| Winnipeg | SHOPPING, DINING, ENTERTAINMENT & MORE |
| Winnipeg | SHOPPING, DINING, ENTERTAINMENT & MORE |
Plan an afternoon tour of the WAG’s fall exhibits, then head next door to Dessert Sinsations for edible art. Owner/chef Barbara O’Hara is renowned for her scrumptious designer tortes and bubbly personality. Before you bite into a slice of heavenly pumpkin almond cheesecake, get your fingers dirty with one of her creative burgers, like the portobello and white cheddar. Chef Barb’s secret is a sliver of butter hidden in each patty, making the meat ultra juicy. 505 St. Mary Ave, 284-4661, Map 1: P-3.
Editor’s pick top 5 picture perfect plates We love how these restaurants double as galleries, showcasing art on their walls and on their menu: - Since the late ‘80s, Cafe Carlo has served signature Cal-Ital dishes like fett chile to its well-cultured clientele. The decor has stayed au courant thanks to a rotating gallery of abstract works by emerging Winnipeg artists. 243 Lilac St, 477-5544, Map 1: T-2. - At Cafe La Scala, original Tony Tascona pieces, like the one pictured above, stand out from the slate grey walls of the subterranean space. The late Tascona, an internationally renowned local artist (and uncle of owner Perry Scaletta), has a trademark contemporary style that parallels the updated Italian menu. 725 Corydon Ave, 474-2750, Map 1: T-2. - Confusion Corner Bar & Grill’s brick walls are adorned with eye-popping art showcasing the four seasons. In this prairie-inspired dining room, order a dish that highlights regional ingredients, like the bison brochettes. 500 Corydon Ave, 284-6666, Map 1: S-3. - The dual nationality of Enorae Bistro is expressed with its artwork. East meets West with a serene, hand-painted Japanese mural juxtaposed against the whimsical culinary characters of Canadian painter Will Rafuse. 545 Academy Rd, 487-1872, Map 2: D-3. - Fine art complements fine cuisine at Fude Inspired Cuisine and Wine Bar. The trendy, upstairs eatery known for supporting local producers updates its look every season with nature and wildlife paintings donated by Woodlands Gallery. 99 Osborne St, 284-3833, Map 1: R-3.
At Pizzeria Gusto, hotshot Chef Scott Bagshaw works both the deluxe wood-fired oven and the crowd. In the city’s most affluent neighbourhood, this posh bistro is a popular stop for a pre-theatre pie. Contemporary toppings like fig jam, sweet potato and clams dress up the thick, herbed pizza crusts. The Courtney is Greek-inspired with strips of spicy lamb and a cool drizzle of chive yogurt. Stylish elements like granite bar tops, dark wood and leather chairs add sophistication. 404 Academy Rd, 944-8786, Map 2: D-3.
In the summer, farmers markets overflow with the fresh produce of our fertile land. These ingredients are incomparable in flavour, and many top restaurants base their menus on these seasonal, local treats:
- Dandelion Eatery, adjacent to Organza Market, proudly offers ingredients that are not only from our own backyard, but are also organic. Chef Ben Kramer hails from Vancouver Island, where organic produce is a given, and he is diligently working to bring this healthful idea to Winnipeg. His menu offers all-natural local elk, duck and beef, as well as flavourful herbs and vegetables such as sunchokes—a relative of the sunflower. As an added bonus for the eco-minded, the wines are all organic. 230 Osborne St, 453-5755
- At fusion grill, owner Scot McTaggart and Chef Lorna Murdoch visit local producers to bring the best of the prairie’s bounty to the restaurant’s menu. Here, you’ll find bold flavour from local ingredients such as beluga lentils, asparagus, fiddleheads and rutabagas. Chef Lorna also sources local meats, such as bison, elk and wild boar. 550 Academy Rd, 489-6963
- When the farming Warwaruk brothers opened Lux Solé, they did what comes naturally to them—sourcing all of their products from family and neighbouring farmers. For their succulent lamb, the four brothers turned to Uncle Julian and his farm near Erikson, Manitoba. From pizzas to tapas, the dishes at this South Osborne eatery pop with local flavour. 726 Osborne St, 453-0222
- A calm oasis in the heart of Osborne Village, Mise uses fresh tastes to create impeccable Canadian regional cuisine. Chef/owner Terry Gereta uses local ingredients such as elk and wild boar in his globally-flavoured dishes. Nutty wild rice is prepared in a variety of ways, from wild rice latke fries to puffed wild rice. 22-222 Osborne St, 284-7916
These local coffee houses are our choices for best caffeine finds. Each has a distinctive atmosphere to encourage lingering until the last drop.
