Farms, Food, and Drink: Tapping Into the North Okanagan’s Agricultural Roots
A crisp cider on a hot summer’s day. The sweet tang of a nectarine, bought fresh from a farmer’s market. A loaf of sourdough, still warm from the oven.
The North Okanagan has deep agricultural roots–its warm climate and sunny skies mean a long and bountiful growing season, supporting everything from vegetables to vineyards. The abundance of farms and orchards has fostered a culture that takes food seriously, with deep connections between growers, chefs, and the community. Food here isn’t just about refuelling–it’s the experience that counts. Farm-to-table restaurants reign, and a thriving wine industry adds to the appeal.
As you travel through the region, connect with the land through farm-fresh meals, local markets, and handcrafted drinks rooted in the valley’s traditions.
Vernon
Farmers markets are hidden around every corner in the North Okanagan, but the Vernon Farmers’ Market is one of the biggest, with up to 120 vendors setting up their stalls every Monday and Thursday from April to October, and a new satellite market on Saturdays. On Friday nights, Polson Park comes alive with local vendors, live music, and games, making it the perfect place to spend a long summer evening.
Fresh bread, pastries, and coffee take centre stage at Two Donkeys Bakery, the newly opened Vernon branch of a beloved Kelowna favourite. With recipes rooted in the bakery’s German heritage, it’s quickly become a popular spot for locals. Located neatly between Vernon and Kalamalka Lake, an area bustling with outdoor activities and scenic spots, it’s the perfect spot before heading to the lake for a paddle or hiking the nearby trails.
For a meal that celebrates the region’s bounty, head to The Edge Restaurant and Bar, where locally sourced ingredients are the stars. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared and paired with some of the area’s finest wine, beer, and cider. Local libations are a point of pride here, with wineries and cideries often stealing the spotlight. For a true taste of the valley, stop in at Cambium Cider Co., a family-run orchard and restaurant nestled near the base of Silver Star Mountain. Refined and tasteful, the restaurant offers wood-fired pizza and elevated farm-to-table dishes to go along with cold glasses of their handcrafted cider.
Want to explore more? The Farms & Flavours Trail is a great way to experience Vernon’s agricultural roots firsthand. The self-guided journey will take you through local farms, markets, and tasting rooms.
Armstrong & Spallumcheen
Drive past Armstrong Farm Co. in the early summer months and it will be impossible to resist the scent of fresh strawberries rising from the fields. The young farmers here have dedicated themselves to perfecting two of the crops that Armstrong is most famous for: juicy, red strawberries, and delicate spears of asparagus that begin to ripen in early May. For other organic goods, be sure to stop by the Gumboots Farm Store at Pilgrims Produce, a beloved young family farm in the region. Stocked with everything from seasonal fruits and vegetables to local eggs, honey, coffee, and more, it’s a one-stop shop for fresh, ethically grown produce and pantry staples.
Armstrong is famous for its cheeses, owing to Dutch influence after the Second World War. Stop by the Village Dairy, for a taste of artisan cheeses, including their take on the Canadian classic, Squeaky Cheese Curds, all produced on-site in small batches. On Saturdays, browse the stalls at the Armstrong Farmer’s Market, the longest running market in the province, while enjoying the sounds of local musicians.
In Spallumcheen, Farmstrong Cider Co. showcases the region’s craft cider scene with small-batch creations from a family that’s been perfecting the process for three generations. And it’s not just a cidery–the onsite restaurant offers farm-fresh dishes, including meat raised right on the property.
Enderby
With 86% of the province’s vineyard acreage, the Okanagan Valley is British Columbia’s premier grape-growing region, and the North Okanagan offers a distinct expression of that legacy through its three sub-regions, including Lake Country. Here, hot summer days followed by cool evenings create the ideal conditions for developing sweet, complex flavours in the grapes. Boutique wineries are scattered throughout the North Okanagan, each offering a unique taste of the region. If you find yourself exploring Enderby, keep an eye out for signs pointing to Waterside Beverage Co., a charming spot where craft meets character. Resting on the banks of the Shuswap River, the winery presents a range of the cool-climate varieties the North Okanagan is famous for, a well-earned reward after a summer’s hike.
For a meal you won’t forget, embrace the lively atmosphere of Small Axe Roadhouse. This locally owned bar and eatery serves up hearty plates crafted from regional ingredients, alongside a well-curated selection of local beers, wines, and cocktails. With regular live music, community events, and a warm, welcoming vibe, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring.
From boutique wineries and family-run orchards to bustling farmers’ markets and farm-to-table dining, the North Okanagan has a rich agricultural heritage waiting to be explored. So, make your next trip a journey of discovery. Embrace the local flavours, landscapes, and experiences, support the hardworking families who make this region so special, and make memories that linger long after the last sip or bite.
