Room to Shine Spotlight Series — Introducing Mitchell Forgie
Get ready to meet the heart and soul of Kamloops in our Room to Shine Spotlight Series! Each month, we’re pulling back the curtain to celebrate the incredible individuals who make this city what it is today. From leading visionaries to the behind-the-scenes heroes, these stories will dive into the grit, passion, and genuine spirit that keep Kamloops shining bright. So grab your coffee, get comfy, and let’s shine a light on what makes this place unforgettable—its people.
One of those visionaries is Mitchell Forgie, the owner of Red Beard Café and Nigel’s Speakeasy and a partner at Bright Eye Brewing.
With over a decade of experience shaping the local culinary landscape, Mitchell has played a pivotal role in making Kamloops a destination for craft beer lovers, cocktail enthusiasts, and those seeking warm, welcoming hospitality. Let’s get to know him!
TK: So Mitchell, why Kamloops?
“Being in Kamloops, I am right in the middle of six major mountain ranges and still live in a city with city amenities, opportunities, and a relatively good cost of living (by BC standards),” Mitchell shared.
Mitchell’s journey into the food and beverage industry began long before he arrived in Kamloops. Originally drawn by Thompson Rivers University’s Adventure Guide program, Mitchell discovered that the city had more to offer than just outdoor adventure.
Having worked in restaurants since the age of 14, he developed a deep appreciation for the energy of hospitality, the connections formed over shared meals, and the role that gathering spaces play in building community.
TK: Let's chat about all your ventures! What's one cool thing about each spot?
“Red Beard has one of the best patios in town, especially with it being open year round. With a cozy fire in the winter, and beautiful trees and plantings in the summer — I think that’s what makes us unique for someone just visiting. And the amount of regulars who come to Red Beard who attend multiple times a day is pretty humbling… To have that much community behind you,” Mitchell shared.
At Red Beard Café, Mitchell and his team have crafted a space that blends quality, creativity, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.
And at Nigel’s Speakeasy, guests step into a hidden cocktail haven, where world-class drinks meet an intimate, old-world ambiance. “To have a speakeasy putting out top-notch, world-class cocktails in a place like Kamloops is really fun,” Mitchell added.
Meanwhile, at Bright Eye Brewing, he and his partners have helped carve out a space for boundary-pushing craft beer, adding another layer of vibrancy to Kamloops’ growing brewery scene.
TK: Love it. Now, what's your absolute favourite thing to do in Kamloops?
“Kamloops is the best place in the world for bikes. Whether gravel riding on desolate low traffic roads through the grasslands or mountain biking on the fastest and flowiest trails in the world… Floating down the river on a really hot day is a summer highlight as well!”
The city’s “workaday” nature—one that fosters creativity and entrepreneurship outside the traditional resort-town model—has also allowed him to pursue unique concepts like Nigel’s Speakeasy, a venture that thrives in a setting where it might not typically make sense.
This ability to experiment and grow within a supportive, community-driven environment has reinforced his belief that Kamloops is a place where people can build something truly special.
TK: So, what's next for you?
“We want to keep expanding the Kamloops food and beverage scene - filling little niches that contribute to a more vibrant city,” Mitchell shared.
Through Mitchell’s drive and passion, he has helped shape Kamloops into a destination for culinary and craft beverage experiences, a place where locals and visitors can come together over great food, creative drinks, and a shared love of community.
For those looking to experience Mitchell’s impact firsthand, a visit to Red Beard Café, a stop at Nigel’s Speakeasy, or a pint at Bright Eye Brewing is a must.
Each space tells a story—not just of a business, but of a city that continues to evolve, grow, and welcome new ideas with open arms.
