11 things you need to devour in Kelowna that aren't wine (PHOTOS)

Kelowna may be widely known for its rich selection of local wines, but there are tons of eateries in this bustling lakefront city that are absolutely slaying the culinary game too.

Once we heard the buzz, we had to zip up to check out these spots ourselves, and we spent a few days this month devouring the best of what Kelowna has to offer. These spots are vibrant, urban establishments that showcase the local ingredients from this unique and beautiful place in the Okanagan Valley.

Here are 11 dishes and drinks that prove this city has more than just delicious local wine to offer locals and visitors alike.

OAK + CRU Social Kitchen & Wine Bar

Seared Sable (Hanna McLean/Daily Hive)

Located in the heart of Downtown Kelowna, OAK + CRU is an eatery inspired by the region is resides in: the wine, the produce, and the spirit of the Okanagan.

This restaurant is located on the main floor of the Delta Hotels Grand Okanagan Resort and it boasts an incredible view of Waterfront Park, along with a craft cocktail program and a menu of drool-worthy dishes made from ingredients from local food producers.

OAK + CRU’s Leek Ash Beef Carpaccio (Hanna McLean/Daily Hive)

Whether you’re heading here for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can expect stellar service, food, and a view to match.

The dinner menu may be the most exciting one offered, items up for order include a long list of perfectly-prepared proteins such as Seared Sablefish, Leek Ash Beef Carpaccio, BC mussels with housemade focaccia, and a pinot gris and green curry lime leaf broth, along with a Black Apron Beef (10oz NY Strip) served with herb potato pave, farm veg, and an OAK + CRU beer demi.

OAK + CRU’s BC mussels (Hanna McLean/Daily Hive)

OAK + CRU’s Black Apron Beef (Hanna McLean/Daily Hive)

OAK + CRU also serves a variety of sweet treats like Peach Cheesecake, Passion Chocolate, and Green Apple Mousse. All of these go insanely well with any one of their craft cocktails from their program, which the stellar bar team is constantly changing and adding to.

OAK + CRU’s Green Apple Mousse (Hanna McLean/Daily Hive)

OAK + CRU cocktail (Hanna McLean/Daily Hive)

Address: Delta Grand Okanagan, 1310 Water Street, Kelowna
Instagram: @oakandcru

BNA Brewing Co. & Eatery

BNA Brewing Flight (Hanna McLean/Daily Hive)

BNA Brewing CO. & Eatery is a funky and unique restaurant in Downtown Kelowna. This spot doubles as an adult play place when the sun goes down – the bocce ball court on the second floor is a big draw.

The eatery sits directly next to the brewery, which creates a selection of nine-plus beers in rotation.

BNA Brewing Flight (Hanna McLean/Daily Hive)

This spot also serves a great selection of elevated comfort foods, and tons of share plates big and small. Whether you’re coming in for a bite and just grab a flight and the Zucchini ‘Fries’ and Spicy Prawns, or you’re going for a full-on meal with the pastas, pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches available here, you’ll be pleased.

If you’re heading to BNA for happy hour, be prepared to stay longer than 60 minutes. Trust us, between the beer selection, wine list, and cocktail program, there’s no way you’ll be able to exit after just one or two rounds.

BNA Brewing Spicy Prawns (Hanna McLean/Daily Hive)

Address: 1250 Ellis Street, Kelowna
Instagram: @bnabrewing

Krafty Kitchen + Bar

This local haunt in Downtown Kelowna is all about local ingredients, local fare, and small bites. Come weekends, this spot is seriously lit. At Krafty’s Hip Hop Brunch there’s never a dull moment.

Krafty’s Southern Playalistic (Hanna McLean/Daily Hive)

Until 3 pm on weekends, patrons can head to this Lawrence Street eatery and devour some seriously epic eats  – like this chicken and pancake ‘Southern Playalistic’ – all while while listening to a soundtrack of hits from the greats in the golden age of hip hop.

Krafty’s Doggy Dog Burger (Hanna McLean/Daily Hive)

Krafty’s Housemade Hot Sauce (Hanna McLean/Daily Hive)

Made with fresh beef ground in-house daily, the Doggy Dog Burger is one of the best things you’ll put in your mouth in Kelowna. Add on some of Krafty’s housemade jalapeño hot sauce and bam! You’ve got the mother of all breakfast burgers.

Krafty’s House Caesar (Hanna McLean/Daily Hive)

This spot also offers some great brekkie cocktails that include a house caesar made with your choice of gin, vodka, or tequila and Walter Caesar Mix.

Address: 281 Lawrence Avenue, Kelowna
Instagram: @kraftykitbar

If all this eating has left you thirsty, you’re in luck, because some of the most beautiful vineyards in the world are at your fingertips.

Whether you choose to follow one of Kelowna’s five wine trails for a taste of specific regions, or you just want to explore a sprawling property or two, this is the best place to be if you’re up for a wine-fuelled adventure this summer.

And for those looking for a luxurious treat, complete your Kelowna getaway by staying at The Royal Private Residence Club at the Delta Marriott. Nestled in the heart of downtown, and along a stunning seven-acre waterfront, the rooftop pool offers some of the best views of the city. The Residence Club is also just a short drive away from the best spots to sip and savour the spirit of Kelowna. From the epic views at CedarCreek Estate Winery, Summerhill Pyramid Winery, and St Hubertus & Oak Bay Estate Winery, to the modern and lively vibes at Kitsch Wines and Tantalus Vineyards, Kelowna’s got a vineyard for every group and occasion.

Disclaimer: Travel, accommodation, and meals were made possible by Tourism Kelowna. All thoughts and opinions expressed are those of the author.