Nestled in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, Kelowna is known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culinary scene. Among the array of international flavours available in our city’s restaurants, Korean cuisine stands out as a gem worth savouring. With its delightful combination of savoury, spicy, and umami flavours, Korean dishes easily capture the hearts and taste buds of visitors and locals.
Join us as we explore the best Korean restaurants in Kelowna, each with a unique taste of its own.
Soban Korean BBQ
Located downtown on Bernard Ave, Soban is a hip restaurant that’s not to be missed if you’re looking for delicious Korean food. We try to not be biased, but everything we’ve tried at Soban is really just 10/10. Their Bibimbap, specifically the Dol-sot Bibimbap, and the Kimchi Jigae soup are definitely a must-have if you’re dining in. If you’re looking for something different, you should also try their tacos – we can’t get enough of the Korean BBQ.
530 Bernard Ave, Kelowna, BC
3.8km (10min drive) to The Shore
Gather
Gather is a Korean-Italian fusion restaurant also located downtown in the Kelowna Innovation Centre. The space’s atmosphere is cozy and modern with tables and menu designed for a more intimate, shared dining experience.
The menu is a tribute to the culinary mastery of owner and Chef Sung Ji Park. It draws inspiration from the conventional and less-than-traditional cuisine that enriched his family meals growing up. This meticulously crafted dining experience is further influenced by the heritage and travels of co-owner Luigi Coccaro.
From the menu, you can’t go wrong with a classic bibimbap bowl, their signature smoked pork belly, or one of their delicious pasta dishes. Their Gnocchi Fritti is one of our all-time favourites, we also love their extensive wine list and unique cocktail menu. If you’re having a hard time deciding, their Flight to Seoul features three mini cocktails that incorporate Korean rice liquor soju.
460 Doyle Ave #105, Kelowna, BC
4.1km (9 min drive) from The Shore
Chicko Chicken
If you have a craving for fried chicken – and specifically Korean-style chicken – then Chicko Chicken is a must-try. Choose from 7 different flavours or mix and match for a variety. Don’t forget to grab a side sauce or two for an extra kick of flavour!
This Korean-style fried chicken franchise has locations across BC, Alberta & Ontario. They pride themselves on using authentic recipes and importing the best batter mix, marinades, and sauces directly from South Korea.
Pro tip: this is a fun and easy addition to a family picnic or hang with friends at nearby City Park in downtown Kelowna.
1298 Ellis St, Kelowna, BC
4.5km (11 mins) drive from The Shore
Kimbap & Sushi
Another fusion restaurant located in Kelowna is the unique Kimbap & Sushi. This lively, family-run Korean and Japanese restaurant is known for its friendly staff and fast service so there’s no surprise it’s a Kelowna favourite. Regardless of your dining preferences, picking out your meal is easy as they have both a dedicated vegan and full menu to choose from. Try their different Kimbap rolls for something healthy and delicious – a Korean-style roll filled with fresh veggies, rice, and a protein of your choice.
2189 Springfield Rd #118, Kelowna, BC
5.5km (10 min) drive from The Shore
Bon Ga Korean Restaurant
If you’re looking for classic, authentic Korean food in Kelowna, Bon Ga Korean Cuisine is a great option. They’re sure to have all your favourites, from bulgogi to bibimbap, as well as some new items to try. Highlights include their Kimchi Fried Rice and the best pork bone soup in town (Hot Bone Soup). But don’t just take our word for it, check our their numerous Google Reviews for tips on what to try.
“Bon Ga is one of the best restaurants in Kelowna. I love their spicy pork (jeyuk bokkeum) and their japchae is delicious and the perfect pairing for the heat of the other dish. The seafood pancake was also enjoyed as a shared side. Highly recommend this family-run business with a great, diverse menu.”
Carolyn Klassen, Google Reviews
437 Glenmore Rd suite 107, Kelowna, BC
9.1km (17 min drive) from The Shore
Take It To-go
While dining-in is usually the best way to experience any restaurant, Korean cuisine travels pretty well if you want to take it to-go. Enjoy it in one of our many parks, head down by the water to one of Kelowna’s best beaches, or bring it home to the Shore and enjoy it on the balcony of your suite.
If you’re working late or are feeling tired after a full day of activities in the sun, many of Kelowna’s Korean restaurants are on UberEats, SkiptheDishes, and DoorDash. Download the app and get your favourite Korean dishes delivered right to your door.
A New Favourite for Dinner
Whether you’re a seasoned Korean food enthusiast or a curious first-timer, don’t miss the opportunity to tantalize your taste buds with the best Korean cuisine that Kelowna has to offer. And after a great meal, enjoy a sweet frozen treat or check out some of our favourite wineries in and around town.
Come Stay at The Shore
The Shore Kelowna’s convenient central location allows for easy access to your favourite restaurants, shops, parks, and more. Enjoy our comfortable accommodations – each suite features a kitchen full of modern amenities, high-speed wireless internet, on-site and close dining options, plus spectacular views of Okanagan Lake.
