Summerland

continues to grow into its own

little food and wine

destination. I just love visiting this charming village on the lake and its many award-winning wineries.

There are wonderful choices of eateries in the area, including brand new Local Lounge and Grille.

A couple of friends and I popped in for lunch to check out this beautiful waterfront venue brought to us by Cameron Bond and his local celebrity father-in-law Harry McWatters (Sumac Ridge Winery Founder).

Located next door to the Summerland Waterfront Resort and Spa on Lakeshore Drive in lower town, this aptly named new restaurant focuses on all things local.

Bond has said that Local has a “mandate of showcasing regional foods, wines and brews to celebrate the best that the Okanagan Valley and British Columbia have to offer.”

Chef Paul Cecconi, formerly at Kelowna’s Harvest Golf Club, is sourcing his menu items from some of our very best local suppliers and has created a unique menu with something to please every palate.

Love the philosophy here—it is right up my alley.

The ambiance is modern and urbanesque with a backdrop of windows showcasing jaw-dropping views of stunning Lake Okanagan.

The patio will be a sure fire packed venue in the summer.

The wine list, of course, features all of the local talents and the menu is creative.

We shared the tasty Oyster Mushroom Bruschetta and a beautifully presented Falafel and Dungeness Crab Balls for starters.

My friend Mary ordered the Coriander Crusted Albacore Tuna served with a lovely swirl of soba noodles while Rita and I ordered spinach salads for mains.

Speaking of local, Kelowna hot spot The Rotten Grape and Wine Bar is hosting another Winemaker Wednesday today.

Not to be missed, the featured winery this month is the mysterious and exciting new Aces with winemaker Jason Parkes on hand to discuss his new high end creations.

For $12, the Grape serves you three of the feature wines in a flight, each paired with a “bite,” from 5 to 8 p.m. at 231 Bernard Ave.

Jennifer Schell is editor of B.C. Wine Trails Magazine.

jennschell@shaw.ca