Welcome to a culinary journey through the best French restaurants in Winnipeg! In a city known for its vibrant food scene, these establishments have carved a niche for themselves with their exquisite French cuisine and impeccable service. From authentic boulangeries serving fresh baguettes to elegant bistros offering delectable escargots, we’ll explore the culinary delights that transport you to the heart of France. Whether you’re a connoisseur of French cuisine or simply looking to savor a taste of France in Winnipeg, join us as we uncover the hidden gems among the Best French restaurants in Winnipeg.
Resto Gare Bistro
Address: 630 Des Meurons St, Winnipeg, MB R2H 2P9, Canada
Phone: +1 (204) 237-7072
Website: restogare.com
Details: $$$, French restaurant
Resto Gare Bistro, nestled in the heart of Winnipeg’s French Quarter Tourist District called Saint Boniface, is a charming 100-year-old train car and station that exudes European ambiance. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by attentive and friendly staff, like Matt, who ensures a delightful dining experience. The menu offers a wide range of delectable French dishes, from foie gras to a delectable duck pate with strawberry and rhubarb compote. The pickerel dish, served with wonderful vegetables, is a must-try, although it can be slightly boney. Not to worry, the exceptional service at Resto Gare Bistro includes surprises like an amazing complimentary special maple pie by Curtis, the grandson of the restaurant’s original matriarch.
The restaurant boasts a gorgeous outdoor garden patio with trendy lights, making it an ideal spot for drinks. The knowledgeable serving staff are fluent in both French and English, enhancing the authentic European experience. Conveniently located minutes away from Downtown Winnipeg, Hotel Fort Gary, and National Forks Markets, Resto Gare Bistro is easily accessible, and its location near the Forks via le Esplanade du Riel allows for a scenic stroll through a beautiful neighborhood.
The food at Resto Gare Bistro is undeniably delicious, with a wide range of menu offerings. Indulge in the 3-cheese macaroni, which is both flavorful and satisfying. The patio ambiance adds to the overall dining experience, and the restaurant even provides personal electronic bug zapper racquets to ensure a peaceful meal outdoors. The interior of the rail car part of the restaurant offers a unique touch to dining indoors. With attentive service, enticing cocktails, and delightful menu options like the bone-in grilled pork chop with Red Lantern sauce, mashed potatoes, and veggies, Resto Gare Bistro guarantees an enjoyable dining experience for all.
In Ferno’s Bistro
Address: 312 Des Meurons St, Winnipeg, MB R2H 2N6, Canada
Phone: +1 (204) 262-7400
Website: infernosbistro.com/infernos.cfm
Details: $$$, Modern French restaurant
In Ferno’s Bistro, located in Winnipeg, has been a consistent and excellent choice for years, offering a delightful dining experience. The menu features a variety of dishes, including flawless specials like calamari, lobster pot stickers, and asparagus crêpes. Classic favorites such as escargot, French onion soup, and Caesar salad are always reliably tasty and well-prepared. The attentive and friendly staff, like Kent, provide excellent service, ensuring a pleasant visit. While the small space can get lively, the atmosphere remains inviting, and patrons are encouraged to maintain a comfortable noise level.
The restaurant’s lovely patio is a perfect choice for those who prefer outdoor dining. Despite the busy evenings, the service remains quick, pleasant, and helpful. The generous portions of the delectable dishes, such as Penne Inferno and Medallions de Boeuf, make it challenging to leave room for appetizers and desserts. The patio ambiance is enhanced by live music, creating an enjoyable dining experience. In Ferno’s Bistro offers a wide range of menu options, including sandwiches and salads, providing something for everyone’s taste. The staff’s friendliness adds to the overall positive dining experience.
The restaurant’s patio boasts large umbrellas, beautiful plants, and well-spaced tables, creating an inviting outdoor space. The service, led by Emily, is great, despite the high level of business. The fresh bread basket is always appreciated, although the generous portions of the main servings often leave little room for it. The flavorful potato chorizo soup and the perfectly grilled lamb burger are highly recommended. The side salads are fresh and accompanied by interesting dressing choices. In terms of value, In Ferno’s Bistro offers reasonable prices, providing excellent food and quality, even for takeout orders during difficult times.
Sous Sol
Address: 22-222 Osborne St, Winnipeg, MB R3L 1Z3, Canada
Phone: +1 (204) 867-5309
Website: soussolosborne.com
Details: $$$, Restaurant
Sous Sol, located in Winnipeg’s Osborne neighborhood, offers an exceptional dining experience that is worth celebrating. With excellent food and exceptional service, this hidden gem provides a unique and charming atmosphere. The restaurant’s underground setting adds to its allure, creating a vibe reminiscent of a secret find in a far-off city.
