Chefs on the mountain take pride in producing fresh-made food in their own unique styles and they've been recognized with awards like Best Family Restaurant (Ski Canada Magazine). Eating options range from quick bite-style cafeteria fare for powder hounds rushing back on the slopes, to upscale dining where there's time to savour an Okanagan wine. Grab a slice of pizza to go or order room service from the hotel restaurant.
Lunch is a specialty at many food outlets with excellent homemade soups, made-to-order sandwiches on fresh baked bread and daily sweets. Kids are welcome in family-friendly restaurants and friends gather après-ski to share appetizers in a variety of cafés and bistros.
Cafes & Bars in Big White
Jolt the morning into high gear with a fair-trade gourmet coffee or espresso. Chill out later with English tea, chai or hot chocolate. Best bets include the Globe Café and Tapas Bar in the Trappers Crossing shopping area and Beano's Coffee Parlor in the Village Centre Mall. After dinner, Canada's No. 1 Ski Bar (as voted by Ski Canada Magazine), called Snowshoe Sam's, offers a flaming Gun Barrel coffee that is a must-see, must-try mountain legend.
Family Fare
Families are welcome all over the mountain. The Moose Lounge and Bistro in the Happy Valley Day Lodge is unusual because parents can enjoy a cocktail and tapas while kids dig into a hot dog and take part in the interactive live entertainment.
Ethnic Eats
The Aussie staff loves sausage rolls, so think of them as ethnic food, available at Big White Bakery. It fills the lower level of the Village Centre Mall with the aroma of fresh bread and sweet rolls. Carvers Restaurant in the Inn at Big White serves Indian cuisine. Eat on the terrace with uninterrupted views of the Monashee Mountains. For the full alpine experience, try Globe Café & Tapas Bar with their internationally inspired menu.
Fine Dining
The dress code at the Kettle Valley Steakhouse in the Happy Valley Lodge is unique for a white linen eatery. Not many fine dining establishments welcome guests wearing snow boots and ties are definitely not required. But there's nothing casual about the massive wine wall and excellent beef. The steaks are enormous here. Santé at the White Crystal Inn also offers high-end fare, Canadian cuisine, in an easy-going atmosphere. This restaurant is known for high quality food at a good price.
Market
With kitchen facilities in most accommodations, self-catering is popular. The Market at Big White sells grocery items, meats and cheeses along with a selection of pre-made dishes.
For more information on where to eat and shop for food, stop by the Activities Desk in the Village Centre Mall.
Read Less