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Welcome to Discovering Kelowna!

rodriguezyo

I’d like to start off by thanking you for visiting my blog, Discovering Kelowna. I started this blog in hopes to help fellow locals, as well as new comers find the best that Kelowna has to offer. Deciding where to go in a new city can be a tough decision. Tough because let’s face it, we’ve all gone to a place that looked amazing but turned out to be less than stellar. So here’s where this blog comes in.

Why do this?

When I started Discovering Kelowna, it was because I was sick of constantly typing into Google “new restaurants Kelowna” and getting results from two years ago. I would constantly be scanning Castanet for fun things to do, but the only things that popped up were wine and paint nights. I know Kelowna has so much to offer, but it just isn’t that easy to find. Maybe it’s because of Covid-19 or maybe the marketing techniques used by businesses. Either way, I think that fun things should be accessible to everyone!

So that’s where Discovering Kelowna comes in.

Here you’ll find the best places to eat, the wineries that offer you something extra (a.k.a. wine slushies or popsicles!), things to do around town for any budget or adventure type, where those romantic lookouts are hiding, and so much more!

Discovering Kelowna is for those who want to truly experience Kelowna like a local. If you’re tired of going to the same places every time you visit, or when date night comes around, this is the blog for you! Keep reading and I promise you’ll find something new and exciting.

My goal

If Discovering Kelowna is successful throughout the next year, I hope that means I’ve opened the door to so many different experiences. I hope I was able to help create these wonderful moments that you’ll remember, cherish and share. My goal is to show you why Kelowna is so special through my eyes.

Stay tuned, because I can’t wait to start Discovering Kelowna with you.

Adventure Time

Experience the Best Hookah Lounge in Kelowna

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Kelowna, are you ready to level up your next group outing? Forget the same old pub routine. We just uncovered one of the most vibrant spots in the city. This unique spot needs to be on your list for a fun night with friends. Midnight Kings Hookah Lounge & Eatery is serving up delicious food, spectacular drinks, and an atmosphere that’ll have you trying your hand at belly dancing (seriously!). We went in search of a good time and left with full bellies, great memories, and a new appreciation for the Okanagan appletini. Get ready to discover your new favorite Kelowna evening destination.

What to Expect?

Midnight Kings offers a full experience that goes beyond a standard lounge. The ambiance is vibrant, energetic, and perfect for a group celebrating a birthday or just wanting a change of pace. You’ll find comfortable seating, great music, and a genuinely welcoming vibe from the staff.

The non-nicotine, non-tobacco hookah is a big part of the fun—it’s a great way to socialize and try to master blowing a few smoke rings (we definitely need more practice!). But the real showstopper is the entertainment. Keep an eye on their schedule because the live belly dance performance by dancers like Ana is infectious. It’s hard not to get up and join in, and it’s a moment you’ll be talking about for weeks! This isn’t just a meal or a drink; it’s a full-on experience perfect for adding some excitement to your weekend.

What Did We Try?

The Hookah lounge menu is designed for sharing and snacking while you socialize, and their drinks are the star of the show!

  • The Martini Tower: This is a must-try for any group. The tower is completely show-stopping and is available with 4, 6, or 8 martinis. It’s a fantastic value, bringing the price down to about $12 per drink—a real steal in Kelowna!
    • Our Picks: Espresso Martini (smooth and punchy!) and the Okanagan Appletini (a refreshing twist on a classic). The Snowflake and Salted Caramel martinis were also delightful!
  • Torre de Tacos: Perfect for sharing.
  • Garlic Alfredo Chicken Pizza: A surprisingly comforting and flavorful choice. This was a definite hit at the table!
  • Midnight Wild Fries: These seasoned fries were absolutely addictive and a great snack with our drinks.
  • Charcuterie Palace: Always a reliable choice for a group.
pizza at kelowna hookah lounge

Final Thoughts

This Kelowna Hookah Lounge is a hidden gem that provides a completely unique night out for Kelowna locals. The value on the Martini Tower is remarkable. The delicious shareable food is enticing. The infectious energy of the live entertainment makes it a fantastic choice. If you’re looking to shake up your routine and try something genuinely new and exciting right here in our city, put this place at the very top of your list, and have the best time Discovering Kelowna!

Have you mastered the art of belly dancing here yet? Let me know in the comments below!