Making a reservation is recommended, as the intimate space fills up quickly. Located down a nondescript staircase in an alley, the restaurant’s entrance transports guests to a candle-lit basement full of mystery and charm. The menu offers a wide variety of delectable options, including incredible oysters and mouthwatering foie gras. The late-night menu ensures that patrons can enjoy a full meal even in the late hours. The innovative cocktails, such as the 3oz Zombie, are highly recommended for those seeking a fun and fiery experience.
The service at Sous Sol is delightful, with servers like Shevani and Brittney entertaining and serving guests wonderfully. The main dishes, including Grilled Wild Boar, Duck Breast, and Arctic Char, are accompanied by flavorful sides that are beautifully prepared. Despite the early evening reservation limitations, the overall experience is unforgettable. Sous Sol’s takeout service during the COVID-19 pandemic also deserves recognition for its quality and affordability. For those seeking an atypical dining experience, this restaurant should be at the top of their must-visit list in Canada.
The French Way
Address: 238 Lilac St, Winnipeg, MB R3M 2S2, Canada
Phone: +1 (204) 421-9002
Website: frenchway.ca
Details: $$, Restaurant
The French Way, located in Winnipeg, offers a delightful dining experience with its excellent staff, inviting atmosphere, and delectable menu. Despite a short lineup, the restaurant and its charming ambiance are well worth the wait. The friendly hostess ensures a pleasant seating experience, while the selection of great food items impresses guests. The Eggs Benedict, prepared in their own unique way, is simply awesome and showcases the restaurant’s commitment to quality.
The bakery at The French Way is a standout, with fresh pastries that are nothing short of fantastic. The croissants, in particular, are heavenly, and every item from this lovely place is guaranteed to be a heavenly experience. While the chicken pot pies may have fallen short in terms of filling, the restaurant’s other offerings never disappoint. With inspired menu choices and excellent execution, guests are treated to a memorable dining experience. The restaurant’s knowledge of good food is evident in every aspect, from the warm greeting at the door to the exceptional service and, of course, the incredible flavors.
The French Way has become a favorite breakfast spot for many, thanks to its small and cozy setting, friendly staff, and consistently great coffee. The classic breakfast options never fail to impress, and the high-quality ingredients, such as homemade bread, jams, and peanut butter, add a special touch to every dish. The restaurant’s commitment to providing a satisfying dining experience is evident in the consistently good food and the occasional lineup on weekends. It is a hidden gem that captures the neighborhood’s low-key vibe, featuring local art and an eclectic mix of furniture.
Preservation Hall Eatery And Wine Bar
Address: 655 Empress St, Winnipeg, MB R3G 3P7, Canada
Phone: +1 (204) 783-2386
Website: preservationhall-eatery-winebar.com
Details: Restaurant
Preservation Hall Eatery and Wine Bar in Winnipeg offers a remarkable dining experience with its impressive staff, inviting atmosphere, and enticing menu. The interior of the restaurant exudes a charming ambiance, and although the patio is a lovely option, the restaurant’s interior provides an airy feel with its many windows and tasteful decor. The attentive server, Ruslan, quickly took our drink orders and provided us with menus. While we waited, we enjoyed a basket of freshly baked bread, a delightful touch. Ruslan’s knowledge of the menu allowed him to answer all our questions, and our meals arrived promptly. The Steak Frites, cooked to perfection and served with a delectable garlic butter, was tender and moist, accompanied by plentiful and perfectly seasoned fries. The Tourtiere and Pickerel Fish and Chips were equally impressive, making for a truly satisfying lunch experience. Though the prices may seem high, the quality and quantity of the dishes more than make up for it, making Preservation Hall a destination worth returning to.
The exceptional dining experience at Preservation Hall extends beyond lunch, as the restaurant also shines during supper. A group of seven enjoyed a memorable evening with a variety of delectable dishes. The brisket and pickerel stood out as exceptional choices, while the onion soup au gratin impressed with its flavors. The hot plates on which the meals were served added an elegant touch to the overall dining experience. The tastefully prepared arctic char and brisket showcased the culinary expertise of the kitchen, leaving a lasting impression. The wine and cocktails perfectly complemented the meals, while the professional and courteous waitress enhanced the overall dining experience. The warm and calm atmosphere of the restaurant contributed to an enjoyable evening, creating a desire to return in the future.
Preservation Hall consistently delivers excellent food, earning its reputation as a highly recommended establishment. The oysters and other menu items never disappoint, and the bison meatloaf stood out as an excellent choice during a recent visit. The professional wait staff and the restaurant’s inviting ambiance contribute to a wonderful dining experience. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and attention to detail ensure that guests have a memorable and enjoyable time. Whether it’s shuck a buck night or any other occasion, Preservation Hall offers an impressive menu that caters to all tastes. With its knowledgeable and efficient serving staff, delightful ambiance, and outstanding food, Preservation Hall is a must-visit establishment.
