Tag Archive for: good food

Merritt BC Restaurant Pub 

Game On Sports Bar & Grill

“Game On Sports Bar and Grill, a Merritt BC restaurant pub, is widely known for it’s amazing home-style meals, great ambiance and daily food specials.

There are a few Merritt BC restaurant pubs to select from when visiting the Nicola Valley. But there is little like Game On Sports for food, service, ambiance and location. 

Merritt BC Restaurant Pub Scene

Many Merritt locals have made Game On Sports Bar & Grill one of their favourite places to eat, meet, and greet family & friends. In other words it is a popular choice for many locals when one seeks big meals, refreshments and a lively atmosphere.  

Experience Merritt’s Game On Sports Bar & Grill.

Game On In The Nicola Valley

In addition to enjoying a delicious home-style meal while taking in the beautiful views of  the Nicola Valley, you will be treated to some of the best service I have ever encountered since I have lived in the Nicola Valley. From the time I walked in the door, I was instantly welcomed by Lona. Lona shared with me how much she values customer’s opinions and feedback. 

I arrived at Game On around 4:30 PM, thinking that the dinner rush wouldn’t start for an hour. There were about 5 tables occupied all-ready. However as I sat there deciding what to order, I noticed how quickly the room began to fill.

Consequently by 5:15 there were 3 to 4 peopled seated at seven different tables. Being Tuesday,  I thought I would be able to sit with Lona uninterrupted for my little interview. Instead I had to ask her questions every time she came by my table due to how busy she was.

Meet Game On Sports Bar & Grill Manager Lona.

Menu To Die For in Merritt BC 

The menu at Game On Sports provides a wide assortment pub food, beverages and appetizers. But it is not limited to what is on the menu.  Game On is well known in the valley for “going above and beyond” for its regular clientele. For example they have ordered in specific wines and spirits. Secondly they take pre-orders for clientele who are on lunch breaks or have limited time.  

“You need to work with your clientele, because they will bring in more clientele,  there are people who come in 2 to 3 times a week for a meal.”

Furthermore Lona shared that the continuing success of Game On Sports Bar & Grill’s has a lot to do with teamwork and dedication. A culture supported by the owner – Jim Cooley.   

Restaurant pub in Merritt BC Canada

Cooking to please – the kitchen

Start With An Appetizer Was First On My List 

When visiting this restaurant pub in Merritt BC Canada there is a generous selection of appetizers on the menu including such popular items as calamari, chicken wings and prawns. However,  I highly recommend the Zucchini sticks! It is a personal favourite of mine.

Zucchini Sticks Appetizer

Merritt’s Game On Sports Bar & Grill

The  main menu was a bit more of a challenge as the selection is big… and then there is always the daily special’s. Good news! Whatever you decide on, I can tell you one thing, the meals are very generous. If unsure on what to order, ask your server. I guarantee you will not be steered wrong. 

Big servings at Game On Sports

Big servings at Game On Sports A Perfect Meal!

The Game on Sports Bar & Grill Beverages

While waiting for your appy or starter dish, why not enjoy one of the many alcohol beverages available from the wine, special coffee, and ale lists. Try a Bellini, if you so dare. Non-alcohol beverages are also available.

With such an impressive list, I opted for a cold one. And what a great choice it was.

 

Thirst Quencher!

Wine List Anyone?

Game On Sports Bar & Grill in The Nicola Valley

  • Seating capacity is up to 85 patrons.
  • Large outdoor patio open at the end of May (weather permitting)
  • Special functions such as Christmas Parties,  reserved up to 40 people
  • Take-out orders available. 
  • To reserve or book ahead you can call 250-315-1022
  • Outdoor patio

Restaurant Pub in Merritt BC

View from Merritt’s Game On Sports Bar & Grill. Beautiful!

Sports Memorabilia

Along with its fantastic atmosphere and ambiance, Game On Sports Bar & Grill is full of genuine sports memorabilia. Sports fans will love this place. The walls are full of sports memorabilia, some even signed. Then there are the 9 large T.V’s. with various sporting events playing for all to enjoy. 

Can You Guess Who These 2 Are?

Game On Sports Bar ad Grill

George and his lovely wife Terri frequent Game On 4-5 times a month year round.

