Best Eats
Let this handy little guide point you to some of the best restaurants in Winnipeg, shown through our top culinary categories.
Want to dig into Winnipeg’s food scene further? Find countless articles on chefs, food events, breweries and cocktail bars at PegCityGrub, Winnipeg’s most popular culinary website.
Bakeries
Cake-ology
New Cake-ology co-owner and chef Austin Granados’ pastry pedigree includes working under chef Dominque Ansel in NYC (the cronut inventor), at VEA in Hong Kong (a Michlin-starred spot that was #16 on Asia’s best restaurant list) and at Noma in Copenhagen. Here in Winnipeg, he will dazzle you with how flaky, buttery, chewy and airy his pastries are, particularly the show-stopping mille-feuille and kouign-amann. It's pastry heaven.
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Gato Bakery
Gato’s owner and viennoisier Laura Gurbhoo came to Winnipeg from Mauritius, originally to do a science degree from U of W in biochemistry. Upon graduation, the kitchen drew her back (she’d been baking seriously since aged 15, and was tutored by a Cordon Bleu-trained chef), first working at Frenchway for several years before opening Gato in the West End. Her specialty is eco-conscious creations, with a dazzling array of plant-based and vegan pastries, along with plenty of buttery staples too like Paris brest, croissants, and cronuts
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Hildegard's Bakery
This place is all about farm-to-table. Utilizing a large wood-fire oven, local organic flours (mainly heritage varieties) that they grind onsite and long fermentation times, the team at Hildegard’s makes fantastic pizzas come evening and all manner of breads during the day. Outside of the fire, their pastry selection is also quite something, with perhaps the best (and certainly largest and gooiest) butter tarts in the city. The focaccia–with its air pockets and ample rosemary and olive oil–is also divine, as are the spelt hamburger buns.
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La Belle Baguette
If you walk past this lovely little spot in Saint-Boniface and are not immediately drawn in by the smell of butter in the air, you should probably get your sinuses checked. Pastry chef/owner Alix Loiselle’s CV is stacked and includes spots like Maison Boulud and Chateau Lake Louise. At La Belle, he uses local wheat from Prairie Flour Mills and as many other local ingredients he can get to make eclairs, croissants and tarts, along with plenty of delicious breads too. You can also find his pastries at coffee shops and attractions around the city.
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Tall Grass Prairie Bread Company
A true pioneer on the Canadian baking scene, Tall Grass has been milling local organic heritage wheats for more than 30 years, beginning with their small shop in Wolseley in 1990, then expanding to The Forks in 2002. Both locations stock a variety of breads and their legendary cinnamon buns, while at The Forks location you can see local grains like red fife and spelt being milled before being turned into sourdough. There’s also no shortage of sweets and buttery numbers, from smoked gouda croissants to cinnamon croissants and countless cookies. In autumn, the selection of pies is staggering.
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The Pennyloaf Bakery
From a wood-fired oven head baker/owner Suzanne Gessler and her team create some of the best sourdough you’ll ever get. The crust is so hardy and toasty from the flames, and the inside is airy, chewy and tangy from the lengthy fermentation. Not to be outdone is its pastry counter that houses some of the best cookies, morning buns and cakes around.
×Brunch
D&A Cafe
Celebrity chef Mandel Hitzer’s menu of upscale brunch fare, fresh pasta dishes, and killer salads sits pretty in this sleek space by local furniture design company EQ3. Outstanding coffee drinks too at this café that is co-owned and operated by Aussie sommelier Daniel King.
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Clementine
The Globe and Mail has questioned why Canada’s best brunch place (ahem, Clementine) shouldn’t also be considered one of its best restaurants? Everything on the worldly menu sings, from crazy good burgers, to the silky and spicy Turkish eggs, the ever-evolving fried chicken toast, and what should be a world-famous fried cauliflower salad. No reservations (so be like Metallica, who gladly waited for a table).
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Juneberry
This cool spot features an inviting setting by Fireside Design, a decent sized patio overlooking the Red River, and an experienced team of chefs and owners who have created a real gem that makes you wish all your previous restaurant jobs were in such a setting. Expect super tasty brunch with vegan options aplenty.
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Marion Street Eatery
A perennial on the Food Network travel show circuit and a multiple Poutine Cup award-winner, Marion Street has been winning over fans since 2014. The locally focused comfort food has always been praise-worthy, while owner Laneil Smith has done a fabulous job allowing the kitchen to shine under new chefs bringing Salvadorian and Indigenous dishes over the years since original chef/partner Melissa Hyrb took a position at Red River’s Culinary School.
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Miss Browns
Aussie-inspired brunch from culinary couple Jenny and Steve Tyrrell that puts smoked meat front and centre. The sandwiches and bagels are masterful and usually start with a brush of garlic butter before being pressed, while the cubed hash with smoked brisket, a sunny side up egg and micro greens is always a go-to. Great burgers too.
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Modern Electric Lunch
The newest member of team brunch, Modern Electric is a charming option downtown on a bustling section of Main. The sandwiches are glorious, as are the seasonal salads, plus the staff are just the peachiest people too. And it’s a cool room, the sort of place you bring to impress a hip friend.
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Tallest Poppy
A cultural institution in West Broadway where owner Talia Syria (Winnipeg’s unofficial comfort food queen) and her cool crew spin Jewish takes on southern dishes. The fried chicken and waffles are near-legendary, while night also brings great cocktails. Attending a Drag Brunch or First Friday party here is a must.
×Casual Counter Service
Banh Mi King
The city’s newest Bahn mi shop is also one of its best. Located right across the street from U of W, the King has won over many with its pillow-soft buns stuffed with the crunchiest veg and quality meats. It’s such a super fresh spot.
