Ciao! Apr/May 2024 Ciao! Apr/May 2024 | Page 9

ciao ! news
Photography : Shrugging Doctor , Edel Esguerra , EE Media Productions , Soul Gallery , Vincenzo ’ s Mercato
❚ art is life

Soul Gallery , ( pictured bottom right ) the art gallery showcasing contemporary fine art in owner Julie Walsh ’ s home , has assumed a second home base in the Exchange District , the city ’ s art and design district . Julie ’ s exquisitely curated collection , now in a spacious setting in the city ’ s culture hub offers easy access for locals and out of town visitors discovering Winnipeg ’ s art scene . 65 Albert St , 204-781-8259

❚ mangia !

Fans of Italian cuisine are thrilled to see Vincenzo ’ s Mercato ( pictured above ) adding to the city ’ s food scene . After being under wraps for months this River Heights establishment opens as a meat and Italian food market and cozy café where rotating daily pizza , pasta and protein specials can be enjoyed at a seat , or divine desserts ( provided by Dolce Bake Shop ) can be paired with cappuccino to sip . The modern bright space , owned by Vince DeLuca , is washed with sunlight and simple Italian style . Behind the scenes , a team of cooks turning out focaccia sandwiches and ready to heat homestyle Italian meals ensure we are in good hands when slaving over the stove seems overrated . 30-1580 Taylor Ave , 204-500-0555

❚ a stake in downtown

Last month saw the muchanticipated opening of 529 Uptown , ( pictured above right ) the 61-seat main floor lobby bistro , and sister to 529 Wellington , at the city ’ s busiest intersection , Portage and Main . The menu , a collaboration between owner Doug Stephen and chef Osten Rice matches its smart looks , adding globally inspired flavours to its steakhouse leanings . Refreshing reimaginations on classics such as an inspired plate of duck confit nachos , subbing in wontons topped with Asian pear , jalapeno , shallots and passion fruit sauce are already winning over office workers and after deal celebrators alike . 201 Portage Ave , 204-938-8696

❚ sassy thai

South Asian Thai cuisine is making its move on west Winnipeg . Sassy Thai , the new venture of Kris and Nan Thorsteinson and Thon Muensuk has won us over with its all-hits menu of comforts . The simple yet cozy pine clad space offers an impressive selection of Thai delights laden in bold flavours . The usual classics , noodles , curries and soups are here , along with a few Northern Thai signatures . Go for the Yum Nua salad of pungently spiced grilled sirloin brightened with tangy lime vinaigrette and herbs . The substantial dish , packing fresh vibrant bites is a satisfying meal in a bowl . 3311 Roblin Blvd , 204-615-8989

ciao ! / apr / may / two thousand twenty-four 7