Food

BNA’s Happy Hour Deals: Cocktails & Appetizers Under $10

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What’s up friends? I hope you all had an amazing Valentine’s day celebrating with your loved ones. I would like to introduce you to BNA’s Happy Hour. I was looking for dinner reservations one week before Valentine’s day, wanting something close to our other plans. BNA was the only spot that could accommodate our booking for 5 around 5 pm. I wanted to check out the menu before, and stumbled upon their super saver hour from 5-6 pm. Meant to be? I think so!

What To Expect

Their super save hour is on form 5-6 pm every single day! The menu includes a little bit of everything like beers, wine, cocktails, appetizers, and mains. When I see cocktails for less than $10, I’m having a happy dance! Paid parking is available on the street, and the vibes are casual industrial. I started reminiscing in the days they used to hand out fresh baked cookies at the end of the night. They are definitely a Kelowna staple and a must try even if you can’t make it to their happy hour.

What Did We Try?

We tried almost everything on the super save menu starting off strong with the Coffee Martini. I’m almost thirty and it’s never too late for caffeine, especially if you’re trying to stay out till 10 pm OR LATER. We also tried the Pineapple Express Slushie and Harvest Fizz. We did not bother with wine and beer since the cocktails were such a steal at $9!

Girl eating a slice of marinara pizza, surrounded by other items from BNA happy hour

Next we ordered the Cajun Truffle Fries and Pork Steam Bun for only $10 each. The steam buns are actually tacos and not the full bun experience. For my Asian table this was sad, but 2 come in an order which made up for it! The fries were incredible and I loved the Cajun kick.

Finally, our mains came and we ordered the Marinara Pizza and Chicken Wings which were good but nothing special. Still great portions for the price. I think the smash burger would’ve been good, since that’s one item they have a whole side of their shop dedicated to them. So we will definitely have to try those next time!

Final Thoughts

BNA’s happy hour was a killer spot for appetizers and drinks on the low. Be wary that the server doesn’t always tell you the deal is on. Ask for the menu or pull it up on your phone and get in on those super save deals!

As always, I hope you guys are having the best time Discovering Kelowna 🍽️

Adventure Time

Lunar New Year in Kelowna

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Gōng xǐ fā cái (happiness and prosperity)!

This year we start celebrating on January 29th, and in many cultures this is a week long celebration. If you follow the Chinese zodiac, this year is the year of the snake. For those of you born in 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, and 1953 this is your year! These individuals are known as being deep thinkers, resourceful, and determined. Unfortunately in Kelowna there aren’t many public events but, I’ve put all the things going on in our community over the next few weeks into one post so you can celebrate the Lunar New Year in Kelowna 🧧

Lunar New Year Activities

Spring Lantern Festival

February 9th at Parkinson Rec Center from 4-8pm with live performances, dumpling making, photo booths and more! You can reserve your free ticket here.

Chinese New Year Buffet

Naked Cafe is hosting an all you can eat vegan buffet from 4-8pm. You can reserve your tickets here.

Lunar New Year Celebration

In the UBCO ball room open to all, from 4-7pm. Light refreshments and performances by their K-Pop dance team will be provided. You can register here.

Final Thoughts

If you needed a second chance to start fresh here it is! I hope one day there will be a larger Lunar New Year in Kelowna, like the ones in bigger cities. Having only 3 events is so sad! I’ll be making dumplings with family and ringing in the new year on the 29th. Then, I’ll be checking out the big event at the college on the 9th to watch the dragon dance. The college one is by far the biggest and has been around for the longest. It’s definitely a must see! Wishing everyone a prosperous new year, and I hope you have the best time Discovering Kelowna.

Adventure Time

A Month of Transformative Fitness Classes Reviewed

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Sweat Studio is a cozy group fitness studio located in downtown Kelowna owned by two brothers! They offer a variety of workout classes, a sauna and cold plunge, child minding, and a smoothie bar. I tried a full month of classes include barre, strength, and cardio. If you’re looking to join a group fitness gym, this one is definitely worth a try.

What to Expect?

Paid parking is available on the street and I never had any trouble finding a spot close by, even when I was running a few minutes past class time 🙈. It’s class based and bookings are made online through their app. Shoes are removed at the door and check-in is few clicks at the front. After your workout class, luxurious cold lemon grass face towels are given out while you cool down. The change rooms are filled with everything you might need to freshen up after class to go back to your day, including deodorant, towels, hair tools and more.

