Nelson: The Artsy Kootenay Hideaway

Nelson's number one on TripAdvisor is a Baker Street taqueria with psychedelic paintings, shrimp and squash tacos, and margaritas locals describe as reliably on point. Mexico, by way of the Kootenays, no passport required. Small room fills fast in summer; book on OpenTable

A whisky and craft beer bar smoking Texas brisket on Baker Street, of all places. Beef cheek tacos, chicken and waffles at weekend brunch, and a patio built for watching Nelson amble past. The town approves. Weekend brunch is the busy shift

Nelson has roughly one opinion everyone shares, and it is Oso Negro. Thirty years of roasting its own beans, poured in a garden patio that functions as the town's living room. Arrive early, leave converted. Morning queues are a local tradition

A French Canadian bakery hiding down Herridge Lane, a literal back alley, where the baguettes crackle and the croissants are rich enough to require a sit down. Nelson's highest rated bakery, and the alley knows it. Closed Sundays and Mondays; cash or e-transfer only

Neapolitan pizza from owners who trained under pizzaiolo Enzo Coccia in Naples and import San Marzano tomatoes grown in Vesuvian volcanic soil. It operates inside a Best Western, which somehow makes the whole thing better. Reservations via OpenTable recommended on weekends

Viet-modern cooking on Victoria Street where the pho broth simmers for a full 24 hours, and travellers keep calling it the best since Vietnam itself. Open 11:30 to 9, so it rescues lunch or dinner equally.

Grand 1898 hotel on the edge of Baker Street with a spa, pub and dining room, the heritage-romance pick. Verify 2026 rates at booking.

Beautifully restored heritage rooms steps from downtown, design-forward and intimate. Confirm current rates.

Restored heritage building on Baker Street, sociable, central and ideal for a solo trip. Verify 2026 rates.