It is well known that British Columbia’s food scene is one worth traveling for. Given the proximity to wild environments ranging from mountain landscapes to rivers and oceans along with its position as a meeting point of cultural influences spanning the globe, the province has much to offer by way of food and drink experiences.
We’re highlighting Indigenous-owned spots throughout the province who contribute vibrantly to these regional food scenes. These eateries feature everything from traditional dishes and ingredients important to the First Nations they represent to modern takes on classics, all interpreted through a very delicious lens. By celebrating their unique foodways, each dish is a reclaiming of flavour, understood and reflected by those who know it best.
Dive in, it’s about to get a lot more delicious!
The Osprey Nest Social House and Eatery
1205 Borland Rd, Williams Lake, BC
Beautifully situated on the shores of Williams Lake in the traditional territory of the Williams Lake First Nation, The Osprey Nest is invitingly warm, making it an ideal spot to gather for coffee, lunch or dinner. With brunch classics on the menu along with very appealing burgers and bowls, you may find yourself returning several times to work your way through the menu.
Numa Restaurant and Lounge
7777 Mission Road, Cranbrook, BC
Situated within the Traditional Territory of the Ktunaxa Nation, Numa Restaurant and Lounge is one of multiple options at St. Eugene Golf Resort with picturesque views of the Rocky Mountains. The Mission Building on site is a former residential school that was reclaimed under the leadership of the Ktunaxa Nation. Today, resort guests are welcomed with various amenities, an educational interpretive centre and casual fare at Numa offering everything from bison burgers and bannock to locally-sourced charcuterie.
Saltwater Bakery
5 Cow Bay Rd, Prince Rupert
This Prince Rupert fixture located on the territory of the Gitxaała Nation is an invitation to savour the good things in life. Step inside the open concept bakery where you will see the bakers at work on a number of sweet and savoury pastries, artisanal loaves and decadent desserts. Local provisions are available on site as well as ice cream crafted with local berries and preserves.
Kekuli Cafe
Multiple Locations: Westbank, Merritt and Kamloops
With the slogan “Don’t panic…we have bannock!” you can rest assured that you’ll find a spot to dine at the first Indigenous food franchise in Canada. Currently operating three locations in the Okanagan, Kekuli was created with the intention of being a space to gather. The menu features Bannock dressed in a variety of flavours with the traditional bread also creatively incorporated as a base in a multitude of dishes ranging from tacos to desserts.
Salmon n’ Bannock Bistro
1128 West Broadway, Vancouver, British Columbia
Located on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, this is Vancouver’s only First Nations restaurant. Free-range game meat and wild fish are on the menu, along with a wine list featuring a well stocked selection from Nk’mip Cellars, North America’s first Indigenous-owned winery. Reservations are recommended for this intimate dining experience.
Troller's Fish & Chips
10 Wharf Street, Nanaimo, British Columbia
This serene floating restaurant nestled in Nanaimo’s Waterfront Marina brings you straight to the source with ocean views and a menu featuring only the best of the catch presented in a no-fuss format. Freshly caught fish from nearby waters include halibut, cod and sockeye salmon. The menu features fish & chips (of course!) and house-smoked meats, meaning you’re in for a taste of land and sea.
Hungry for More?
This is only a fraction of a very tasty list. Head to Indigenous Tourism BC for a wide array of Indigenous-owned restaurants, eateries, cafés, wineries, distilleries and breweries across the province. These places to gather sustain culture and tradition in the most delicious way!