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BMC Market - Taqueria
Everyone loves Betty Calderón-Villaseñor for bringing her grandma’s recipes from Morelia, Mexico here to Winnipeg, where she opened BMC back in 2012. The hand-formed tortillas hold tinga, barbacao, rojas, and chorizo and come with the choice of three salsas—all for just $5 or $7.99 for 3! The simple quesadillas, made on oval shaped hand-formed tortillas, are also great. Its licensed too, with a fine selection of Mexican beers.
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Khánh Hhòa Fresh Meats and Delight
A true hole-in-the-wall, Khánh Hhòa is the spot for those in the know for great banh mi (in fact, listing it here is surely going to ruffle a few feathers). The menu has just nine items, five of which are Banh Mi, while they don’t even bother with any sort of social media.
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Khao House
Khao House, by culinary couple Korene McCaig and Randy Khounnoraj, has become the cool kids’ spot for South-East Asian cuisine. Items that keep us coming back for more are the eggplant kalapao; the irresistible chips n dip; the crunchy, creamy naem khao salad; and the gochujang fried chicken burger. Its location within the Good Will Social Club also means you can get fantastic food while attending a concert or event.
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Sargent Taco Shop
When owner Carlos Bosque moved here from Mexico City, he was puzzled by the lack of the Mexico City and Puebla-style tacos on offer. So, he opened this West End gem where two of the main stars are mole, which he does in the Puebla-style for chicken tacos, and huitlacoche (corn musk) which he pairs with rajas and grilled panella cheese. They also have a nice list of antojitos featuring several churros, molletes and tortas.
×Chinese
Aroma Bistro
After graduating from Red River Culinary School chef/owner Louie Lui (who goes by chef Louie and is originally from Hong Kong) and sous chef Weilin Cao (who goes by Harry and is originally from Chengdu) took Winnipeg by storm with their incredibly flavourful chili wontons, which they sell by the hundreds daily. They became so popular that they had to quickly expand their kitchen to accommodate all the takeout orders from their small storefront. Great udon and kimchi dishes too.
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Double Greeting
For half a century Winnipeggers in the know have been visiting this hole-in-the-wall for comforting noodle soup dishes, like the excellent beef brisket (just $9.50!) and wonton. The Shanghai fried noodle is about as good as it gets (only Lucky Koi’s would give it a run for the money here) and you must end with the rice roll with Chinese doughnut.
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Golden Loong
The chef’s choice when it comes to spicy Xi’an and Szechuan dishes, and house-made hand-pulled noodles. You’ll find all the authentic numbers here, from pork intestine in spicy saucy, sliced beef in their signature chili oil, shredded cumin lamb, and plenty of impressive iron wok dishes too.
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Lucky Koi Express Chinese Restauarant
Our new jam for takeout, Lucky Koi’s owner Ai Sheng Yu grew up working in her parent’s restaurant—the highly rated Komodo in Windsor Park. After retiring, her parents became restless, so they all teamed up to take over Lucky Koi on Portage, where everything is now made from scratch. It’s North American-style Chinese cuisine that sings, with can’t misses including the lemon chicken, five-spice grilled chicken thighs with cabbage (so tender!), and the rave-worthy Shanghai noodles featuring house made char sui.
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Noodle Express
Our top choice for dim sum in China Town, this unfussy spot has all the staples—har gow, char sui, cheng fun, radish cakes, sesame balls, and sticky rice. As the name suggests, it all comes at you fast, making it an ideal spot for a quick lunch. The same owners also own Sam Po, located right across the street, for an experience that is a tad more refined.
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Sun Fortune
The city’s top draw for Hong Kong-style cuisine, Sun Fortune’s vast menu has you covered when you are craving hot pot, salt and pepper squid, minced pork with eggplant, and all manner of chow mein. The Peking duck is a standout, while there are number of dishes you don’t see often in the city, like the deep-fried Hong Kong-style French toast.
×Cocktails
Langside Grocery
This cool little spot in a converted heritage building makes you feel like you must be in Williamsburg. There’s a hidden patio situated around a rather glorious tree while inside is cozy and inviting with rich leather banquets, old mirrors behind the bar, and so much wood. The cocktails are served in robust glassware, the wine list rocks, and the small plates and snacks are perfect for the space. Just go, you’ll love it.
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Patent 5 Distillery
With an oak backdrop that was painstakingly reclaimed from the circa 1908 St. Regis Hotel, and a drinks program that has seen them land on the Canada’s 50 best bars list, you’re guaranteed a good pour at Winnipeg’s only downtown distillery. From almost every seat in the room you can see the kettles that produce some of smoothest vapour-infused gin and vodkas you’ve ever tasted.
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The Roost on Corydon
Everything about this place is adorable–from the hand-printed menus and drink cards, to the lively patio perched atop the Corydon strip. Owners Elsa Taylor, Ike Hedenstierna and Caiden Bircham opened it in 2015 when they were all just 21-22 years-old and have since gone on to create Oxbow Natural Wine Bar and Parcel Pizza too. The vibe and cocktails have regularly placed it on the Canada’s 50 best bars list, while the kitchen’s small plates tend to favor vegan and veg-forward dishes. The room seats just 18, with an additional 30 patio seats.
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SMITH
Winnipeg’s busiest hotel restaurant has a top-notch craft cocktail program featuring some tasty 2 oz pours complemented with house made bitters and syrups, along with taps that only feature the best local beers and ciders. The whisky, scotch and whiskey lists are extensive; dishes like the pounded cheese with cider gastrique and sourdough, smoked olives, and chips and dip will keep you coming back for more. Plus, there’s live entertainment almost every night in the handsome lounge.
