Kamloops’ winter dining scene is back in the spotlight as Taste Around Kamloops returns from January 21 to February 8, offering locals and visitors a chance to explore the city’s culinary diversity while supporting restaurants during the quieter winter months.
Presented by the BC Restaurant & Foodservices Association, the annual event features more than 15 participating restaurants rolling out specially curated three-course menus, with prices ranging from $25 to $75 per person. Menus span a wide range of styles, from casual pub fare to elevated dining experiences.
“Taste Around is such an incredible celebration of our food culture and our food scene here in Kamloops,” said Lisa White, Director of Community Development and Engagement with Tourism Kamloops. “It really gives people a great reason to get out, explore the city, and support our local restaurants.”
White noted that the timing of the event is intentional, coming just after the busy holiday season when many people tend to stay home more.
“This is just a really great reason to get out and support our local restaurants to keep them booming and vibrant and successful all year long,” she said. “We want people continually wanting to be a part of our foodie culture here in Kamloops.”
While Taste Around Kamloops has strong appeal for locals, Tourism Kamloops says the event is also designed to attract visitors from surrounding communities and nearby destinations like Sun Peaks.
“We love supporting all facets of our industry,” White said. “There are some great stay packages on the Taste Around website and on our website as well. It’s about inspiring people to come in, have a date night, maybe a little getaway, eat some amazing food, and enjoy the evening while they’re here.”
Beyond dining, Taste Around Kamloops is pairing food with arts and entertainment to create a full night-out experience. This year, Tourism Kamloops has partnered with the Paramount Theatre to offer a series of Food on Film screenings running alongside the festival.
“They’re showing foodie favourites like Julie & Julia, Ratatouille, Goodfellas, and Willy Wonka,” White said. “It’s a great chance to pair Taste Around dining with a foodie film for a perfect date night.”
The festival also includes a comedy highlight on February 6, when comedian and former chef Ali Hassan brings his show Does This Taste Funny to the Paramount Theatre. Known for his work on CBC Radio and as a former host of Canada Reads, Hassan blends stories from his hospitality background with sharp comedic storytelling. The show begins at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m., allowing time for dinner beforehand.
“He comes from a chef background and brings all those funny stories that will have us in stitches,” White said. “Go for a bite to eat at one of the fantastic restaurants and take in a comedy show—there are just so many great reasons to make a date night, a weekend, or even a weeknight out of it.”
Tourism Kamloops is sponsoring the local program in partnership with the BCRFA as part of its ongoing efforts to spotlight the city’s dining and hospitality sector and encourage winter tourism.
For menus, participating restaurants, accommodation packages, and tickets for the comedy show, visit the Tourism Kamloops website.
