Food & Drink
Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Kelowna
Kelowna Team
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Summary
Where to eat vegetarian and vegan in Kelowna, from fully plant-based kitchens to restaurants with good vegan options.
In this article:
The best vegetarian and vegan restaurant in Kelowna is Frankie We Salute You!, a plant-based comfort food spot on Harvey Ave. This guide covers Frankie's and four vegetarian-friendly kitchens with solid vegan options, plus tips for eating out, for longtime vegans and people eating more plant-based meals.
Are There Fully Vegan Restaurants in Kelowna?
Yes. The standout fully plant-based spot is Frankie We Salute You! on Harvey Ave.
Frankie We Salute You!
Location: 1717 Harvey Ave #6, Kelowna, BC V1Y 6G3
Frankie's is popular for plant-based comfort food, and the weekly specials keep the menu changing. They also carry vegan pastries, desserts and take-away food.
Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants with Great Vegan Options
Vegetarian-friendly restaurants are regular kitchens with enough plant-based dishes to make a real meal. These four aren't vegetarian or vegan, but they do it well:
BNA Brewing Co. & Eatery
Location: 1250 Ellis St, Kelowna, BC V1Y 1Z4
BNA is a casual downtown brewpub best known for its craft beer, but the menu has a fair number of vegetarian and vegan options, including bowls, salads and appetizers that are easy to modify.
El Taquero
Location: 1443 Ellis St, Kelowna, BC
El Taquero is a quick, cheap taco spot that can make several of its vegetarian tacos vegan. The mushroom and potato tacos are the popular ones.
Bohemian Cafe
Location: 524 Bernard Ave, Kelowna, BC V1Y 6N6
The Bohemian is a downtown institution for breakfast and lunch, and several of its vegetarian dishes can be made vegan, including the tofu scramble, veggie burgers and salads.
Central Kitchen + Bar
Location: 1155 Ellis St, Kelowna, BC V1Y 1Z4
Central Kitchen + Bar has its own vegetarian section on the menu, and the kitchen will modify dishes to make them vegan. The vegan bowls and plant-based burgers are the popular orders.
Tips for Vegan & Vegetarian Dining in Kelowna
Eating vegan or vegetarian here mostly comes down to checking menus, asking your server and using the farmers' markets.
- ●Check menus online: Many restaurants mark vegetarian and vegan dishes on the menu, so look before you go.
- ●Ask: Most local restaurants will work around dietary restrictions. Ask your server what can be made vegan.
- ●Go to the farmers' markets: The Kelowna Farmers' Markets have local produce, and many vendors sell vegan baked goods, snacks and meals.
- ●Eat with the season: Menus change through the year, and summer has the most fresh fruit and vegetables.
- ●Try Indian, Thai or Ethiopian: These cuisines have plenty of dishes that are vegetarian or vegan to begin with.
Local produce and the markets make plant-based eating straightforward here. For more places to eat, see our guide to the best restaurants in Kelowna.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many vegan restaurants in Kelowna?
Only a few. The city has a handful of fully plant-based spots, Frankie We Salute You! among them, but many restaurants have vegan options and will adjust dishes.
Where can I find fresh, local produce for vegetarian cooking in Kelowna?
The Kelowna Farmers' and Crafters' Market is the main source. Farm stands around the Okanagan Valley also sell local fruit and vegetables during the growing season.
What is the best time of year to visit Kelowna for vegetarian food?
The best time is summer and fall, when local fruit and vegetables are in season and many restaurants put seasonal plant-based dishes on the menu.
Are there any vegetarian-friendly wineries in Kelowna?
Yes. Many winery restaurants have vegetarian options, such as cheese boards and small plates. Check the menu online before you go.
Can I find vegan desserts in Kelowna?
Yes. Many bakeries and cafes have vegan cakes, cookies and pastries, and Frankie We Salute You! carries a large selection of vegan baked goods.