Local Merritt Couple Who Love To Dine At Game On Sports Bar & Grill

During my culinary bliss, I was fortunate to meet George & Terri who were also dinning at Game On Sports Bar & Grill. Being that they were very friendly Merrittonians, they graciously shared with me how much they love eating at this particular restaurant pub in Merritt BC. 

The quality of the food,  great service and its welcoming atmosphere makes this one of their favourite places to dine in the Nicola Valley.  

A Great Place to Dine “Merritt’s Game On Sports Bar & Grill”

In conclusion I was very impressed with the friendly service, ambiance, and the quality of the food. The atmosphere was perfect. 

The Merritt BC restaurant is just one easy-access exit off of the Coquihalla Highway. Just look for all the gas stations on your right and turn in there and follow that road to the end.  

Merritt’s Game On Sports Bar & Grill has ample parking space. Parking is allowed on the street in front. There is also parking just down the road for trailers and motorhomes. 

Game On Sports Bar & Grill Contact Information :

3701 Dewolf Way,
Merritt BC
V1K 1C4
Phone: 250-315-1022
Website

Game On Sports Bar and Grill, a proud Merritt BC restaurant pub, is widely known for it’s amazing home-style meals, great Ambiance and daily food specials.

One of the best places to eat in Merritt – Kekuli Cafe

Kekuli Cafe, Merritt, BC

“Don’t panic….we have bannock”

One of the best places to eat in Merritt is Kekuli Cafe. “Don’t panic… we have Bannock” is the official slogan of Kekuli Cafe in Merritt BC. A wonderful place to enjoy a number of indigenous foods.

Before we dive into the amazing food I’d like to treat you to a look at the amazing skor bannock. You have got to try one.

skor bannock kekuli cafe merritt bc

Ohhh so yummy Skor bannock from Kekuli Cafe

How Kekuli was born?

It all started when for many years Sharon Bond wanted to own her own restaurant. Having a passion for cooking, baking and making people feel welcome. Sharon also had a passion for helping and pleasing people.

With all the other places to eat in Merritt Sharon knew she wanted to create a place like no other. Therefore that’s exactly what she did.

The Cafe

Sharon wanted a traditional cultural aboriginal ambiance. Low light pow wow music, aboriginal art, jewelry and of course aboriginal cuisine. She wanted a place where everyone would feel welcome and acknowledged. Along with her husband Darren Hogg they created one of the best places to eat in Merritt – Kekuli Cafe.

You definitely feel welcomed from the moment you walk in the doors of Kekuli Cafe.

The Name Kekuli.

It was quite interesting to find out where the name Kekuli came from. Sharon was looking for a unique name that would have an aboriginal flair to it. While reading a book by James Teit she came across the word “kekuli” which means house. Right away she knew that was the name and sent in paperwork to have it registered that day. 

The Thompson Indians used to live in these pit house( Kekuli’s)  hundreds of years ago.  These houses are build into the ground with logs, tule, dirt and grass. They were a safe, warm and happy place. That also protected the people from the elements during harsh winters.

You can still find Kekuli’s throughout the Thompson/Okanagan areas.

Kekuli Cafe pit house bannock

Photo Credit: Kekuli Cafe

Now however you can also find that warm inviting feeling of home in every Kekuli Café.

Franchise

The next step in Sharon and Darren’s endeavor was to start creating franchises. With the first being sold in December of 2018.

On Dec 1, 2018 Elijah Mack, just 22 years old, started living his dream by becoming the very first Kekuli franchise owner.  When asked what he wanted to be in 10 years he would say “I want to be my own boss.” Now Elijah is the proud owner of one of the best places to eat in Merritt.

Kekuli Cafe franchise owner

Photo credit Kekuli Cafe

Saskatoon ice tea is wonderful and refreshing treat any time of year. I love the flavor. Makes me want another one just thinking about it. My daughters favorite it the saskatoon berry smoothie.

Kekuli Cafe saskatoon ice tea

Saskatoon berry ice tea. It was so refreshing.

They have a variety of Bannock available and some amazing lunches. Fry bread tipi tacos, grilled Bannock flatbread, bannowiches, and a variety of salads. Check out their menu here.

