| Winnipeg | SHOPPING, DINING, ENTERTAINMENT & MORE |
| Winnipeg | SHOPPING, DINING, ENTERTAINMENT & MORE |
Let the banks of the Red River be your guide as you fish out great shops. Each of the following stores has a spectacular river vista nearby:
Crafty Creations. Country charm complements the locally made arts and crafts filling shelves in The Craft Cupboard. Located at The Forks where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet, the comforting scent of baking bread wafts through the second level store from the market below. The shop brims with paintings, pottery, photography, locally produced preserves, home decor and souvenirs. Self-taught local photographer Wayne Moodie’s prints capture the lighting and landscape of prairie seasons impeccably and make for an exceptional keepsake. 204-1 Forks Market Rd, 949-1785
Town and Country Meet. Just a short distance from the St. Andrews Lock and Dam, Lockport Trading Company is a worthwhile stop for any backyard enthusiast as they carry a wide selection of outdoor accent items. Pick from the chorus of melodic wind chimes to add serenity to your favourite outdoor space. If you plan to spend a lot of time in the garden or by the barbeque this summer, test out Upper Canada Soap’s specialty skincare products. These lines are designed to soothe the well-worn hands of gardeners and chefs with aromatic scents such as white ginger vanilla. 120 Hwy 44, Lockport, 757-2864
Gardener’s Goldmine. Green thumbs will glow emerald after visiting Sage Garden Herbs. The nursery has been rooting its good reputation in the city since 1996 and specializes in growing an extensive variety of herbs. This spot grows perennials, heirloom veggies, prairie wildflowers and grasses that are not commonly found at other nurseries in the city. Using 100% organic materials has made this lush sanctuary a popular place for edible flowers. A calm will wash over you upon arrival, as over 60 varieties of lavender scent the indoor and outdoor gardens. The floodgates of the internationally renowned Red River floodway are only a short drive south from the nursery. 3410 St.Mary’s Rd, 257-2715
Global Gifts. Fair trade organization Ten Thousand Villages allows you to shop the globe within one store. Talented artisans from around the world create handicrafts for trade with these not-for-profit stores found across North America. The Red River is only a short walk behind the outlet, and a path to its banks winds under the Fort Garry Bridge. The store is decorated with the rich, vibrant colours of international crafts and smells faintly of sandalwood. This location is also one of only four in Canada carrying a variety of hand-knotted carpets from Pakistan and Nepal. 134 Plaza Dr, 261-0566
Pack It Up. After you have experienced shopping along the Red, you are left with one problem—how do you take it all home? The Exchange District’s U.N. Luggage offers a variety of handbags, luggage, wallets and travel accessories to pack your purchases in with style. This store has been a Winnipeg institution for over 60 years, making it any bagged-out traveller’s dream. Head east to Waterfront Drive and take in the scenery from Steve Juba Park before following the river path back to The Forks. 175 McDermot Ave, 943-1068
Spring is typically associated with nesting, but fall brings with it the scramble to move homes and settle down before the onset of winter. Our editors have boxed up a selection of furniture retailers with Winnipeg roots to help locate stylish twigs for your new nest.
