The Drive Canteen (1111 Commercial Drive) is upping the munchies ante on Commercial Drive this spring with a trifecta of ways to sun, sip, and snack. Guests can visit its newly launched hidden back patio, try its exclusive Drive Canteen x Callister Soda Company Peach Soda, and enjoy some delicious Best Bites – all at the same time.
The Drive Canteen’s patio is hidden in the back, with the entrance through the unique convenience store. It seats 24 and features three yellow picnic tables and three high-tops. The team hopes to host several fun BBQ events and pop-ups with the whole community this summer.
“We worked on our patio all throughout winter and early spring and are so happy with how it turned out,”says Doug Stephen, co-founder of DL Chicken, Downlow Burgers, and The Drive Canteen. “It’s not everyday you can find a hidden patio on the Drive, away from the traffic on the main street. Lindsey designed the space to make it feel like an oasis. It’s already one of my favourite new hang-out spots.”
In addition to the patio, the Drive Canteen has partnered with Diana McKenzie of Callister Soda Company to create a one-of-a-kind Peach Soda, featuring ripe Okanagan peach juice, floral aromatics, and summer vibes in a can. The soda is available exclusively at the Drive Canteen.
“There is nothing quite like a delicious peach soda and we wanted to make our own,” adds Stephen. “Callister is local and makes some of the best sodas around! This one is seriously like plunging your head into a bushel of super ripe Okanagan Peaches. You can crush it on its own, add a shot of bourbon, a splash of pilsner or our favourite, some bubbles for the perfect easy peasy Belini! Of course, we have a variety of non-alcohol options in our fridges to mix with as well.”
Guests can pair those sodas with the Drive Canteen’s new Best Bites menu, which includes easy ways to snack on several items at-once, including Classic Nacho, Al Pastor Nacho, Pork and Leek Sausage Roll, Drive CanteenCrostini with seasonal flavours, and Fully Loaded Dicky’s Dumps.
The Drive Canteen is open Monday to Saturday, from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Sunday, from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