My Experience

For the whole month of December I booked as many classes as I could so I could give my honest review. First up, the famous barre class, known for giving a good booty burn. If you’re looking for the evening class you need to book at least a week in advance as it’s PACKED. I found this class burned in the moment, but didn’t give much muscle soreness after. Is it just me, or is that feeling addicting? Like a pat on the back for working hard 😂

Next, I tried the class termed “Sunday Peaches”. This is like the expert version of a barre class. Cardio heavy but with bigger weights. My legs were on FIRE for a week after this class. It was amazing. I will admit, I omitted a large chunk of the cardio movements by slowing them down and adding weight. After that I tried an arms and abs class to balance things out. It came highly recommended from a friend, and was a mix of weight, cardio, and abs.

Final Thoughts

As someone who has been to many of the big box gyms, group fitness gyms, and online workout classes in Kelowna, this was a well rounded gym. Many of the classes had a good mix of cardio and strength, supplemented by yoga and stretching classes. I also felt the classes catered wonderfully to those looking to build strength, with an open gym period for a few hours almost every day. The only downfall was the lack of late night and weekend classes, but it was still a great month of working out! For more fun things to do in Kelowna be sure to check out the rest of my page!

Food

Grand Opening of Baked: Your New Go-To Cake Spot in Kelowna

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Got a sweet tooth that needs satisfying? Kelowna just got a brand new bakery specializing in all things cake called Baked downtown on Lawrence ave. Cindy has always had an online store but has finally given the people what they want, MORE CAKE. Their grand opening is happening this Saturday but you know I already taste tested 🍰

What To Expect

Walking in, it’s a small space with two tables. Each table only sits two people, meaning this setup makes a great spot to catch up one on one with someone. There are tons of local vendors adorning the shelves with things from cute mugs to cake decorating goodies. Baked is known for their cake cups and some of the biggest macarons I’ve ever laid eyes on. So both are must tries! She has plenty of cake focused options and then some fun always changing additions. Each come in different flavours so you’re sure to find something you’ll love! She also does custom cake orders and cake tasting packs. Even if you’re not getting married her cake tasting kit is such a fun way to “have it all”.

What Did We Try?

Let’s start with the macarons, we tried one of every flavour and of course my favorite was pistachio…but pumpkin spice was a close second. As I mentioned above, they’re massive making them a great bang for your buck and easy to share. Photos courtesy of my friend Mikayla💖

Yolanda holding Baked box with macarons
Yolanda holding up macaron to her face

We also tried their cake cups which come in plenty of flavours and options. They come with icing, cheesecake, mouse, or custard depending on what she has on rotation. I’m not a huge icing fan to start with, but the pumpkin spice combo was tasty. The oreo cheesecake combo was heaavveenn though, and I’d highly recommend.

Final Thoughts

Cindy has opened a wonderful bakery in Kelowna that focuses on all things cake! Although we have many pastry bakeries we don’t have one that focuses on cake and makes it accessible in small quantities. I also love how much she supports local businesses, bringing in so many fun cake themed items. This spot is so cute and perfect for celebrations and budgets of all sizes.

Her grand opening is this Saturday November 16th starting at 10am, I hope you check her out and have the best time Discovering Kelowna. 🎂

Food

Best Ramen Spots in Kelowna : Ramen Arashi

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Is it just me or is everyone getting sick right now? Thankfully I’ve avoided it so far, but for those of you who are feeling out for the count, my top recommendation is to get nice piping hot bowl of ramen in you! There’s a few spots for ramen in Kelowna, but I want to bring some attention over to one of my favorites: Ramen Arashi.

What To Expect

Located in the landmark district, Ramen Arashi is a popular lunch spot. The dining room itself is about the same size of the kitchen, so seating is nice and cozy to your neighbors. They’re part of a franchise, and are the first of franchises to hit Kelowna, with 2 different chains opening soon. What sets them apart from other ramen spots is how fast the service is, how affordable the cost is, and how generous the size is.

What Did We Try?

