La Bussola Restaurant Kelowna
⭐ La Bussola is known for House-Made Gnocchi and Lasagna.
💡 Good to Know
- Since 1974
- A family-run Kelowna restaurant with over 50 years of history.
- Italian Heritage
- The Coccaro family's roots trace back to Valle dell'Angelo in southern Italy.
- Downtown Since 2004
- Originally on Leon Avenue, La Bussola moved to Ellis Street in 2004.
❤️ Top Favourites
🍽️ La Bussola Menu
🍤 Appetizers
Italian-inspired starters featuring fresh seafood, artisan cheeses, house-made pasta and seasonal ingredients.
Antipasto Italiano
A selection of artisan cheeses, Italian cured meats, marinated olives, crostini, pickled vegetables and seasonal fruit compote.
Zuppa del Giorno
Chef Lauretta's daily soup creation, prepared with seasonal inspiration and fresh ingredients.
Lauretta's Classic Baked Scallops
Three large scallops baked with aromatic herbs, breadcrumbs and garlic-infused butter.
Raw Oysters
Six freshly shucked oysters on the half shell, accompanied by lemon, hot sauce and mignonette.
Vodka Prawns
Five jumbo Argentinian prawns sautéed with finely chopped carrots, celery, onions and peppers, finished in a rich vodka cream sauce.
Bruschetta della Casa
Four slices of toasted house bread topped with marinated vine-ripened tomatoes, garlic and fresh herbs.
Insalata Barbabietola
Roasted beets and creamy goat cheese arranged over mixed greens, finished with house vinaigrette and a drizzle of balsamic cream.
Insalata dell'Orto
A fresh garden salad featuring fennel, carrots and watermelon radish, tossed with Lauretta's signature dressing.
Tortelloni a Tres Formaggio
Handmade tortelloni filled with ricotta, goat cheese and Parmigiano, tossed in a buttery sage sauce.
Venison Carpaccio
Thinly sliced wild venison marinated in red wine, served with fresh greens and a delicate zabaglione sauce.
🍝 Pasta
Handmade Italian pasta dishes featuring seasonal vegetables, traditional sauces and carefully selected cheeses.
Gnocchi alla Lauretta
Lauretta's signature ricotta gnocchi tossed in tomato marinara with a touch of cream and Parmigiano cheese.
Cavatelli di Zuccha
Handmade butternut squash cavatelli combined with sage and a smooth butternut squash purée, finished with toasted pumpkin seeds. Vegan option available.
Lasagna al Forno
Handmade lasagna layered with veal, Tanto Latte ricotta, mozzarella and Parmigiano in Lauretta's tomato sauce, then baked until golden.
Gluten-Free Gnocchi
Handmade gluten-free ricotta gnocchi coated in a creamy Alfredo sauce and finished with Parmigiano cheese.
Ragù del Giorno
Hand-rolled cavatelli tossed with Lauretta's house tomato marinara and the day's slow-braised meat, finished with Parmigiano.
Spaghetti all'Amatriciana
Spaghetti tossed with roasted red bell peppers and house-cured bacon in Lauretta's signature tomato sauce, enriched with a touch of cream and finished with Parmigiano.
Spaghetti Calabrese
Spaghetti combined with Calabrian chillies, garlic and extra virgin olive oil in Lauretta's tomato sauce.
🍽️ Entrées
Italian-inspired main courses featuring seasonal ingredients, seafood, tender meats and classic regional preparations.
Risotto del Giorno
Creamy Arborio rice slowly cooked with the chef's selection of seasonal ingredients.
Eggplant Parmigiano
Lightly fried eggplant layered with mozzarella, fresh basil and Lauretta's tomato sauce, then baked until golden. Naturally gluten-free.
Chicken Saltimbocca
Tender chicken breast layered with sage and Prosciutto di Parma, sautéed in a creamy white wine sauce and accompanied by seasonal vegetables.
Veal Marsala
Tender veal scallopini sautéed with mushrooms in Marsala wine and a touch of cream, served with seasonal vegetables.
Veal Parmigiana
Breaded veal cutlet topped with Edam cheese, sautéed mushrooms and Lauretta's tomato cream sauce, baked until bubbling. Served over handmade cavatelli tossed in rich Bolognese sauce.
Fish of the Day
The chef's fresh market seafood selection, accompanied by seasonal mixed vegetables.
Lobster Tails
Two five-ounce lobster tails, butterflied and oven-baked in a rich garlic butter sauce. Served with seasonal vegetables and warm melted garlic butter for dipping.