×Delis
Bernstein's Deli
This old school deli in River Heights (it’s been operating for 38 years) received a splashy new update in summer 2022 to the dining room. Within this new setting you can still expect classic Jewish fare like knishes, latkes and a gorgeous house made corned beef, plus non-traditional items like a bison Rueben and challah French toast loaded with blueberry compote. Its adjoining grocery store has frozen soups and plenty of take-and-bake items too.
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The Crusty Bun
Owned by German couple Friederike Brandt and Andreas Ingenfeld (who is a master baker), The Crusty Bun makes an array of European-style artisan breads and pastries like German tea cake, hazelnut twirls, and quarkinis (tiny doughnut balls coated in sugar). Swing by at lunch for daily, made-from-scratch soup specials, weekly bread features (preservative-and additive-free), and seed bun sandwiches (try the pumpkin seed!) bursting with flavour.
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King + Bannatyne | Second Spot
- 100 King Street | 102-300 Tache Avenue
- 204.691.9757 | 204.505.0761
- Visit Website
King + Bannatyne | Second Spot
King and Bann is entrepreneur Mike Del Buono’s first spot, which he opened back in 2014. He’s since started Burnley Place Hospitality which includes the literal Second Spot and Nola, one of Canada’s best new restaurants in 2021. K+B is known for its slow roasted meats, particularly the River City Brisket and smoked buffalo chicken, but we’re telling you the sides are stars here too, as the soups always rock as do the salads. The friendly staff do their best to get your order made fast, even when the lineup is outside the door.
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Luda's Deli
Grab a seat at the counter at Luda’s Deli, a well-loved North End eatery run by mother-daughter duo Tracy Konopada and Kristi Clarke for more than 35 years. This neighbourhood staple is known for its North End-style perogies and kubasa, all-day breakfast, self-serve coffee, and some of the best borscht in town. “It’s like eating at mom’s,” one regular recently told the Winnipeg Free Press.
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Oscar's Deli
Winnipeg’s oldest restaurant has been serving customers for more than 90 years (it first opened in the North End in 1929). Owner Larry Brown, who runs the spot with his daughter Rachel, first worked here as a kid, while he jokes Rachel started when she was four. Brown brought the joint downtown to 175 Hargrave in 1982 where it’s been pleasing lunch crowds with corned beef, toasted Philly platters, potato salad and some of the best slaw in the city ever since.
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Amsterdam Tea Room and Bar
Scottish owner Mark Turner opened this café in 2016, original as a loose tea retail shop, and since evolved it into one of the Exchange District’s marquee spots for cocktails and small plates. The oft-changing food menu always features a few Dutch dishes along with a selection of PEI mussels steamed in a selection of comforting broths. The cocktail menu makes great use of the shop’s teas to make flavour drinks unlike anything you’ve tried.
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Bistro Dansk
Having opened in 1976, Bistro Dansk is the oldest location amongst the hip restaurant scene on Sherbrook Avenue. This small, yellow diner has huge portions, excellent schnitzel and sweet and sour cabbage, and other great dishes like herring in sour cream sauce on rye. Owners Paul and Pamela Vocaldo have a storied history with the place, with Paul's mother first showing him the ropes here when he was 14 years-old-back in 1977.
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Cordova Tapas and Wine
Named after Córdoba, Spain, and originally opened by two students from Belgium and France, this popular tapas bar serves all the standards—from patatas bravas to gambas al ajillo to escargot in parsley butter–pairing the dishes with a mighty fine Euro-centric wine list, craft cocktails and a beer list that features both hard-to-find imports and plenty of local options too.
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Oval Room Brasserie
The Hotel Fort Gary’s restored circa 1913 dining room is a real stunner with its plush olive-green chairs and carpet, ornate ceiling, and all-round elegant vibes. Celebrated sommelier Christopher Sprague is always on hand to recommend an incredible bottle (no matter your price range) to match the menu of bistro dishes like salmon royal poêle, aubergine en croûte, chicken live “brûlée and the several prime grade cuts available for steak frites.
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Saperavi Restaurant
One of only a handful of Georgian restaurants in all of Canada, Saparavi has become a comfort food staple on Corydon for its carbalicious dishes like khachapuri imeruli and khachapuri Adjaruli, along with Khinkali (Georgian dumplings) and shashlik. The beer list is all European, plus there’s plenty of Georgian wines on the menu. A real hidden gem.
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Charlee's Restaurant & Lounge
Owner/operator Charlie Villapando is a graduate of Red River College's Culinary Arts program and a maverick when it comes to Philippine fusion cuisine. At both Charlee’s and his Champ’s food truck you’ll find dishes like the OG tocino burger, kare kare poutine and several halo-halo drinks to beat the summer heat.
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Grassmere Family Restaurant
A true family restaurant run by Mac and Lina Cabungcal and their two sons, Grassmere’s menu morphed from standard North American-style breakfasts to include a number of Philippine-influenced dishes like the Instagrammable ube pancakes, tocino tacos and the brunch Pinoy Platter that gets you garlic fried rice with the choice of three meats, three eggs, and a side of ensalada with bagoong.
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Jenmuel's Lechon Cebu and Grill
- 63 Euclid Avenue, 44 McPhillips Street
- 204.615.9480 or 204.219.9776
- Visit Website
Jenmuel's Lechon Cebu and Grill
As the name indicates, this is a place for pork, with its Cebu-style boneless lechon stuffed then rolled and cooked to crispy perfection before being served by the kilo. There’s also a number of barbecue dishes like whole grilled squid, bulalo (shanks and bone marrow in a clear broth with vegetables), and a seafood platters too. They also host boodle fights/kamayan feasts by request.
