New chef shakes things up at Kelowna cocktail bar

There’s a new man in charge of the kitchen at a popular Kelowna cocktail bar.

BTS Cocktail Bar & Kitchen has brought in Chef Rory Kennedy to shake things up in the kitchen and he will do just that with the debut of a brand new food menu on Wednesday, June 17.

With more than 17 years experience in professional kitchens, Kennedy’s cooking is inspired by the seasons, local producers and a commitment to minimizing waste while maximizing flavour.

According to Shayne Labis, who co-founded the Born to Shake bar supply store that turns into a cocktail lounge after 5 pm, Kennedy believes great food starts with great ingredients.

"From developing menus and leading teams to creating memorable dining experiences, Rory brings a thoughtful, collaborative approach to everything that comes out of the kitchen,” he said.

“We're thrilled to welcome him to BTS and can't wait to share what he's cooking up."

BTS promises that the new menu will pair beautifully with the bar’s signature cocktails, which are built with housemade syrups, bitters and rimmers, premium spirits and fresh-squeezed juices.

BTS also runs a full lineup of non-alcoholic drinks and was named Best Mocktail in Kelowna in 2025.

Founded by Labis and Nicole Barron, Born to Shake operates as two businesses under one roof at 110-889 Vaughan Ave. in Kelowna’s North End.

Before 4:30 pm, it’s a bar supply store stocked with small-batch syrups, bitters, rimmers, cocktail kits and barware.

After 5 pm, it transforms into BTS Cocktail Bar & Kitchen, a dimly-lit speakeasy serving craft cocktails, shareable plates, an extensive wine list and zero-proof drinks.