Chew

This tiny (think only 21 seating capacity) but mighty restaurant is only a few years old and has been catching restaurant critics’ eye since it opened, due in part to the incredible team of owners and the unbelievable food they are producing. The food is sophisticated but simple, with everything being made in-house. Starters include items such as seared scallops with cauliflower puree or crunchy pork belly. Main courses range from apple/bacon/cabbage duck breast to wild boar chop and beet gnocchi. The wine list, alas not large, includes enough choices to pair with your dinner, and the staff is always happy to recommend one of the traditional cocktails on the menu. There is a definite focus on Canadian ingredients, although they are fast to admit that they outsource when necessary; truffles, for example, are not grown here and therefore bought elsewhere. And just in case you loved the food and want to take it home, Chew operates a store next door to the restaurant where you can purchase baked goods, easy made meals and some of Winnipeg’s best local products.