New Restaurants and Bars Coming Soon to the Okanagan – 2026

The Okanagan food and drink scene is heating up with fresh new restaurants, bars, and eateries on the horizon. From nostalgic Japanese bites to Persian-inspired winery dining, and from a craft cocktail bar to authentic French crêpes, there’s plenty for foodies to get excited about. In this fun yet informative roundup, we highlight ten buzz-worthy venues either newly opened or opening soon across the Okanagan. Each spot offers something unique – whether it’s a novel concept, a passionate local owner, or a twist on global cuisine and all promise to delight local palates. So get ready to explore these upcoming Okanagan culinary gems!

PS. Did you know Kelowna was named UNESCO’s Canadian City of Gastronomy? Check it out!

Natsukashi Store & Eatery (Kelowna)

If you’ve ever craved a slice of retro Japan in the Okanagan, Natsukashi Store & Eatery is about to make its debut as a new Kelowna restaurant. Natsukashi (懐かしい) means “nostalgic” in Japanese, and this new Japanese neighborhood grocery and eatery is all about that warm, vintage vibe. Created by the owner of Kelowna’s beloved Komorebi Cafe, Natsukashi draws inspiration from the mid-20th-century Showa era, aiming to transport guests to a cozy, old-school Japanese corner store – complete with authentic snacks, pantry goods, and home-style dishes. In addition to stocking Japanese groceries, the eatery will serve casual bites (think onigiri, bentos, or ramen/udon bowls) in a setting that feels like your grandma’s kitchen in Tokyo.

Opening timeline: The owner set a lofty goal to open her restaurant in 5 weeks – you can follow the process on their social media which hints that final touches are underway, so expect an opening announcement for February. This will be Kelowna’s first dedicated Japanese grocery café, and its unique blend of retail and dining, not to mention the Zen-like hospitality Komorebi is known for, makes Natsukashi a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

Azhadi Vineyards (Kelowna)

Azhadi Vineyards is poised to become one of the Okanagan’s most stunning new destinations! A winery and restaurant that blends Persian heritage with Okanagan terroir. Opening in February 2026, Azhadi has garnered attention for its eye-popping architecture: the winery’s design takes inspiration from the iconic Azadi Tower of Tehran, Iran. In fact, the soaring entrance archway is a contemporary homage to the Azadi Tower’s graceful form, symbolizing the “spirit of freedom and legacy” that owners Mike and Janet Azhadi want to infuse into the estate. The East-meets-West theme doesn’t stop at architecture – Azhadi will also feature a year-round Persian-inspired restaurant. Imagine sipping fine Okanagan wine while enjoying Persian culinary delights like saffron-infused dishes, kebabs, and jeweled rice, all served with panoramic lake views. The winery’s approach to winemaking is equally impressive: Azhadi is one of the few local wineries using gravity-flow techniques for a gentler process, and its signature red blend (“Griffin”) promises creative flair in each bottle. Opening timeline: slated for February 2026, just in time to toast the new season. This project has been years in the making and is generating serious buzz – it’s not every day a winery fuses Persian architecture, Persian cuisine, and Okanagan viticulture in one package. Whether you’re a wine lover, a foodie, an architecture buff, or all of the above, Azhadi Vineyards will be a must-visit for a truly one-of-a-kind winery experience in the Okanagan.

BTM – Bar Travelling Man (Downtown Kelowna)

Get ready to raise a glass, because award-winning bartender Harry Dosanj is opening a new bar in downtown Kelowna! Harry – known to many as the “Bar Travelling Man” – has made a name crafting creative cocktails at events and pop-ups, and now he’s putting down roots with a brick-and-mortar bar aptly nicknamed BTM. While the exact opening date is TBA (to be announced), the anticipation is high. As the former co-owner of the acclaimed Indian restaurant Poppadoms and a champion mixologist, Harry Dosanj brings 18+ years of hospitality experience and a flair for innovative drinks. We can likely expect a cocktail menu that’s as imaginative as it is Instagrammable – think locally inspired infusions, global twists, and Harry’s signature hospitality in every pour. BTM is set to be a cozy, intimate bar where the focus is on the guest experience (Harry’s number one priority) and impeccable cocktails. The bar’s concept draws from Harry’s traveling spirit, so don’t be surprised if the decor and menu take you on a journey around the world one sip at a time. Unique factor: This will be one of the first bars in Kelowna helmed by a certified cocktail competition champ, promising top-tier drinks without any pretension. Keep an eye on downtown – once BTM opens its doors, it’ll be the new go-to spot for cocktail aficionados and anyone looking for a fun night out in the city.