We’ve been here a couple times now and have tried a variety of different dishes, and all have been excellent. Lately I’ve really been enjoying the Devil’s Arashi. Spicy and warm, perfect for clearing out the sinuses and enjoying a gray day. If you’re like me and don’t think any meal is finished without a sweet treat, then the mochi ice cream is the perfect small bite, and I definitely recommend.

devil's arashi

Keep in mind, that they’re part of a chain which comes through in terms of noodles and broth. The noodles aren’t hand made and if you’ve been to some local food trucks like Little Tokyo Ramen, you know the difference. What it lacks in local love, it makes up for in price, being under $20 for a bowl with all the fixings, that’s not something you’ll find anywhere else.

black arashi tan tan
best ramen in kelowna

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for ramen that’s ten times better than the prepackaged stuff, you need to check out Ramen Arashi to see for yourself why it’s one of the best ramen spots in Kelowna. Its aesthetically pleasing, while also being tasty, quick, and affordable. We love how creamy the broths are and how it comes with so many toppings. They also offer vegetarian options and some other fun desserts to try like Taiyaki filled with red bean!

Have you guys tried them out yet? Be sure to add them to your Discovering Kelowna bucket list 🍜

Food

Top Coffee Shop in Kelowna: Sprout Bread Shop Review

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I’ve been here several times, and it has to be my favorite place to introduce people to. Sprout Bread Shop is known for their cozy vibes, delicious donuts and community style seating. What I love most about this spot is how it’s perfect for whatever mood you’re in. Just want to grab a coffee and jet out? They have a dedicated side of their shop for that called the slowside symbolized with cute snail! This side is their specialty brew bar, but offers everything their other side has to offer as well. With hundreds of Google reviews you’ll quickly see that I’m not the only person that thinks this is the best coffee shop in Kelowna.

What To Expect?

Sprout is tucked away on Cannery Lane downtown Kelowna. They have some outdoor patio seating, long tabled for shared seating, and little nooks for more private seating. There are two doors to enter, one being the slow side, and the other being the regular or faster paced side. Baked goods go fast, so if you’re craving their donuts you have to arrive at a decent time. The line up is usually to the door but moves very quickly. Service is also quite speedy which is surprising, especially for a spot this busy!

What Did We Try?

I’ve been here so many times, and I absolutely recommend getting the bacon and eggs. For only $15, it’s fulfilling, has a ton a flavors, roasted potatoes and veggies, and a variety of sauces. If you don’t have time for a full sit down meal, they also offer a variety of baked goods to go. Their almond croissants were heavenly, and we can’t forget their glorious donuts. Filled with different custards and such, these are hands down my guilty pleasure.

food items at the coffee shop

Last but not least, we can’t forget to mention their coffee and other drinks they serve up. With cute latte art in every cup, booze options available, and specialty flavors, it’s no wonder this is the best coffee shop in Kelowna. Even if you’re not a coffee drinker, they have tea lattes and hot chocolate. They also have ciders, beer, and wine if you’re feeling fancy!

latte art and a donut

Final Thoughts

This spot is a local must try. Hands down the best coffee shop in Kelowna, offering everything you could ever ask for. The atmosphere, the food, the coffee. This is a well rounded shop that is local and worth a visit. If it was open later for late night study sessions, that would truly be the cherry on top, but alas. We are still so blessed to have them!

Please add these guys to your list of things to do and have the best time Discovering Kelowna ☕

Food

Ultimate All-You-Can-Eat Hot Pot in Kelowna

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All you can eat hot pot has finally hit Kelowna and you can now get it downtown at Pick Thai. You can find this gem every Saturday night and book a table for one of their two sittings starting at 4:30pm

What to Expect

It’s $36 per person and includes some snacks to start with, a clear broth, a hot and sour broth, over 20 hot pot items to pick from, unlimited soft drinks, and a vanilla ice cream cone at the end. Come in stretchy pants and eat until you can’t see your toes!

The broths come hot to your table, so there’s no waiting around for it heat up and you can make them spicier if you so choose. There’s a ton of different protein options to get your money’s worth, like beef, seafood, and pork.

Array of all you can eat hot pot items
hot pot items cooked

We tried a little bit of everything, going hard on the seafood. They serve different proteins like whole shrimps, tons of different fish balls, squid, imitation crab, pork, beef, and eggs. They also had different noodles and veggies to go in your hot pot! For drinks you get unlimited pop to go with your meal, but if you know me, you know my obsessions with Pick Thai started a looonngg time ago with their iced Thai Tea, which I highly recommend to everyone. They also have such a fun drink menu to choose from of alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks, and I mean if you’re already going out you might as well go ALL OUT. After all that hot pot, we polished off the meal with some vanilla ice cream.

all you can eat hot pot

Final Thoughts

Pick Thai’s all you can eat hot pot was an incredible deal. Ploy the owner, is so hospitable and makes the entire experience that much more enjoyable. The food is amazing, and hot pot is only served at 2 spots in Kelowna, and this is hands down the best out of the two. If you’re looking for something other than hot pot, she also serves traditional Thai food, with the choice of traditional Thai spice levels if you can handle the heat.

