YLW and restaurant staff celebrate the formal opening of Okanagan Vintners Exchange Gastrobar and Ellison Field Taphouse Kitchen & Bar. From left: Amy Cho, Regional Support Chef, SSP Canada; Sam Samaddar, CEO, YLW; Bram Bolwijn, Guest & VIP Experience Manager, Iconic Wineries; Bryan Tchir, Airport Commercial Development Manager, YLW; Leah Hilyer, Regional Restaurant Inventory Control Manager, SSP Canada; Tonja Molina, Director, Commercial and Air Service, YLW. Rich Wilson, Regional Vice President, SSP Canada, are new hospitality offerings at the expanding airport. (Image Credit: City of Kelowna)

By Vernon Matters Staff

expanding travel hospitality

Two new restaurant venues open at YLW

Feb 18, 2026 | 4:35 PM

Two new hospitality venues have formally opened at the expanding Kelowna International Airport (YLW).

SSP Canada, a major restaurant operator at various airports, has christened Okanagan Vintners Exchange Gastrobar and Ellison Field Taphouse Kitchen & Bar.

The wine bar, which is beyond security, showcases the region’s celebrated wine culture.

The taphouse, which is in the main public terminal, celebrates B.C.’s vibrant craft beer scene.

“Bringing these two concepts to Kelowna International Airport allows us to showcase the flavours of the region,” Rich Wilson, SSP Canada’s vice president of brand development, said in a media release.

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“Vintners Exchange and Ellison Field Taphouse bring authenticity, quality, and a strong taste of place. We’re proud to partner with YLW and the B.C. Ale Trail, and to feature wines from Iconic Wineries, to create memorable dining experiences that reflect what makes this region special.”