*Updated March 6, 2024

It’s time for a drink because it wouldn’t be a summer weekend without a cocktail. Luckily, we’ve got the perfect locations for a slowed-down summer weekend on hand.

Head out to any of the following five restaurants for a variety of cocktails. Some taste like the Okanagan summer in a glass, using ingredients that pay tribute to the beautiful valley. Others, are more complex offering a sophisticated and nuanced taste experience.

Elma

Owned and operated by Michael and Ayse Barluk, Elma’s Turkish-inspired concept is challenging the city’s cocktail standards. It’s one of the best spots in the city to grab a seat at the bar. A long-time favourite is the thirst-quenching but interesting Topkapi - a gin cocktail with Campari, fruit puree, grapefruit juice and Yeni Raki mist. Or, the steadfast Fresno Chili Margarita. It is as it sounds.

994 Lakeshore Drive West, Penticton, BC

Kin & Folk

For a laudable cocktail list, Check out Kin & Folk, the newest spot in Penticton from restauranteur and chef Mack Davis and Zac Chan, opening its doors last May. Their drink menu is all about putting a playful spin on the classics, with carefully crafted cocktails that will make your mouth water. Using a mix of traditional, fresh and local ingredients, they've come up with a lineup that's as unique as it is delicious. 

The Stay Peachy Margarita is a must-try. With tequila, burnt peach, Thai basil, peach soju, and lime juice, It's complex, refreshing and citrusy... We’ll take two, please.

557 Main Street, Penticton, BC

The Restaurant at Poplar Grove

As a winery restaurant, The Restaurant at Poplar Grove’s terrific cocktail program flies just under the radar. The cocktails are rotating but always intentional. On a recent visit, the Not A Cup and I Barely Know Them! cocktails caught our attention.

Plus, The Restaurant at Poplar Grove recently announced the addition of two local chefs - Stacy Johnston and Minette Lotz. They are a talented team so grab a bite to go with your cocktail(s).

425 Middle Bench Road North, Penticton, BC

Abandoned Rail

Owned by Nicole and Scott Breier, Abandoned Rail Brewing is located right on the KVR in between Penticton and Naramata. And, in addition to its fantastic beer lineup.. they have cocktails on Saturday nights.

From now through May long weekend, you can find classic and new cocktails every week. The folks at Abandoned Rail are always up to something cool. Follow them on Instagram to stay up-to-date on their cocktails, food options, new beers, and more.

1220 Davenport Ave, Penticton, BC V2A 8V1

Tratto

In addition to serving the best pizza in Penticton, Tratto Pizzeria has been at the pulse of Penticton’s beverage scene since its inception in 2019. Chris Royal, Partner and Operator, offers a carefully curated rotating list of Italian wines, offering a nice reprieve from the Okanagan wines we get to enjoy so much of. 

Tratto also boasts a great selection of classic cocktails. Post up at the bar any night of the week and enjoy a negroni alongside one of Chef's daily specials or visit on a Saturday for a weekly cocktail night, featuring a variety of cocktails made with local vermouth.

256 Westminster Ave., Penticton, BC

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It’s time for a cocktail in Penticton, and these restaurants are leading the charge. Whether you're in the mood for a modern twist on a classic cocktail or an intentional new creation, each of these spots has a lot to offer. It's no wonder that they're quickly becoming the go-to destination for something other than wine in wine country. Cheers!