Have you been to the village of Naramata lately? This charming little oasis tucked in around the corner from Penticton is such a treat and makes for the perfect day trip or weekend away.
The Naramata Heritage Inn is the destination to either lunch at or come for dinner and spend the night. The Inn’s new chef is in place and is making a splash with his new menu.
“The two of them arrived on the doorstep of the Inn together last spring,” explains innkeeper Toni Bloomfield who, with her husband Julius, has been happily running the Inn since purchasing it last year. “They are our f & b dream team.”
She is speaking of chef A.K. Campbell and Jordan Fairman whose enthusiasm makes for a perfect match for the Bloomfields, who themselves have poured their hearts and love into this beautiful property that first opened in 1908—and it shows. From the first moment you stroll across the southern style veranda, you will be seduced by the romance and splendour that sighs from every corner.
The Bloomfields are excited to start the spring at the Inn (which is now open year round) and are kicking things off with A.K.’s delectable menu. I love the unique flavour combinations introduced throughout the menu.With dishes focusing on local ingredients, he offers an international array of flavours that he describes as “adventurous.” For instance, the mussels are served in an amazing saffron, vanilla and roasted fennel sauce.
There is a wide range of dishes to choose from so “whether you would like a burger and a beer or a five-course wine-paired menu, the Bistro has it all,” says Julius.
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To help plan your Naramata adventure and other fun touring trips within our valley, pick up a copy of this new book: Okanagan Slow Road. Authored by Bernadette McDonald and illustrated by Naramata villager and artist Karolina Born-Tschümperlin (who also co-owns The Green Man Lavender Farm), follow the author as she trips around the Okanagan weaving through its many sites, sounds and flavours.
Karolina’s paintings beautifully tell a visual tale of our local lands, offering a pleasing eyeful of colour depicting the diversity of landscapes and bucolic views that we are so blessed with. From hiking and bird watching to wine and cheese tasting, this book provides a sound blueprint of what we have to offer.
It is available at most wineshops around the valley and bookstores and at The Naramata Heritage Inn where its official book launch will be held next month. For more information go to: http://www.touchwoodeditions.com.
Jennifer Schell is editor of B.C. Wine Trails Magazine.
jennschell@shaw.ca
twitter.com/JenniferSchell8
