This new downtown restaurant combines food and film

A common experience in Europe is now in the heart of downtown Kelowna.

Bernie’s Supper Club and Cinema brings together dining, local brews and wines, and movies.

“These boutique movie theatres in Europe, I lived in Holland for a little bit, it’s very normal to have a beer or a glass of wine in a movie theatre,” Kyle Nixon, co-owner said. “The idea of serving craft beer or niche local wines, and cool tapas food was something that we thought was original, at least to B.C.”

Guests can enjoy a meal on the main floor, then head up to the third floor for a movie in the evening. The menu has hints of Spanish, Mexican, and Japanese influences to create a unique flavour at Bernie’s.

“My wife and I grew up in Kelowna and remember a time when there were two movie theatres downtown, so to bring one back on Bernard Avenue, we feel really proud,” he said.

Nixon said they will be playing a variety of movies that are in theatres, plus classic films and documentaries.

“Also, Canadian movies, there’s a lot of movies in Canada that don’t get the big screen that are interesting,” he explained. “There’s a lot of people that put work into these movies that it would be cool for them to be able to put them on the big screen.”

Moviegoers can expect fresh popcorn, all the concession favourites, and the option to dine while enjoying some wine, beer, or water. They are trying to stay away from loud cutlery, so expect mostly finger foods in the cinema.

A clever system is in place for ordering food that requires no talking. Small, dim lights are placed at each seat with a paper menu and a pen, so when a light is lit, servers can come grab the orders without disturbing others.

Nixon and his wife also own BNA Brewing Co., and Skinny Dukes in downtown. He said it’s passion that keeps the ideas flowing for the unique spots that are revitalizing the city.

“We’ve been in this industry since high school so it’s really all we’ve known,” he said. “Now we’re surrounded by team members that also have a passion for it, so it makes it a lot easier having a group of people throwing out ideas. It’s really an inspiring team to be a part of.”