Lunch

Oh my goodness, look at this amazing meal. So nice to have a place where everything is made fresh with fresh ingredients.

bannock blt

BLT Bannock with cran apple feta salad

BLT bannock fresh

BLT bannock at Kekuli

This BLT bannock was so amazing. The bannock was soft and warm, lettuce and tomato were fresh and no skimping on the bacon which was cooked to perfection. Must say this was the best BLT I have had in a very long time. Along with my BLT I chose to have the cranberry, apple and feta salad. It was so crisp and fresh. Accompanying the salad was a saskatoon vinaigrette dressing made in house.  Perfect for this salad. 

salad cranberry apple feta

Cranberry, apple and feta salad.

Desert I had a skor bannock. It was so fresh and I have to say better than any doughnut I have ever had. I was very tempted to buy a whole bunch of them to take home. 

Happy customers

While I was visiting there were a group from White Rock who stopped in for lunch. They were extremely thrilled with the service. One lady spoke of how Kurt, chief at Kekuli Cafe, resonated such happy vibes. They really appreciated it and would come back again for sure.

Look at these happy faces.

kekuli cafe great food eat merritt

Guests from Whiterock having lunch at Kekuli in Merritt, BC

 The Staff

When you walk into Kekuli Cafe you are greeted by the amazing staff.  They always have a smile on their faces and are ready to help you any way they can.

staff kekuli cafe

Amanda and Kurt staff at Kekuli Cafe

Kekuli Cafe isn’t just on of the best places to eat in Merritt. Friday nights they have open mic night where patrons can come and express themselves over the mic. They have had people sing, tell stories or say a poem. It’s a great way to spend some time with friends, enjoy the local talent and of course have some coffee and bannock.

So far I have tried the traditional, cinnamon sugar and skor. What kinds have you tried?

Art work

Something else you will find a Kekuli Cafe is some art from a local artist Wyatt Collins. Wyatt has such a flair for life and creates some wonderful artwork which is featured on the walls of Kekuli Cafe. There are also greeting cards with Wyatt’s artwork on them. 

local art merritt bc kekuli cafe

Art work by local artist Wyatt Collins

Other aboriginal products

There are a number of aboriginal items for sale at Kekuli Café. Some of them include Jams, jellies, coffee, pottery and cards. Stop in and have a look.

Kekuli Cafe Merritt BC

Some other offerings from Kekuli Cafe

If you are interested in having a blog showcasing your business please feel free to contact me at Experience Nicola Valley.  I would love to chat.

One of the best places to eat in Merritt – Kekuli Cafe

 Merritt BC Bakery-Confessions Of A Baker 

Confessions of a Baker, Merritt, BC Bound!

Dessert Tray made by Marie’s Sweet Shoppe

 

Confessions Of A Baker-Merritt BC Bakery

When I was a little girl, living in Merritt, BC. I was always in the kitchen helping my Grandma, my mom, and even my Foster mom cook or bake. Whether it be adding ingredients for them or mixing it up for them.

Even-though I was always in the Kitchen helping didn’t mean that baking was my passion, I just enjoyed helping and learning at all costs. I felt if I was not helping then I was not accomplishing anything, or contributing my part in the house hold.

Back in those days though; we were not asked to come in the kitchen, we were told not to get in the way, or not to play around the stove! I guess those rules are still in play with families today!

If we wanted to learn or even to be apart of the crowd so to speak, we would have to ask! Even show a little interest to learn what or how they made everything taste so good.

Confessions of a Baker# 1: I was more interested in playing and exploring the outdoors getting into trouble so to speak! The street lights were our window to curfew! Dinner Time!

First Attempt To Cook!

I was 7 years old, when I first used a stove on my own! Paying attention, or being observant paid for a great cause!

Both parents were working and the babysitter didn’t show up! We, (my sister, and I), were home alone. It was  late, and my sister was on a schedule, due to her medications she had to take. 

Anyway, my mom had made extra meat pot pies! First time I ever had to used a stove or oven, I was scared shitless! But someone had to feed us right?

 Can you imagine what was going through my mind at that time? That was a lot of pressure for a 7 year old, but I was determined to succeed!

My main concern was to feed my sister because she had to take her medicine. She has epilepsy! Guaranteed, her having a seizure was more scary to me than burning a house down, trust me!

Although, the countless things going through my head at the time was overwhelming, I did get it done. My sister was fed, she got her medications, and I was quite proud of myself in the end!

Confessions of a Baker# 2: I did get into a lot of trouble when my mother found out! I got grounded! But on the other hand, she was proud of me. Knowing that no matter what, I did what I had to do!

Chocolate Brownies, By Marie’s Sweet Shoppe

First Time Following a Recipe!

