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Gerni’s Farmhouse

Vernon, Okanagan Valley

Dear Ventures:

Stepping into Gerni’s Farmhouse felt like crossing continents without ever leaving the shores of Okanagan Lake. This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a love letter to Alpine tradition wrapped in the heart of the Okanagan. The moment Peter and I arrived, we were captivated by its story—a 16th-century farmhouse from Weeburg, Austria, carefully transported across oceans to find a new home here. Every creak of its ancient timbers whispered tales of history, love, and resilience.

Named after Mr. Gernot Langes-Swarovski, this cozy haven offers more than just a meal—it’s a journey. As we settled in, the scent of woodsmoke greeted us, carrying a promise of hearty flavors and warm memories. We couldn’t help but marvel at the breathtaking view—Okanagan Lake stretched before us, kissed by the golden glow of a setting sun. It was as if time stood still, allowing us to soak in the moment together.

The menu was pure magic, a tribute to Austria’s culinary heart. As Peter savored every bite of a perfectly crisp schnitzel. Paired with a glass of local beet, it felt like we were suspended between two worlds—the Alps and the Okanagan, both equally enchanting.

Food for Thought:
Every relationship deserves its own little escapes, those moments where the ordinary melts away, leaving just the two of you and the magic of something new. Whether it’s an Alpine-inspired meal, a sunset view, or simply sitting in silence together, these pauses remind us of how far love can take us—sometimes across oceans, sometimes just deeper into each other’s hearts.

If you ever find yourself at Gerni’s Farmhouse, let it be more than a meal. Let it be a memory, a moment, a reminder to cherish the beauty of now.

Until next time,
Joy & Peter

Love is the quiet magic that turns ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

What We Had

😌 Hühnerschnitzel added the hunter’s sauce for $7

What We Thought

During my recent visit to Gerni’s Farmhouse, tucked away in the tranquil surroundings of Sparkling Hill Resort, I was eager to immerse myself in what promised to be an authentic Austrian dining experience. The allure of traditional cuisine and architecture was compelling. With high expectations, I decided to indulge in the Hühnerschnitzel.

To my dismay, the schnitzel presented to me was disappointingly dry. The outer crust, though crisp, was devoid of the succulence that one anticipates in such a dish. This lack of moisture was a letdown, detracting from the overall enjoyment. Flavour-wise, the schnitzel did not fare much better. It missed the mark on the rich, savoury notes characteristic of a well-made Hühnerschnitzel.

However, not all was lost. The hunter’s sauce, available for an extra $7, came to the rescue. This sauce was a revelation, infusing the dry schnitzel with a much-needed zest and elevating the dish to a more palatable level.

The experience inevitably drew comparisons to the schnitzel I savoured at Gasthaus. The difference was striking. Where Gasthaus served a schnitzel that was nothing short of spectacular, complete with complimentary sauce, Gerni’s offering fell short, leaving a void that the hunter’s sauce only partially filled.

Despite the culinary hiccup with the schnitzel, the ambiance at Gerni’s Farmhouse was nothing short of enchanting. The breathtaking vistas of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountains contributed significantly to the dining experience. It’s my hope that the kitchen will refine their schnitzel recipe to align with the high caliber of their other menu items.

For those planning a visit to Gerni’s Farmhouse, I wholeheartedly recommend investing in the hunter’s sauce. Despite the additional cost, it transforms the dish and is a worthy addition to your meal.

😍 Glühwein

What We Thought

Gluhwein is a traditional German beverage that embodies the spirit of winter. It’s a hot, spiced red wine that’s often associated with Christmas markets and festive celebrations. The drink is made by heating red wine and infusing it with a blend of mulling spices such as cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and citrus.

he experience of drinking Gluhwein is akin to being wrapped in a warm blanket on a cold day. Its spicy sweetness and the rich aroma of mulled wine create a sense of nostalgia and comfort. Each sip warms you from the inside out, making it a perfect antidote to the winter chill.

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