DINING
IN FERNO’ S BISTRO & INFERNO’ S ON ACADEMY Chef / owner Fern Kirouac’ s French-Canadian-meets- Mediterranean fare is a hit. An extensive list of daily specials lets the kitchen spread its wings. Menu at Academy Rd location includes favourites like duck confit spring rolls and Croque-Madame made with Trappist cheese. Live music some nights. Call for hours. Entrées: $ 15- $ 22. LP, SP, WA. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 312 Des Meurons St, 204-262‐7400, Map 1: R-7; 414 Academy Rd, 204-475-7400, Map 2: D-3
MON AMI LOUIS Chef Luc Jean serves traditional French fare on the Esplanade Riel Bridge. Thin crust pizzas in the style of Alsace are a specialty, as are crispy frîtes imbued with savoury flavour from frying in duck fat. Open Sun-Thu 11:30 am-10 pm, Fri-Sat 11:30 am-12 am. Entrées: $ 17- $ 25. WA, LP, SP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 50 Provencher Blvd, 204‐938‐2226, Map 1: Q-5
PEASANT COOKERY Old-world atmosphere within a charming heritage building space. Chef Tristan Foucault offers updated French classics and innovative dishes, including his signature house-cured charcuterie. Wednesday night buck-a-shuck oysters are popular. Mon-Thu 11:30 am-11 pm, Fri 11:30 am-12 am, Sat 5 pm-12 am, Sun 5 pm-9 pm. Entrées: $ 18‐ $ 28. WA, LP, SP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 283 Bannatyne Ave, 204-989‐7700, Map 1: N-4
PROMENADE CAFÉ AND WINE Just over the Esplanade Riel from The Forks, this neighbourhood bistro has one of the best views of the city. Classic European fare in an understated atmosphere at a phenomenal price. Popular place for divine breakfasts. French classics are executed with precision— bison tourtière is a must-try. Sun & Mon 8 am-2 pm, Tue-Sat 8 am-10 pm. Entrées: $ 16- $ 26. WA, LP, SP. Cards: IA, MC, V. 130 Provencher Blvd, 204‐233‐7030, Map 1: P-6
RESTO GARE & TRAIN BAR Classic French bistro fare in an industrial chic setting. The signature historical railcar has been converted into a contemporary dining room. House specialties include delicate seafood crepes with Chardonnay velouté and Gruyère. Mon-Fri from 11 am, Sat & Sun from 5 pm. Entrées: $ 14‐ $ 60. WA, LP, SP. Cards: IA, M, V. 630 Des Meurons St, 204‐237‐7072, Map 1: P‐6
SOUS SOL Hidden in a basement space at Confusion Corner, this speakeasy-inspired eatery is worth the hunt. The dreamy interior, lit by candle light and filled with quirky antiques, is a perfect backdrop to Chef Michael Robins’ masterful everchanging menu of traditional French cuisine. Thu-Sat 5 pm-2 am. Entrées: $ 20- $ 30. LP. Cards: IA, MC, V. 22-222 Osborne St, Map 1: S-3
GREEK
GUS & TONY’ S AT THE PARK This casual eatery offers Greek classics. The extensive menu features brawny burgers, saucy gyros, perfectly seasoned souvlaki, and fries smothered in house-made chili and feta. Mon-Fri 10:30 am-9 pm, Sat & Sun 9 am-9 pm. Entrées: $ 8- $ 18. WA, LP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V, 2015 Portage Ave, 204‐414‐5508, Map 2: D-2
HOMER’ S Grecian pillars transport you to ancient Athens at this popular spot. This is the place for lamb lovers, with a menu of Mediterranean and Greek specialties. Mon-Sat 11:45 am-9:30 pm( last seating at 8:45 pm). Entrées: $ 15- $ 30. WA, LP, SP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 520 Ellice Ave, 204‐788‐4858, Map 1: O-3
PEMBINA VILLAGE RESTAURANT Mediterranean and North American cuisine mixed together, with gyros and souvlaki joined by New York steak at this family-friendly spot. Mon 9 am-2 pm, Tue-Sun 9 am-9 pm. Entrées: $ 11- $ 30. WA, LP, SP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 333 Pembina Hwy, 204-477‐5439, Map 1: T-3
ICE CREAM / GELATI
BRIDGE DRIVE-IN Since 1957, the city’ s favourite ice cream drive-in has lined them up on the bank of the Red River beside the Elm Park walking bridge. Twelve flavours of soft ice cream, sundaes and exotic treats like“ sleeping beauty,”“ goog special” and“ upside down milkshakes.” Stroll across the bridge and enjoy the quiet residential neighbourhood. Mon-Sun 11 am-11 pm. Cash only. 766 Jubilee Ave, 204‐475‐6850, Map 2: E-4
