(L-R) Arthur Ledzinski, 1516 Pub and Grill Manager and  Bill Hubbard, Century 21 (Photo credit:

By Kevin Rothwell

seeking local support

Vernon pub toughs out the winter

Mar 21, 2023 | 5:30 AM

The arrival of spring and sunshine is putting smiles on the faces of local restaurant owners Sherman and Katie Dahl.

The pair opened the 1516 Pub and Grill on Okanagan Lake in June 2022, after Turtle Bay Pub owners decided not to renew the lease on the property for the Outboard Pub and the closure of the Blue Heron, as it had been previously known.

“This is a risky deal. The off season has caused repeated business failures. The 1516 Pub and Grill loses money in the off season and makes money in summer,” co-owner Sherman Dahl told Vernon Matters. Local support is key to any success. People like Bill Hubbard (Century 21) and others have been extremely supportive.”

The business owner said there are a number of factors influencing the economy right now, and food and beverage businesses are especially sensitive to the changes.

“Will the growth in Vernon continue?” Dahl wondered. “The housing market is in trouble with rising interest rates, food, labour and input costs are all up, boating costs are up and consumer debt is high.”

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People have wondered about the pub name and its connection to Okanagan Spring Brewery’s (OSB) signature product 1516 Lager.

“It is a unique name and we have a unique relationship with OSB. There is no financial connection with OSB, but Sleeman (owners of OSB) has been supportive,” Dahl said. “1516, Wings and The Italian Kitchen Company and the Dahl family have been very long term supporters of OSB.”

The company has been creative over the winter, hosting special events and meetings like Vernon Women in Business. Vernon Catering and Hospitality, a related company, has also used the kitchen to prepare food for on and off-site events.

Dahl isn’t sure what the future holds, but hopes more locals embrace the business.

“How will this play out? Dahl questioned. “Time will tell. 1516 on the lake is a special place. The connection with water and nature is soothing,” Dahl concluded.