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Mar's Sisig
- 1303 Jefferson Avenue, 1051 Winnipeg Avenue
- 204.417.1831, 204.306.4499
- Visit Website
Mar's Sisig
While you’ll find all the staples here—from lumpia Shanghai to pancit, tosilog and beef pares–it’s the sizzling sisig platters (that crispy, calamansi-kicked pork) that will fire up your tastebuds at this small restaurant in The Maples. The roster of authentic dishes includes paksiw na bangus (milkfish simmered in a vinegar broth) and pinakbet (a one pot meal featuring pork, prawns, okra and bitter melon).
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Pampanga Restaurant
A favourite spot for Filipino breakfast silog, Pampanga features more than a dozen versions of the dish, with a selection of meats, fish and seafood to choose from to accompany your eggs and garlic fried rice. The restaurant is a real family affair, owned and operated by Lourdes and Aladino Miranda with their daughter, Kelly Miranda.
×French
FrenchWay Cafe
A staple on the Corydon Strip since 2008, Frenchway packs in the crowds for all-day breakfast service and an impressive pastry case that beckons with excellent croissants, macarons, breads and super gooey butter tarts. Owner Larissa Webster has often relied on bringing in master bakers directly from France to helm her kitchen, all while showcasing numerous local suppliers in the process.
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Peasant Cookery
With an iconic patio that overlooks Old Market Square and an equally iconic house-made charcuterie and pickling program, Peasant is all about farm-to-table in its bustling Exchange District setting. Chef Melissa Makarenko oversees a menu featuring moules frites, chicken liver mousse, a massive cut of tourtière, tart flambées and local fish.
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Preservation Hall Eatery & Wine Bar
This hidden gem amongst large chain restaurants in the CF Polo Park area is helmed by culinary power couple chef Tristan Foucault and GM Melanie Foucault. Tristan started the charcuterie program at Peasant Cookery and continues to cure here with delicious boards featuring locally raised heritage pork. Classics like steak frites (the fries are perfection), seared duck with morello cherry glaze, and duck confit on a bed of cassoulet are mainstays, as is the friendly attentive service.
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Resto Gare and Train Bar Bistro
This old school French joint is situated in the circa-1913 Saint Boniface Train Station. Along with the historic dining room, there’s an adjacent train dining cart for an even more whimsical setting along with a courtyard style patio with regular live music. The menu runs from escargot to foie gras with house compote for starters, to a selection of its signature crêpes, to mains like poulet cordon bleu and côtes d’agneau en persillade (rack of lamb) with demi-glace and mint jelly.
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Sous Sol
The city’s coolest (and oft-whackiest) basement dining room has been wowing diners since it opened in 2015. Don’t let the crazy 8-bit website, kitschy art and entrance that only reads “Vandelay Industries” fool you–this place is seriously professional and seriously delicious with its à la carte mains swimming in luscious sauces. The cocktail program is outstanding, and the service is par excellence too.
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Charisma of India
The expansive buffet is quality, with its 15+ vegetarian, vegan and meat (both goat and chicken) dishes, all of which are mild to medium spiced (there’s a condiment table if you’re looking to get spicy, along with some very spicy dishes on the regular menu). On top of all the curries, dahl, biryani and bhajis, Charisma also offers a range of North and Indo-Chinese (Hakka) food. The aromas mingling in the eggplant-coloured dining room will have you salivating before you’re seated.
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Cilantro's
North Kildonan has plenty of hidden gems, and Cilantro’s is arguably the most flavourful of them all. Locals are obsessed with their samosas and ultra-crispy pakoras from co-owner executive chef Ritesh Patel, whose CV includes plenty of fine dining kitchens in Mumbai. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, plus there’s a patio to boot.
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Clay Oven
One of the best pairings in the city is catching a Goldeyes Baseball while swinging through a thali platter at Clay Oven. Almost the whole dining room (which includes a patio that can be booked) overlooks downtown’s beautiful ball diamond, which still makes for a cool view even when there’s no game on. The Baingan Bombay is a must–and be sure to order some extra chole bhatura or the freshly made naan for sopping up all those sauces.
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Copper Chimney
The spacious and usually quite busy locally owned spot in the CF Polo Park area is known for its friendly staff and North Indian dishes—although we’ll also point you to the goat or veggie thali, both of which are great bang for your buck. If you are a local reading this, they also offer a great catering service for huge crowds.
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Dawat
Chances are if you drive down Keewatin Street during the day, you will see a stream of cars outside waiting for their food orders at Dawat–which is takeout only. It is widely known for some of the best Indian food in Winnipeg at the lowest best prices, as a majority of the dishes are under $10. The place is also open 24 hours.
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East India Company
With a primetime location near Canada Life Centre and the RBC Convention Centre, along with noted owner Sachit Mehra (a real man about town), East India Company remains an enduring (50 years and counting!) and endearing presence downtown for its lavish buffets. Along with salads, chutneys, pickles, yogurts, appetizers, and sizzlers, its buffet also usually features 25 hot entrees.
×Italian
Harth Mozza & Wine Bar
This hot spot in St. Vital is always busy—and for good reason. All the pastas are made on site and are toothy as all heck (the tortellini; my god) and paired expertly with simple sauces that your nonna would approve of. The room, by local design darlings Fireside Design Build, is terribly handsome, and the wood-fired pizzas, large secodi plates, and contorni dishes are pretty gorgeous too. This place is hot we tell you. Hot.
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Little Nana's Italian Kitchen
This southern Italian joint quietly opened back in 2019 with a menu guided by Giovanna Giardino, who is in her 80s and indeed petite. Head chef Dann Ignacio brings a wealth of experience to his role updating her Calabrian dishes, and he has a deft hand at handmade pastas like the signature tagliatelle and penne rosé made with nduja marinara. The restaurant itself is quiet too, as each both is enclosed to ensure there’s no ambient noise like you’d get in an open concept room.