New York Steak
An eight-ounce Alberta Angus New York steak grilled to your preference, topped with a mixed mushroom and port wine reduction infused with a hint of Sambuca. Accompanied by seasonal vegetables.
Rack of Lamb
Herb-crusted rack of lamb served with a sweet red vermouth and garden mint sauce, accompanied by seasonal vegetables. Gluten-free option available.
Tomahawk Steak
A generous 1.5-kilogram bone-in Alberta Angus rib steak, grilled to your preference and served with seasonal vegetables. Available when offered.
⭐ La Bussola Favourites
These selections are based on dishes commonly praised in Google reviews.
House-Made Gnocchi
One of La Bussola's most consistently praised dishes. Guests frequently highlight the soft texture and rich sauces, with several describing it as a standout among the restaurant's traditional Italian pastas.
Lasagna
A longtime favourite that earns compliments for its flavourful sauce, delicate layers and homemade character. Diners often recommend it as a satisfying example of the kitchen's traditional Italian cooking.
Veal Parmesan
Frequently recommended by customers who enjoy classic Italian entrées. Reviewers praise its preparation and flavour, and several mention choosing it again on return visits.
Veal Marsala and Piccata
Traditional veal preparations that receive positive mentions from diners. The Marsala is particularly appreciated for its sauce, while the Piccata appeals to guests seeking a familiar Italian classic.
Scallops
A popular seafood choice, especially as a starter. Several guests describe the scallops as a highlight of their meal, often mentioning them alongside the restaurant's pasta and wine selections.
Rack of Lamb
A memorable main course for guests celebrating special occasions. Positive reviews highlight the preparation and flavour, although opinions on individual sauces have varied.
Burrata
A frequently ordered starter that diners enjoy sharing before their main courses. Customers particularly appreciate the fresh cheese and its place in a traditional multi-course Italian dinner.
Tiramisu
A popular way to finish the evening, with many guests praising its flavour and rich yet balanced character. Reviews are somewhat mixed, but it remains one of the restaurant's most frequently mentioned desserts.
🍽️ Dining Experience
This section summarizes information from restaurant sources, customer reviews and other public sources.
A Kelowna Dining Tradition
La Bussola has served traditional Italian cuisine in Kelowna since 1974. Established by Franco Coccaro and Lillo Santamaria, the restaurant has remained closely connected to the Coccaro family for generations. Chef Lauretta Coccaro took over the kitchen in 1990, preserving longtime favourites while introducing seasonal dishes inspired by Italian cooking and local ingredients.
Classic Italian Fine Dining
The dining room offers a more traditional experience than Kelowna's newer casual restaurants. White tablecloths, subdued lighting and an elegant, old-fashioned atmosphere create a setting suited to lingering over several courses rather than rushing through dinner.
Romantic Evenings and Celebrations
Anniversaries, birthdays and date nights are common reasons guests choose La Bussola. Many appreciate the quieter atmosphere and opportunity for conversation, although the experience can feel different when larger groups are dining nearby.
An Extensive Wine Program
Wine is a central part of the restaurant's identity. The selection emphasizes Italian and Okanagan wines alongside international bottles, and guests regularly praise the knowledgeable recommendations and food pairings. The family's wine expertise has been developed over many years, including formal sommelier training.
Traditional Cooking with Seasonal Influences
The kitchen combines classic Italian recipes with seasonal ingredients and occasional contemporary additions. Some produce comes from the family's own garden, reflecting a connection to the agricultural traditions of southern Italy.
Attentive, Old-School Hospitality
Many guests appreciate the professional, personable style of service, including help selecting dishes and wines. The restaurant aims for an unhurried dining experience, though reviews suggest service pacing can vary depending on the evening.
Intimate Gatherings
La Bussola welcomes couples, families and small groups, and can also arrange full restaurant buyouts for larger private celebrations or corporate functions.
🅿️ Parking & Accessibility
This section summarizes information from restaurant sources, customer reviews and other public sources.
Street Parking
Street parking is available along Ellis Street and surrounding downtown Kelowna roads. Spaces may be busier during events and peak dining hours, so allowing extra time is helpful.
Library Plaza Parkade
The Library Plaza Parkade at 1351 Ellis Street is directly across from the restaurant. Parking is generally free after 6 p.m., except during special events, making it a convenient choice for evening reservations.
Rear Parking
La Bussola also lists six private parking stalls behind the restaurant. Customers should contact the restaurant to confirm availability and access before relying on these spaces.
Wheelchair Access
The restaurant is listed as wheelchair accessible. Guests with specific seating, entrance or washroom requirements should confirm arrangements when making a reservation.
