 Yoko Yamamoto photo Thompson Okanagan region is a food lover's paradise and going to restaurants and dining out here is an experience.
Dining in the Thompson Okanagan features a fusion of orchards and vineyards, as well as restaurants and chefs dedicated to innovative, locally-sourced cuisine. This is food from a sun-drenched climate and whre dining al fresco is a way of life. Restauranteurs and culinary enthusiasts are flocking to the region, described as "a chef's ultimate playground", forging close partnerships with local growers and food producers. The result is innovative, often award-winning cuisine that pairs local produce and specialty foods with a variety of regional wines. Top chefs are drawn here, creating their own signature dishes from fresh local products and adding to the Thompson Okanagan's growing culinary reputation.
Fresh, Local, Organic FoodThe Thompson Okanagan region is the most fertile and productive area in the province. Known for its prolific orchards and farms, the region is now making its name as a foodie hotbed. Wineries, organic farmers and artisan food producers are all adding to the region's impressive culinary allure. Award-Winning RestaurantsThe region's outstanding restaurants draw international acclaim. In 2008 Travel Leisure magazine named Mission Hill's Terrace Restaurant "one of the top 5 winery restaurants in the world". In the Okanagan Valley, food and wine pairings are irresistable. Many wineries now boast impressive dining facilities, especially around Kelowna, Oliver, Naramata, Osoyoos and Summerland. A stroll through Kelowna's popular cultural district offers diners an impressive selection of cafes, lounges and casual fare, and even an award-winning French bistro where fresh local products are prepared with Gallic flair. Wining and Dining in the OkanaganWine touring and dining make a perfect combination. Many wineries feature patio restaurants and bistros. Diners can from choose informal, tapas-style snacks served in rustic wine-tasting rooms to elegant outdoor patios serving gourmet meals against a backdrop of stunning lake and vineyard views. Looking to stay an extra night? Try a winery guesthouse, where accommodations can range from modest to luxurious. The Thompson Okanagan has over 100 wineries to explore. Farmers' Markets, Fruit Stands and OrchardsFor a hands-on dining experience, stop at one of many roadside fruit stands or farmers markets and enjoy fresh and tasty food directly from the grower. Sample seasonal just-picked fruits and vegetables or savour a home-style country meal made from produce grown in nearby fields. A glass of fresh-pressed Okanagan apple juice is a perfect way to cool down, or enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the Thompson Okanagan's many famous warm-water lakes. Lakeside and Casual DiningThe Thompson Okanagan is a popular vacation destination. Dine at a lakeside resort or explore the local marinas, where charter companies offer scenic dinner cruises on Okanagan and Shuswap lakes.
The laid-back atmosphere and down home charm is reflected in the many casual coffee shops, diners and cafes are found throughout the area.
Food and Wine CelebrationsThe Thompson Okanagan has some of the best food celebrations in the province. The Okanagan Wine Festival occurs four times each year (January, April, August and October) and features numerous food and wine events in almost every community in the Okanagan Valley.
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