The Best Place to Eat on BC's Highway 20
Whenever I tell someone about Highway 20 in BC, their eyes usually light up with curiosity. And honestly, I get it. This road—also called the Chilcotin Highway—is something special. It winds through some of the most stunning wilderness in Canada, stretching from Williams Lake all the way to the coastal town of Bella Coola. Along the way, you’ll pass open ranchland, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged mountains. And right around the halfway point, you’ll find one of the best places to eat along the route—more on that in a second. It’s easily one of BC’s most unforgettable drives.
Just getting there feels like part of the adventure. Most folks kick things off in Williams Lake and head west into the heart of the Chilcotin. And the views? Totally worth it. You’ll likely spot some wildlife too, so keep your camera handy.
Right around the halfway point—right when you're ready to stretch your legs and take a break—there it is: Woodlands Fishin’ Resort, sitting peacefully along the edge of Puntzi Lake. And if you’re hungry (which, let’s be honest, road trips always do that), you’re in luck. Our Puntzi Lake Bakery & Restaurant is the perfect pit stop for a good meal and a warm welcome.
I’ve driven this route more times than I can count, and every single time, that moment when you crest the hill and see Puntzi Lake come into view? It never gets old. You just know something good’s waiting for you on the other side.
Passion for Cooking and Feeding Travellers
Cooking’s always been my happy place. There’s just something special about taking simple, fresh ingredients, putting your heart into it, and watching someone’s face light up when they take that first bite. When I opened Puntzi Lake Bakery & Restaurant, it wasn’t just about starting a business. It was about creating a spot where everyone could relax, refuel, and feel at home.
Every morning, as I fire up the ovens and start prepping for the day, I think about all the different people who might walk through our door. Some are heading to Bella Coola for a coastal adventure. Others just came off the lake after a morning of fishing, hungry and ready for something warm and satisfying. We get guests from our cabins and campground popping in after a day of hiking or ATVing, and we meet road-trippers who’ve never been down Highway 20 before and are just looking for the best place to eat.
What I love most is being part of their journey. Life moves fast, but sharing a meal has a way of slowing things down. Whether it’s families gathered around the table, a couple splitting a pizza while soaking in the lake views, or a solo traveller grabbing one of our homemade treats, those moments remind me why I started this place. And honestly? I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Puntzi Lake Bakery & Restaurant: A Local Institution That Draws Crowds
Puntzi Lake Bakery & Restaurant has become something of a legend along Highway 20. Locals and travellers alike know that when those doors open Thursday through Sunday from 11 am to 7 pm (May through September), they're in for a treat that's become increasingly rare in our fast-paced world.
The restaurant's reputation spreads far beyond the immediate area. Word travels fast along Highway 20, and it's not uncommon to see the screened-in deck filling up shortly after opening, with guests eager to secure those coveted lakeside tables.
What makes this place truly special isn't just the food – though that's certainly exceptional – it's the atmosphere. The screened-in deck offers breathtaking views of Puntzi Lake, while the no-frills, authentic countryside approach creates an experience that feels both refreshing and genuine. Guests often comment on how the restaurant captures the essence of what makes the Chilcotin region so magical: natural beauty, warm hospitality, and a sense of community that welcomes everyone.
During peak season, it's not unusual to see a mix of RV travellers, fishing enthusiasts, local ranchers, and adventure seekers all sharing the same space, swapping stories and recommendations over hearty meals. The restaurant has become a natural gathering place where the road-weary can rest, refuel, and connect with fellow travellers.
Exceptional Food That Satisfies Every Craving
At Puntzi Lake Bakery & Restaurant, the menu’s all about comfort food that hits the spot. Perfect for a lakeside lunch or a post-adventure meal.
Our sandwiches are a big hit, especially the Beef Dip: tender beef on a house-baked hoagie roll with crispy home fries. The BLT, made with fresh bread, is another go-to.
In the mood for something handheld? Our wraps are loaded with flavour. Try the Grilled Chicken Ranch with melty mozzarella, or the Pulled Pork with sautéed onions and cheddar. Easy to grab and perfect to eat by the water.
Pizza fans won’t be disappointed. We’ve got everything from classic pepperoni to the Chilcotin—loaded with bacon, ham, mushrooms, and more. Grab a 12” to share or an 8” for yourself and enjoy the view.
Our burgers are made from juicy quarter-pound patties. The Chilcotin Burger with Monterey jack and house sauce is a favourite, but the Mushroom & Bacon is a close second.
If you’re after something lighter, our salads bring the flavour. The Cranberry Chicken Salad is fresh and bright, while the Fiesta Bowl packs a punch with rice, beans, sweet corn, and your choice of protein.
And don’t skip dessert: our homemade pies, cakes, and squares are worth the stop. Or cool off with a scoop of ice cream in flavours like chocolate fudge brownie or heavenly hash.
To check the prices, take a look at our menu.
Puntzi Lake Bakery & Restaurant really captures what makes Highway 20 so special: real food, warm hospitality, and that one-of-a-kind feeling you only get in the Chilcotin. In a world full of fast food and chain spots, this little lakeside place stands out.
It’s where good meals and great views come together, where travellers feel like part of the community, even if it’s just for a little while. Whether it’s your first time on Highway 20 or your tenth, make sure to add a stop here to your plans!