The friendly staff at Espresso Junction (150-25 Forks Market, 949-9599) serves up locally-roasted coffee while also providing some of the best hot chocolate in town.
Finales (1-3 St. Mary’s Ave, 237-6211) offers a great view of the downtown skyline while you sip a steaming cup of coffee and nibble sweet housemade treats.
The Fyxx (93 Albert St, 944-0045) has several locations throughout town, but visit the original in the Exchange District for an eclectic flavour. The artsy space offers fresh sandwiches and salads while serving up delicious coffee.
The rich red walls of Roca Jack’s (2037 Portage Ave, 897-7622) provide a warm background to the expansive and chilly view of the Assiniboine River footbridge.
Downtown’s Twist Cafe (392 Graham Ave, 668-9478) offers fresh sandwiches and tasty pastries alongside their seasonal specialty coffees. If you bring along your laptop, you can even surf the web as you savour your java.
As summer sunshine fades into fall shadows, garden-fresh tomatoes blush ruby red. This succulent South American fruit is a cornerstone of Italian cuisine. Here are our picks for the top Italian eateries in the city:
For over 20 years, Amici has been the Godfather of Italian fine dining in the city. The classic, split level room on Broadway is known for using premium ingredients for its gourmet Northern Italian cuisine. Start with acqua cotta, a traditional Tuscan soup in which a garlic-scented, egg drop broth is poured over a bowl of sautéed mushroom, tomatoes and herbs. 326 Broadway, 943-4997
Bellissimo is tucked away in a neighbourhood strip mall, but it continually draws crowds with its garlic-laden, contemporary dishes. The Mediterranean-inspired scampi al vino bianco has plump tiger prawns, fresh roma tomatoes and red onions simmered a sharp white wine sauce. Chunks of creamy feta help soothe the bite. 1-877 Waverley St, 489-0495
Tried-and-true Grande family recipes are what has kept Mona Lisa a popular classic Italian destination for two decades. The River Heights haunt has an expansive, mouth-watering menu, but anyone with a hearty appetite must try the rigatoni calabrese. Slices of peppery, house-made sausage are grilled to crispy perfection, then tossed with garlic, parmigiano, olive oil and al dente pasta. 1697 Corydon Ave, 488-3687
At Monticchio on South Osborne, the contemporary decor belies the soul-filling, comfort food that comes out of the kitchen. The menu revolves around Italy’s greatest hits, all served in heaping, shareable portions at reasonable prices. Veal is a signature dish not to be missed, with numerous preparation options such as lemon veal or veal scallopini. 684 Osborne St, 477-4773
Nestled comfortably in the Exchange District for more than a decade, Tre Visi perfects modern-classic Italian fare. People come from miles around for the house-made gnocchi. Served with either creamy pesto or vibrant rosé sauce, the fluffy pillows of pasta melt in your mouth. 173 McDermot Ave, 949-9032
There's no buzzing street food scene in Winnipeg during the winter, but we found that many of our world food restaurants fill the gap by offering these portable dishes on their menu.
