West Kelowna wineries recognized as best places in the world for food and viticulture

Date of Issue: Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Four West Kelowna wineries have been recognized by National Geographic as some of the best places in the world for their food and wine offerings.

“Congratulations to our local wineries and restaurants for being recognized for their world-class experience,” said West Kelowna Mayor Gord Milsom. “This recognition from National Geographic reflects the incredible talent, innovation and agricultural roots that continue to shape our community.”

In an article published this month, National Geographic recognized our region as one of the 15 best places in the world for food right now. The article highlights the offerings at Volcanic Hills Estate Winery, Little Straw Vineyards and Tula Restaurant, Old Vines Restaurant at Quails’ Gate Estate Winery, and Mission Hill Family Estate. The Boucherie multi-use pathway was highlighted as the best way to experience our culinary riches, including the many restaurants, wineries, fruit stands and stunning views along the way.

“Having four of our exceptional wineries recognized globally by National Geographic in their ‘15 Best Places in the World for Food’ is a monumental achievement for the culinary and viticulture industries in the City of West Kelowna,” said Ryan P. Malcolm, CEO of West Kelowna Economic Development Corporation. “This honour cements our position as a premier international destination for food, wine and unique culinary experiences. We have such incredible talent thriving and growing on the Westside, and we are all so proud that their passion and hard work are being recognized on a global scale. Massive congratulations to Mission Hill, Quails’ Gate, Volcanic Hills, and Little Straw Vineyards for this well-deserved spotlight and for driving our region’s culinary prestige to new heights."

QUOTES

Jenn Cudlipp, President & CEO, Quails’ Gate Winery -

“This recognition reflects something those of us in the Okanagan have understood for some time: exceptional food and wine experiences begin with exceptional land. From our vineyards and orchards to the chefs, farmers, ranchers, and producers shaping this region, the Okanagan has built a culinary culture rooted in agriculture creativity, and a strong sense of place. Recognition from National Geographic alongside UNESCO's designation shines an important global spotlight on the people and partnerships behind this region and confirms that the Okanagan is one of the world's great destinations for food, wine, and genuine hospitality.”

Bobby Gidda, President, Volcanic Hills Estate Winery; President, Westside Wine Trail -

“What makes the Westside Wine Trail and the Okanagan so special is the people behind it. This is a community where wineries, restaurants, farms, breweries, and tourism operators genuinely support each other and work together to create something unique. You can feel that sense of collaboration when you visit here. The UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation for Kelowna and Westbank First Nation, along with this recognition from National Geographic, really shines a spotlight on what we’ve known for a long time — the Okanagan is one of the most exciting food and wine destinations in the world, and it’s being built by passionate local people who care deeply about this region.”

Patrick Gayler, Executive Chef, Mission Hill Family Estate -

“We’re thrilled to be recognized among the top destinations to dine around the world. Our philosophy at Mission Hill has always been that when the valley thrives, we thrive, and this celebrates the collective success of our entire region. We are incredibly proud to showcase what is grown right here around us, honouring our local farming partnerships by presenting the Okanagan’s seasonal bounty in a simple, elegant way.”

Karnail Sidhu, Owner, Little Straw Vineyards - 

"Being recognized by National Geographic as one of the top 15 in the world is truly humbling. The Okanagan has always been a world-class destination — it's wonderful to see the rest of the world catching on. At Little Straw, we've always believed that great wine and great food go hand in hand, and this recognition for our winery and our restaurant, Tula, is a testament to everything our team and our region have worked so hard to build."

BACKGROUND

• Read the National Geographic article: Best of the World 2026: 15 of the best food destinations | National Geographic
• Learn more about where to eat, stay, and play in West Kelowna: visitwestside.com
• Learn more about the UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation: tourismkelowna.com/explore/city-of-gastronomy