Goodies Bake Shop Ltd.
Address: 1124 Ellice Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3G 0E4, Canada
Phone: +1 (204) 949-2480
Website: goodiesbakeshop.com
Details: $$, Bakery
Goodies Bake Shop Ltd. in Winnipeg is a delightful bakery and coffee house that offers a wide selection of delicious treats. Located on the corner of Ellice and Erin, the bakery has been serving customers for years with its European-style pastries and desserts. The staff is friendly and helpful, providing excellent service to visitors. Whether you choose to sit and enjoy your treats or take them home, Goodies Bake Shop has something for everyone. The selection is vast, making it difficult to decide on just one treat. From pastries and petite fours to cakes and ice cream, the bakery offers a variety of options to satisfy any craving. The imperial cookie is a standout item, but there are many other delectable choices to explore. Gluten-free options are also available, catering to those with dietary restrictions. With ample parking and a warm atmosphere, Goodies Bake Shop is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a delicious and enjoyable experience.
Visiting Goodies Bake Shop is a treat that should not be missed when in Winnipeg. The bakery offers a wide variety of treats that are both visually stunning and delicious. From beautiful cakes to individual pastries and treats, there is something for everyone’s taste. The Oreo brownie is a definite standout, with its rich and delectable flavor. The cinnamon crunch is a crunchy and sweet snack that is hard to resist. The tiramisu macaroon and imperial cookie both offer delightful flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. While some items may be hit or miss, overall, the treats are fantastic and worth trying. The friendly and prompt service adds to the positive experience at Goodies Bake Shop. With reasonable prices and a welcoming atmosphere, this bakery is a must-visit destination for anyone craving delectable desserts and a great cup of espresso.
The selection at Goodies Bake Shop is truly impressive, with something for every sweet tooth. The bakery offers a wide variety of beautifully presented cakes, and their Italian gelato section is a standout. The friendly staff provides excellent service, ensuring that customers have a delightful experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a latte or a selection of mini cakes and macaroons, Goodies Bake Shop has you covered. The massive selection of individual cakes, pastries, and treats will leave you spoilt for choice. The option to sit in or take out makes it convenient for customers, and the steady flow of people collecting orders is a testament to the bakery’s popularity. It’s worth noting that Goodies Bake Shop also offers a selection of gluten-free cakes and pastries, catering to those with dietary restrictions. The bakery’s commitment to customer satisfaction and the quality of their products make it a must-visit spot for all dessert enthusiasts.
Pauline Bistro
Address: 112 Marion St, Winnipeg, MB R2H 0T1, Canada
Phone: +1 (204) 235-6001
Website: paulinebistro.ca
Details: Restaurant
Pauline Bistro is a charming French bistro-style restaurant located in Winnipeg’s Norwood Hotel. The atmosphere is cozy and chic, with stylish decor that transports guests to a Parisian setting. The staff at Pauline Bistro are friendly, efficient, and attentive, ensuring that every dining experience is enjoyable. The menu offers a variety of delectable options for breakfast and lunch, with dishes prepared to perfection. From flavorful mimosas to delicious salmon and Canadian bennies, every item on the menu is crafted with care and expertise.
Guests at Pauline Bistro are treated to a delightful dining experience, surrounded by an elegant atmosphere and attentive service. The breakfast offerings, such as the breakfast sandwich and eggs benedict, are both tasty and satisfying. The coffee is of excellent quality, complementing the meal perfectly. The attention to detail is evident throughout the restaurant, from the charming sketches on the walls to the large coffee cups accompanied by a gold spoon. The vegetarian omelette and chia bowl with fruit are also highly recommended, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to providing delicious and diverse options.
Pauline Bistro is a cozy and welcoming spot in the heart of St. Boniface. The restaurant exudes a Parisienne-themed ambiance, with comfortable sofa-like chairs and artistic decor. The attentive service and delicious food make for a pleasant dining experience. While reservations are recommended to avoid longer wait times, the restaurant’s efficiency ensures that guests are well taken care of. Whether enjoying the St. B Hash, smoked salmon and rosti, or any other dish on the menu, guests are in for a treat. Pauline Bistro is a new addition to the Winnipeg dining scene, and it has already established itself as a must-visit destination for those seeking a delightful French-inspired culinary experience.
In conclusion, Winnipeg is home to several exceptional French restaurants that offer a taste of Parisian elegance and exquisite cuisine. From cozy bistros to stylish eateries, these establishments provide a delightful dining experience for both locals and visitors. With their skilled staff, inviting atmospheres, and diverse menus, these French restaurants in Winnipeg have earned a reputation for excellence. Whether you’re craving classic French dishes or innovative culinary creations, these establishments are sure to satisfy your palate and transport you to the heart of France. Embark on a culinary journey and discover the best of French cuisine right here in Winnipeg.