Raw Action Oyster Bar (Downtown Kelowna)

Seafood lovers, rejoice – the Raw Action Oyster Bar is shedding its mobile shell and settling into a permanent location in Kelowna! Known previously as a pop-up and mobile seafood stand that toured local breweries and events (shucking fresh oysters at farmers’ markets, wineries, and breweries), Raw Action has built a cult following among bivalve enthusiasts. Now, they’re channeling that energy into a full-fledged oyster bar set to open in spring 2026 (targeting April/May). Expect a nautical-themed, casual-chic eatery where oysters are the star of the show – likely featuring a rotating selection of ultra-fresh West Coast oysters, live-shucked right in front of you for maximum oceanic drama. The owners have hinted at “big things happening,” and this move from mobile to permanent is certainly big. Fans can look forward to an expanded menu too: in addition to oysters on the half shell (with all the zesty mignonettes and accoutrements), Raw Action’s brick-and-mortar spot will probably offer other seafood delights – think ceviche, chowders, prawn cocktails, and maybe even an indulgent lobster roll or two. Opening timeline: aiming for April/May (just in time for patio season!). What makes Raw Action unique (aside from finally giving us a dedicated oyster bar in Kelowna) is their passion for sustainability and freshness. If you’ve ever slurped an oyster at one of their pop-ups, you know they pride themselves on premium, ocean-friendly product. So get ready to welcome a new pearl to Kelowna’s dining scene – Raw Action’s permanent home will soon be shucking awesome.

Room 272 (Downtown Kelowna – Bernard Ave)

One of the most intriguing upcoming openings in downtown Kelowna, Room 272 is set to land on Bernard Avenue and is already generating buzz despite keeping details tightly under wraps.

What is known? Room 272 is expected to offer an elevated, nostalgic menu—the kind that feels familiar yet refined—served in a moody brick interior designed to feel intimate and transportive. Think jewel-toned finishes, low lighting, and a space that leans into atmosphere just as much as what’s on the plate. This is shaping up to be a spot where vibe matters, perfect for date nights, late dinners, and lingering conversations over cocktails.

While the full menu and opening date haven’t yet been revealed, the concept points toward a restaurant that celebrates comfort and memory through a more polished, modern lens. If you love places that feel a little secret, a little cinematic, and very intentional, Room 272 is one to watch closely in 2026.

Perogies Bar (Downtown Kelowna)

Downtown Kelowna is about to get a hearty dose of Eastern European comfort food with Perogies Bar, a new Ukrainian eatery opening soon on Water Street. This isn’t just any perogy spot – it’s the latest venture by Tetiana Kopets, the entrepreneur behind Ready To Cook, a successful Ukrainian food shop known for its flash-frozen perogies and dumplings. Perogies Bar will bring those beloved flavours out of the freezer and onto your plate fresh. The concept is no-tipping, embracing a European-style hospitality model where staff are paid fair wages and diners can focus on enjoying their meal without doing mental math at the end. That unique no-tipping policy already has locals talking, as it’s uncommon in Kelowna’s restaurant scene. As for the food – expect authentic Ukrainian comfort dishes made with love. Think pillowy perogies (stuffed with potato-cheese, sauerkraut, perhaps blueberry for dessert) drizzled in butter and sour cream, borscht (beet soup) served with a dollop of dill sour cream, cabbage rolls, sausages, and more, all made from Tetiana’s family recipes. If it’s anything like Ready To Cook’s offerings, everything will be handcrafted by Ukrainian cooks using fresh, local ingredients.
Opening timeline: coming soon (construction is underway “step by step,” as a recent update teased). Located on Water Street in downtown Kelowna, Perogies Bar will likely have a cozy, casual atmosphere – picture bright Ukrainian embroidery accents or a colour palette nodding to the Ukrainian flag. This spot will not only fill a niche for Ukrainian cuisine in the Okanagan, but also stands as a testament to Tetiana’s inspiring journey (she started her business after moving from Ukraine in 2022). Bring your appetite and leave your tipping hand at home – Perogies Bar is set to serve up comfort food with a side of cultural pride, no gratuity ( a Kelowna first!).

