Winnipeg, the vibrant capital of Manitoba, is not only known for its rich history and cultural attractions but also for its flourishing culinary scene. From innovative fine dining to beloved local spots, the city offers a diverse range of flavors that cater to every palate. If you’re planning to explore Winnipeg’s gastronomy, here are the ten restaurants that every food enthusiast should not miss.
1. Deer + Almond
- Address: 85 Princess Street, Winnipeg, MB R3B 1K7
- Average Price: CAD $50–$70 per person
- Signature Dishes: Charcoal-grilled meats, seasonal vegetable dishes, inventive small plates
- Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Closed on Sundays
- Reservation: Reservations can be made via OpenTable or by calling the restaurant directly.
Deer + Almond is celebrated for its creative, ever-changing menu that blends local ingredients with international flavors. Its intimate and modern setting makes it a favorite among both locals and visitors. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted, ensuring a dining experience that surprises and delights the senses. Food lovers will particularly enjoy the small plates that allow for sampling multiple dishes in one visit.
2. Clementine
- Address: 169 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3B 0S1
- Average Price: CAD $20–$30 per person
- Signature Dishes: Turkish eggs, fried chicken toast, cauliflower salad
- Operating Hours: Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Closed on weekends
- Reservation: Clementine does not accept reservations. Arriving early is recommended, especially during peak hours.
Known as one of Winnipeg’s top brunch spots, Clementine offers a cozy atmosphere with a menu emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Turkish eggs are a standout dish, and the fried chicken toast has a devoted following. This spot is perfect for anyone looking to start their day with a hearty and memorable meal.
3. Nola
- Address: 300 Tache Avenue, Unit 101, Winnipeg, MB R2H 2A6
- Average Price: CAD $40–$60 per person
- Signature Dishes: Reuben gyozas, gunpowder roasted carrots, tuna crudo with coconut-pandan sauce
- Operating Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Closed on Sundays and Mondays
- Reservation: Reservations can be made via OpenTable or by calling the restaurant directly.
Nola offers a unique culinary experience combining West Coast influences with Chinese heritage. The restaurant focuses on small, seasonal plates that emphasize seafood and innovative flavor combinations. The lively, vibrant atmosphere makes it ideal for a night out, and the dishes are visually stunning as well as delicious.
4. Yujiro
- Address: 103-1570 Grant Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3N 1Z5
- Average Price: CAD $25–$40 per person
- Signature Dishes: Sushi rolls, sashimi, ramen
- Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM (Lunch), 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Dinner); Closed on Sundays
- Reservation: Reservations can be made by calling the restaurant directly.
Yujiro is a beloved Japanese restaurant that emphasizes authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. Sushi lovers will be delighted with the extensive selection of rolls and sashimi. The restaurant’s cozy interior and attentive service enhance the overall dining experience, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors seeking Japanese cuisine.
5. 529 Wellington
- Address: 529 Wellington Crescent, Winnipeg, MB R3M 0A1
- Average Price: CAD $80–$120 per person
- Signature Dishes: Prime beef steaks, fresh seafood, extensive wine list
- Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Closed on Sundays
- Reservation: Reservations can be made via OpenTable or by calling the restaurant directly.
Housed in a beautifully restored historic mansion, 529 Wellington is an upscale steakhouse offering an elegant dining experience. Its menu features premium steaks and fresh seafood, complemented by an impressive wine selection. Ideal for special occasions, the restaurant combines fine dining with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
6. Passero
- Address: 259 Stradbrook Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3L 0J7
- Average Price: CAD $30–$50 per person
- Signature Dishes: Handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, seasonal salads
- Operating Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Closed on Sundays and Mondays
- Reservation: Reservations can be made via OpenTable or by calling the restaurant directly.
Passero offers a rustic-chic Italian dining experience in Winnipeg. The restaurant emphasizes the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas taking center stage. Seasonal salads and a carefully curated wine list make it a perfect spot for a relaxed dinner with friends or family.
7. The Forks Market
- Address: 1 Forks Market Road, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4L9
- Average Price: Varies by vendor, approximately CAD $10–$20 per person
- Signature Dishes: Perogies, sushi, gourmet sandwiches, international street foods
- Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Reservation: No reservations; seating is first-come, first-served.
The Forks Market is a lively food hall that brings together a wide variety of local vendors and international cuisines. Visitors can sample multiple flavors in a single visit, from classic Canadian perogies to gourmet sandwiches and sushi. Its bustling, energetic atmosphere makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring Winnipeg’s food culture.