At the time, I was 10 years old. I was living with my Foster Mom, Joan Lawrence. This was the time I first learned how to bake! Joan was baking some bread and buns that day, and I has asked if I could help.

“Not with the bread!” she said, ” But how would you like to learn to make some cookies?”

Joan saw the interest in my eyes, at the time I was not sure how she did it, but she knew. However, she opened a cook book and gave it to me. She told me that all I had to do was follow the instructions.

 All we had to do now was place the cookies on to the baking sheet and bake. I was pretty excited that I actually followed the recipe step by step, well… at least I thought I had. 

Confessions of a Baker# 3: She told me they were very good! But they were hard as a rock! She didn’t know that I knew, Baking disaster….. What a Kind Soul She Had Though! I had forgot the baking soda!

Baking Was History!

A little bit of History of the first time I started to bake! There you have it, I lost interest after the last Confession. I took for granted how much work baking would be, thinking it was easy.Who was I kidding!

From then on, I enjoyed every moment of eating the baking everyone else did.

 

Confessions of a Baker# 4: I never started to bake again until… Until I became a mother myself. Of course it was not on a regular basis either!

When My Passion Came To Light!

The first time, I ever decided to try and be creative, when it came to baking, was is 2009! I was living in Kelowna, BC.  That was when I created a recipe, no cook book, no instructions, just the idea that flowed through my head. The idea came to light, and I even searched it, online, in every dessert cookbook out there! Could not find not one recipe that even came close to this idea.

My very first Creation! That was when everything changed for me. From then on, I dedicated, all my spare time I had baking and creating.

Edible Bouquets, By Marie’s Sweet Shoppe

That is also when The realization came to me as well. Every time I felt alone, sad, angry, and disappointed; my go to thing was baking! Yes Baking! I felt so much better after losing myself in creating new recipes,and baking up a storm. So much so that at the end of the day I started to give it away because I had too much, haha! Go figure!

Confessions of a Baker# 5: At first I was convinced I was going crazy, or thinking I had some kind of Compulsive disorder, or even a never ending baking frenzy! HAHA! Baking more than needed or necessary!

Therefore, this is how it was going for a few more years!

My First Business Was Created!

So after years of baking and creating, I thought what if…. Well that what if if, lead to getting a business setup! Such as a Business name, a business number (through Revenue Canada). Then finding the clientele, because first step, clients! Who else right? It takes a lot of work to get a business set up, it takes time and a lot of time. Learning all the rules and regulations, the laws, the city bylaws, and well you get the picture I am sure!

The most important though…. is you have to be completely committed…..you have to believe in yourself as well as your faithful clients! It all takes time, effort, and passion to be completely successful.

Learn as much as you can, put your heart and soul into your work, because if you don’t then you really are setting yourself up for failure and disappointment.

Confessions of a Baker# 6: I have made this very Mistake. I had to Learn the hard way! My First Business failed because I did not put a lot into my business. I actually lost Faith in myself, NOT A GOOD THING TO DO!

Therefore I learned that before you get yourself into a loaded ship, and before you sail, make sure you put 110% into it all! Lesson Learned!

Success Of A Baker And Her Confessions

Today! Not only Have I succeeded, I have more experience, more Faith, and more clients! As the years go on, it only gets better! Although it is a lot easier now than it has been, the pride I have now is worth every moment this path has taken me thus far!

 Today I get more request, more happy clients, and it feels so good to see that thinks can only get better with each passing day! As along as I keep working on not just what I love, but constantly working on improvements and feed back from my customers.

Confessions of a Baker# 7: Never be afraid to ask for help! I learned this lesson along the way, and believe me the help and support from other bakers whom are more experienced is the best way to help you succeed!

Marie’s Sweet Shoppe did several Cakes in the past few Months!

Merritt

Cake made by Marie’s Sweet Shoppe

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lynda’s Cafe in Merritt BC

Where friends meet to eat.

You have to try a piece of the homemade pies.

Tucked around the corner from the Adelphi Hotel is this quaint little Cafe called Lynda’s Cafe in Merritt BC. Because it’s so busy you know it’s got to be good. Some of the locals seem to be there all the time. And don’t let the location fool you, this is a very popular little cafe. Which I found out upon my arrival. 

