Savour the North Okanagan: A Guide to Local Food & Drink
The North Okanagan is a hidden gem for food and drink lovers. Nestled among rolling hills, orchards, and lakes, this vibrant region offers a rich tapestry of culinary experiences. From crisp ciders and handcrafted spirits to farm-to-table dishes and bustling markets, there’s no shortage of flavour to discover. Inspired by Vernon’s Hand-Picked Journeys—curated, multi-stop adventures showcasing the best of the region—this guide highlights some of the must-try tastes that await.
Sip and Savour: Must-Try Local Drinks
Begin your tasting journey with some of the local favourites from the Pour & Explore Loop, each offering a unique sip rooted in the North Okanagan.
Planet Bee Honeymoon Meadery
Step into the sweet side of craft beverages at Honeymoon Meadery, a family-owned gem located at Planet Bee in Vernon. Established in 2010, this was the first commercial mead producer in the Okanagan. Their small-batch meads are crafted using honey harvested on-site—think traditional and even fruit-infused varieties. Enjoy a tasting, pick up a bottle of your favourite, and explore the many ways honey is reimagined here.
Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery
Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery is Western Canada’s original craft distillery and is a must try for spirit connoisseurs. This internationally awarded distillery uses 100% local fruits and grains to produce a lineup of over 30 premium spirits—from gin and vodka to whisky and absinthe. Each sip speaks to their deep roots in the region and their commitment to small-batch craftsmanship.
Silverstar Brewing
Raise a glass to Vernon’s first craft brewery. At Silverstar Brewing, bold, creative brews are the name of the game. With hop-forward IPAs and special seasonal releases, every beer is brewed with local passion and precision. Enjoy a flight, take some home, or sip a cold one while soaking in downtown Vernon’s laid-back vibe.
Farm Fresh Finds
The North Okanagan’s distinct four seasons come to life through the Farms & Flavours Trail, where local produce meets unique experiences.
Davison Orchards
A Vernon staple since 1933, Davison Orchards is a working family farm, bakery, and café all rolled into one. Wander the orchards, meet the animals, and sample their legendary apple pie, apple juice, or real-fruit ice cream. From homemade baked goods to farm-fresh veggies and fruit, this is farm-to-fork at its tastiest.
Cambium Cider Co.
Nestled on a historic family farm, Cambium Cider Co. blends rustic charm with elevated dining. Their farm-to-table restaurant serves seasonal, wood-fired dishes using ingredients sourced right from their own land and nearby farms. Pair your meal with one of their handcrafted ciders and enjoy the orchard views from their outdoor patio.
Vernon Farmers’ Market
The Vernon Farmers’ Market is one of the Okanagan’s oldest farmer’s markets and is a true celebration of local. Operating from April to October, visitors can wander rows of stalls filled with just-picked produce, handmade goods, fresh baking, and artisan crafts. Don’t forget to grab lunch from a food truck and take home something special from the growers and makers who call the North Okanagan home.
Must-Try Restaurants
It’s a true Culinary Crossroads here in the North Okanagan, where global flavours meet local ingredients. These standout restaurants highlight the region’s delicious diversity.
RANGE Restaurant, Bar + Patio
Located at the stunning Predator Ridge Resort, RANGE offers globally inspired fare with a local twist. Dine on the patio surrounded by sweeping views while enjoying dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients and paired with regional wine, craft beer, and house-made cocktails.
Masiero Pizzeria Napoletana
Craving authentic pizza? Head to Masiero Pizzeria Napoletana, where traditional techniques meet top-tier ingredients. Their wood-fired oven was handmade in Naples, Italy, and the menu features a blend of Okanagan produce and imported Italian flavours. It’s a little slice of Naples right in the heart of Vernon.
The Med
Tucked in downtown Vernon, The Med is a family-owned gem offering a warm atmosphere and an eclectic menu of dishes. Since 1997, they’ve served hearty lunch and dinner options, sweet desserts, and refreshing drinks. Whether craving Mediterranean flavours or something else, there’s something for everyone at The Med.
Whether you’re a local foodie or a visitor eager to explore the North Okanagan’s vibrant culinary scene, this guide is just the beginning. With more flavourful experiences and curated Hand-Picked Journeys to explore, there’s always something new to savour in the North Okanagan.
