Kelowna airport taphouse wins global award for best airport bar

A restaurant at Kelowna International Airport has earned international recognition after being named Airport Bar or Pub of the Year at a global hospitality awards program.

Ellison Field Taphouse Kitchen & Bar received the top honour at the Airport Food & Beverage and Hospitality Awards, known as the FAB Awards, held last week in Bengaluru, India.

More than 450 entries from airports around the world were submitted across 25 categories. Ellison Field Taphouse won the gold award in the airport category serving fewer than 20 million passengers annually, beating finalists from New Zealand, Edinburgh and Bahrain.

“This is an incredible honour for our community,” Kelowna International Airport CEO Sam Samaddar said in a statement. “This recognition displays the commitment of our airport partners in bringing a true taste of place celebrating local flavours, producers and community spirit of the Okanagan.”

The taphouse, which reopened following renovations earlier this year, features local craft beer through its partnership with the B.C. Ale Trail, along with Okanagan wines and a menu showcasing regional flavours.

Judges evaluated entries based on atmosphere, beverage selection, presentation, comfort and space, authenticity and customer feedback.

“Ellison Field Taphouse brings the spirit of the Okanagan into YLW through local breweries, regional wines, and a relaxed, welcoming bar experience,” Rich Wilson, vice-president of brands and concepts for SSP Canada, said in a statement.

The restaurant is located before the airport’s security checkpoint, allowing both travellers and the general public to visit without a boarding pass.