The Sunshine Café spreads happiness

Fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a warm atmosphere have made Randi Wanner's restaurant a local favourite

The Sunshine Café is a popular eatery in Rossland, B.C. — Photo courtesy Sunshine Café

Rossland, B.C., is now home for Calgary-born chef Randi Wanner. She moved with her family frequently during her youth, and her last big move was a return to Canada after spending six years cooking in Australia. Wanner was charmed by the beauty of the West Kootenay, and when the opportunity to purchase the Sunshine Café presented itself, she decided to stay. That was 4½ years ago.

“I fell in love with Rossland,” Wanner said. “It’s really a beautiful town and the people are so friendly. When I heard that the Sunshine was up for sale, I didn’t want to see it close—it has a long history here. I decided to grow up and buy a restaurant.”

A new way of life

Now, Wanner rises most days at 4 a.m. and is at the Columbia Avenue café by 5, to bake muffins, cook potatoes for hash browns and otherwise do her prep for the day. At 7 a.m., she unlocks the door.

“We have our usual crew of coffee boys who come in bright and early, and then I’m here until we close at 3,” Wanner said. “We are happy to have our loyal customers. The fresh, local ingredients, the good food and the happy staff keep them coming back.”

Coming back, yes, and singing the praises of the café. Earlier this year, nominations in Kootenay Business magazine’s Reader's Choice survey resulted in the Sunshine Café receiving seven awards in several categories for Best Places to Eat in the West Kootenay.

Making people happy

Wanner said breakfast is her favourite meal to cook, because breakfast makes everybody happy. The Sunshine’s lunch sounds pretty good too, with create-your-own sandwiches and wraps and fresh soup every day. Wanner’s personal favourite soup is the pesto-mushroom.

She has created a light and sunshiny decor in the café, with bright colours, local art and a beautiful outside patio. Wanner favours using locally sourced ingredients and provides a large selection of gluten-free items.