In the centre of Canada, Manitoba is a hodgepodge of its surroundings. From the subarctic tundra in the north to the rolling farmland and prairies in the south, this keystone province is full of surprises and splendour just waiting to be discovered — and tasted. During the fall and winter, Manitobans cozy up indoors for their own kind of hibernation, where food and culinary treasures are always on the table.

Manitoba restaurants | Dan's Diner in Churchill, Manitoba

Winnipeg, or "Winterpeg" as it's affectionately known, has a rich culinary community and under-the-radar dining scene. Take a stroll through the historic Exchange District, where you'll find North America’s largest collection of heritage buildings. Amidst the cobblestone paths and eye-catching brick warehouses, local restaurants, breweries and boutique shops patiently wait to meet your acquaintance. Pop by for a bountiful brunch at Clementine's, a whimsical tasting menu bursting with locally inspired dishes at the acclaimed Deer + Almond, and a pint (or two) at Little Brown Jug.

You won't even notice the cold air when you're inside downtown's epic food halls like Hargrave Street Market and The Forks Market. At the confluence of the Red River and the Assiniboine River, The Forks Market is brimming with creative kitchens and chef-driven restaurants to keep your cup and belly full. Catch the freshest Lake Winnipeg pickerel at Fergies Fish 'n Chips, twist your fork into handmade pastas at Passero, and get a legendary cinnamon bun for dessert at Tall Grass Prairie Bakery.

For more sweet treats and local faves, head to Hargrave St. Market. Here, you'll find some of the best bites in the city all under one roof, from epicurean snacks at Mottola Grocery to epic pizzas from Gusto North. Then, don't miss Boniface, the city's charming French Quarter, for delicious smells and sights — and the best bread in town at La Belle Baguette.

Manitoba restaurants | Juicy dumplings at Nola in Winnipeg

Follow your stomach and voyage beyond the capital city for more one-of-a-kind culinary experiences. With access only by train or plane, Churchill is Manitoba's most exciting dining destination. Come for the Aurora Borealis, stay for the coolest foodie experiences like Dan's Diner, a remote multi-course culinary journey in February and March that takes you beneath the shimmering Northern Lights in a Tundra Buggy. Talk about goosebumps.

Local places you'll love 

The Exchange District

Manitoba restaurants | Nonsuch Brewing Co. in The Exchange District, Winnipeg

When you're not gawking over the stunning 20th century architecture in the historic Exchange District, you can fill your face with delicious bites and sips at local faves like Nonsuch Brewing Co.

Brew Pass

Manitoba restaurants | A flight of beers at The Common, Manitoba

If you're a craft beer lover, you can find the best pints and more with a Manitoba Brew Pass, a one- or three-day mobile passport with exclusive access to top breweries and master distilleries throughout the province.

Feast Café Bistro

Manitoba restaurants | A server brings out dinner at Feast

Indigenous chef-owner Christa Bruneau-Guenther has created a menu of simple, time-honoured family recipes focused on native ingredients for a lights out meal. From slow-roasted rosemary Manitoba bison to butternut squash ravioli, Feast is comfort at its best.

The Forks

Manitoba restaurants | Friends have a drink at The Forks, Manitoba

A once abandoned railyard has been transformed into a lively dining destination and year-round meeting place for all things food and fun.

To plan your trip, visit travelmanitoba.com