At Cafe 22, a quick-service Italian spot, build your own delicious pizza pop-style calzone with an unlimited amount of classic or gourmet ingredients. 823 Corydon, 989-5119
Doubles, a quintessential Trinidadian street food, cost only $1 at Deen's Caribbean Restaurant. They are made using two (hence the name) palm-sized, fried corn fritters smothered with nutty chickpeas in a warm, turmeric-yellow sauce. 205 Marion St, 233-2208
Shawarma is made from strips of marinated meat pierced on a spit and slowly roasted in front of a flame. The meat is shaved off and tucked into a pita or folded up in a lafa bread along with vegetables and dressing. Those craving this Middle Eastern take-out can find it at Shawarma Time. 616 Ellice Ave, 774-2109
The empanada, a traditional Latin American street food, is a half moon-shaped pastry served baked or fried. It bursts with savoury or sweet fillings that vary depending on the country. Simon’s Cuisine is a small, take-out joint that prepares these pockets Argentinian-style. 513-B St. Mary's Rd, 231-2756
Barbequed duck is a common sight in windows of restaurants in Hong Kong, Taipei and mainland China. Sun Fortune in Fort Garry has an authentic Asian street vibe, aided by the golden-brown barbequed ducks hanging in the kitchen window. Duck appears on the menu only in a half portion, but know that solo diners can order smaller quarter-sized portions. 15-2077 Pembina Hwy, 269-6868
Ice cream is even more enjoyable when accompanied with a scenic stroll. These local joints are found near the banks of the Red, offering an uninterrupted view of the heritage waterway:
Banana Boat is a bright yellow ice cream stop famous for using the tropical fruit, hence the banana bunches lined up along the counter. Signature items include monkey tails (frozen bananas dipped in chocolate) and the double banana milkshake, which uses both fresh bananas and banana flavouring to create a wild taste. With your portable treat in hand, head behind the building to the small park on the riverbank. Enjoy the fresh air while inhaling your ice cream. 390 Osborne St, 475-4610
The Bridge Drive-In (known to the locals at BDI) is a Winnipeg icon that serves creamy concoctions such as the “goog special,” an upside-down blueberry milkshake, topped with bananas and a hot fudge sundae. View the river from the Elm Park pedestrian bridge, which connects to the charming Kingston Crescent neighbourhood on the other side. 766 Jubilee Ave, 475-6850
The scenic drive out Henderson Highway leads to Lockport’s Half Moon, a nostalgic drive-in famous for its hotdogs and colossal bowl sundaes—ice cream served in a super-sized waffle cone dish. Relax on the sunny riverside patio, then head down to the river’s edge to collect pieces of driftwood. 6860 Henderson Hwy, 757-2517
Léo’s Gelato brings the milk-based Italian specialty to Old St. Boniface. Choose from the 24 colourful flavours on display. Cross Taché Ave to the Grey Nuns’ Walkway, a paved pathway running parallel to the Red that documents the nuns’ historical journey from Montreal to St. Boniface. 130 Provencher Blvd, 237-4174
While exploring the Forks, stop in at Sals sur L’Esplanade Riel for a bowl of Dippin’ Dots. These tiny pellets of ice cream—offered in four flavours: banana split, chocolate, cookies & cream and rainbow—have been flash-frozen to retain their ball-like shape. While enjoying a bowl of this futuristic ice cream, view the river from the glass-fronted dining room, or stroll the bridge for the best view of the city skyline. 50 Provencher Blvd, 237-8305
To escape the doldrums of the last dregs of winter, immerse yourself in the rich culinary paradise of Winnipeg’s top Caribbean restaurants.
Bindy’s Caribbean Delights is a vibrant little kiosk at The Forks Market. Fans stop by for the delicious mix of jerk chicken roti. Also on the menu are samosas and aloo pie. 151-1 Forks Market, 942-8409
At Caribbean Spice, a colourful exterior and framed pictures of Caribbean street and beach scenes on the walls impart a village atmosphere. Those seeking a sweet treat should try the traditional rum cake; burnt molasses gives way to a sweetness accented by the heady rum. 613 Sargent Ave, 774-7979
Deen’s is akin to a Trinidadian snack shack; small and casual, yet well-loved. One wall is completely covered with brightly-coloured drawings created by tiny fans. Deen’s offers a variety of Caribbean vegetarian dishes, including their signature doubles—tiny, fluffy fritters smothered in a subtle curry sauce that warms the soul. 205 Marion St, 233-2208
Located in the colourful Sargent-Ellice district, Tropikis is the place to go for classic roti. The adventurous diner should try the goat roti wrap, which beautifully balances the mild-lamb flavour of the goat with a strong, curried potato sauce. 878 Ellice Ave, 788-4733
Vernaz Restaurant and Energy Lounge incorporates the music of the Caribbean into the dining experience. Weekends offer live reggae bands jamming on the enormous, raised bandstand. Pepperpot soup is a favourite of Vernaz regulars. The healthful broth is a delicious blend of black-eyed peas, velvety white broad beans, spinach, calaloo and beef. 710 Pembina Hwy, 475-8958
A recent immigration surge boosting the local Ethiopian population means that there are some excellent spots to sample this complex, rich and flavourful cuisine. The traditional fare consists mainly of a variety of stews called wat or tebs that are spiced with berbere (spicy chile powders and spices) and niter kebbeh (clarified butter infused with garlic, ginger and spices). These stews are heaped on layers of spongy injera, traditional bread made from tef, a gluten-free grain found only in the African Horn.