EVA’ S GELATO & COFFEE BAR This window-lined gelateria gleams with a pressed-tin roof, glass snowballstyle lights and sparkling cooler, which displays 36 colourful varieties of Eva’ s house-made Argentinian gelato. Dulce de leche is a signature flavour. Also dairy-free, fat-free and sugar-free options. Mon‐Thu 8 am‐9 pm, Sat noon‐10 pm, Sun noon-9 pm. WA, SP. Cards: IA, MC, V. 101‐1001 Corydon Ave, 204-452 – 3827, Map 1: T‐1; 9A-20 Island Shore Blvd, 204‐254‐2837, Map 2: E-5
NUCCI’ S GELATI The Nucci family have single-handedly made gelati popular in Winnipeg. This Corydon Avenue institution offers 75 wild, powerful flavours of mouthwatering Italian ice cream like lemon, hazelnut and raspberry, served in a cup or a cone. Open daily 9 am-12 am. LP, SP. Cash only. 643 Corydon Ave, 204‐475‐8765, Map 1: T-3
INDIAN
CLAY OVEN Most diners stop in for the memorable thali platters. The butter chicken is out of this world. Try samosas topped with chickpeas and sauce for a delicious starter. Call for hours. Entrées: $ 12- $ 25. WA, LP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 240-1600, Kenaston Common, Kenaston Blvd, 204- 888‐2529, Map 2: F‐3; 247 Edmonton St, Map 1: P-3; Shaw Park 1 Portage Avenue East( 3rd floor), 204-982-7426, Map 1: O-5
EAST INDIA COMPANY The Mehra family’ s flagship restaurant has set the standard for East Indian fine dining in Winnipeg. The ornate South Asian art, including exquisite ceramics, brilliantly coloured tapestries, beautifully set tables and wrought iron chairs, make dining a complete sensory experience. The food is flawless, with biryani beautifully presented and perfectly spiced. Lunch buffet( Mon-Fri): $ 15, daily dinner buffet: $ 20. Mon-Fri 11 am-2:30 pm, 4:30 pm-9:30 pm; Sat 4:30 pm-9:30 pm; Sun noon- 8:30 pm. Entrées: $ 12- $ 16. WA, LP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 349 York Ave, 204‐947‐3097, Map 1: P-4
INDIA PALACE A large and varied menu features vegetable, chicken, lamb and seafood dinners. Also a lunch and dinner buffet. Mon-Sat 11 am-10 pm, Sun 4 pm-10 pm. WA, LP. Entrées: $ 10- $ 15. Cards: IA, AE, MC, V. 770 Ellice Ave, 204-774‐6061, Map 1: P-1
INTERNATIONAL / CLASSIC
BAILEY’ S Heavy wooden doors only a few steps from Portage and Main open onto a world that celebrates the British Empire. Several richly decorated rooms on two levels, each with its own personality. Food is prepared and served in a highly professional manner. Specialties include the Reuben( one of the best in town), rack of lamb and prime rib of beef. Mon-Fri 11 am-1 am, Sat noon-1 am, Sun 4:30 pm‐9 pm. Entrées: $ 18- $ 34. WA, LP, SP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V, ATM. 185 Lombard Ave, 204-944‐1180, Map 1: O-4
FOUR POINTS RESTAURANT Located inside the Four Points Sheraton Hotel adjacent to the James Armstrong Richardson International Airport. Serves an interesting mix of wraps, pastas and pizza along with entrées like New York striploin and Atlantic salmon. Daily 6 am‐10 pm( lounge open until 11 pm, bar open until 1 am). Entrées: $ 17‐ $ 28. WA, LP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 1999 Wellington Ave, 204‐775‐5222, Map 2: C-2
MAXIME’ S This south Winnipeg favourite sets the standard for suburban-style fine dining. The wide-ranging menu offers short-order faves along with an extensive selection of dinner entrées. Mon-Thu 11 am-10 pm, Fri & Sat 11 am-12 am, Sun 10:30 am-10 pm. Reservations recommended. Entrées: $ 10- $ 27. WA, LP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 1131 St. Mary’ s Rd, 204-257‐1521, Map 2: F-4
INTERNATIONAL / CONTEMPORARY
THE BEACHCOMBER Whether dining on the patio or inside the modern dining room, this restaurant offers one of the city’ s best riverside views. The menu’ s focus on seafood is a reflection of its waterfront location. The wide range of dishes spans from asparagus and ricotta ravioli to baby back ribs and pan-fried pickerel. Mon-Fri 11 am-11 pm, Sat 11 am-12 am, Sun 11 am-10 pm. Entrées: $ 15- $ 30. WA, LP, SP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. The Forks Market, 204‐948-0020, Map 1: Q-5
BISTRO 1800 At the Hilton Suites Winnipeg Airport, tuck into creative Canadian comfort foods, served with creative presentation in a contemporary setting. Mon-Fri 6 am-12 am, Sat & Sun 7 am-11 pm. Entrées: $ 20- $ 36. WA, LP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 1800 Wellington Avenue, 204- 786‐0926, Map 2: C-3
