Tag: downtown kelowna

Adventure Time

Experience the Best Hookah Lounge in Kelowna

rodriguezyo

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

rodriguezyo

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

A Month of Transformative Fitness Classes Reviewed

rodriguezyo

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

rodriguezyo

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

Top Coffee Shop in Kelowna: Sprout Bread Shop Review

rodriguezyo

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 ☕