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Gerni’s Farmhouse

Vernon, Okanagan Valley

Gerni’s Farmhouse: Where Austria Meets Okanagan

Gerni’s Farmhouse isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a portal to another world. Imagine stepping into an Alpine retreat, where centuries-old timbers whisper tales of distant lands. Here’s what awaits you:

Named after the resort’s owner, Mr. Gernot Langes-Swarovski, this farmhouse celebrates traditional Austrian fare. It’s a culinary journey that transcends borders, bringing the flavors of the Alps to the shores of Okanagan Lake. As you enter, inhale the scent of woodsmoke and anticipation. The Rustic Charm: Originally built in 1587 in Weeburg, Austria, this timber-framed gem was lovingly disassembled, piece by piece, and transported across oceans. Six 40-foot containers cradled its essence—the creak of ancient beams, the warmth of centuries-old wood.

Views That Steal Your Breath: Perched just behind the main resort building, Gerni’s Farmhouse gazes upon Okanagan Lake. Imagine sipping wine as the sun dips below the waterline, casting hues of gold and amethyst. The view stretches, uninterrupted, as if time itself pauses to admire the scene. Lunchtime Magic: No reservations needed—just follow your senses. The menu unfolds like a love letter to Austria: schnitzels crispy as autumn leaves, dumplings that cradle secrets, and strudels that sing of apple orchards. Pair your meal with a local wine, and suddenly, you’re in two places at once—the Okanagan and the Alps.

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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