This annual Special Holiday Issue of Ciao ! Magazine shines a light on the excellent diversity of shopping , dining and entertainment found in this city . The places delivering exceptional experiences dazzle us further by making it look easy too . In fact , as consumers of the best we have come to expect it all . We want to be greeted warmly with a smile , looked after efficiently and be appreciated for supporting small business . It ’ s the unspoken contract for our conditional love – and maintaining the happy relationship between consumers and businesses .
In the 25 years Ciao ! has been publishing , the excitement continues to be palpable during this annual quest to showcase some of the great gift ideas found in locally owned stores , and shine a light on some of the creative superstars on the culinary scene .
In fact , we consider it a great privilege to be influencers this way . Nowadays expertise is a word often thrown around loosely . Yet , niche magazine publishers , like this one , recognize that putting something in print is long lasting . Creating a “ Go-To ” reference guide comes with responsibility and accountability .
That ’ s why every business appearing in Ciao ! reflects the first hand endorsement of our editorial team . Our lists have been curated for discerning tastes and are the types of business we ’ d send our own families and friends to . Virtually all the recommendations are locally owned and operated . I am proud to say that Shop Local has been the mantra at Ciao ! since its launch in 1997 !
As we venture out to our favourite places to shop and dine this season , it may be our turn to pivot and adjust as supply issues continue . Plan way ahead , expect to wait longer – for everything , and be flexible . Seize the opportunity to re-imagine a tradition . We have learned to relinquish control over what can ’ t be changed . We have the power – and wisdom to choose our response . In turn , we can spread cheer .
Great businesses are continually perfecting their recipe for success , under the watch of the public eye . That can be daunting . When that business is a restaurant or store , flaws are exposed instantly , making the road to success a bit bumpy . Pandemic challenges have been unrelenting , taxing even seasoned pros with experience .
That is why smooth business launches are particularly impressive . This issue presents our choices for the top four new restaurants to open in Winnipeg this year . Each of our favourite places delivers a few surprises that
first word be vocal , buy local
bring some magic to the mix . They challenge status quo , whether it ’ s by mixing the fresh with the familiar or , in the case of One Sixteen , our best resto of the year , retooling notions of fine dining and dazzling us with exciting flavours in an ultra-casual setting . See page 46 to read about this year ’ s stars .
This magazine ’ s it list presents 177 of the city ’ s best independent retailers and best list rounds up 201 choice restaurants : something no other magazine offers . The dozens of gift ideas presented on these pages represent a glimpse of the fun things found in destination stores . We hope these ideas will inspire readers much like the restaurants of the year do .
As magazine professionals we share many of the same challenges other business owners face : delivering consistent quality while offering fresh ideas . Beautiful photos taken by talented pros are used to delight and inspire . Sparkling crystal and silver set the tone for a swanky soirée in the kitchen . We enlisted two star chefs to assist our efforts to spotlight appetizers that are as delicious as they are cute . Turn to inthekitchen ( p37 ) for new recipes to heighten your holiday entertaining . Alternatively , head to their restaurants for an effortless taste .
This issue is designed to be a reference guide to the best of everything . It is a handy resource that places the city ’ s great spots at your fingertips . If you would like to receive all six issues of Ciao ! delivered to your home , or would like to give some local love to a friend , sign up for a subscription – found on ciaowinnipeg . com
Your subscription also helps to support the efforts of a local city magazine !
We know Ciao ! readers seek extraordinary experiences and are exceedingly proud of Winnipeg . That is what we like about you ! As we look forward to experiencing the excitement of the season and the year ahead , let ’ s embrace the efforts of people striving for excellence . We can support , encourage and be kind to each other . May peace and joy be with you this holiday season .
Laurie Hughes , Publisher
ciao ! / dec / jan / two thousand twenty-two 3