Sweet Cloud Ice Cream Rolls (Downtown Kelowna)

A cool treat is getting a permanent sweet home! Sweet Cloud Ice Cream Rolls, famous from farmers’ markets and festivals as a food truck, is opening a storefront on Water Street in Kelowna – meaning you can satisfy your rolled ice cream cravings year-round. If you haven’t encountered this dessert trend yet, here’s the scoop: Sweet Cloud specializes in Thai-style ice cream rolls, where liquid ice cream base is poured onto an icy cold metal slab, mixed with fruits or cookies, then spread thin and rolled up into beautiful spirals. The whole process happens right before your eyes and is incredibly fun to watch. Owners Paulina and her husband were inspired to start Sweet Cloud after witnessing street vendors making rolled ice cream in Thailand, and they brought the idea back to Kelowna about four years ago. Until now, Sweet Cloud operated seasonally – with a main summer location at Knox Mountain Park and a roving truck hitting parks around town – attracting long lines of kids and adults alike for their customizable frozen treats. Now, with a brick-and-mortar shop, we can look forward to enjoying handcrafted ice cream rolls even in the winter (who says you can’t have ice cream in January?). Opening timeline: to be announced (soon). The new shop, located at 1430 Water Street downtown, will likely have a bright, playful interior to match the joyful desserts. Unique offerings include the ability to “choose your own adventure” – pick a flavor base (vanilla, chocolate, etc.), then add mix-ins like Nutella, Oreo, fresh strawberries, or mango, watch it all get chopped and rolled, and finally top it with goodies from whipped cream to Pocky sticks. Sweet Cloud also offers dairy-free coconut milk rolls for vegan or lactose-intolerant friends. This is dessert as entertainment – the hypnotic rolling technique and the delicious results make Sweet Cloud a treat for all the senses. Once open, it’s sure to become a favorite stop for families, date nights, or anyone looking to “keep it cool” in Kelowna’s downtown.

Ellison Field Taphouse (Kelowna International Airport – YLW)

Travelers passing through YLW can now start (or end) their journey with a true taste of the Okanagan. The Ellison Field Taphouse is a brand-new bar and restaurant at Kelowna International Airport, already open pre-security and ready to serve up craft beers and hearty bites to flyers and locals alike. This beer-forward taphouse took over the space of the old White Spot diner in the airport’s main terminal and underwent a full renovation, emerging with a modern, airy look and plenty of seating. Its name pays homage to Kelowna’s aviation history – the airport was originally called Ellison Field back in 1947, when it was just a little grass airstrip. Now, in 2026, Ellison Field Taphouse brings that history to life with a modern twist: a partnership with the BC Ale Trail to feature a rotating lineup of Okanagan’s finest craft beers on tap. You can sip local favorites from breweries like BNA, Kelowna Beer Institute, Yellow Dog, Cannery, and more, all without leaving the terminal. And fear not, hunger pangs – the food menu is surprisingly extensive for airport fare, including breakfast options, appetizers, wings, salads, bowls, handhelds, and flatbreads to keep you satisfied at any time of day. Whether you’re a traveller killing time before a flight or a local beer lover seeking a unique venue (yes, it’s open to the public – you don’t need a boarding pass to drop in pre-security), Ellison Field Taphouse offers a refreshing new hangout. Unique factor: It’s like a mini craft beer tour of the Okanagan inside the airport! Plus, the nod to history gives it character – murals or decor might feature vintage aviation images. So next time you’re flying out or picking someone up, budget a little extra time to enjoy a cold pint and a bite. It’s the perfect place for a “pre-flight drink” or a warm Okanagan welcome for visitors landing in Kelowna.

Cutwater Brewery & Lounge (Lake Country)

Beer aficionados in Lake Country have something big to look forward to: Cutwater Brewery & Lounge, a brand-new craft brewery and eatery, is finally nearing its debut after five years of development. Located at 2910 Robinson Road (in the former Nor-Val Rentals building), Cutwater has been a topic of local chatter and curiosity for a while. Now, the wait is almost over – opening is expected soon (targeting early 2026, potentially February). What’s so exciting about Cutwater? For starters, one of its owners is Richard Marken, known for co-founding Bright Eye Brewing in Kamloops (and also The Noble Pig brewpub). That pedigree means beer quality is going to be top-notch. Cutwater plans to focus on rotating small-batch beers, so you’ll always find something new and interesting on tap – from hazy IPAs to crisp lagers and experimental brews. And it’s not just about beer; this place will have a full food menu and lounge vibe, making it a community gathering spot as much as a brewery. The building has been transformed with a proper brewing system and a comfy tasting room, likely featuring industrial-chic design and possibly a patio for those sunny Lake Country days. Unique factor: Lake Country has been thirsty for a new brewery since the previous one closed, and Cutwater is set to quench that thirst with style. It’s filling a gap in the local scene, aiming to become the neighborhood watering hole where locals and tourists can mingle over pints and plates. The name “Cutwater” evokes boating and the nearby lakes, hinting at a laid-back, lake-life atmosphere. Whether you’re a craft beer nerd eager to try the latest brew or just someone who enjoys a good burger with a local beer, keep an eye out for Cutwater’s grand opening. It promises to bring fresh energy (and hops) to Lake Country’s social scene.

