The owners of downtown Kelowna’s newest small business say it’s all about approachable food done right.
Room 272 Bar + Bites has officially opened its doors to the public at 272 Bernard Ave., hoping to find success in a spot that has seen a bit of a revolving door of tenants in recent years.
It was most recently a Caribbean restaurant called Ten 13 and the space was briefly home to Hooligans Ales & Eats prior to that.
Photo Credit: Room 272 Bar + Bites — (L to R) Steve Gillingham, Paige Gillingham, Jason Frederick
Room 272 is a family-owned business opened by Steve and Paige Gillingham alongside Jason Frederick. Chef Shelby Porteous, who previously worked at Salt & Brick, is the man in charge in the kitchen.
According to the new bar and restaurant’s website, the Room 272 menu blends small plates, nostalgic comfort favourites, brunch staples and creative cocktails. It’s all designed to “feel familiar, satisfying and easy to come back to.”
They preach three core values, beginning with “approachable excellence” and a belief that great food, drinks and service should feel welcoming, not intimidating.
Room 272 is also community first, they say, as they plan to actively involve local artists, musicians, students and apprentices to create real opportunities for people of all walks of life to be a part of the space.
.jpg){kind=spacer}
Photo Credit: Room 272 Bar + Bites
The third core value is energy and connection, meaning that Room 272 is “meant to feel alive” whether it’s a busy brunch, a game night or a DJ on the weekend.
“What started as an idea is now real, and we couldn’t have done it without the people who supported us along the way,” said a recent social media post from Room 272.
“We’re so thankful for all of it. From the bar experience to the food program, it’s something Kelowna has never seen before. Now we get to share it with you.”
Room 272 is open Thursdays through Mondays from 2 pm until late.