THE BLUE MARBLE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE With greens grown on sight, this restaurant serves up fresh delights with artful presentations. Standouts include Middle Eastern influenced pizza with lamb and pomegranate molasses and tuna crudo set on a vibrant pea puree. Open daily 11:30 am-10 pm, lounge hours 11:30 am-12 am. Entrées: $ 11- $ 30. WA, LP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 1979 Wellington Avenue, 204-594-1967, Map 2: C-3
BOUCHÉE BOUCHER Within this cozy St Boniface dining room, chef Alex Svenne’ s menu of small plates, influenced by favourite cuts from the attached butcher counter, is sure to please. Stop by attached deli and cafe to pick up local and housemade products to go. Mon-Thu 11 am-10 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am-11 pm, Sun 10 am-2 pm. Call for butcher shop hours. WA, LP. Small plates: $ 7- $ 28. Cards: IA, MC, V. 101‐300 Tache Ave, 204‐237‐1530, Map 1: R-6
CONFUSION CORNER BAR & GRILL This large, inviting restaurant and lounge pops with the colours of prairie art on the walls. Innovative cuisine with sandwiches, pasta, seafood and entrées that satisfy all taste buds. A unique rooftop summer patio provides a fascinating look at Confusion Corner. Mon-Tue 11:30 am-11 pm, Wed-Thu 11:30 am-12 am, Fri-Sat 11:30 am-1 am, Sun 11 am-10 pm. Entrées: $ 14- $ 29. WA, LP, SP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 500 Corydon Ave, 204‐284‐6666, Map 1: S-3
ENOTECA This intimate and ultra-hip space boasts an extensive menu of wines as well as a creative list of exotic ingredients. French techniques merge with mod tastes like black garlic and curry. Tue-Thu 5 pm-11 pm, Fri-Sat 5 pm-2 am, Sun 5 pm-11 pm. Entrées: $ 14- $ 18. WA, LP. Cards: IA, MC, V. A-1670 Corydon Ave, 204‐487‐1529, Map 2: D-3
JANE’ S The opulent anchor restaurant of Red River College’ s Paterson GlobalFoods Institute offers one of the most unique dining experiences in town. Interact with students as they execute an inspired menu featuring some regional ingredients. Tue-Fri lunch 11:30 am-12:45 pm, dinner 6 pm-7:30 pm. Reservations required. WA, LP. Entrees: $ 16- $ 29. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 504 Main St, 204‐632‐2594, Map 1: O-4
MÁQUÈ The latest open from chef Scott Bagshaw is a cozy window wrapped Crescentwood dining room, where the open kitchen slings impeccable adaptations of pan- Asian cuisine. French-inflected dishes meld traditional preparations with far East ingredients, like a transcendant blend of lobster bisque and red curry. Tue-Sun 5 pm-12 am. WA, LP. Small plates: $ 5- $ 22. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 909 Dorchester Ave, 204‐284‐3385, Map 1: T-2
THE MITCHELL BLOCK Located in the historic Mitchell building in the Exchange, this restaurant showcases housemade pasta and gastronomically elevated home cooking. Crispy fried Brussels sprouts, served with tart charred lemon aioli, are spectacular. Entrées: $ 20- $ 29. Mon-Wed 5 pm-9 pm, Thu-Sat 5 pm-10 pm. Lounge open 2 hours after restaurant closure. WA, LP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 173 McDermot Ave, 204‐949‐9032; Map 1: O-4
RUDY’ S EAT & DRINK New meets old inside an architecturally innovative building, where diners relax in a handsome caramel coloured space to tuck into short order classics with a contemporary twist. Mon-Fri 11 am-late, Sat 5 pm-late. Entrées: $ 18- $ 26. WA, LP, SP. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 375 Graham Ave, main floor MB Hydro Place, 204‐421‐9094, Map 1: P-4
SADDLERY ON MARKET A beautiful Exchange District heritage space, once the headquarters of the Great West Saddlery Company, now houses this chic restobar. Rustic decor acts as a backdrop to comforting fare incorporating regional ingredients like bison and beets, as well as touches of global influence. Mon-Wed 11 am-10 pm, Thu-Fri 11 am-late, Sat 4 pm-late. LP. Entrées: $ 12- $ 35. Cards: AE, IA, MC, V. 114 Market Ave, 204‐615‐1898, Map 1: O-4
30 where. ca MAY / JUNE 2017