More Than Just a Muffin
I’ll admit it — I almost didn’t write this article. Not because there was nothing to say, but because I assumed there was nothing new to say about Gino’s Coffee House. It’s been around for years, and before that, it was JoJo’s Café — one of those places that longtime locals remember as a reliable go-to. In my mind, Gino’s was already established, already known, and already appreciated. So why bother?
Well, it took one simple comment to change that. When I suggested Gino’s as a place to grab food, a friend replied, “I want more than just a muffin.” And just like that, I realized I had completely underestimated what Gino’s actually offers. Because if you think this place is just muffins and coffee, you’re missing out on about 90 percent of the experience.
About a week later, that realization was reinforced when “Ive the chicken lady,” who readers might remember from a previous article, told me I had to try the breakfast scones. Not recommended — insisted. According to her, they were the best she’s ever had. That’s a bold claim. Naturally, I had to investigate.
Sheldon Herman photo
Walking into Gino’s, one of the first things you notice is how busy it is — and not just at peak hours. There’s a steady flow of locals throughout the day, which is always a good sign. Plenty of seating inside and out makes it easy to settle in, whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or planning to stay awhile. And once you start looking around, it becomes clear this isn’t just a coffee stop.
It’s a community hub, with live music and entertainment happening regularly, and upcoming events posted inside and online. As the summer approaches, they’re even planning weekly car shows and, for the first time, duelling pianos — which I can only assume is going to be absolutely fantastic!
But let’s get back to the food. Everything here is made from scratch, in-house. No canned shortcuts, no pre-packaged fillers. The baking starts early — we’re talking 5 a.m. — and it shows in the quality.
The scones, in particular, absolutely live up to the hype. On the day I visited, the options included jalapeño cheddar, classic cheddar, and triple berry. Each one had that perfect balance of texture and flavour — soft on the inside, just the right amount of structure on the outside. Honestly, they’d hold their own in front of even the toughest judge on The Great British Bake Off.
But Gino’s doesn’t stop at baked goods. Their menu goes far beyond what you’d expect from a typical coffeehouse. We’re talking full, restaurant-style breakfasts and lunches — eggs Benedict, hearty plates, even oven-roasted roast beef — dishes that would easily cost twice as much in a more “formal” setting.
Then there are the drinks, which deserve their own moment. I was treated to a strawberry cream matcha cold drink that was as refreshing as it was unexpected, and a Ferrero Rocher dark chocolate latte that can only be described as a showstopper. Served hot or cold and topped with an actual Ferrero Rocher chocolate, it’s the kind of drink that feels more like a dessert than a coffee — and I’m not complaining.
Sheldon Herman photo
Even the details matter here. They make their own sweet cream in-house, and their espresso wasn’t just picked off a shelf — it was carefully selected after sampling countless options before landing on an authentic blend imported from Italy. Behind it all are owners Arielle Deros and Darrien Beck, along with manager Lyndsay Beck, who brings continuity from the JoJo’s days.
It’s 100 per cent family-owned and operated, and that shows in the care put into both the food and the atmosphere. There’s even a licensed patio out back where pets are not just allowed, but welcomed — along with the option to enjoy a drink in the sunshine.
Gino’s is open seven days a week, making it one of the most reliable spots in town, whether you’re starting your morning, grabbing lunch, or just looking for a place to relax with good food and good company. So yes, you can go there for a muffin and a coffee. But if that’s all you order, you’re missing the point.
Sometimes the biggest surprises aren’t new restaurants or hidden gems — they’re the places that have been there all along, quietly doing things right while the rest of us weren’t paying close enough attention. Turns out, Gino’s Coffee House was one of those places for me. Go check it out for yourself — dine in or take it to go — and when you do, tell them Sheldon sent you.
Gino’s Coffee House is located at 8316 Main St, Osoyoos and is open Mon.–Sat. 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sun. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sheldon Herman is the author of the multi-award-winning, international best-selling book “The Tortured Traveller: How I Survived the Worst Vacation Ever,” and has eaten his way through over 60 countries. This review was written independently and without compensation. Have a restaurant you’d like featured? Email [email protected].