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The Mitchell Block
Chef/owner Sean McKay takes pride in his pasta making–be it extruded noodles like rigatoni or the much fawned over sriracha macaroni for its mac and cheese, or hand-cut doughs like the agnolotti or spaghetti alla chitarra. The downstairs dining room is dark and intimate, while the lively upstairs lounge (Supreme Macaroni and Co.) is a great spot to start or end an evening in the Theatre District.
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Passero
Every concept chef Scott Bagshaw has created has been a smash hit, and this Italian dining room located right within the bustling Forks Market is no exception. We’ve caught ourselves moaning many times in the place while eating dishes like wild mushroom arancini with ranch aioli, tuna carpaccio, lobster carbonara and whatever the beef tartare of the season is. The service is always second to none, and the open kitchen is an added joy to the Forks’ already eye-catching atmosphere.
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Pizzeria Gusto
Academy Road’s chicest (and busiest) room is where you’ll find visiting celebrities (they usually rent in the neighbourhood when filming) and Jets’ players on their nights off. The wood-fired pizzas are what first put Gusto on the map, although mains from chef Connie Klassen–like the decadent seasonal mushroom risotto–are rave-worthy too. This is the cornerstone concept from Academy Hospitality, who’s portfolio includes The Merchant Kitchen and several spaces within True North Square.
×Japanese
Cho Ichi Ramen
Laotian-born chef/entrepreneur Cho Venevongsa has built a culinary empire that includes two Wasabi sushi joints, three Chosabi sushi burrito/poke bowl counters, and this spot, his only ramen-dedicated restaurant. The two main broths, the tonkotsu and chintan, are piled with sous-vide meats (namely char siu pork or chicken) with all the classic ramen fixings like nori, bamboo, and shiitakes. The noodles are made in house too.
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Dwarf no Cachette Café & Gift
Winnipeg’s most whimsical restaurant (yes, it is filled with hidden dwarfs) comes courtesy of Yasuko and Takekuni Akimoto, who moved to the city from Tokyo in the early 2000s. The dining room is dedicated to all things kawaii and even contains a gift shop brimming with anime items. The extensive menu has izakaya dishes, a mighty fine selection of ramen, katsu, Japanese curries, okonomiyaki, and a wide range of Instagrammable desserts—including several types of Japanese cheesecake.
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Gaijin Izakaya
This second concept from chef Ed Lam and the Yujiro team has an extensive selection of izakaya dishes like toro tataki, tare takoyaki, bao buns and truly incredible gyoza. There are eight ramen choices, a selection of onigriazu (nori and rice sandwiches), and plenty of high-quality fish too—all served in stylish room with sturdy wood tables and booth seating.
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Yujiro
This small River Heights restaurant has been the city’s best spot for sushi for more than 15 years. At night, chefs Ed Lam and Billy Lai bring in the crowds for expertly aged sashimi, gorgeous rolls, and no shortage of Izakaya-style dishes and daily specials to get you going. Lunch has become equally busy in the last six years for its ramen service, which often sees lineups outside the door (so make a reservation).
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Wasabi Sabi | Wasabi on Broadway
- 1360 Taylor Avenue | 588 Broadway
- 204.415.7878 | 204.774.4328
- Visit Website
Wasabi Sabi | Wasabi on Broadway
Chef Cho Venevongsa’s Wasabi concept has been operating for more than 20 years, having opened his first spot in Osborne Village in 1999. At both the Taylor and Broadway locations you can expect artful plating; excellent fish for the maki, sashimi and nigiri; and a number of hot specialties too like miso-marinated sablefish, Korean-style grilled lamb chops, and several versions of wagyu.
×Middle Eastern
Baraka Pita Bakery
One of Winnipeg’s best culinary experiences hands down, year in and year out. The Lebanese shawarma and donair here are cut from the spit then wrapped in pitas baked fresh in the huge gas oven. The garlic sauce and tangy pickles don’t stop, and the pita pies also have their own devout following.
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Daanook
This tiny unassuming counter tucked away in the Exchange District comes courtesy of a Syrian family–the Alis–who moved here in 2012. The Kurdish cuisine at Danook (the name is derived from a stage in cooking bulgur wheat) includes delightful tightly wrapped-then-grilled shawarma, and platters consisting of kibbeh, falafel, and tabbouleh.
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Falafel Place
A classic that would fit right in in Manhattan for its assertive-yet-friendly service from owner Ami Hassan (when your meal is done, no camping is allowed as other customers are waiting). For more than 35 years this River Heights spot has been drawing crowds for Israeli brunch and lunch dishes like shakshuka and cheese blintzes, and eggs served with little irresistible falafels and plenty of garlicky hash. Everything is made in house.
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Les Saj
At Les Saj they make the super thin saj bread right in front of you on a saj (a dome shaped metal pan), which really adds to the experience. You can get these filled then rolled with everything from simple za’tar and labneh, to beef and lamb shawarma, lamb kebab and shish tawook. All menu items are halal at this strip mall gem near CF Polo Park.
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Ramaliah Cafe
- 325 Pembina Highway | 108-1111 Munroe Avenue
- 204.615.5535 | 204.560.5220
- Visit Website
Ramaliah Cafe
One look at the Google reviews will tell you that this Palestinian halal hookah café excels at all things Middle Eastern. The room is small and no thrills, but the food is high quality and liberally spiced, particularly the platters that get you a little bit of everything. The owners and staff are all super friendly and just the right amount of cheeky.
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Shawarma Khan
Former CFL player Obby Khan’s homegrown shawarma chain has become a staple in The Exchange District for the lunch crowd and at Investors Group Field before (and during) gametime. The platters here really sing, with thick garlic sauce, sides like a lively beet and apple salad, and meat that’s cut from the spit before being drenched with tahini. The counter service is always fast and friendly.
