Note: We visited in September 2025.
It’s our first night in Penticton and we are super hungry, but we have no plan. An employee at the hotel recommended Elma when queried for a decent place to eat, and a quick perusal of their menu online looked promising.
Middle Eastern food has become an enjoyable part of my culinary routine. Elma is right on Lakeshore Drive with fantastic views of the lake if you’re lucky enough to get a patio table, which we were.
It’s has a casual and comfortable vibe, not pretentious at all. It’s Penticton after all, come as you are.
A buddy and I, who also isn’t a huge eater, decided we would split a few things to sample a larger selection of their offerings. Very glad we went this route.
Our first pick was Girit Borek.
I did some research on this as I’m not familiar with it. I can’t say the research helped much either. It is the Turkish word for the island of Crete. I’m culinary terms, that’s a little harder to narrow down. Something to do with “small plate.” Or maybe a cheese mixed with nuts and other ingredients. Turns out iwaht we were served was a filled phyllo pastry.
At my local Turkish food restaurant in Burnaby I’m used to these being deep-fried, which these weren’t. This version was just as good though. A creamy filling with a nice reduction to add some acidity. A bit heavy on the greens for me, but overall very tasty.
Beet Hummus
Hummus is hit and miss for me. Well now that I’ve figured out the trick? Stay away from that mass-produced camel shit you’ll find in your local grocery store. When it’s homemade, it’s divine.
This is a Beetroot Hummus and it was incredible. Not only a really pretty red from the beets, they also added a beautiful, subtle sweetness. Very tasty homemade bread to go with it.
Next up we have Tandir Croquettes.
Slow-cooked lamb, rice, and cheese, then breaded and deep-fried. Served with a very tasty miso, tahini ketchup. How’s that for three cultures coming together in one sauce? A creamy yogurt rounded out a complex yet beautiful flavor combination.
Here we have the Sultan’s Delight.
Lamb and beef meatballs served with a charred Japanese Bechamel and an heirloom tomato sauce. Tender and well-seasoned with warm Middle Eastern flavors, these didn’t last very long. Those incredible spices and the delicious sauces made the meatballs oh so good.
Of course a Turkish coffee.
That’s a great kick in the ass to finish off a fantastic meal
What with the lovely location and excellent food, Elma is certainly worth a visit next time you’re in Penticton.
9/10.