Massawa is the upscale Ethiopian destination in this city, although service here is notoriously slow. The house specialty platter is definitely the way to order. The slight sourness of the yebegwat, lamb stew, is amplified by the injera. Spicy chicken dora tebs is full of ripe tomato and chile flavour. Less spicy, but equally tender is the lega tebs (beef). Tempering the fiery flavours of the bebere are split pea, spinach and lentil stews. 121 Osborne St, 284-3194
Nestled between the city’s best Vietnamese restaurants on Sargent Avenue is Pyramid Falafel. Traditional injera platters are also done well here, as is the timatim fitfit salad. This uniquely-textured salad is made of ripped pieces of injera, tomato, onion, green pepper and a lemony dressing. The slippery bread, now a pinky colour, has soaked up the vegetable juices and is tangy with a sharp onion bite. Although desserts are not offered, Arabian tea is a good substitute and a must-try. Gold leafed teapots with wide spouts are presented on trays with small glasses and sugar. The spiced black tea is beautifully aromatic, evoking both cozy winter nights and the Far East at first scent. 510 Sargent Ave, 783-4979
The friendly owners of Yenat Ethiopian Cuisine make every visitor feel welcome. Although evening menu options are delicious, the vegan buffet is not to be missed. It is a good introduction to the cuisine, enabling novices a chance to sample their way through the favourites. Traditional stews featuring split peas, lentils and bright yellow cabbage are served alongside some Canadian twists. Another stellar Ethiopian experience lies with the coffee. The birthplace of coffee cultivation/consumption, Ethiopia is done proud in Yenat’s version. The rich, dark liquid is vibrantly intense. 330 Ellice Ave, 784-9267
One of the Southeast Asian fares that, for the past decade, has steadily grown in popularity across the country and within Winnipeg, Vietnamese cuisine is a perfect fit for the modern, health conscious foodie. If you’re in the mood for this healthful experience, check out our picks for the top authentic Vietnamese restaurants in the city:
On the edge of the Exchange District, Little Saigon is bustling during most weekday lunch hours. While they specialize in offering a bounteous vegetarian menu, offering a separate vegetarian menu, the traditional mixed seafood and tofu in a hot pot is also not to be missed. The sizzling pot is filled with succulent pieces of squid, shrimp, scallops and tofu in a spicy and sour broth. 333 William Ave, 947-3999
Heaping bowls of vermicelli are Mékong’s specialty. In one version, the delicate rice noodles are topped with sizzling shrimp, and chopped spring rolls, cool slices of cucumber, tangy pickled carrots, bean sprouts and crunchy peanuts. Drizzled with fish and chile sauce, the combination proves a mouthwatering, unique mix of sweet, sour and heat. 126 Marion St, 233-5728
Arguably the best beef pho in the city is served at Thanh Huong. Steaming bowls of rare sliced beef are simmered in a complex sweet and spicy broth and accompanied by traditional garnishes of bean sprout, Thai basil, lime and chiles. The fragrant soup is rich in flavour, but delicate in body. The spicy seafood rice noodle soup is also excellent. Calamari, shrimp and pollock are bathed in a piquant broth. 534 Sargent Ave, 774-8888
Vietnamese Paradise’s salad rolls are excellent and include crisp and flavourful lemongrass-scented char-grilled beef, vermicelli noodles, lettuce, mint and Thai basil. Also a must is the smoky beef roll, which is vibrant with the addition of fresh herbs and is calmed with a sweet peanut dipping sauce. 1480 Pembina Hwy, 284-8507
On Sargent Ave, Viva has many stars on its menu, but of special note is the hot and sour soup. The pungent, tomato-based broth is spiked with pineapple, vegetables and shrimp. Also try the Vietnamese submarines, a popular street food in Vietnam. Grilled pork or beef is served on a hot French roll with Vietnamese mayonnaise, cucumber, tomato and lettuce. 505 Sargent Ave, 772-3167
