B Y J O E L L E K I D D A N D A R V E L G R AY
EDITOR’S PICK
TOP 5 ROOFTOP PATIOS
PRETTY PÂTISSERIE
Sweet delicacies are having a moment in the sun,
but for Nathalie Gautier and her husband Gilles,
Instagram-worthy desserts are not a fleeting trend but
a representation of years of hard work spent mastering
time honoured techniques. At their bustling Main Street
bakery, A L'Epi de Ble, these French ex-pats bring a slice
of Provence to the prairies. Loaves are made with the
traditional process—no preservatives, dairy, or gelatin,
and never shortening—and the pastry case holds
treasures like colourful macarons and eclairs stuffed with
rich pastry cream. With her broad smile and lilting French
accent, Nathalie herself is part of this cozy nook's charm.
1757 Main St, 204‑334‑2526, Map 2: B-4
Besides food, the best way to a Winnipegger's
heart is the word "patio". These spots take it to
the next level—literally—with rooftop spaces to
dine al fresco.
Local favourite Stella's Cafe & Bakery
(pictured) has 8 locations across the city, and
the newest, on Pembina Highway, boasts a sweet
rooftop patio. Go at dusk when the cafe lights
come on and cast a romantic glow over quinoa
dragon bowls and plates of Scandinavian gravlax.
1463 Pembina Hwy, 204‑275‑2001, Map 2: E-3
Tucked among the treetops, The Roost's
intimate rooftop setting gives a bird's eye
view on bustling Corydon Avenue. Clever and
complex craft cocktails and elegant small plates
have us crowing. 651 Corydon, 204‑414‑9313,
Map 2: D-4
Cravings for pub grub and powerful frozen
margaritas are sated on Tavern United's sleek
patio. Get an unbeatable view of downtown's
SHED (sports, hospitality, and entertainment
district) and watch ground being broken on
the new True North Square. 260 Hargrave,
204‑944‑0022, Map 1: P-3
Learn what Dean Martin was crooning about
while dining outdoors at Pasquale's. The St.
Boniface area restaurant has a secluded rooftop
patio perfect for winding down with a glass of
wine and a hearty plate of lasagne. 109 Marion
St, 204‑231-1403, Map 1: Q-5
Take in an iconic Winnipeg intersection from
above at Confusion Corner Bar and Grill. The
smoky barbeque chicken pizza, drizzled in tangy
bourbon barbeque sauce, is a prime patio pick.
500 Corydon Ave, 204‑284‑6666, Map 1: S-3
NOW OPEN Winnipeg’s craft brewing scene has exploded recently,
with new breweries popping up all over the city. Brewpub Brazen Hall is the latest joy for
homegrown hopheads. This well-designed Fort Garry spot styled with rustic wood, plush
leather, and gleaming geometric fixtures opened to instant approval from pub lovers who
now fill the space with lively chatter. A crisp blonde ale and pe ppery bière de garde are now
on tap with more varieties brewing in the tanks on site. Superb suds are complemented by
a fun menu of twists on pub favourites, like gussied-up burgers and wings, as well as filling
pastas and brawny meat dishes. 800 Pembina Hwy, 204‑453‑7980, Map 2: E‑4
MAY/JUNE 2017
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