Family Furnishings: Since 1986, family-run Dufresne Furniture and Appliances has been known as a service-oriented company and has grown substantially with 10 stores across Western Canada, mostly due to their intensely loyal customer base. Started in the small lakeside town of Kenora, ON, this Winnipeg institution is known as a place where you are sure to find a friendly face as well as high-quality furniture, appliances, mattresses, and accessories. 880 Nairn Ave, 667-1578; 1750 Ellice Avenue, 989-9900
Modern Living: The sleek style of loft living can all be found at EQ3. This progressive line began in 1999 under Winnipeg’s Palliser Furniture, and has built its own reputation as a reliable source for European-inspired furniture and accessories. It’s popular among young professionals who have a hand on their wallet and the pulse of modern home decor. 1545-B Portage Ave, 988-6905
Building Tradition: For more than 75 years, locally owned Penthouse Furniture has been must-visit for its furniture finds. Whether you want contemporary style or traditional comfort, Penthouse provides an excellent mix of high-end furnishings. This retailer is in its third generation of family ownership and has seven locations across Western Canada. 100 Princess Street, 942-0445
City Style: Pour yourself a cosmopolitan after visiting Urban Barn. Local entrepreneur Bob Silver of Silver Jeans fame is a partial owner in this sophisticated retailer. Stemware and posh home decor items are irresistible among the luxurious leather, wood and rich colour of its globally inspired furniture. 1-1594 Regent Ave West, 663-7656; 7-1585 Kenaston Blvd, 489-9753; 1-166 Osborne St, 452-2102
Don’t let the chilly weather stop you from partaking in some of the city’s best outdoor activities and attractions. Our notorious winters mean the city has some great places, including some surprises, for snapping up unique outdoor apparel and accessories:
At first, the exotic Thai imports that fill Brave New World deem it an unlikely spot for winter accessories, yet this small shop carries a fun mix of home-style knits, including adorable animal mitts perfect for keeping kids’ paws toasty. 141 Sherbrook St, 774-4222
In the middle of the historic Exchange District, the racks at Cake Clothing are filled with of the moment, feminine pieces. This season, wool coats with interesting military-inspired details like pleated fronts join the list. A-225 McDermot Ave, 284-4864
The Leather Ranch is Canada’s largest manufacturer of leather goods. Since you’re buying direct from the manufacturer you can take home a quality product without breaking the bank. Portage Place Shopping Centre, 949-1016
Winnipeg was once a Mecca for fur trappers and traders. Beautiful, soft furs not only look luscious but are seriously warm, too. Reiss Fashions carries beautiful designer furs and accessories. 275 McDermot Ave, 942-7376
For natural insulation Wonderful World of Sheepskin carries sheepskin products that will keep you cozy. Styles and products really run the gamut, whether you prefer their heavy lined coats to keep out the cold, sheepskin rugs to line kids’ toboggans, or ultra-comfy slippers to warm-up in afterwards. 250 Dufferin Ave, 586-8097
In March, local attractions and public spaces fill with gleeful kids on spring break. Look to the city’s fantastic supply of youth-oriented shops to quench you and your child’s shopping cravings.
D’Ella offers gorgeous, pint-sized party dresses, tuxedos and the appropriate accoutrements for your favourite tot-about-town. Sweet, detailed items like jet-beaded frocks, fur-lined coats and teeny tiaras have us yearning for grown-up sized versions. 624 Ellice Ave, 774-4019
E-children in the Exchange District, carries the city's best selection of children's and baby furniture. We love the oversized toys like giant leather elephants—large enough for your own safari—and this adorable John Deere rocker (see photo). 103 Princess St, 942-1237
Kids go wild for Kite and Kaboodle’s colourful selection of outdoor toys and gallery of bins filled with tot-sized treats. Johnston Terminal, the Forks, 942-2800
The staff at Toad Hall Toys in the Exchange District will help fill your bags with unique kid gifts. The large space is filled to the the brim with toys, craft supplies and collectables for all ages. Be sure to check out their Victorian miniatures. 54 Arthur St, 956-2195
Local chain A Child’s Place is the best spot for babies and young children. Their great selection of Robeez slippers, award-winning toys, feeding and beauty products for brand new baby and mom make these stores a must visit. Grant Park, 284-7633; St. Vital Centre, 257-5289
The crisp autumn air means it’s time to celebrate the summer’s harvest on the prairies. The following stores are longtime Winnipeg institutions located on some of our most lively multicultural avenues. Each specializes in its own culinary offering, but all serve up a unique local experience:
The best place in the city to pick up the catch of the day is Gimli Fish Market. This duo of shops offers pickerel and other fish fresh from the lake, along with traditional Winnipeg smoked goldeye. The Manitoba golden caviar is a ray of sunshine not to be missed. Good news travelers—Gimli Fish will package your catch for the ride home. 625 Pembina Hwy, 477-6831; 596 Dufferin Ave, 589-3474
The city’s North End is where many Eastern European immigrants first settled in Winnipeg. On Selkirk Ave, many shops and specialty food stores still exist, serving up treats that pay homage to these backgrounds. Gunn’s Bakery is one such institution. Delectable kosher baking, from rugelach to Winnipeg rye, has been served up fresh since 1937. Winnipeg transplants often make the pilgrimage back to get their fix of sweet, old-country treats. 247 Selkirk Ave, 582-2364
Just further east of Gunn’s on Selkirk is Wawel Meats. This Polish butcher shop makes the best kielbasa in the city. Check out their selection of other delectable imports like Polish candies and unique grocery items. 423 Selkirk Ave, 589-3631
For chocoholics, Morden’s of Winnipeg is a must-stop. Their factory on Sargent Ave has a store on-site. The Russian mints are a local favourite: pairing a velvety, mint chocolate filling with a lucious, dark chocolate coat. 674 Sargent Ave, 783-4551
The tempting aromas wafting from the Tall Grass Prairie Bakery in the Bohemian Wolseley area will surely lure you in. This location, and the one at The Forks Market, make mouth-watering whole wheat cinnamon buns to die for. Try the speckled folk festival cookies, chock-a-block with flax seeds, oats, coconut and chocolate chips. They’re an instant hit, and small enough to stash in your carry-on—if they last that long! The Forks Market, main floor, 957-5097; 859 Westminster, 783-5097
The city’s best spas not only offer great environments and treatments for rejuvenating, but sweet shopping spots, too:
Giselle’s has been a local beauty destination for nearly 25 years. This trio of modern spas offers great post-treatment shopping—especially the luxurious Grant Avenue location. Load up on imported European skin fixes and sweet seasonal decor. The Spa, 1851 Grant Ave, 985-0900; City Spa, Portage Place Shopping Centre, 2nd floor, 956-5400; Day Spa, 30-166 Meadowood Dr, 253-0900
The best spot to pick up earth-friendly Aveda product is at Oxford’s Salon Spa, where indulging in hydrotherm flotation during your treatment elevates your experience. Pillows of heated water float and support you for ultimate relaxation. 196 Osborne St, 287-8939
The Riverstone Spa at the Inn at The Forks provides a calm oasis after a day of shopping at the bustling Forks Market. The calming, earth-toned space is designed with natural elements to free the mind. Follow the gently-flowing river to the treatment areas, where you can receive seven different types of massage, including the signature indigenous hot stone massage which incorporates Aboriginal traditions. Pick up a pearlized bottle of Comfort Zone’s Inner-C pleasure shower gel to revive once at home. Inn at The Forks, 944-2444
Wind-down at Winnipeg’s ultimate luxury spa, Ten Spa. Although all the treatments in this flawless space are worth a trip, the Hamam Turkish bath is unique, bringing pampering to a new level. After your treatment, try L’Occitane’s famous hair care products which are just some of the exclusive offerings in the boutique. The Fort Garry Hotel, 10th floor, 946-6520
Spend an afternoon with the girls, spa-ing and sipping on Cosmos with the suite diva indulgences package at Urban Oasis Mineral Spa. Take a dip in Manitoba’s only mineral pool before grabbing some of their namesake line of bath and body products, featuring seasonally changing scents. Clarion Suites Hotel, 1445 Portage Ave
Tis the season for shopping! The city’s shopping districts are great places to find the perfect presents. The following boutiques are must-stops in these neighbourhoods—offering great product and sparkling spaces to get you in the holiday spirit:
The charming seasonal displays at Cherry Tree Lane in Little Italy really hit their stride at holiday time. Each mini-room in this quasi-department store gets decked out with amazing Christmas decorations you just have-to-have for your home. Not only will you find a great selection of giftware, but you can wrap it up in style with fabulous papers, cards and bobbles. 847 Corydon Ave, 453-8733
On the Academy Road strip, the sweet, cinnamon-scented rosebuds perfuming the air at The Garden Room will give anyone holiday cheer. Theatrical window displays are mirrored throughout the shop, which means amazing holiday decorations for in and outside your home. 444 Academy Rd, 487-1151
Strands of glistening ornaments strung from the ceiling create a virtual Christmas wonderland at Desart in Osborne Village. In this mix, decorations for tree and home are found in all shapes, sizes and styles. 117 Osborne St, 284-0823
For a great selection of seasonal tableware, Thoughtful Touch at Grant Park Shopping Centre is a must-stop. Tables set with celebratory wares and a surprising selection of decorations line the walls of the cheery shop. 284-7855
