Our visit to Winnipeg, Manitoba, introduced us to a vibrant dining scene filled with unique flavors and welcoming spots. From elegant hotel breakfasts to cozy coffee shops, we sampled a delightful variety of local gems. With every meal, we discovered the city’s rich culinary culture and charm. Join us as we recount our journey discovering delicious Winnipeg eats and unforgettable dining experiences.
We want to thank Travel Manitoba and Tourism Winnipeg for hosting our visit. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.
Open Air Dining
After our morning drive, from Fargo, we arrived in Winnipeg in time for lunch. We headed to Fergie’s Fish ‘n Chips at The Forks, Winnipeg’s bustling market hub. The golden-battered fish and crispy fries were a classic comfort food, made to perfection. We chose to sit in the lively, open-aired marketplace. This provided a chance to soak in the lively atmosphere, as locals and visitors alike explored the area. After lunch, we checked out the unique local shops. We found plenty of affordable souvenirs due to the favorable exchange rate.
Reviving the Past
Our first Winnipeg dinner included our Manitoba host. We met at the James Avenue Pumphouse, which added a touch of local history to our meal. This converted pumping station now serves elevated pub fare in a unique industrial setting. Our table was filled with Chicken Schnitzel, Glazed Salmon, and a Cheesy Flatbread. Sharing stories and Poutine, we couldn’t help but appreciate the creative reuse of such a fascinating space.
Start Your Day Right
Our stay at the historic Fort Garry Hotel opened the door to a meal at The Oval Room. This elegant dining space set the tone for a day of exploration. Crystal was pleasantly surprised by the Avocado Toast, which featured a fresh dollop of ricotta. I enjoyed the layers of flavors in my traditional Eggs Benedict. Both dishes paired perfectly with the freshly brewed coffee. The classic décor and attentive service makes this breakfast stop a memorable start to a culinary tour. Ours also included a visit with our Winnipeg host, who gave us some insight into the history of this restored lounge.
Indulgent Lunch
After a morning visit to Assiniboine Zoo, we stopped in for an elevated lunch at Gather. This serene café resides at The Leaf, which is also in Assiniboine Park. Surrounded by lush greenery, we indulged in fresh, seasonal dishes. Crystal’s Coconut Karma Curry featured vibrant, locally sourced ingredients. I opted for their Beef Ragu, which combined bold flavors in every bite. This peaceful spot offered a refreshing break from the city’s hustle and bustle, while providing indulgent Winnipeg eats.
One for the Books
A day of outdoor adventures had left us famished, but our research had uncovered the perfect local stop. Dinner at St. James Burger was a feast for the senses. Known for their generously sized portions, we were amazed by the abundance of food in our order. My Smashing Stacker Big Boi Burger was stacked four-patties high, making it nearly impossible to bite. (Fortunately, I was able to manage!) I chose the Cinnamon Salt Chips, which combines flavors that are addicting. Crystal’s Classic Chicken Burger was a tasty departure from the standard beefy entree. Even with a smaller sandwich, her dinner box was still more than she could finish. It was the perfect spot for hearty, comfort food.
Our Normal Morning Routine
Most mornings, we keep it simple. A cup or two of coffee gets us out the door and on our way. Winnipeg is filled with plenty of options, like Henderson’s Coffee. We found one across from a wooded park, that was within walking distance of the Manitoba Museum. This cozy café provided just the right caffeine kick to fuel our adventures. Sipping our lattes, we took a moment to enjoy the warm atmosphere and friendly service, which felt like a little slice of home. The only way to improve on it was to add one of their savory baked goods.
Unexpected Treasure
Before heading north to visit the Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site, we popped in Nonsuch Brewing Co. This had been a last minute addition to our itinerary, so we weren’t sure what to expect. Nestled near Winnipeg’s Exchange District, the brewery offered a cozy yet modern space to unwind. We shared their beautifully arranged charcuterie board, featuring a variety of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments. The modern ambiance made this a memorable stop in our culinary journey. It was the perfect spot to relax and savor some local Winnipeg eats.
Affordable French Cuisine
It’s hard to rank our favorite Winnipeg eats, since they all brought their own unique experience to the table. For our final dinner, we chose a French-Métis dinner in St. Boniface. The warm ambiance, at Promenade Brasserie, set the stage for an entertaining evening. This was the perfect opportunity to sample dishes created with ingredients from around Manitoba. I selected Pickerel Wild Rice Risotto. Crystal enjoyed their Braised Bison Rigatoni. Both dishes were packed with intricate flavor combinations. The Deconstructed Lemon Meringue Pie was a perfect ending to this decadent meal. A lively conversation with the general manager gave us insights into the restaurant’s philosophy and passion for great food. It was the perfect way to end our tour of Winnipeg eats.
Explore Local Winnipeg Eats
Our culinary journey wouldn’t have been complete without at least one creamy, sweet treat. Seeing the long line for Sargent Sundae inspired us to give this local spot a shot. It only took one bite to understand why they have a consistent crowd. The city’s diverse dining options kept us eager to explore more with each meal. Sampling the city’s flavors made our visit to Manitoba’s capital an unforgettable experience. The favorable exchange rate made our meals as affordable, as they were delectable. Have you sampled the flavors of Winnipeg eats?
