Lakeside Dining: Kelowna’s Best Waterfront Restaurants
Kelowna’s culinary landscape is as varied and appealing as the stunning vistas of Okanagan Lake that many of its restaurants overlook. From the classic elegance of historical dining rooms to contemporary culinary locales, lakeside dining in Kelowna is not just about satisfying the palate but also about embracing the extraordinary beauty that surrounds each venue.
The Eldorado Dining Room
Within Hotel Eldorado, the Eldorado Dining Room is a testament to classic elegance and the spirit of Kelowna. The historical photos adorning its walls offer a journey through time, while the sprawling floor-to-ceiling windows provide a panoramic view of Okanagan Lake. This setting becomes magical in the evening, with the twinkling lights of boats gently bobbing on the water.
Their brunch menu is particularly renowned, featuring unique creations like brioche French toast with maple syrup and peach. For dinner, the Caesar salad and decadent Pan Seared Sablefish are standout choices, embodying the rich flavours and creativity of Kelowna’s culinary scene.
Cactus Club Cafe
The Cactus Club Cafe combines contemporary style with a comfortable ambiance, situated right on the waterfront. The restaurant offers an unobstructed view of Okanagan Lake, especially enchanting at sunset, when the sky's colours reflect on the water's surface.
OAK + CRU Social Kitchen & Wine Bar
Located in the Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort, OAK + CRU Social Kitchen & Wine Bar offers an elegant, yet cozy dining atmosphere. The water view adds to the restaurant’s charm, providing a serene backdrop for a culinary adventure.
The restaurant’s seasonal menus showcase local produce and modern cooking techniques. Dishes like the Charcoal Butter Mushroom Cheeseburger and AAA Alberta Beef Tenderloin are highlights. Wine connoisseurs will appreciate OAK + CRU’s extensive wine collection, a true celebration of the region's winemaking heritage.
Waterfront Wines Restaurant & Bar
Waterfront Wines Restaurant & Bar, a twelve-time winner of Vancouver Magazine's "Best Okanagan Restaurant" award, is a hallmark of Kelowna's food scene. The restaurant's menu, inspired by seasonal local produce, perfectly complements its extensive wine list, which includes both international selections and vintages from the Okanagan Valley.
The atmosphere at Waterfront Wines is one of sophistication and warmth, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a gathering of friends. The meticulous pairing of dishes with wines ensures an exquisite dining experience, celebrating the bounty of the region.
Quails' Gate Old Vines Restaurant
Quails' Gate Old Vines Restaurant offers a wine country dining experience unlike any other. The restaurant boasts breathtaking vineyard views and a menu packed with dishes showcasing locally sourced ingredients.
The serene environment, coupled with the high-quality, fresh ingredients, creates a dining experience that epitomizes the essence of Kelowna. The dishes, prepared with care and finesse, reflect the restaurant's commitment to showcasing the best of the region's produce.
Mission Hill Family Estate Winery's Terrace Restaurant
The Terrace Restaurant at Mission Hill Family Estate Winery offers guests an opportunity to dine amidst the beauty of a renowned winery setting. The Terrace serves dishes inspired by the rich bounty of the Okanagan Valley, complemented by an exquisite selection of Mission Hill wines.
The combination of stunning winery views, exceptional cuisine, and world-class wines creates a dining experience that is both luxurious and authentically Kelowna. The Terrace is a perfect representation of the region's culinary and viticulture excellence.
The Modest Butcher + Market
The Modest Butcher + Market, located at Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery, is a chic eatery with sensational views of the vineyards and Okanagan Lake. This restaurant is renowned for its delicious steaks sourced from local Okanagan farms, embodying a commitment to local produce.
In addition to its famous steaks, The Modest Butcher + Market offers a diverse menu that includes seafood and vegetarian options. Their renowned poutine is a must-try, showcasing a delightful balance between winery staples and local delicacies.
19 Okanagan Grill + Bar
19 Okanagan Grill + Bar offers an upscale casual dining experience with breathtaking mountain and lake views. The restaurant’s fresh local produce is at the base of its menu, offering dishes that are both delicious and reflective of Kelowna's agricultural richness.
In the summer, the outdoor patio becomes a favourite among locals and visitors alike. The warm and inviting interior offers a cozy retreat, while the outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying the summer breeze along with their scrumptious meals.
Perch Sky Lounge
Perch Sky Lounge, uniquely situated on the rooftop of the Okanagan Research and Innovation Centre, offers a bird's-eye view of Kelowna. This cozy spot serves a shareable and focused menu, crafted with local, seasonal ingredients.
Smack DAB
Located in the Manteo Resort, Smack DAB boasts Kelowna’s largest patio, designed to take advantage of the incredible lake views. Their menu features Italian flavours with a variety of pasta dishes and traditional pizzas, such as the unique Smack DAB Maui pizza. The restaurant is also known for having one of the largest craft beer selections in the city.