At Christmas Traditions at The Forks, it’s Christmas all year long! The store is constantly full of holiday spirit. We love their vast selection of personalized ornaments—perfect for decorating wrapped gifts. Johnston Terminal at the Forks, 949-0419
May brings with it the promise of sunny days by the lake, gloriously blooming gardens and balmy summer nights. Get a head start on our most coveted season, before the bugs, with the help of our favourite hot weather shops:
A scenic 20 minute drive west of downtown, Shelmerdine is worth the trip even if you’re just browsing through their amazing assortment of plants, garden supplies and outdoor furniture. We love their gift store, with its unique items beautifully displayed for the season. 7800 Roblin Blvd, 895-7203
Lake Life on the chic Academy strip carries everything you need to bring the Manitoba lake feeling home. Alongside their great themed home accents is chic casual coordinates for ladies and girls. 440 Academy Rd, 256-9875
Right next door, the whimsical displays of the Garden Room will be enough to lure you in. Pick up all you need in designer gardening tools, planters and perfect decor pieces that bring the outdoors in—and the indoors out. 444 Academy Rd, 487-1151
For nearly 80 years, the cycling experts at Gooch’s have helped locals gear up for summer. After finding your new summer wheels downstairs, visit their impressive selection of model trains and cars upstairs. 185 Sherbrook St, 956-6570
Near the intersection of Osborne St and Pembina Hwy, Willow Creek Golf for Her is the best spot for women’s golf equipment and apparel. Their great selection of coloured crystal golf balls will have even non-golfers tempted! 11-584 Pembina Hwy, 487-1707
Leave the confusion of Osborne Street and walk beneath the jaunty cumulus clouds to a gift-ers oasis. Since the ‘60s, Donna Lagopoulous’ Desart has been an Osborne Village institution—and small wonder. The seemingly never-ending space offers a stellar product mix with a dual personality. The gift section is filled with of-the-moment gifts, exceptional seasonal products and a fantastic selection of modern, Canadian-made jewellery. Around the corner, on the decor side, a bright selection of candles, garden accessories, table linens, tableware from Cornell Trading and patio improvement accents all have a breezy, Bohemian feel. Whatever side is your fave, Donna’s mark is found all over the store.
We love the ever-changing selection of seasonal products and exquisite gift wrap. 117 Osborne St, 284-0823, Map 1: R-3
An afternoon of browsing the city’s shopping districts will unearth many hidden made-in-Manitoba treasures:
Locally crafted jewellery. Bijou Treasures, a gem-of-a-store in St. Boniface, specializes in distinctively designed jewellery, combining unique and rare stones from the Far East with contemporary Western style. The gemstones are hand-picked by the world-travelling owners—a husband-and-wife goldsmith team—who bring the stones back to Winnipeg and craft the pieces in a studio attached to the boutique. Gush over the sparkling collection of earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings, then treat yourself to a prairie crafted accessory. 190 Provencher Blvd, 233-9722
Homespun tunes. With a discography that echoes Winnipeg’s renowned music fest, the Winnipeg Folk Festival Store in the Exchange District offers the city’s best selection of world, folk, roots and blues artists. It’s also the spot to snag albums from homegrown folk talents, such as Grammy-nominated The Duhks, who sprouted from our folk festival stage. 211 Bannatyne Ave, 231-1377
River city sweets. Chocolate has never tasted so sweet until you’ve tried a morsel from Mordens’ of Winnipeg, a West End confectionery. Popular among locals, Mordens’ is a must stop for tourists with a sweet tooth, particularly to pick up a box of the legendary Russian mints. 674 Sargent Ave, 9783-4551
Prairie girl style. Tucked in the lower level of Osborne Village’s shopping strip is Out of the Blue, a favourite for of-the-minute fashions, accessories and giftware. A stellar souvenir idea is a Prairie Girl shirt, belt, tote bag or baby jumper—a fun fashion line from owner Wendy Waters that celebrates down-to-earth prairie spirit. 99 Osborne St, 475-9771
‘Peg city pottery. The Stoneware Gallery in Little Italy, a 29-year-old pottery cooperative run by 12 local artists, is the city’s top spot for Manitoba-fired ceramics. The showroom is packed with colourful contemporary vases, serving platters, mugs, bowls and more, all constructed in a variety of styles and techniques. 788 Corydon Ave, 475-8088
The summer months are filled with wedding ceremonies and events, meaning you’ll need a chic new wardrobe to get you through it. What’s that you say? Nothing to wear? The city boasts fancy frock shops for girls of all ages and proportions. The following are our favourite places to get your glam-on. Your only risk is possibly outshining the bride.
