Get your tastebuds ready for the #EatLocalYXC Festival

Every Thursday for four weeks, you’ll get a sneak peek behind the scenes at local restaurants while at the same time are invited to get some delicious food incentives and deals for both dining in and take-out.

Make sure to spread the deliciousness and tell your friends, too.

Get a taste of the #EatLocalYXC event on our Facebook page.

Here's your invitation to the #LiveLocal #EatLocalYXC Festival

Brandi Boothman, a local foodie, a wellness specialist at urbanhippienutrition.ca and the woman behind the Facebook page East Kootenay Foodies & Friends, is working with FestivalSeekers to bring you this unique “dine around” experience in Cranbrook. The best part is that you can enjoy this all from the comfort of your home or workspace.

Boothman is excited about the event for a number of reasons, not the least that it shines a spotlight on the vibrant dining scene in the region.

“I like that it came along at a time when I feel like what Cranbrook needs – and every area – needs support,” she said. “I’ve watch Cranbrook evolve and if I can support that and help people keep eating out and doing take out and help those restaurants stay in business.”

#EatLocalYXC makes total sense to Boothman, recognizing that people get most of their information from social media. “It good exposure. Every time someone likes and shares and comments on restaurants, it helps expands their reach,” to fans and then friends and family of fans.

Find out more about the #LiveLocal EatLocalYXC events in the East Kootenays happening all month.

But aside from the exposure, Boothman sees #EatLocalYXC as propping up the already strong sense of community in the region. “It gives everyone an opportunity to keep up to date and see what their neighbours are up to and lets everyone help support each other.”

Here are a few of the restaurants getting ready to treat you to their talents for delicious food during #EatLocalYXC Facebook Live sessions and all throughout the four-week event. 

Ella’s, Oct. 22, 3 p.m. MST - Who doesn’t love a zingy Jamaican jerk chicken to warm you up on a chilly fall night?

Ella’s Jamaican menu will have your tastebuds singing with the flavours of the Caribbean. During the #EatLocalYXC event, Ella’s is featuring a tasting menu for $35. For its Facebook Live session at 3 p.m. on Oct. 22, you’ll learn how to make their popular tasty tacos and a colourful Bob Marley cocktail, all while they reveal the secrets of island cooking.

Two Birds Deli, Oct. 22, 10 a.m. - Run by long-time Cranbrook locals Maraih and Marina, the pair are all about healthy, delicious fast food with a stylish twist. Their menu has a massive salad and sandwich selection as well as unique baked goods. Many of their items are vegan and gluten-free, too. Their FB Live event will show you how to make a delicious salad using local ingredients. Watch for an extra special giveaway, plus take advantage of a free coffee with the purchase of a salad combo during the #EatLocalYXC event.

Sweet Gestures Chocolate Shoppe, Nov. 12, 10 a.m. -  Get ready to indulge your sweet tooth with Cranbrook's Sweet Gestures. You'll be treated to a free sample if you mention the #EatLocalYXC Festival when you visit the store on 12th Avenue.  

The Heid Out, Nov. 12, 3 p.m. -  Loved by locals, The Heid Out is known for its eclectic and fresh menu, featuring international and local dishes. And of course, the local craft brew from Fisher Peak Brewery, which they even use in their Brown Ale BBQ sauce, as well as many local wines. The restaurant is offering a Trio Tasting Platter during #EatLocalYXC. You’ll can order a trio of their most popular menu items, including the crab slider, seared Haida Gwaii halibut filet or cabbage ball taco. Each menu item is paired with a craft beer, red or white wine for $25 a person plus tax. Stay tuned for what The Heid Out has planned for its Facebook Live at 3 p.m. Nov. 12.

The Nest, Oct. 29, 3 p.m. -  Gourmet restaurant favourite, The Nest will join the Kimberley portion of the festival with a Facebook Live event. They will host a draw for a $100 gift certificate, which you can enter by dining there during the festival or by sharing their broadcast. 

Stay up to date for more special Facebook Live information and deals in the coming days.