Public Transit
Downtown transit connections are close to the restaurant, including bus stops along Ellis Street. The central location makes La Bussola accessible without a vehicle.
📍 Landmarks & Location
This section summarizes information from restaurant sources, customer reviews and other public sources.
Downtown Kelowna Cultural District
La Bussola is located at 1451 Ellis Street in downtown Kelowna's Cultural District, between Bernard Avenue and Doyle Avenue. The neighbourhood brings together restaurants, galleries, theatres and cultural attractions.
Kelowna Community Theatre
The Kelowna Community Theatre is nearby, making La Bussola a convenient choice for dinner before or after a performance. Guests attending a show should allow enough time for the restaurant's traditional multi-course dining experience.
Rotary Centre for the Arts
The Rotary Centre for the Arts is within walking distance, placing the restaurant close to exhibitions, performances and other cultural events.
Prospera Place
Prospera Place is a short distance away, making the restaurant an option for visitors attending concerts, hockey games and other arena events.
Okanagan Lake Waterfront
Kelowna's downtown waterfront, lakeside pathways and nearby hotels are within walking distance. Visitors can combine an Italian dinner with an evening stroll through the city centre.
Neighbouring Restaurants and Shops
Ellis Street is home to several independent restaurants and businesses, including other establishments associated with the Coccaro family. La Bussola's longstanding presence adds to the area's dining history.
📱 Ordering Options
This section summarizes information from restaurant sources, customer reviews and other public sources.
Dine-In Dinner
La Bussola specializes in evening dining, with traditional Italian dishes, seasonal features and a full wine and cocktail selection. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday, with dinner service beginning at 5 p.m.
Table Reservations
Reservations are recommended, particularly for Friday and Saturday evenings, anniversaries and other celebrations. Guests can reserve through the restaurant's online booking service or call 250-763-3110.
Special Occasions
The restaurant regularly welcomes guests celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and other milestones. Mentioning the occasion when booking can help the team understand the purpose of the visit, although special arrangements should be confirmed directly.
Private Events
Full restaurant buyouts are available for larger private gatherings, including corporate dinners and family celebrations. Event organizers can contact the restaurant to discuss availability, seating and dining arrangements.
Wine Recommendations
Guests can ask for assistance choosing wines to accompany their meals. The restaurant is particularly well known for its extensive Italian, Okanagan and international wine selection.
Dietary Requests
Vegetarian and gluten-free options have been reported by guests, including some pasta substitutions. Diners with allergies or strict dietary requirements should discuss ingredients, preparation and cross-contact precautions directly with the restaurant before ordering.
💬 Customer Feedback
This section summarizes recurring themes in customer reviews.
Traditional Italian Cooking
Many guests praise La Bussola for its classic Italian dishes, particularly the gnocchi, lasagna and veal preparations. Longtime customers appreciate the familiar cooking style, while visitors often describe the food as authentic and carefully prepared. Some diners, however, have found certain pasta dishes under-seasoned or less memorable than expected.
Wine Selection and Recommendations
The wine program is one of the restaurant's most consistently praised features. Guests frequently mention the extensive selection, knowledgeable recommendations and enjoyable pairings with their meals.
Professional, Welcoming Service
Positive reviews regularly describe friendly greetings, attentive servers and thoughtful recommendations. Many customers particularly appreciate the traditional style of hospitality and the staff's willingness to explain dishes or help with wine selections.
Service Timing and Consistency
Although many visits receive excellent service ratings, recurring complaints concern delayed drinks, lengthy waits between courses and inconsistent attention during meals. Some guests also report missed details or difficulty getting assistance when the restaurant is busy.
Romantic, Traditional Atmosphere
The dining room is frequently praised for its warm lighting, quiet surroundings and elegant atmosphere. It remains a popular choice for anniversaries and date nights. Some guests enjoy the nostalgic décor, while others feel the interior is dated or would prefer different seating arrangements.
Pricing and Portion Expectations
Opinions on value are mixed. Some diners consider the quality, service and wine experience worth the higher prices, while others feel portions are modest or that certain dishes do not fully justify the cost.
A Longtime Local Favourite
La Bussola has a loyal following among Kelowna residents, including customers who have visited for decades. Its history, family involvement and familiar dining experience are recurring reasons guests return for special occasions.
Sources
Links used to compile this restaurant’s menu and dining information.
- La Bussola Menu (opens in a new tab)View the restaurant's menu at the linked source to confirm current prices, availability, and menu details.