- Aurlie’s Petites in Little Italy is a paradise for petite ladies. On the racks you’ll find a wide selection of eveningwear and party dresses including tons of dressy suits, all in diminutive sizes. 866 Corydon Ave, 475-9222, Map 1: T-2
- Chestnut Lane Boutique carries more mature fashions for special occasions. Brands like Simon Chang and Susan Bristol are neatly displayed throughout the well-organized space. 568 Academy Rd, 487-1681, Map 2: D-3
- One of the newest to hit Osborne Village, Hush is a great spot for outfitting twenty- and thirty-somethings in wedding-friendly apparel. Check out their fab selection of chic party dresses in the latest trends and amazing accessories. 203-99 Osborne St, 474-9222, Map 1: R-3
- Likely the largest bridal gallery in the city, Stella’s Bridal Galleria is a must stop-shop for non-brides, too. This high-energy emporium is a virtual party in itself. The bubbly, youthful staff bustle between rooms filled with exquisite eveningwear and stunning accessories. 516 Portage Ave, 453-9253, Map 1: P-2
- On the chic Academy Road strip, Sue’s carries casual and formal attire in sizes 12 and up. Luxe fabrics, great cuts and colours that flatter fuller-figures fill the shop. 580 Academy Rd, 489-2310, Map 2: D-3
It’s the time of year to relax and get cozy with soul-warming scents. We love these bath and beauty shops for their food-inspired products. Check them out before spending a delicious afternoon in the tub.
Heartsease offers organic products to relax the mind and nourish the skin. Try the gin and tonic soap for a refreshing shot of scent. 941 Westminster Ave, 474-0470
Splurge Beauty stocks items that will make your mouth water. This feminine shop carries sweet bath items like Open Sundaes' cupcake bath bombs (pictured), in flavours like mint chocolate chip. 478 River Ave, 453-4909
House-made beauty products fill the shelves at Sugar Body & Bath, including delectable glycerine soaps scented and shaped like slices of cake. A large scent bar allows for creating your own delicious perfume. Johnston Terminal at The Forks, 943-4440
Take a dip in Tiber River’s large stock of tasty products, like blue marmalade body butter, that are made in-house. This upbeat store also boasts a nail and body bar for ultimate pampering. 408 Academy Rd, 474-2333
We celebrate spring by savouring the sweets from these melt-in-your mouth chocolate shops:
Belgian-born Bernard Callebaut is a Calgary-based cross-country sweetheart. Drop in to either of Winnipeg’s two locations to try a signature truffle. With flavours like rich chocolate ganache you are bound to unearth a favourite. 431 Academy Rd, 488-4376; 7-1504 St. Mary’s Rd 256-8357
Chocolatier Constance Popp creates chocolate in the decadent Belgian tradition. This store is gaily lit by chandeliers, and offers original packaging options made by local artisans. Try the Belgian chocolate almonds—a cocoa-powdered take on the classic. 1853 Portage Ave, 897-0689
Minimalist design makes Cocopod the perfect canvas for artistically stunning chocolates like D.C. Duby Wild Sweets. These chocolates hide eccentric flavour combinations like raspberry, red pepper and vodka. 1-875 Corydon Ave, 284-2980
Winnipeg-based Maple Leaf Fudge stocks over 25 varieties of fudge, all made on-site in the busy Forks Market. The chewy maple walnut is subtly sweetened with the syrup, and is a truly Canadian treat. The Forks Market, 956-4057
Mordens’ of Winnipeg has been satisfying sweet teeth for nearly 50 years. Chocolates are made with special care, each recipe carefully honed in the proud Morden family tradition. Cool Russian mints are a city-wide favourite. 674 Sargent Ave, 783-4551
If you enjoyed hearty Italian fare in one of the city’s best restaurants, chances are the pasta came from Nature’s Pasta. Since 1993, this Manitoba company has produced top-quality pasta from an old family recipe that includes small batches, a strict air drying process and uses top-notch Canadian durum wheat and farm-fresh eggs. The resulting superior pasta has landed this farm start-up on the shelves of upscale gourmet grocers like Dean & Deluca in New York City. Check out their newly launched line of organic pastas. You can find Nature’s Pasta in Winnipeg at most specialty food stores including Gluttons, 842 Corydon Ave, 475-5714, Map 1: T-2; Stephen & Andrews, 384 Academy Rd, 487-7300, Map 2: D-3; Vic’s Fruit Market, 1038 Pembina Hwy, 475-8332, Map 2: E-4.
© Copyright 2006 - 2008.
All Rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited.
WHERE Canada is a registered trademark of St. Joseph Media Inc.