- The anticipation of the fusion grill experience is heightened by the restaurant’s uncompromising commitment to local ingredients—a course pioneered by owner Scot McTaggart ten years ago. This colourfully accented restaurant on popular Academy Rd is packed by raving fans every night, solidly establishing the spot as the best restaurant in the city. Chef Lorna Murdoch’s passion for food and unusual pairings is evident throughout the menu. A tangy apple cider vinaigrette marries the sweet flavours of the pear and beet salad while a lemon-accented goat cheese ice cream gives the salad its wow factor. The staple panko-crusted pickerel cheeks are an experience in contrasting textures and flavours. The mild, crispy pickerel cheeks are brightened by the bold flavours of the accompanying orange and fennel salad. One of the first restaurants to seriously offer bison, fusion grill’s renditions of the symbolic meat should not be missed. 550 Academy Rd, 489-6963
- Tavern in the Park, magically set in the lush Assiniboine Park, is Winnipeg’s premier location restaurant. And, thanks to the efforts of Chef Joe Dokuchie and his team, it also offers one of the city’s finest dining experiences. The long, tree-lined drive from Corydon Ave towards the resplendent Assiniboine Park Pavilion creates a dramatic first impression. The glass-enclosed atrium and Romanesque patio provide the perfect setting for Chef Joe’s stellar international cuisine prepared with contemporary flair. The salads are as hearty as they are fresh and inviting. Warm, breaded brie melts over the mixed green salad, soaking up the lively cranberry dressing and adding richness and smoky flavour. Comfort food gets an upscale twist. The wiener schnitzel is pounded paper thin and is beautifully accented with tartly-sweet lingonberries. The accompanying spaetzle is comforting and addictive, with buttery flavours punched up by parmesan accents. 55 Pavilion Cres, 896-7275
- Corydon Ave is the city’s cafe district, where majestic elm trees shelter the bustling patios that line the street one after the other. The most acclaimed restaurant on the strip is the Italian-flavoured Cafe La Scala. For over a decade, Chef/owner Perry Scaletta has kept the clamouring Corydon bistro crowd happy and content streetside on the patio, or a few steps down the staircase in the calming, artistic subterranean space. Cool, slate grey walls are beautifully adorned with the masterful works of nationally acclaimed artist—and Perry’s uncle— the late Tony Tascona. The contemporary art parallels the smooth offerings on the menu. Perhaps the best starter in the city, it doesn’t get much better than La Scala’s dumpling appetizer—a perennial favourite. The pork dumplings are pan-fried to crispy perfection and drenched in a tingly and sweet chile cream sauce. Fresh leaves of cilantro add a bright touch to the bold sauce. Creative accents flow throughout the cashew-crusted pork tenderloin. The salty, nutty crust beautifully elevates the delicate pork and is accented by a curried pear chutney. 725 Corydon Ave, 474-2750
Don’t miss out on the fun of Winnipeg winters; head outdoors and burn off some of that cooped-up energy at these winter wonderlands. Afterward, defrost your digits and reward yourself with some hot bites from nearby eateries:
The Forks’ toboggan chutes and snowboard park in the Arctic Glacier Winter Park result in a lot of laughs and reddened cheeks. Warm your toes at the nearby Sals sur L’Esplanade Riel while enjoying a cup of soup or the stacked three cheese Double Nip. 50 Provencher Blvd, 237-8305
Do an early morning loop on Assiniboine Park’s cross-country ski trails and head over to Ruby Begonia’s Cafe in the Conservatory for a bite of breakfast. Fresh cinnamon buns will keep you toasty, along with a variety of hot beverages from the morning cappuccino bar. 15 Conservatory Drive, 885-2870
The most relaxing activity on the Assiniboine Credit Union River Trail is to simply walk, taking in the peaceful and unique view of the city. Climb the bank at the Osborne Village dock, and take a break at Baked Expectations. Recharge your battery with a mug of cranberry apple cider and a slab of espresso cheesecake. 161 Osborne St, 452-5176
See Winnipeg’s wild side at FortWhyte Alive by snowshoeing through the forest, across the meadow and onto frozen lakes. To thaw yourself out and warm your soul, head to the Buffalo Stone Cafe for some gourmet soup or the signature bison burger. 1961 McCreary Rd, 989-8370
Skate a few laps around St. Vital Park’s central duck pond, dodging trees, ice nicks and hand-in-hand couples at this charming and traditional outdoor venue. Glide over to The Fyxx and soothe the chills with a frothy steamer and the spicy Smokin’ Jack sandwich. 835 Dakota St, 253-6243
Planning a night out for Japanese cuisine is not hard to do in Winnipeg. With a surge in popularity of sushi and other healthy Nippon fare, Japanese restaurants are found in all corners of the city.
