As the brisk winds of November usher in the much-anticipated cozy season, there's an undeniable allure to embracing the warmth of local haunts. With the vibrant festivities of the season just around the corner, venturing into the inviting ambiance of neighborhood restaurants and coffee shops has become the ideal ritual to bask in both the comfort of familiar spaces and the festive spirit. For those seeking the ultimate indulgence in coziness, we've curated a collection of some of our favourite local spots, each offering a unique and snug experience that perfectly fits in with this enchanting time of year.
ROMEOS Kitchen + Spirits Igloo's
1250 Rogers Way
Monday - Sunday, 7:00AM - 10:00PM
Everyone loves a Hallmark holiday movie moment, and you get to experience that feeling at ROMEO's Kitchen and Spirits with their exclusive Igloo dining. Gather your friends for a memorable celebration or just a fun evening out in your own private igloo, where each space is thoughtfully equipped with seating for up to 8 guests, ensuring an intimate and warm atmosphere. Complete with heaters, ambient lights, and festive décor, the igloos at ROMEO's offer the perfect setting for a joyous get-together. For just a $25 rental fee, you can reserve your very own igloo and enjoy a one-of-a-kind dining experience that promises to create lasting memories. Reserve your table via their website here.
The Pond Country Market
6231 Barnhartvale Rd
Restaurant: Tuesday-Sunday 11am-3pm (Friday & Saturday 11am-10pm)
Gift Shop & Nursery: Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm
Closed Mondays
Nestled in the heart of Barnhartvale, The Pond Country Market is a charming local favourite spot that seamlessly combines a cozy restaurant, delightful gift store, and a seasonal garden center. Step into this inviting space and discover where homemade soups, delicious sandwiches, and fresh baking take center stage. There is also a fireplace to snuggle up by! As the seasons change, The Pond Country Market transforms into holiday magic, offering a curated selection of festive treats and goodies that are perfect for stocking up for the season. The market is not just for homemade cooking, but also a treasure trove for local finds, featuring an array of jams, honeys, seasonal decor, and other Kamloops treats. Did we mention they also offer live music? Check out their Facebook page for all the updates and schedules, and take the cozy experience to the next level.
Cordo Resto and Bar
540 Victoria Street
Breakfast: Monday to Sunday - 7:00AM - 11:00AM
Lunch: Monday to Friday - 11:00AM - 4:00PM
Dinner: Sunday to Thursday - 4:00PM - 10:30PM, Friday + Saturday - 4:00PM - 11:00PM
Cordo Resto + Bar, drawing inspiration from the Cordillera's diverse landscapes, is renowned for celebrating the unique offerings of the Thompson Okanagan Region. Embracing an innovative and nutritious culinary philosophy, Cordo blends classic cooking techniques with a contemporary twist, incorporating fresh herbs, local produce, and regional wines. The restaurant's Fall menu introduces delightful treats like the Giant Meatball (we highly recommend!), Pumpkin Coconut Soup, Mead-brined Pork Chop, and a Canadian Maple Butter Tart for those with a sweet tooth. Cordo also transforms its interior ambiance with holiday decor, creating the coziest atmosphere for you and yours. Come and enjoy the festive spirit with seasonal craft cocktails and mocktails, delicious coffees, and make any celebration—or simply a 'just because' meal out—an extra special experience.
Dorian Greek House
430 Victoria Street
Monday - Sunday: 4:00PM - 9:00PM
Dorian Greek House, nestled in downtown Kamloops, is a perfect one-stop-shop for those who relish the flavours of Greek cuisine. Boasting a stunning interior, this restaurant provides the perfect ambiance for a cozy dining experience. Since 2003, Dorian Greek House has been a cherished establishment, celebrated for serving the finest Greek food in Kamloops. With generous portion sizes and a diverse menu, it caters to the cravings of every Greek food enthusiast. It’s the perfect post-holiday shopping dinner spot!
Jamaican Kitchen
451 Tranquille Road
Wednesday to Sunday - 8:00AM - 3:00PM
Monday + Tuesday - Closed
Step into the casual and cozy atmosphere of Jamaican Kitchen on The Shore, where the inviting aroma of flavourful dishes mingles with the melodic sounds of Bob Marley playing in the background - doesn’t get much better than that! Whether you’re craving breakfast, or lunch, this local gem offers unique Canadian twists on Carribean favourites. Are you a coffee lover? Be sure to try out their Marley Coffee, with beans from Ethiopia. This the perfect spot for when you’re craving something cozy, spicy, warm, and all around delicious.
Jacobs Noodle and Cutlet
260 4th Avenue
Monday - Saturday: 11:30AM - 9:00PM
Closed Sundays
For a genuine taste of traditional Korean and Japanese cuisine, Jacob's Noodle & Cutlet stands as the go-to Kamloops spot. Renowned for its Sundubu-jjigae—a spicy Korean stew served in a piping hot pot, brimming with seafood, tofu, egg, and rice, a rare gem to discover inland, as well as their katsu (cutlet) that can be served with sushi, ramyun, salad and more. The exposed brick interior and colourful decor create a vibrant and inviting atmosphere, setting the stage for a perfect dining experience. The staff will welcome you like family, and it’s the perfect place to warm up during the chilly November days.
As your adventures unfold on these crisp November days, don't forget to weave in moments of warmth and coziness at these favorite gems. Whether it's the intimate ambiance of Dorian Greek House in downtown Kamloops, the Caribbean vibes at Jamaican Kitchen on The Shore, or the authentic Korean and Japanese delights at Jacob's Noodle & Cutlet, each place offers a unique experience to dine with family and friends. As the temperatures drop, find a table right by the fireplace, find your new favourite meal, and create cherished memories with your loved ones.
Don't forget to keep us in the 'Loop with your incredible adventures this month. Snap those memorable moments and share your journey with us by tagging @tourismkamloops and using the hashtag #ExploreKamloops.
Friendly reminder to also download your 'Loops Explorer Pass to save big at all your favourite local spots. Each redemption puts you into the draw to win amazing quarterly giveaway prizes, too! Download your pass here.