Engineering, building, and designing an eatery from the ground up is no easy feat, but two brave locals decided to take on that challenge and embark on a new adventure. FSH, located at 101-1405 St Paul Street, opened their doors to the public on February 3rd, and since that time, owners Heith Martin and Amanda Steadman said business is booming.
Photo credit: KelownaNow.
Offering a variety of munchies, appetizers, and entrees, all of the food is skillfully crafted, created and presented by local Executive Chef Kevin Negoro. Boasting local artisan cheeses and cured meats, along with a variety of burgers, seafood dishes, and shareables, FSH is big on keeping things in the community.
As the three of us sat down for coffee Friday morning, I couldn't help but dream of delicious pastries, burgers, and fish and chips. Martin carried on about the butter chicken on their menu, which you wouldn't necessarily assume is a go-to meal for FSH, but apparently it's just amazing. Steadman stood steadfast behind the fish burger, explaining that it's prepared in-house, fresh to order, and accompanied by home-made slaw.
Photo credit: FSH Facebook.
Aside from their standard menu, Chef Negoro will be putting together a rotating feature menu, ensuring things stay fresh and exciting for locals, new-comers, and dedicated patrons.
Gluten free options, brunch, and lighter snacks are also on the menu. Most menu items are under $20, with the exception of their steak entrees, however; considering their meat is locally sourced and prepared freshly, the prices are not outrageous.
Supporting B.C. breweries and Okanagan wineries, FSH is a great place to grab a drink after a long day at work.
The goal, explained Martin and Steadman, is to create and facilitate a real community house where people can come and hangout, have good conversation, and enjoy wonderful food. Martin said it's important to cater to locals because FSH is a Kelowna eatery through and through.
“We have a local neighbourhood feel. We want to know everyone coming in for the most part, and for them to know us,” said Martin. “The biggest thing about this place is the atmosphere, we're not one of these huge box stores.”
With summer just around the corner, Steadman and Martin are looking forward to the warm weather. Once patio weather finally comes around, FSH will be a totally different experience, as the glass doors in front of the building open up to cater to a 50 seat patio.
Inside the restaurant, Martin and Steadman are going for a rustic feel: a hole-in-the-wall with flair was how Steadman described it.
“We're nothing fancy, but our food is outstanding,” said Steadman.
Stealing the decor spotlight inside is the beautifully designed and crafted wood bar top. Utilizing his history in construction, Martin torched and sealed the bar himself to give it a unique, vintage feel.
Photo credit: KelownaNow.
As the interview wound down, Martin and Steadman stressed that FSH is all about Kelowna. Putting precedence on giving back to the community and keeping it local, Martin explained that it's not about showing off, it's about catering to Kelowna.
We're a community house where Kelowna citizens can come and enjoy delicious food with great service, explained Steadman.
“We want to make everyone feel welcome,” said Martin.
For more information on their menu, check out their Facebook page.
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