Par-fect Patios in Kamloops
By Andrew Penner
A perfect day of golf has a few necessary components. A great course. Great playing partners. Good play. (True, “great” play is always preferred, but we’ll settle for “good.” Actually, I’m always content with “fair.” Not typically thrilled with “horrendous.”) And, finally, a perfect golf day must include some time at the 19th hole. A sun-soaked patio with chilled beverages? Yes, that’s what I’m talkin’ ‘bout.
True, every now and then – say when you’re out there grinding it out on a rainy day and everyone is nearing hypothermia – retreating inside after the round is preferred. But in Kamloops, which boasts one of the warmest and driest climates in Canada, a patio is what we’re after.
Of course, not just any patio will do. We need one with a great view. Great drinks. Great food. And great service. Thankfully, there are a ton of patios in Kamloops – both at the courses and beyond – that fit the bill. Par-fectly.
Personally, I’ve had quite a few “perfect” golf days in Kamloops. Which means I’ve spent a fair amount of time on the patios! Here are a few of my favourites.
Mason’s Kitchen & Bar at Bighorn Golf & Country Club
Situated high on the hill overlooking, well, everything, the views from this sun-soaked perch are absolutely gorgeous. When it comes to the menu, the ideal foursome feast is the Fiesta Combo, a pristine platter loaded with nachos, wings, and dry ribs. Pair it with a pint of Loopline IPA from Iron Road.
The Restaurant at The Dunes at Kamloops
A beautiful terrace overlooking the action (don’t heckle anyone!), the wrap-around patio at The Dunes Restaurant is the obvious choice after your round. Go with a delicious house-made personal pizza and pair it with a glass of Privato pinot noir, a local winery located just a few kilometres away.
The Black Iron Club & Grill at Tobiano
All summer long the big glass doors at Tobiano open up and, presto, the pristine sun-warmed patio emerges. The lake and mountain views here are sublime. Go with the scrumptious 6-Mile Burger and a Fruit Sour from Smuggler’s Trail.
The 9th Hole Kiosk at Talking Rock Golf Course
In terms of cute and quaint halfway houses, the little “cabin in the woods” at Talking Rock takes the cake. The loaded hot dogs, with grilled onions and peppers, are to die for. And, yes, I realize this isn’t really a “19th” hole. More of a “9.5” hole. Regardless, just stop there.
The Noble Pig Brewhouse
If you’re looking to close out your perfect day with some food and fun on a patio right in town, fear not, there are numerous options! The Noble Pig Brewhouse is a personal favourite. The food is absolutely phenomenal and the patio is first-rate. Never disappoints. Go with the Beef Stroganoff and a pint of Belgian Pepper Ale. Insider fact: The patio used to be an outdoor pool.
Red Beard Cafe
Located on Tranquille Road near McArthur Island, Red Beard boasts a cool and contemporary vibe with spectacular food and drinks…and an excellent patio! For your famished foursome, go with a bunch of share plates (the Fried Chicken and Currywurst are musts) and a Red Beard Radler.
Indeed, the perfect day of golf isn’t something to take lightly. It may only happen a couple of times each summer. Of course, in Kamloops, it tends to happen with a little more frequency.
