Welcome to Okanagan Valley, British Columbia! The region is known for its picturesque vineyards, breathtaking sights, and of course, its iconic cuisine. For the foodies out there, Okanagan Valley is a culinary paradise that will leave you wanting more. With so many great eateries to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In this article, we will explore the best restaurants in Okanagan Valley, BC, Canada.

First on the list is the highly acclaimed Waterfront Wines. Located in the heart of downtown Kelowna, this restaurant is famous for its sumptuous dishes made with locally sourced, seasonal organic produce. Chef Mark Filatow has won numerous accolades for his culinary creations, including recognition from the Vancouver Magazine Awards. The restaurant features an extensive wine list with over 400 labels, many of which are local.

Another must-visit restaurant is the Old Vines Restaurant at the Quails\’ Gate Winery. The restaurant boasts a spectacular view of the Okanagan Lake and offers an elegant atmosphere to enjoy outstanding cuisine. Chef Roger Sleiman\’s menu features contemporary Canadian fare crafted with the freshest local ingredients. Old Vines wine selection is extensive, featuring over 800 wines, many from Quails\’ Gate Winery.

If you\’re looking for something more casual, check out Smack DAB. The restaurant, located on the waterfront of Manteo Resort in Kelowna, has outdoor seating, making it an excellent spot for the summer months. Smack DAB is known for its mouth-watering burgers, fish tacos, and fresh salads. The restaurant also offers signature cocktails and beers, perfect for a relaxing night out with friends and family.

For seafood lovers, the BluSaffron Bistro in Penticton is a must-visit restaurant. Chef Ross Derrick\’s dishes highlight the local fish and seafood, including his award-winning pan-seared scallops. BluSaffron Bistro\’s menu also features classic Canadian dishes with a twist, like the Bannock Burger, which is a burger with a bannock bun, wild boar bacon, and lingonberry jam. Also on their menu are Asian-inspired dishes, such as the Okanagan Ramen, an excellent comfort dish for any rainy day.

Next up is Block One Restaurant at 50th Parallel Estate Winery in Lake Country. The restaurant offers a tasting menu that pairs six courses with 50th Parallel Winery\’s award-winning wines. Each course is masterfully crafted with locally grown ingredients that showcase the best of the valley\’s seasonal bounty. The restaurant\’s location overlooking the lake makes it the perfect setting for a special celebration or an intimate night out.

If you\’re looking for a unique culinary experience, make your way to Wild Apple at Manteo. The restaurant features a farm-to-fork concept that offers a wide array of dishes crafted from fresh ingredients sourced from their own garden, as well as local farmers and producers. The restaurant also offers vegan and gluten-free options. Wild Apple is perfect for a romantic night out, and the scenic views make for a perfect backdrop to enjoy outdoor dining.

Finally, we head over to Vernon to check out a restaurant that\’s a local favorite – Sir Winston\’s Pub & Liquor Store. The restaurant boasts an extensive list of over 120 beers, local wine, and handcrafted cocktails. Sir Winston\’s menu features British-style pub fare with a twist, including their famous deep-fried pickles, shepherd\’s pie, and fish and chips. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and live music on weekends, making it a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike.

The Best Itineraries to Explore Okanagan Valley

Okanagan Valley offers some of the country\’s most picturesque vineyards and breathtaking scenery. A visit to the region can be a perfect weekend getaway or a more extended vacation. Here are three itineraries to help you explore Okanagan Valley:

Wine Tour Exploration

The Okanagan is known for its wine, and the region features over 200 wineries. A wine tour is an excellent way to experience the region\’s offerings, and here\’s an itinerary to give you a taste:

Day One: Matara Ridge Estate Winery, CedarCreek Estate Winery, and Quail\’s Gate Winery.

Day Two: Gray Monk Estate Winery, Arrowleaf Cellars, and Ex Nihilo Vineyards.

Day Three: Mission Hill Family Estate, Summerhill Pyramid Winery, and Mount Boucherie Estate Winery.

Outdoor Adventure Exploration

Okanagan Valley offers plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Here\’s an itinerary that ensures you make the most of those opportunities:

Day One: Hike up to the top of Pyramid Mountain to take in the panoramic view of Okanagan Lake.

Day Two: Paddle your way down the serene Okanagan River with Coyote Cruises.

Day Three: Bike the Kettle Valley Rail Trail to experience fantastic views of Okanagan Valley\’s vineyards.

Relaxation Exploration

If you\’re looking for a relaxing getaway, the Okanagan has you covered. Here\’s an itinerary for you:

Day One: Spoil yourself at the spas of Sparkling Hill Resort in Vernon.

Day Two: Spend a leisurely day sunbathing and swimming at Gyro Beach in Kelowna.

Day Three: Take a relaxing horseback ride through the vineyards of O\’Keefe Ranch in Vernon.

Best Time to Visit Okanagan Valley

The best time to visit Okanagan Valley is during the summer months, May to September. The region experiences warm and dry weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Additionally, the grape harvest season falls within this timeframe, so you can witness the region\’s winemaking process.

Conclusion

Okanagan Valley has something to offer for everyone, whether you\’re a wine connoisseur, an outdoor enthusiast, or a relaxation-seeking traveler. The region is a culinary paradise with restaurants using locally sourced, fresh ingredients to craft their sumptuous dishes. With enchanting scenery and an array of activities for all ages, Okanagan Valley is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an unforgettable experience.