Edohei has the distinction of being the first sushi bar in the city, and owner Sadao Ohno is the sensai of Winnipeg’s Japanese cuisine scene. Stop in for omakase—Japanese for “astonish me”—in which the Japan-trained Ohno prepares a spontaneous five-course meal. 355 Ellice Ave, 943-0427
Dining is always entertaining at Ichiban Steakhouse with its fiery celebration of teppanyaki. Prepared at a table-side grill, dinner is diced and grilled by a utensil-juggling jokester chef. The result is always a fresh and saucy mound of meat and vegetables with rice. 189 Carlton St, 925-7400
At Meiji on Pembina Highway, cherry blossoms, a slate wall and tatami mats create the most elegant Zen-like dining experience in the city. The menu is known for its cross-cultural combination of martinis and sushi—sip from a signature G Martini while munching on a Red Dragon Roll. 10-1875 Pembina Hwy, 453-1120
The windowed front of Miyabi in Osborne Village shows off a consistently packed room with diners delighting in the izakaya—Japanese for “pub grub”—menu. Cold and hot small plates are the specialty here, with innovative sashimi dishes such as the tuna tataki. 159 Osborne St, 888-0028
Wasabi on Broadway attracts hip urbanites craving a very modern Japanese experience. A converted heritage home with a raspberry interior and screened-in verandah, it has gained a reputation for new-school sushi with photogenic presentation. 588 Broadway, 774-4328
Snuggle up at a table for two and indulge in a decadent slice of cake. We love that these heavenly cafes do all of their renowned baking on-site:
Baked Expectations is one of Winnipeg’s high-profile dessert cafes, due mostly to its visible location in the heart of Osborne Village. Can’t choose from the dozens of towering tortes on display? The old-fashioned chocolate cake is a delectable mainstay. This triple-layer indulgence is filled with bananas, a classic flavour pairing that never goes out of style. 161 Osborne St, 452-5176
Barbara O’Hara’s haute couture cakes at Dessert Sinsations are almost too beautiful to eat. Truly an artist, O’Hara specializes in rolled fondant and advance sugar work. The Fonzie exudes amour with pink strawberry mousse and chocolate cake layers enveloped by sinful dark chocolate. 505 St. Mary Ave, 284-4661
Finales is a cozy coffeehouse across the river from The Forks in St. Boniface. Watch snowflakes dance outside as you devour a slice of their signature turtle pecan pie—chewy caramel layered with chocolate caramel and roasted pecans. 3 St. Mary’s Rd, 237-6211
Individual servings of tiramisù are reason to duck into La Grotta at Piazza de Nardi, a leading Mediterranean market in the city. The deceivingly light white chocolate pistachio cake is also a popular favourite. Patio-style seating in the foyer allows for a private indulgence. 1360 Taylor Ave, 982-9461
At McNally Robinson Booksellers, the desserts are nearly as big a draw as the vast reading selection. The on-site Prairie Ink Cafe’s vibrant triple-layer carrot cake is dotted with candied ginger, pineapple and walnuts, and topped with maple cream cheese icing. Grant Park Shopping Centre, 488-7810
World food restaurants bring exotic ingredients and preparations to town. We love the bold flavours at these distinctive destinations:
At The Billabong, a laid-back Australian bistro and watering hole, you’ll find the unique tastes of modern Oz cuisine. The adventurous alligator potstickers combine the reptilian meat with shrimp in a delicate wonton wrapper. 121-D Osborne St, 452-1019
Chef Louise deBeer’s menu at LuLu’s celebrates flavours from hot climate countries, including South Africa (from where her husband hails). Denning vleis is a hulking lamb shank slow-roasted to seal in warm flavours of tamarind, allspice and cloves. 956 St. Mary’s Rd, 254-4681
Massawa has the city’s most upscale Ethiopian dining. The house specialty platter has a variety of stews heaped on layers of spongy injera (a crêpe-like bread used to scoop up the entrées). The spicy chicken dora tibs is full of ripe tomato and chile flavour, while the split pea and lentil stews help temper the fiery option. 200-121 Osborne St, 284-4679
O Tacho, a friendly Portuguese eatery in the West End, expertly prepares octopus, along with other seafood dishes. The octopus salad includes crispy, tender bites of the barbequed meat bathed in a fragrant onion and parsley vinaigrette. 714-C Sargent Ave, 219-2682
