When it comes to a lakefront patio, boat-in access, decadent drinks, daily happy hour specials, as well as weekend brunch options, there’s only one place that comes to mind: Shaughnessy’s Cove.

This is Summerland’s sweet spot for all end-of-season fun, and the only waterfront restaurant in the town. Is there anything more iconic than enjoying something cool and delicious as the sun glimmers off Okanagan Lake?

A Local Favourite, Reimagined

Shaughnessy’s Cove has a long and storied 35-year history as one of Summerland’s legendary pubs, and its latest chapter continues to build upon that.

Back in 2021, in the middle of the pandemic, Shaughnessy’s was a bit empty and tired, and in desperate need of some TLC. Thankfully, it was at this moment that Mackenzie Hospitality Group—known for their star restaurants like the Gunbarrel Saloon at Apex Mountain, Vancouver’s Score on Davie, and Toronto’s Score on King—discovered the spot and decided to bring back the energy to this space. Of course, before they began, they reached out to the original owners of the “Cove” brand and asked for their blessing; turns out the original owners were thrilled that the name would be revitalized for a new generation.

To start renovations, the group stripped the studs and redesigned the restaurant from the ground up. It was a big risk since no one knew how long the pandemic would last or how to predict the future of this restaurant, but the result of the makeover?

A bright, unique atmosphere that you still find today.

This is because Mackenzie Hospitality is more than a restaurant group. They moved to this community and feel deeply connected to this area where they now live, work, and play. Since they now call the valley home, they wanted to make sure all locals felt welcomed back to this storied space.

And what’s most impressive is that they still have 11 day one staff members on the team—a true testament to the type of camaraderie and family-style energy this space contains!

The Ultimate Boat-In Lunch Spot

Did you know that you can boat into Shaughnessy’s Cove? With a lakefront patio and public access moorage for your vessel, it’s the most quintessential Okanagan venue in these final weeks of summer.

Beers? Boats? And brilliant sunshine? Sign us up.

If you’re spending a day out in the water, no matter where you start, we highly suggest you end up at Shaughnessy’s. Located in Summerland, it’s the perfect mid-lake spot to pop in for light bites and a crisp pint. Or maybe it’s Friday night and you don’t want to deal with bridge traffic, so you boat on over for happy hour cocktails after work.

Whatever your reason, Shaughnessy’s Cove is your spot at the lake for weekday fun, milestone celebrations, or romantic dinners spent right next to the water.

Happy Hour with a View

Summertime just tastes better at Shaughnessy’s, especially with their everyday Happy Hour from two to five. Did we mention that you can boat in for this? Oh that’s right, we definitely did. Because happy hour is great, but when you arrive on a boat, it’s even better.

Shaughnessy’s current happy hour menu features two of our favourite cocktails: the Cove Margarita (tart, citrusy, and the perfect addition to hot summer days) and the red or white sangria (name a better patio sipper, we dare you).

You can also snack on iconic items like their Fish Tacos, Crispy Cauliflower bites, or the Backyard Burger (it features a potato bun—don’t ask, just trust us).

Aside from the stunning lake views, the patio also features shaded umbrellas and some much-needed misters to help you cool off in the Okanagan heat. Thankfully, that iconic breeze snakes through the valley and offers even more reprieve. But personally, we suggest you cool off with a glass of chilled wine or something equally refreshing.

Brunch Worth Planning Your Weekend Around

Some weekends start better than others and most of those happen when you enjoy a Shaughnessy’s brunch right next to the water. There’s no scientific study to back this up, but we feel fairly confident that’s a true fact.

Shaughnessy’s brunch menu starts from ten in the morning until two in the afternoon on both Saturdays and Sundays, helping you make the most of your days of leisure. Have you ever had a vanilla matcha mimosa? Or how about a “champagne” boat? Because they offer both of these and more… Pair your drinks with dishes like the Cove Benny, Mediterranean Toast, Oysters, or the Big Breakfast.

No matter your choice, you’ll be more than satisfied.

But don’t worry, if you are not a breakfast person (strange choice, but who are we to judge) then they still have plenty of other options to whet your whistle. We’re talking Smash Burgers, Fish Tacos, the Country BLT, Fish & Chips—the list goes on.

For these final weeks of summer, celebrate everyday at an Okanagan icon: Shaughnessy’s Cove. Arrive via boat, settle in for some daily happy hour sips, or indulge in a little weekend brunch action to set yourself up for a fantastic week ahead. 

Some places feel like summer, and some places taste like summer. Shaughnessy’s Cove is both. Visit Shaughnessy’s Cove today!

Xx,

Your Okanagan Curators