Photo: Contributed

Under construction

Manteo Resort is 'Smack Dab' in the middle of a restaurant makeover.

The Waterfront Hotel & Villas plans to open a craft beer and premium casual dining experience by mid-March.

Construction on the former Wild Apple Restaurant started in early January and, after over $1.5 million was invested into the renovation, 'Smack Dab' will open its doors in mid-March.

After the dust settles there will be a 120 seat lounge  and restaurant, private dining room and the city's largest lakeside outdoor patio.

"We wanted to create a neighbourhood gathering place that locals can enjoy as much as our hotel guests,” said Heather Schroeter, general manager of Manteo Resort.

“Kelowna has some amazing restaurants and chefs who are doing incredible things with wine country cuisine, but we saw the opportunity to deviate a bit from the expected and offer an experience you can’t find anywhere else in the city." 

Executive Chef, Bernard Casavant, will lead the culinary team at  'Smack Dab' as they prepare to introduce their version of premium casual. The menu, designed by Executive Sous Chef Brad Horen, will feature appetizers, sharing plates, oven pizzas, signature entrees and desserts that are all prepared in-house.

'Smack Dab' will offer Kelowna’s largest selection of craft beer – 12 on tap and 20 by the bottle – celebrating BC and Pacific Northwest producers.  While the beer will no doubt be the focal point, 'Smack Dab' will also offer a complete wine list featuring local wines and international favourites as well as a seasonal cocktail menu.