now open
❚ coffee news
Less than a decade ago ,
James Avenue was off the beaten path of the east Exchange district ’ s energy , beyond a little pedestrian traffic scurrying to cars after events at Winnipeg ’ s Concert Hall . Today , this short strip includes a retailer , a restaurant in a historical landmark and now a contemporary coffee spot to grab a cuppa joe before departing the arts district . Neon feature lights from above casts a colourful glow on the white washed two-level space occupied by Saintuary , imparting a cool lounge like vibe for coffee drinkers stepping away from their home offices for a social fix . 1-123 James Avenue
❚ cue the music
One of Manitoba ’ s talents , singing a tune on stage at noon strums an uplifting first impression in east Winnipeg ’ s new Belle ’ s Kitchen and Music Hall ( pictured above ). The ciao ! news new openings & food and retail news
family behind Trans Canada Brewing Co . and Empty Cup Collective has added a barbeque joint to their lineup of urban lifestyle destinations and is making a lively impression well past Transcona . The former Tony Roma ’ s space is now the scene of a 7500 square foot rustic , Texas Style roadhouse , complete with barn board walls , salvaged chandeliers and bathroom fixtures , and mismatched furnishings . Southern style is etched on the chalkboard menu in the form of smoked brisket and other meats teasing the room with aromatic allure . Counter service , reflecting the trend of 2025 , reveals a model to keep staff costs in check while delivering an allencompassing experience with entertainment . If that ’ s not a reason to visit , surely tender juicy meats and the selection of comforting sides - baked beans , salads , mac ‘ n cheese - make for an easy sell to prairie diners . 1212 Nairn Avenue , 204-560-4496
❚ get it to go
Third + Bird , Winnipeg ’ s largest urban market known for its fun and inspired approach to selling locally made items , opened it first permanent retail location in the Winnipeg Richardson International Airport , making it that much easier for last minute shoppers to pick up a regional souvenir . While all merchandise commemorates time spent in Manitoba , fancy food purchases offer a reminder of this city ’ s good taste . Gate 7 , Departure level ,
❚ baking newstalgia
What ’ s old is new again at
Corydon Ave ’ s Forgotten Flavours ( pictured below ). This new bakery start up , originating in Niverville MB , is helmed by a woman with a mission to champion forgotten methods and recipes for bread making . Maria Holbrow ’ s devotion to all-natural baking can be tasted in freshly baked bites of breads and pastries that aim to provide customers with healthier versions that taste great and won ’ t trigger our body ’ s defenses .
What ’ s more , she is teaching others to learn the techniques and recipes too . For anyone who regrets missing the bread baking bandwagon of 2020 , or for those who are still on it , group bread making classes using wild yeast provide handson training . 858 Corydon Ave , 204-960-2211
Photography by Belles Kitchen and Music Hall , Forgotten Flavours , Festival du Voyageur , Cafe Carlo
4 ciao ! / feb / mar / two thousand twenty-five