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Yafa Café
Owner Rana Abdulla has created a vibrant, bright and beautiful communal hub in St. James with Yafa, her Palestenian café that specializes in Arabic street food. Most of the recipes have been handed down generations through her family and, as you’ll note on the menu, so many are gluten-free and vegetarian. We personally love how they put fries right in the shawarma like you’d get throughout Europe and the Middle East. Leave room for tea and pastries.
×Neighbourhood Gems
Bonnie Day
Bonnie Day is a good idea—literally. This cozy, candlelit Wolseley restaurant opened in 2021 taking over the former Ruby West and Neighbourhood Bookstore and Café space. Here, chef Pamela Kirkpatrick (previously of Cake-ology and Forth Café) delivers plates of nourishing comfort food with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options, a thoughtful and extensive dessert menu, and a top-notch cocktail list. Don’t skip the whipped feta with roasted tomatoes nor the Persian olives—trust us.
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Cafe Carlo
This long-established bistro in Winnipeg's Little Italy has been named one of Canada's 100 Most Romantic Restaurants (2022) by OpenTable thanks to its warm, cozy interior and intimate dining experience. Owner Joel Boulet, who started at Carlo as a server more than 30 years ago, focuses on friendly service, delicious food (the fett chili pasta is outstanding), and a relaxed approach to fine dining. It must be working—the restaurant has more than 2000 glowing reviews on OpenTable alone and a huge amount of loyal customers.
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Capital Grill and Bar
- 3116 Roblin Boulevard | 275 Broadway
- 204.615.3116 | 204.416.1144
- Visit Website
Capital Grill and Bar
Diners have come to expect a high level of food and service from culinary power couple Wayne Martin and Greg Gunnarson, whose previous restaurants were Vancouver’s Crave and award-wining Fraiche Restaurant. Capital Grill’s menu focuses on renewed American classics with fresh, seasonal, and regional ingredients. Go for elevated burgers, hearty salads, perfectly pan-seared salmon or halibut, and some of the tastiest chipotle BBQ ribs we’ve tried.
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Feast Café Bistro
One of only a few Indigenous-owned and operated restaurants in Canada rooted in First Nations cuisine, Feast Café has been hugely successful since opening in 2016. Chef/owner Christa Bruneau-Guenther, a born-and-raised Winnipegger and member of the Peguis First Nation, has been featured in countless national publications and has gone on to join Food Network Canada’s Wall of Chefs. Must-try menu items include the butternut squash bannock pizza, house salad with homemade Saskatoon berry vinaigrette, and the Manitoba bison bannock burger.
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Santa Ana Pizzeria and Bistro
This south St. Vital pizzeria and bistro has gained a loyal following since it opened in 2010, sometimes making as many as 400 stone-baked and wood-fired pizzas a night for takeout alone. With almost 40 years in the pizza industry, chef/owner Darek Wozny has crafted a menu of specialty pies you won’t find elsewhere, including the Hickory Chicken, Pacific, and Sicilian. If you’re hoping to dine-in, reservations for the small 50-seat eatery can book out weeks in advance, so be sure to phone ahead.
×Patios
529 Wellington
While 529 has long been known as Winnipeg's swankiest steak house, it’s also home to the city's lushest riverside patio. This hidden gem fully embodies the ‘garden party’ theme with glowing lights strung over the terrace and verdant, blooming flowers and plants landscaped throughout. Don’t leave without an order of their famous onion ring tower to start before going big with a dry-aged ribeye and a bottle of bold red.
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Cibo Waterfront Café
Housed in an old brick pump house along the Red River, Cibo Waterfront Café is a truly unique dining experience in the East Exchange. The Mediterranean-inspired resto made the list of 100 Best Brunch Restaurants in Canada (2019) by OpenTable with a menu inspired by the chef’s travels, including six different kinds of bruschetta. Enjoy lunch on the scenic, sunny patio while admiring the collection of heritage buildings around you (one of Canada’s largest) and the eye-catching modern design of the Mere Hotel next door.
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The Forks
Topping most Winnipeg must-see/do/visit lists is The Forks, and for good reason. This tourist hot spot (also loved by locals) boasts a market with dozens of local food and shopping vendors, a craft beer and wine bar, ice cream and coffee shops, all housed in what were once horse stables built during the railway boom. In 2019, a 450-seat patio was added to The Forks waterfront where diners can sip interesting wines and craft beers while sampling local fare with a lovely view of the junction of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers.
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Gusto North
The sister restaurant to Pizzeria Gusto on Academy, Gusto North brings the same upscale dining experience and signature wood-fired pizzas to Hargrave St. Market in downtown Winnipeg. Headed by executive chef Jesse Friesen, the space features a beautifully designed, expansive, and cozy patio that overlooks downtown. It’s also partially covered and heated for those rainy spring or crisp fall days.
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Tavern United
Take your happy hour drinks to new heights at Tavern United Rooftop, a mainstay in Winnipeg’s Sports, Hospitality and Entertainment District. From this sweet rooftop vantage point, you’ll catch an unparalleled view of the city’s ever-growing skyline. Stop by in the summer months for a savoury caesar or frozen bulldog before heading to a concert or event at Canada Life Centre.
×Pizza
Corrientes
For a fresh take on the popular dish, head to Corrientes in the East Exchange where thin-crust South American-style pizzas are smothered in tuco sauce and chimichurri and garnished with smoked salmon, figs, sunflower seeds, and other toothsome toppings. Owner Alfonso Maury was born and raised in Buenos Aires and his Winnipeg culinary empire now also includes the takeout operation La Pampa Empanadas and Tuco Fresh Pasta on Grant Avenue.