I honestly never expected this little cafe to be as busy as it was. I have been here a couple times and it’s always full. That has to tell you something. When you find a good cafe, you keep coming back. Lynda’s Cafe in Merritt, BC won’t disappoint.

Feeling Privileged

Being a blogger for Experience Nicola Valley makes me feel very privileged. I enjoy being able to share this cafe with you all. Please go, enjoy sharing a meal and having a few laughs along the way. Then share with your friends and family.

The Owner

Taking time to chat is very limited for Lynda as people are always coming and going. The whole time I was there the tables were full and at one point I thought that people were going to have to wait for a table. But, the customers are great and a couple that were finished promptly got up and allowed the new customers to have their seats. The food and service were wonderful.

Walking in.

As you walk into Lynda’s Cafe in Merritt, BC you will find the atmosphere warm and welcoming.  Lynda will always be behind the counter or serving and joking with the regulars and other customers. It was such a great feeling, I was half expecting someone to yell “Norm” lol. The cafe has a real home town feeling where all the locals hangout and you make some great new friends. Which will eventually be thought of as family by coming back more often.

Merritt, BC, Lynda's Cafe

Lynda getting supplies ready for tables.

There are a lot of great choices on the menu and one of my favorite menu items is served all day, bacon and eggs. There is something about being able to have breakfast any time of the day or night. And after spying a meal from one of the other customers having burgers and fries, I will defiantly be having that on my next visit. It looked so good, almost made me wish I had ordered it this time. But, that just makes it better for my returning visit.

burger fries, lynda's cafe

Burger from Lynda’s Cafe

Bacon and eggs are not always easy to have made exactly how you like them. The cook did and amazing job. Eggs over easy and bacon cooked a little on the crispy side is how I like it done. It was perfect, I couldn’t have been happier with my meal. I also had a glass of ice tea which was not to tart, nor to sweet. Something anyone can enjoy over and over.

Lynda's Cafe in Merritt BC

Bacon and Eggs for breakfast.

Pies

When you have a look at the homemade pies it’s hard not to want to dig right in. Pies made at Lynda’s Cafe are all made from scratch, including the pastry. Just take a look at that strawberry custard pie, yummy.  Although you may be full from your meal, I would suggest taking a piece or two home to try late. Although I had to take my piece of pie home it didn’t last too long. Let me know what you think of the pie on your next visit, I would love to hear.

pie, home made, strawberry custard

Completely home made strawberry custard pie.

One of the first thing you will notice is on the walls are some gorgeous wildlife paintings. There is a beautiful wagon wheel hanging from the ceiling that has been turned into a light fixture. And the window sills are full of the signature bobble heads. Take a look as you walk up. 

What’s the story behind the bobble heads? You’ll have to head into the cafe to find out by asking Lynda.

bobble head, cafe, merritt, bc

Bobble heads line the window sills.

Lynda’s Cafe in Merritt BC opened in Oct of 2013. Lynda has never looked back since opening. She thoroughly enjoys serving people, seeing them leave with full bellies and a smile on their faces. Joking around is another great thing about this cafe. There are always people smiling and laughing. This cafe has that home town, down to earth, family feeling while your here.

Lynda's Cafe, Lynda, Michelle, Merritt, BC

Lynda and I enjoying a laugh.

Room service

Lynda’s Cafe also offers room service for the attached Adelphi Hotel. Lynda delivered a number of meals to the hotel while I was there. Lynda’s Cafe serves meals at regular intervals throughout the day to the Adelphi Hotel.

Catering

Another service offered here at Lynda’s Cafe in Merritt BC is catering. To find out more about what Lynda offers with her catering service please contact her at the restaurant.

Lynda's Cafe, merritt BC

Outside Lynda’s Cafe

Hours of operation

Linda’s Cafe in Merritt, BC is open 7 days a week. Monday-Tues 7 am to 3 pm, Wed-Friday 7 pm to 7 pm, Saturday 7 pm to 2 pm and Sunday 9 am to 2 pm

Location

Lynda’s Cafe is located at 2101 Quilchena Ave, Merritt, BC

For bigger groups call 1-250-378-0331 to make a reservation with Lynda’s Cafe. 

Lynda’s Cafe in Merritt BC made me feel very welcome and Lynda was so easy to talk to as well. I would recommend this little cafe any day of the week. The food and atmosphere are top notch in my opinion. And I will be back many times in the future.

Lynda’s Cafe in Merritt B.C.