As always I hope you have the best time Discovering Kelowna 🍲

Adventure Time

Cold Plunge and Sauna on The Lake

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Fall is in the air and with it comes cooler lake temperatures. If the polar bear dip isn’t quite your forte, Loyly offers a cold plunge and sauna experience right here on Okanagan lake starting in mid October. I tried it for the first time last year and it was hands down the best way to start my day!

What to Expect

Located downtown Kelowna at the marina, with plenty of paid parking available. You must book ahead of time online to reserve your spot. You can book a community session with other people, or rent it out for a private session with up to 7 people. They supply change rooms and cold water, but bathrooms must be sought out off site. Once your group has arrived you start off in the sauna to bring up your internal temperature. You can ask them to add essential oils to the steam for added benefits! You also have the ability to turn up the heat by pouring extra water on the hot rocks at any point during your cycles.

cold plunge and sauna on Okanagan lake

After 15 minutes you can then brave the cold lake waters and put your body to the test. Some go for a quick dip, while others take a seat and try to relax. The view is absolutely stunning which helps pass the time! Expect to be feeling relaxed and accomplished at the end of your hour session.

My Experience

I had never done a cold plunge before. I went in feeling anxious, thinking about what could happen if my body went into shock front he cold. Once in the sauna those feelings quickly disappeared as we cranked up the heat and started counting down the minutes. I was sweating and yearning for the cold by the time the 15 minutes were up!

Then came the cold.

I got in wanting to cool down, and instantly came back out. I think I was in for a total of 8 seconds while almost push mingy friend out of my escape route. I ran back to the sauna to defrost and get ready to try again. This time I only stayed in for ten minutes, determined to beat my sad record. With each cycle I noticed my body could endure the cold for longer periods and my mind wasn’t racing as fast as it was at the beginning.

I started to relax.

I had worked my way up from 8 seconds to a full minute by my last cycle. I started to breathe calmly and enjoy the sun on my face and the mountains around me. The last cycle ends on the plunge and you leave feeling relaxed and renewed.

My Final Thoughts

A MUST TRY. I absolutely enjoyed every minute of my experience in the cold plunge and sauna. The area is clean and private, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Everyone saw improvement from their first plunge to their last. I loved that feeling of accomplishment when leaving. The cold was really a test of mental strength with some of the group staying in there for over 3 minutes. We went in the morning which made for the perfect wake-me-up, but I think going right at sunrise or sunset would also be quite enjoyable.

Have you guys tried taking the plunge yet? Let me know what you think!

As always, I hope you have the best time Discovering Kelowna 🏔️

Adventure Time

Wine & Cheese Flights

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If you’re not looking for a full on wine tour but still want try some of the Okanagan’s wines, you need to check out Grate Cheesery. They’re a local cheese monger shop with everything you need to craft your perfect charcuterie board or fondue night. If you’re not looking to do any work, they have options available for dine in, including their wine & cheese flights!

What to Expect

Located at 462 West Ave in Pandosy Village, Mirjana the owner is usually the one manning the front. She’ll greet you and help you pick out some cheeses for your boards at home and show you all the local goodies she’s stocked her shop with. She is seriously the sweetest lady I’ve ever met and I promise you are in great hands! She invited us to try out their wine & cheese flights, which had 3 sets of paired tastings.

wine & cheese flight

Flights cost $35 and include 2oz pours of white, rose, and red wine, cheeses, and nibbles like nuts and chocolate. This is a great way to not only try local wines, but also different cheeses from around the world. I’ve never liked blue cheese, but in this pairing I got to appreciate the saltiness and enjoy it with its accompaniments. Reservations are not required, but the shop is small. If you plan on bringing a group larger than 2 I would suggest calling in to reserve.

They host fondue nights on Friday and Saturday night, private functions, and can even create your charcuterie boards for takeaway. Aside from cheese they also have a ton of local finds including pies, candy, crackers, and other fun things to add to your boards.

Final Thoughts

This is a cozy experience I recommend to everyone asking for something new to check out in the colder months. When we went it was raining out, which honestly made the vibe better. It was a great way to catch up with friends and try something new.

As always I hope you’re having the best time Discovering Kelowna 🧀