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Parcel Pizza
The newest venture from Elsa Taylor and the crew behind The Roost and Oxbow, Parcel Pizza brings New York-style pizza and colourful cocktails to the main floor of a residential building on Stradbrook Avenue. The space’s “vaguely psychedelic ‘70s vibe” includes an upper-level mezzanine with additional seating and an open-concept kitchen where chef Jessica Champion-Taylor gets creative with toppings like dill pickles and local squash blossoms.
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Red Ember Common
What started as a single wood-fired pizza food truck has since turned into three pie shops and a gourmet hot dog kiosk for owners Steffen Zinn and Quin Ferguson. At Red Ember Common, Neapolitan-style pizzas featuring ingredients from Zinn’s family farm are cooked in under two minutes thanks to a large Forza Forni pizza oven imported from Naples, Italy. Weekly seasonal specials join the menu alongside longtime favourites like the Twist & Sprout (a rich number featuring crème fraiche, pork and Brussel sprouts) and Super Bird (MB chicken sausage, walnut-basil pesto, feta).
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Shorty's Pizza
A New York-style pizzeria serving hand-stretched pies by the foldable slice along with pasta, hot sandwiches, meatballs, and plenty of local beer on tap. Shorty’s took over the former spot of Bella Vista in Winnipeg’s west end in 2021, and the checkerboard floors and dark wood finishings will make you feel like you’ve stepped back through time to 1950s New York.
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Supreme Macaroni Co.
A new, cheekily named spot from one of Winnipeg’s finest Italian eateries, Supreme Macaroni Co. is in the historic (1886) brick East Exchange building that also houses its sister restaurant, The Mitchell Block. Curb your carb cravings with chef/owner Sean McKay’s classic pizzas, served on an airy dough he slowly cold ferments. The mozza sticks and house-made pastas also rock.
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Vera Pizzeria
With just 20 seats and no reservations, dining at Vera Pizzeria feels like stumbling upon a tiny Italian eatery in Naples. A dozen or so Neapolitan-style pizzas and some of the finest meatballs in the city (they’re braised in San Marzano tomato) fill the menu at this small South Osborne spot, and the side patio is a particularly charming place to sit and order a bottle of wine in the summer months.
×Pubs
Brazen Hall
A sleek, modern brewpub in South Winnipeg, Brazen Hall is known for its numerous blue ribbons at Burger Week and solid selection of nordic-style beers (a nod to owner Kristjan Kristjansson’s Icelandic background). Talented master brewer Bernhard Wieland (previously of SchnitzelHaus and LBJ) brews a range of kveik and flagship North American-style beers to pair with classic comfort food like Nashville hot chicken or one of the many first-place Burger Week options that have become a mainstay on the menu.
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The Grove Pub & Restaurant
A cozy corner English-style pub with a focus on delicious meals and local beers. Chef Kristel Blawat’s food at The Grove is never an after-thought—dinner, sandwich, drink and dessert specials rotate weekly alongside a selection of pizzas, sarnies, and burgers. Stop by for an order of fish and chips, or try the Stafford burger loaded with blue cheese and bacon jam. They also regularly show EPL footy with great brunches.
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King's Head Pub
On any given night of the week the King’s Head Pub will be lively and bright. The spacious Exchange District institution (open since 1987) holds seats for 340 with pool tables, tasty traditional pub food, one of the largest draft beer selections in the city, and an entire upstairs level for live music and dancing. The no-frills patio overlooks Old Market Square and is the best seat in town for Jazz Fest, Fringe Festival, and a slew of other outdoor events that happen throughout the year.
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Nonsuch Brewing Co.
Walking into the Rain Room at Nonsuch Brewing Co. (designed by locals Fireside Design Build) feels like walking straight into a scene out of Mad Men. The jewel-toned interior and comfy, low-slung seating will have you ordering a second Belgian cellar beer and staying all night. Their European ales are brewed with elevated ABVs, which gives you a great excuse to dive into the stellar food menu (don’t skip Canada's best burger nor the vibrant veg-forward sides–trust us).
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Stone Angel Brewing Co.
Winnipeg is now home to more than 20 breweries, but the European-style ales and lagers at Stone Angel Brewing in Winnipeg’s south end are some of the finest. Most notable are the flagship Irish red ale, English dark mild, and the weekly small batch cider series (previous releases have included earl grey and apple cinnamon). Liverpool fans will relish the atmosphere during games (owner Irish Paul is a huge fan) while food comes courtesy of regular food trucks and next door’s Tehran Café. United and City fans are begrudgingly welcomed too.
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Yellow Dog Tavern
A stone’s throw from the Canada Life Centre and Burton Cummings Theatre, the Yellow Dog is our top choice for a pint before a Jets game or after a live show at the Burt. The friendly tavern has long been a big supporter of local beer and we appreciate their fresh, homecooked take on pub fare (you won’t find a deep fryer here). Try the Yellow Dog platter or perogy platter—both are local favourites.
×Vegetarian/Vegan
Affinity Vegetarian Garden
One of Winnipeg’s oldest all-vegetarian restaurants, having opened in 2001. They offer Taiwanese-Chinese dishes, including popular items like kung pao gluten, steamed vegetable dumplings, chili eggplant and our personal favourite, the legendary crispy black mushrooms. You’ll love the robust Taiwanese green tea too; an imported product they now sell due to popular demand.
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Good Lands Cafe
This colourful litte café is Winnipeg’s only all-vegan Middle Eastern restaurant. Owner Bassam Hozaima is originally from Palestine and his plant-based takes on traditional cuisine include soy protein shawarma, eggplant or mujadara pitas, along with sweets like baklava and chewy cosmic cookies that pair perfectly with the café's coffee.
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Roughage Eatery
Roughage is all about fun and super flavourful vegan comfort food, all while being masters of disguise. Case in point the “hunny spicy chickun burger” made with a house-made seitan patty crusted with panko presented like a classic fried chicken burger, or the “steak & brie sandwich”–an umami bomb featuring slices of their f-steak smothered in creamy cashew brie cheeze that would still get applause in Philly. It’s owned and operated by Candice Tonelete and Jessie Hodel, a couple who have been going strong in this small location on Sherbrook since 2019.
