Su Casa Mexican Cafe — Restaurant in Area E (Beaverdell/West Boundary)

The Okanagan is all about its grapevines, cherries, and apples—basically nature’s version of a fruit stand that goes on for miles. But halfway along Highway 3, somewhere between Osoyoos and Midway, we stumbled across something you wouldn’t expect: Mexico. Yes, Mexico. Or at least the deliciously convincing stand-in version of it.

Su Casa Mexican Cafe doesn’t exactly jump out at you. In fact, if you sneeze or blink too hard, you’ll be well past Bridesville before you realize you missed it. The only hint is a modest sign and the Mexican flag swaying bravely at the roadside, like it’s trying to whisper, “Stop here, amigo—you won’t regret it.” The building itself has history. Once upon a time, it was a paint stick factory (because of course it was—what highway doesn’t need one?). But thanks to Denis and Flor Launier, who brought a little slice of Mexico City north with them, this factory has been reborn as a fiesta on a plate.

Once inside, we was greeted with a colour splash of sunshine yellow and breezy blue walls that seemed to cool the room all on their own. A quirky cactus in the corner, proudly balancing a sombrero on its big noggin, looked like it had been hired as the official greeter. Although the place had a vibe that was part rustic Okanagan cabin, part Mexican art gallery—rustic wood and wrought iron jostling happily alongside pottery, we opted to lunch on the outdoor patio.

This afternoon’s entertainment wasn’t the clouds drifting by or the neighbour’s dog chasing its own tail, but the chipmunks. They’ve apparently claimed squatters’ rights on the miniature picnic table set out for them, and let me tell you, they’re running the place like it’s a five-star bistro. Romping through the sunflower garden, they seemed to treat the whole yard as their personal dining room.

And then the food arrived. Oh, the food. Plates of authentic Mexican deliciousness, with flavours that made me want to cancel my return trip and just live there indefinitely. The quesadilla waltzed onto my fork like it owned the place, Denis greeted us like old friends from a past life, and the patio practically hummed, ‘ linger awhile!’ We were already plotting our return!

Specialty coffee gave it all a flourish, but the grand finale was the cinnamon buns—topped with lime and orange icing. These weren’t your average sticky buns. they are like little swirls of morning magic—soft, pillowy dough hugging ribbons of cinnamon and sugar, baked until golden and oozing with sticky, sweet goodness. My taste buds were hosting a tiny fiesta! And all of this unfolded to the soundtrack of soft, dreamy Latin music drifting from inside, wrapping the air in a melody that tugged us right back to Mexico. The orchards and vineyards in the valley below felt a world away; but up here on the mountain, we might as well have been at a café tucked on a quiet street in Mexico City.

For a moment, Mexico had found a home in the Okanagan—and we were lucky enough to stumble in. Su Casa isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a roadside portal, a fiesta in the forest, a delicious reminder that sometimes the best journeys are the ones you don’t see coming—especially if they come topped with...

Best Mexican restaurant around... ... also the only restaurant around. That's right. Su Casa is plunked on the side of Hwy 3 smack in between Osoyoos and Rock Creek, on the "outskirts" of Bridesville. Blink and you will literally miss it. Look for the Mexican flag... dead giveaway.

Anyway, why do people still come to this establishment when it is out in the middle of nowhere? Well, for one the food is excellent. On our visit I found the mole quite tasty, thicker and spicier than usual with a touch of sweet as an aftertaste. The tortillas are real corn, not the fake wheat. The chicken and pork were tender and juicy. The homemade cinnamon buns absolutely heavenly. The drinks were refreshing, horchata a perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar and milk, for example. I do not believe they have a liquor license so do not expect alcohol.

Service was small town friendly with the husband working front of house while his Mexican wife works the kitchen. Price point is certainly acceptable in the low mid range and the decor is classy casual inside and beach casual on the patio.

Both of the owners speak excellent Spanish and English, and he also speaks French. Regardless, the total experience was positive and I would recommend anyone who plans a destination vacation to Bridesville to not pass Su Casa up. Of course, not many will actually plan a trip to Bridesville so if ever in the area... you...

I was told about Su Casa three years ago and now it's a tradition to come for lunch when we're in Osoyoos. Only about 20 minutes from Osoyoos (you'll also pass some great lookouts), this is THE place for authentic Mexican food. They're also famous for their cinnamon buns. Tucked off the main road, the property is delightful with colourful wildflowers and a great covered patio (kids need to check out the chipmunks playing between the two big , with their little picnic tables under the bird feeders). Walking into the restaurant, it's like coming home. Very welcoming and friendly staff. The food is all cooked to order so although it can take a little bit, it's totally worth it. Sit back and relax in their comfy chairs, or on a seat outside and enjoy a drink while you take it all in (their also known for their Hibiscus Tea, the Horchata is delicious, there's great flavours of italian soda for the kids and if you like ginger, their Ginger Limeade has a nice kick). Enjoy! You won't be...