a must. You can rent bikes here.
Rent a boat or a Sea-Doo: There’s nothing better than a day on the lake in the warm Kelowna summertime! Load up on sunscreen, pack a picnic, and spend the day on the water. You can rent boats here.
Yes! Kelowna is really dog friendly. Sally loved walking around the downtown with us and even going to some wineries (like Arrowleaf)! Just remember - most restaurant patios in Canada do not allow dogs… but thankfully there’s places like Doggytopia where you can leave your pup for the day (just remember to bring their paperwork)!