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Thyme Cafe and Books
The city’s newest plant-based cafe is the brainchild of one of its oldest. Thyme Café is run by Sandra Drosdowech and Jason Holland, founding members of Mondragon, the OG vegan spot in the Exchange District that first opened in the 90s before closing its doors in 2014. For anyone who remembers that iconic eatery, the southern-fried tofu strips have made it onto the menu at Thyme Café, alongside a selection of soups, sandwiches and breakfast items.
×Vietnamese
Pho Hoang
Owners Tom and Heather Hoang have worked tirelessly in the past decade to create their little culinary empire in Winnipeg. The original Pho Hoang on Sargent opened in 2013 and quickly became one of the West End’s most highly rated spots. By 2020, they’d opened Pho Hoang Portage and a gorgeous, spacious Pho Hoang in Osborne Village that includes a Rollesque ice cream counter. The classic rare beef and tripe pho will always be a favourite, while the deluxe vermicelli featuring grilled skewers of pork, chicken and prawns, is our go-to lunch order at the office.
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T.H. Dang
This family run spot on the South Pembina Strip is always busy–and for good reason. The dishes come out so fast, even though it’s obvious everything is hand-crafted. Popular items include the incredible spring rolls, wrap-it-yourself platters like bánh hỏi cuốn nem nướng (the pork is so flavourful), and the dozen or so flavours of pho that can be made super spicy. The staff is so friendly too.
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Thanh Huong
The Vietnamese OG in the West End, Thanh’s owners Moc and Thuyen Thai opened the shop in December 1987 and have since trained many Vietnamese chefs who have gone on to open their own spots. The #6 satay beef noodle soup ($10 for a huge bowl that can feed two) has an addictive, herbaceous and spicy broth that locals can’t get enough of, while crispy Vietnamese egg rolls; classic vermicelli with minced and grilled pork dressed in fish sauce, sugar, lime, and chilies; and sticky lemon grass chicken stir fry with chunks of bell peppers are all great too.
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Viva Restaurant
After opening in 1993, Viva slowly gained a loyal fanbase to become the bustling 50-seat restaurant it remains today. The family that owns this place makes regular trips back to Vietnam to source spices for its 100+ menu items, and is known for its standards like deluxe vermicelli, rice paper wraps and bánh mi. Look to the staff for other authentic dishes like Bánh xèo (the crepes here are the size of dinner plates), frog legs in curry sauce, and the hu tieu nam vang soup.
×Wine bars / Small plates
deer + almond
In summer 2022 celebrity chef Mandel Hitzer (Wall of Chefs; RAW:almond) welcomed back new chef/business partner Kris Kurus, an original d + a alumnus who was most recently the sous chef of Published on Main when it was named Canada’s best restaurant. Deer + almond’s inventive, colourful plates defy genres, and often see your tastebuds hitting the highest notes. The eclectic, fun dining room currently runs a tasting menu, with a la carte options at the bar.
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Enoteca
Chef Scott Bagshaw’s flagship restaurant has received 5-stars from the Winnipeg Free Press, made enRoute Magazine’s Canada’s best new restaurant top 10, and the Canada’s 100 list. The plating is impeccable and staples like beef tartare with Iberico XO, pho aioli and foie gras; crispy fried buttermilk chicken with black garlic ranch; and cavatelli mac and cheese with chorizo crumble and Manchego will always win the day. Be sure to delve into seasonal offerings that can be paired with the small-but-mighty wine list.
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Nola
After taking bronze at the Canadian Culinary Championship and an impressive run on Top Chef Canada, chef Emily Butcher teamed up with Mike Del Buono of Burnley Place Hospitality to create Nola. This small plates restaurant in Saint Boniface has already made enRoute’s best new restaurants in Canada list, along with a rave review in The Globe and Mail, as dishes like Butcher’s signature scallops and lo bak go are guaranteed to leave an impression long after dessert.
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Oxbow Natural Wine Bar & Restaurant
The second venture from The Roost crew was featured in enRoute’s Canada’s best new restaurants list in 2018. This hip South Osborne joint has a cozy vibe and a dining room featuring exposed brick and sturdy wood tables. The menu features handmade pastas, cuts like the mainstay Berkshire pork schnitzel with beurre blanc and English peas, vegan sides, and a fun array of snacks to pair with the low intervention/pét-nat-focused wine list.
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Petit Socco
In late summer 2022, one of the city’s biggest name chefs, Adam Donnelly, took over its smallest kitchen and dining room with partner Courtney Molaro. From one of 12 seats at you can watch the former chef of Segovia–a place that always made the Canada’s 100 best restaurants list–prepare a selection of six to seven small plates that change weekly, if not daily. With just two seatings per night, reservations (generally a few weeks in advance) are a must.
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Tabula Rasa
From the fine folks who brought us Sous Sol, Tabula Rasa is yet another newish gem in South Osborne. The tapas menu has plenty of wow items, like the grilled octopus with romesco, charred orange and white beans, along with a delightful array of veg-forwarded dishes. The craft cocktails are so balanced, it’s only local beer on draft, and there’s plenty of interesting wines and ciders too.
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Two Hands Dining Room at one sixteen
One Sixteen isn’t just a taproom for Good Neighbour Brewing Company, it’s also the home of one of the city’s most talented kitchens. The British gastropub-inspired taproom menu features multiple stunners—like a local fried walleye burger–while the Two Hands dining room menu takes the experience even further with a wood-charcoal grill used to create expertly charred meats and local fish, along with the signature grilled flatbread served with whipped onion butter.
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