Italian Food & Wine, a love story

December 8, 2023 /

I have to say, Italian food paired with wine is the ultimate combination to me. A true love story.

A few years ago I travelled with my better half by car from Pisa to Venice, during late spring. For our last part we hopped on a boat, a truly amazing experience.

During our road trip through Italy we explored and enjoyed Lucca, Florence, Garda, Lazise, Sirmione and Verona. Our rental car blended so well with the Italian places and landscapes: a Fiat 500 convertible.

It was a truly amazing vacation: the scenic drives, the beautiful historic places, nature, and (more than) a taste of authentic Italian food. Inviting, passionate, simple and pure ingredients and above all, made with love. You can taste it in every bite.

We enjoyed, as the Italians say best, ‘La Dolca Vita’. Savoured gelato, pizza, pasta, bread, risotto balls and so much more.

What really stood out was the hospitality, the feeling of being a part of a Famiglia, even just for a brief moment in time. I also really loved the long dining, no rush. When we take the time for things, and slow down, we can really take everything in and enjoy the moment.

To me, Italian food fits perfectly in every season. Combined with a glass of White, Rosé, Red or Bubbly. And don’t forget the Ice Wine…for those amazing citrus desserts.

And can we have a moment for the bread? Warm, fluffy bread, with herbs and olive oil to dip. I could eat that all day, every day.

Since my move to Kelowna this year, I already experienced amazing tasting, authentic, Italian food. And also with that Famiglia feel! Arrive as a guest, leave as family!

Here is my top 3 list, in no particular order, of must try Italian restaurants in the Okanagan Valley:

  • Roma Nord Bistro Located in downtown Kelowna, in the buzzling heart of the Cultural District. I can definitely recommend to start with a glass of Prosecco! They have a very extensive wine menu with enough options to choose a Bianchi (White Wine), Rossi (Red Wine) or Rosati (Rosé).
  • Pane Vino Pizzeria Tucked away between Kalamalka Lake and Wood Lake, with a beautiful pergola to enjoy during the warmer months. They have a beautiful mixed wine list featuring Okanagan wines and Italian wines.

  • Vino Italian Restaurant Attached to Volcanic Hills Winery in West Kelowna. I mean, does it get any better? Well, it does. Volcanic Hills Winery offers a Antipasti and Wine Pairing experience. Pick 4 wines and these will be paired with an antipasti board by Vino Italian Restaurant. Talking about a true love story.

Enjoy! Ciao,

Coraline

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