Crêperie OohLaLa (Penticton)

Crêperie Ooolala (yes, with three “O”s – they’re that excited!) has finally given Penticton a slice of Parisian charm. This authentic French crêpe café started as a popular seasonal food truck by the S.S. Sicamous park, and as of recently it’s now open as a brick-and-mortar eatery – much to the delight of carb lovers and Francophiles. Walk in and you might think you’ve been teleported to a cozy bistro in Brittany: the aroma of butter and batter on the griddle, the strains of French music, and owners (a French family team) cheerfully greeting you “bonjour!” Crêperie OohLaLa specializes in made-to-order crêpes both sweet and savory, using traditional techniques and quality ingredients. They prepare all crêpes right in front of you for a bit of foodie theater, and they even offer the true Breton-style savory crêpes called galettes, made with organic buckwheat flour (gluten-free and oh-so-authentic!). On the menu, you’ll find classic sweet crêpes loaded with goodies like Nutella, fresh fruit, Chantilly cream, or lemon and sugar, as well as hearty savory galettes filled with ham, cheese, egg (a classic “Crêpe Complete”), or more gourmet fillings. They’ve also expanded into some bistro fare – a peek at their social media shows French onion soup, steaming mussels in white wine, and even striploin steak on offer for dinner. Unique factor: It’s not just the food that’s French; it’s the whole experience. The crêperie aims to “transport you to France and back in time,” with French jazz and conversation filling the air (the owners, Carole and Steeve, love to chat about their home country). Located by Penticton’s Lakeshore Drive (near the SS Sicamous), it’s an idyllic spot for a leisurely breakfast or lunch by the lake. They even host live music on Sundays to amp up the joie de vivre. This is the kind of place where you savor life one crêpe at a time – an Okanagan gem that brings a taste of Ooh là là to the valley.

Grist Microbakery (Penticton)

Bread alert! Grist Microbakery in Penticton is the newest haven for artisan bread and baked goods, helmed by none other than Dana Ewart – a local culinary star known for co-founding Joy Road Catering. Now operating out of the Cannery Trade Centre in Penticton, Dana’s microbakery is open and already turning heads (and noses) with the heavenly scent of fresh loaves. Grist is all about small batch, handcrafted baking with a focus on traditional techniques – think slow fermentation, heritage grains, and seasonal ingredients. Every Friday is affectionately dubbed #FermentationFriday, when you can swing by in the afternoon to pick up naturally leavened sourdough breads fresh from the oven (Dana often posts on Instagram when she’s got extra loaves, encouraging folks to “come on by my loves!!”). The bakery offers more than just bread: expect flaky croissants, rustic galettes loaded with local fruit, perhaps some tangy rye brownies or other inventive treats, all made with the kind of love and craft that comes from a chef-baker with decades of experience. Unique factor: Dana Ewart’s reputation precedes her – she’s been a champion of Okanagan farm-to-table cuisine for years, and now she’s channeling that philosophy into baking. That means you might find breads studded with locally grown fruit, or pastries using butter from local creameries. Grist Microbakery is also no-frills and community-oriented. Being a microbakery, quantities can be limited (to ensure quality), so it almost feels like a secret club to snag a loaf. Locals are already learning to order ahead or come early to avoid missing out on the day’s goodies. Located in unit 113A of the Cannery (a cool, industrial-vintage building that’s home to several artisan producers), Grist fits right in with Penticton’s emerging hip food scene. Swing by on a Saturday morning during the farmers’ market and you might catch Dana there too, selling bread and sharing her knowledge. For anyone who appreciates good bread (who doesn’t?), Grist Microbakery is a slice of heaven. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself devouring a whole loaf in the car on your way home – it’s that good.

From Kelowna to Penticton, the Okanagan’s culinary landscape is bursting with new energy and flavours. These upcoming restaurants, bars, and food venues each bring something special – be it a new cuisine, a local success story, or an innovative concept. The common thread? Passionate people behind the scenes who are eager to share their love of food and drink with the community. It’s an exciting time to be an Okanagan foodie, with nostalgic Japanese eats, modern Persian winery feasts, crafty cocktails, fresh oysters, comforting perogies, rolled ice cream fun, airport beers, small-batch brews, French crêpes, and artisanal bread all on the menu. Make your dining bucket list and check it twice – you’ll want to visit each of these spots as they open. Here’s to supporting local businesses and savouring every bite and sip of this delicious new year in the Okanagan.

Bon appétit and cheers!