What happens when you get a last minute invitation to join in on a weekend trip to Okanagan wine country? Well obviously you accept, pack and go. So leaving Vancouver just after noon on Friday away we went – destination Kelowna.
The weather was ideal for a weekend away and even though there was a lot going on in Kelowna (including a half marathon) with little availability the Coast Capri Hotel came through with two rooms. Kudos to the Coast Capri for making the extra effort. The staff were great, friendly and welcoming. The “Capri” is well located and very comfortable with good rates which include a full breakfast. We couldn’t have chosen a better spot.
One of the first things I did was “tweet” a request for recommendations of where to dine in Kelowna. Here are the places that were suggested: RauDZ, Waterfront Wines, Poppadoms, La Bussola, Bouchon Bistro, and The Patio at Lake Breeze.
Once we were settled it was time to decide on a place to have dinner. So many people had recommended RauDZ that I knew we had to try it first. Although RauDZ doesn’t take reservations getting seated is fairly easy. We stopped by and left our name with the hostess who gave us an estimation for a seating in about 90 minutes. Perfect, we drove back to the hotel and then strolled the 3 km back to the restaurant. Even though we added an additional person last minute we were seated with just a short wait.
I can’t say enough good things about RauDZ, the food was incredible. The restaurant/bar is a very lively place and extremely popular with locals which I always take as a good sign. I was impressed with not just how great the dishes were but also by the presentation.
We decided to go the “family style” route and ordered starters and followed with dishes we could share. I started with their Crab Cappuccino so extraordinary I think it was my favourite of all the dishes. Lots of pieces of real Dungeness crabmeat in a rich, creamy broth topped with “foam”.
Another surprise was the Caesar salad it was so out of the ordinary I think it makes the perfect starter. We followed with Poutine, exceptional Crab Cakes, Venison Carpaccio, Handmade Gnocchi and Simple Pasta, which was anything but simple by the way, it was delicious. Adding to the remarkable tastes of all the dishes the presentations really upped the ante.
RauDZ uses organic, sustainable and naturally raised ingredients.
The wine list, which changes frequently, has over 55 excellent Okanagan Wines a number of which are available by the glass.
RauDZ Regional Table is a lively place popular with locals and the crowd ranges from 20 somethings on up to middle agers. The main dining area has a long table that accommodates large groups, while large, comfortable booths line the wall. For a quieter spot wait for one of the booths at the window or for a banquette table in the cozy section across from the kitchen. If you prefer not to wait there is seating at the full service bar located to the left of the main dining area and slightly separated. It can get a bit noisy at times but that is all part of the experience.
The next time I am in Kelowna this will definitely be my “go to” spot for a fabulous dinner.
Open seven days a week from 5 pm “fresh local comfortable” that’s RauDZ Regional Kitchen.