8. The Keg Steakhouse + Bar
- Address: 115 Garry Street, Winnipeg, MB R3C 1G6
- Average Price: CAD $40–$60 per person
- Signature Dishes: Prime rib, filet mignon, seafood pasta
- Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Reservation: Reservations can be made via OpenTable or by calling the restaurant directly.
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar is a well-known Canadian chain praised for consistently high-quality steaks. Its relaxed environment is ideal for casual dinners or business lunches. The menu includes classic steakhouse fare, ensuring that diners enjoy reliable, flavorful meals every time.
9. Salisbury House
- Address: 1 Bannister Road, Winnipeg, MB R3T 4Z7
- Average Price: CAD $15–$25 per person
- Signature Dishes: Nips (small burgers), fries, milkshakes
- Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Reservation: Reservations are not required; walk-ins are welcome.
Salisbury House, affectionately called “Sals,” has been a Winnipeg institution since 1931. Known for its diner-style comfort food, the restaurant is famous for its Nips—small, flavorful burgers that have become a local favorite. It’s an ideal spot for a casual meal, offering nostalgia and delicious food in equal measure.
10. VJ’s Drive Inn
- Address: 170 Main Street, Winnipeg, MB R3C 1A6
- Average Price: CAD $10–$15 per person
- Signature Dishes: Fat Boy burger (burger topped with chili meat sauce), fries, milkshakes
- Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Closed on Sundays
- Reservation: No reservations accepted; walk-up service only.
VJ’s Drive Inn is a legendary Winnipeg eatery known for its iconic Fat Boy burger. This casual spot has a nostalgic vibe and draws both locals and visitors seeking a quick, hearty meal. It’s the perfect place to experience a classic Winnipeg culinary experience without any pretension.
Winnipeg’s dining scene is truly a rich tapestry of flavors, where the city’s culinary landscape artfully blends international influences with local traditions. This vibrant metropolis offers an impressive diversity of dining options that cater to all tastes and occasions. Whether you’re a food enthusiast searching for gourmet fine dining, an adventurous diner looking to explore innovative small plates, or simply someone craving hearty, comforting meals, Winnipeg has something to satisfy every craving. The city’s restaurants are not just places to eat—they are venues that showcase creativity, culture, and a sense of community, offering diners a full sensory experience from the moment they step through the door.
Exploring Winnipeg’s top restaurants is a journey that reveals the city’s unique culinary identity. Each restaurant carries its own distinct personality, reflected not only in the flavors and presentation of its dishes but also in the ambiance and service. At fine dining establishments, one can enjoy meticulously prepared meals where each ingredient is carefully selected and thoughtfully combined. These venues often provide an intimate, elegant atmosphere, perfect for special occasions or for those who simply appreciate the artistry of a well-crafted menu. In contrast, Winnipeg’s casual eateries and local diners offer a warm, inviting environment where guests can savor comforting classics that have stood the test of time. Here, the emphasis is on familiar flavors, generous portions, and a relaxed dining experience that makes everyone feel at home.
The city also shines in its small plates and fusion-style restaurants, where chefs experiment with bold flavor combinations and contemporary techniques. These innovative spots allow diners to taste a variety of dishes in one meal, encouraging a playful and interactive dining experience. Seasonal ingredients, local produce, and creative presentations turn each plate into a piece of edible art, making dining in Winnipeg as much about visual enjoyment as it is about taste. From the moment you enter, the aroma of carefully prepared dishes, the vibrant colors on each plate, and the attentive service create an unforgettable atmosphere that draws you into the heart of the city’s culinary scene.
Moreover, Winnipeg’s restaurants reflect the city’s diversity and multicultural influences. You can find authentic Japanese sushi, Italian handmade pasta, French-inspired small plates, traditional Canadian comfort food, and even street food-style dishes all within the same city. This rich variety ensures that every meal is an adventure, offering something new to discover each time you dine out. Exploring these ten top restaurants provides a comprehensive glimpse into Winnipeg’s culinary culture, offering an experience that goes beyond just satisfying hunger—it’s about engaging all the senses and understanding the city’s unique food heritage.
From intimate dinners in elegant settings to casual bites in bustling local eateries, Winnipeg’s culinary scene is accessible, welcoming, and endlessly exciting. These top dining destinations are essential stops for anyone who wants to truly savor the very best flavors the city has to offer, ensuring that every meal becomes a memorable part of the Winnipeg experience.