A signature Laotian dish, laap (pictured), is an aromatic cold meat salad eaten wrapped in a lettuce leaf. A Taste of Laos prepares the most refreshing version in the city, with a house-made roasted rice seasoning that provides a slightly nutty undertone to the meat. 840 Erin St, 779-7291
French cuisine is hot again in Winnipeg, thanks to new bistros and revived classics. If you’re in the mood to indulge in the delicacies of French food, here are our local favourites:
Anchored by traditional French dishes and old-world service, Restaurant Dubrovnik offers a classic dining experience. A tuxedo-clad maitre d’ greets each guest and attends to their every need. For a taste of the traditional, try Chef Gojko Bodiroga’s pâté. Mixed with green peppercorns, this rich appetizer give a soft hit of spice, and is served with a rich port wine cumberland sauce. 390 Assiniboine Ave, 944-0594
If you’re looking for a bistro atmosphere, look no further than In Ferno’s Bistro. Chef/owner Fern Kirouac focuses on small French and Mediterranean bistro-style bites that are big on flavour. The frog’s legs is a tribute to Kirouac’s classic French cooking days. They are sautéed using the holy trinity of white wine, garlic and lemon, resulting in a classy rendition of this traditional dish. 312 Des Meurons St, 262-7400
La Vieille Gare, housed in a 1913 railway station and a restored rail car, evokes elegance and old-world ambience. Currently, Chef Karen Nielsen is wielding a worldy plume with her new menu. In striving to fuse French influences from around the globe, she has created stellar dishes such as the Cajun blackened beef tips. These succulent morsels are rubbed with fiery Cajun spices and served at a perfect medium-rare. 630 Des Meurons St, 237-7072
Chef Bernard Mirlycourtois of Mirlycourtois uses his loft-inspired Exchange District space to showcase his legendary talents. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, however his devotion to the tradition of his craft is truly evident in the foie gras. The velvety paté is sweet and salty in all its solemn glory. 188 Princess Ave, 942-7332
Overlooking the 18th green, Provence Bistro at Niakwa offers fine French-inspired dining in an elegant country club setting. The escargot en croûte is one of the most stellar starters around. The strong, earthy flavour of snails and mushrooms is accented with wine and topped with a black truffle oil that playfully releases its aroma when the pastry cap is opened. Niakwa Country Club, 620 Niakwa Rd, 254-3500
It’s no secret that Winnipeg’s dining scene is hot, but what may surprise you is what goes on in the kitchen of some of our top eateries:
Ladies rolling in dough. Alycia’s is renowned for its selection of buttery pierogies, offering the Ukrainian specialty with four different fillings. To keep up with the demand, the kitchen buzzes daily with a team of seven ladies, including a few babas, who knead, cut and fold 1,000 dozen of the crescent-shaped dumplings. 559 Cathedral Ave, 582-8797
Private cooking school. The Chocolate Shop exudes aboriginal pride with wilderness-inspired dishes like the bison bannock burger. The kitchen dually functions as a classroom for aspiring chefs enrolled in the Patal Vocational School. Students from northern First Nations come to learn under Chef Robert Duehmig, who develops life skills along with knife skills. 268 Portage Ave, 947-9109
Garden-fresh ingredients. Food at Bread & Circuses has that extra hint of freshness because the kitchen is a direct portal to local growers. The community of cooks at the popular bakery cafe celebrate sustainable Manitoba farming culture, from the grains used for their breads to the beef included in their stews. 238 Lilac St, 477-4555
The culinary chemist. When ordering seafood at Mirlycourtois, take a closer look at the garnish. The black cherry caviar looks (and pops in your mouth) just like real fish roe, but tastes like the sweet fruit. Nowadays, Chef Bernard has turned his kitchen into a lab to experiment with molecular gastronomy, the latest trend that uses chemistry in cooking to play with flavours and textures. 188 Princess St, 942-7332
The root doctor. Before “all natural” became a cooking buzzword, Right There Korean Restaurant practised a healthful philosophy by stocking its kitchen with ginseng roots, renowned for having restorative properties. The restaurant’s signature ginseng chicken may be just what you need to get your energy flowing. 472 Stradbrook Ave, 775-5353
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