Canada 150 Contest -Winnipeg | Alexis de Portneuf

Winnipeg, the unexpected foodie

Unfairly neglected by travellers, Manitoba’s capital is a flurry of activity year-round. This cosmopolitan city boasts more than one hundred spoken languages and is celebrated for its diverse cooking scene, effusive culture and welcoming locals. All aboard for the Prairies!

FUN FACTS

Winnipeg’s Union Station was designed by the same architects behind New York’s Grand Central Terminal.
James Bond, one of cinema’s most famous characters, was inspired by Sir William Stephenson, a World War II spymaster who, you guessed it, was born in the Manitoba capital.

007’s favourite cocktail, a vodka martini, shaken not stirred, goes wonderfully with Brie Bonaparte mini croquettes.

Winnipeg was the first city in the world to use 911 as its central emergency number.
Winnipeg has the most restaurants per capita in Canada. Add to that the cultural diversity, and you get loads of great dining options!
Contrary to popular belief, the world’s longest naturally frozen skating trail is not found in Ottawa, but here along the Red and Assiniboine Rivers (8.5 km).

#SELFIESTOP—ESSENTIAL PHOTO OPS

Canadian Museum for Human Rights

This is the only museum in the world entirely dedicated to raising awareness and educating the public about human rights. Visit the museum to learn more about this topic, admire its stunning (and imposing) architecture and climb to the top of the tower to admire the magnificent view of the city.
Photo credit: Aaron Cohen: CMHR

Exchange District

Roam the streets of this former business district that’s become a favourite of film producers, and discover the many galleries, theatres, boutiques, cafes and heritage buildings that have been exceptionally well preserved.

Variety Heritage Adventure Park

Just a few minutes’ walk from downtown, this historic park offers visitors a place to unwind and an adventure park that’s super popular with local kids. Have a blast and discover 6,000 years of history at The Forks.
Photo credit : Parks Canada

Sporting events

Winnipeggers are true sports fans and love to cheer on their pro teams. Whether it’s the Blue Bombers (football), the Jets (hockey) or the Goldeyes (baseball), there’s always an exciting game to see, no matter the season!
Photo credit: Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Sporting events and chicken wings are a match made in heaven. Want to make them even better? Try a blue cheese dip made with Caronzola cheese.

WINNIPEG ACCORDING TO…

Jackelyn Tsouras

Co-Owner of Agora Fine Foods Market in Winnipeg

What regional specialties are a must-try?

“For a true Winnipeg experience, you’ve got to try smoked goldeye, Manitoba pike and our famous honey dill sauce.”

What makes a good souvenir?

“Winnipeg has tons of local products. Among my favourites is Smak Dab gourmet mustard, which is available in unique flavours like hot honey jalapeño, cranberry wine, beer chipotle, and more. You’ll want to buy them all!”

A must-have at Agora Fine Foods?

“Our gyros! You’ll never find another one as tasty!”

“Add a unique flavour to your gyro by gently melting a touch of Caprano cheese on top. Yum!”

FOODIE TOUR

Tall Grass Prairie Bread Company

Whether you have a sweet tooth or not, you won’t be able to resist the delectable pastries made by this bakery that uses only organic grains from Manitoba farms. Croissants, cakes, cookies—the choices are endless!
Photo credit: Tourism Winnipeg

Sous Sol

This restaurant is definitely worth the trip for its delicious dishes (and cocktails) that are perfectly balanced and its decor that borders on loopy: a dim, candle-lit atmosphere, walls covered in pages from recipe books, gypsy-jazz objects scattered throughout, mismatched furniture and cutlery.... It’s both surprising and satisfying!
Photo credit:Sous-sol

Capital K

This distillery is a source of local pride and has mastered the art of making craft spirits from Manitoba-grown grains and fruits. Tour the facilities and sample the delightful concoctions by master distiller Jason Kang: vodka, gin, whisky, rum, brandy.... Bottoms up!
Photo credit: Capital K Distillery

Miss Browns

For a fantastic gourmet brunch, visit Miss Browns. On the menu: local products, hot pressed sandwiches, succulent house smoked meats and tasty fresh coffees. What more could you ask for?
Photo credit: Miss Browns

Deer + Almond

This eclectic restaurant in the Exchange District is known for its relaxed ambiance and creative menu. Perfect for dinner with friends! Owner and Chef Mandel Hitzer places great importance on the quality of his dishes influenced by the culinary traditions of the southern United States and the Middle East.
Photo credit: Deer and Almond

you enjoyed Winnipeg?

Make a stop in Halifax!