All you have to do is eat
WINNIPEG
the forks
diy food tour
photo credit @theforkswinnipeg
Introduction
Official name: The Forks National Historic Site of Canada
Designations: National Historic Site of Canada (1974)
Size: 5.5 Hectares
Indigenous peoples inhabited The Forks for over 6000 years, it was then followed by European fur traders, Scottish settlers, railway pioneers and then tens of thousands of immigrants. It was renovated in 2016, a food hall called The Common was added, including a new beer and wine kiosk. The Forks are made up of the Forks Market, Johnston Terminal, Inn at the Forks, Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Manitoba Theatre for Young People, Oodena Celebration Circle, the Plaza at The Forks, Balace of Spirit Within, CN Stage and Field, Niimaamaa, Niizhoziibean, Peace Meeting Site, Prairie Garden, Rail Cars, Riverwalk, The Forks Historic Port, The Forks Historic Rail Bridge, The Forks Market Plaza, The Forks Market Tower, Walk Through Time, Parks Canada Playground, Public Orchard, Urban Garden, and Alloway Arch.
photo credit @theforkswinnipeg
DIY Tour details
Number of stops: 9
Number of tastings: 10
Tastings: “El Luchador” Chorizo Taco (2021 Taco Week Winner), seasoned ground pork, signature slaw, pineapple salsa, pickled red onion, feta cheese and cilantro) and (2) Barbacoa taco (Signature slaw, pico de gallo, feta cheese, and cilantro), Pickerel (prepared fresh daily, and coated with a seasoned flour and beer batte), The Stamos burger (Cucumber ‘n’ onion slaw, whipped feta, alfalfa sprouts, tomato & roasted pepper basil aioli), Macaron (egg white, icing sugar, granulated sugar, almond meal, and food colouring), Lomito (Grilled steak, lettuce, tomatoes, chimichurri, mayo, and horseradish sauce), The Classic (Manitoba tomato sauce, Berkshire pepperoni, roast mushroom, mozzarella), Eggplant Curry (Savoury with a hint of sweetness), and a Cinnamon Bun (fresh milled organic whole wheat flour).
photo credit @theforkswinnipeg
notable nearby
Upper Fort Garry Heritage Provincial Park
Located across the street from The Forks, at 130 Main St, Winnipeg, MB R3C 1A4, Canada.
Upper Fort Garry Heritage Provincial Park, nestled within the heart of Winnipeg, offers a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history. Once a major Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading post at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine rivers, the original fort was demolished in the late 19th century. Today, the park commemorates its legacy with the iconic Governor’s Gate, the sole remaining structure. The park itself is a blend of history and modern interpretation. While the fort’s footprint is outlined, the site features a stunning 440-foot-long corten steel wall showcasing the interwoven threads of history through art and text. Visitors can explore the site, learn about the fort’s significance in the fur trade and the development of Canada, and appreciate the unique blend of green space and historical commemoration offered by this special park.
notable nearby
Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Located at 85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg, MB R3C 0L5.
The Canadian Museum for Human Rights, located in Winnipeg’s historic Forks district, is a national museum dedicated to the exploration and celebration of human rights. Its unique architecture, resembling a soaring dove, symbolizes the journey from darkness to hope. Inside, visitors embark on a thought-provoking journey through eleven galleries, encountering stories of human rights struggles and triumphs from around the world. Interactive exhibits, multimedia installations, and personal narratives shed light on core human rights concepts, historical events, and ongoing challenges. The museum aims to inspire reflection, dialogue, and action, encouraging visitors to become advocates for human rights in their own communities. With its powerful exhibits and stunning architecture, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights offers a significant and moving experience for anyone seeking to understand the importance of human rights in our world.
website: https://humanrights.ca/
photo credit @humanrights.ca
diy food tour
Tasting types
There are 6 different tasting types. The first is a Must Try tasting, which means the dish provides a sense of pleasure, leaves an everlasting impression, evokes something exceptional, and will be remembered. The second is a Tasting Hack, that is for example, a tasting that is combined with another tasting on the tour, that together, create a better tasting experience. A Seasonal tasting is only available during certain times of the year. A Vegetarian tasting does not contain meat (only verified vegetarian tasting are identified). A Best-In-Class tasting is an identification of a top tasting destination. A Cook At Home tasting is where you purchase in store, but cook at home.
Must try
Must try food tasting
Tasting Hack
Special manipulated tasting
Seasonal
Seasonal tasting
Vegetarian
Vegetarian tasting
Best-in-class
Top tasting destination
Cook at home
Tasting you purchase in store, but cook at home
Tasting Locations
Tasting menu
Chorizo Taco (2021 Taco Week Winner) from Jabaneero Sombrero
Photo credit @habsombrero
Habanero Sombrero
Mexican restaurant
Must try: (1) Chorizo Taco “El Luchador” (2021 Taco Week Winner), seasoned ground pork, signature slaw, pineapple salsa, pickled red onion, feta cheese and cilantro, (2) Barbacoa (Signature slaw, pico de gallo, feta cheese, and cilantro)
How to portion: A taco can provide 1 to 2 tastings
Address: 212-1 Forks Market Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4L9, Canada
Hours: Saturday 11:30AM–9:30PM
Sunday 11:30AM–8PM
Monday 11:30AM–8PM
Tuesday 11:30AM–8PM
Wednesday 11:30AM–8PM
Thursday 11:30AM–8PM
Friday 11:30AM–9:30PM
Website: habanerosombrero.com
Instagram: @habsombrero
Deep fried Pickerel from Fergie’s Fish’n Chips
Photo credit @diyfoodtours
Fergie's Fish N Chips
Seafood restaurant
Must try: Deep fried Pickerel
DIY Food Tours: Fergie’s Fish and Chips is a popular Winnipeg institution known for their classic fish and chips experience. They have multiple locations, including one at the iconic Forks Market. Their claim to fame lies in using fresh, daily prepared fish coated in a seasoned batter with a touch of non-alcoholic beer. The fries are hand-cut from Manitoba-grown potatoes, ensuring a crispy and satisfying side.
How to portion: One order can provide 2 to 4 tastings
Address: 1 Forks Market Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4L9, Canada
Hours: Monday 11AM–8PM
Tuesday 11AM–8PM
Wednesday 11AM–8PM
Thursday 11AM–8PM
Friday 11AM–8PM
Saturday 11AM–8PM
Sunday 11AM–8PM
Website: http://fergiesfishandchips.ca/#top
Instagram: N/A
The Mack from Nuburger
photo credit @ilovenuburger
Nuburger
Hamburger restaurant
Must try: Stamos (Cucumber ‘n’ onion slaw, whipped feta, alfalfa sprouts, tomato & roasted pepper basil aioli) (“People’s Choice” highest voted burger across CANADA for 2015 Le Burger Week)
DIY Food Tours: Nuburger is a Winnipeg-based burger chain known for its innovative approach to the classic dish. They offer a sleek, modern counter-serve experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients. Their menu features a variety of beef, chicken, and veggie burgers, often boasting unique flavour combinations and fresh toppings. They prioritize “good natured” and “nutritious” options, using fresh ingredients and offering healthier alternatives like jicama fries and corn salsa. With multiple locations across the city and generally positive reviews, Nuburger has established itself as a popular spot for those seeking a delicious and modern burger experience in Winnipeg.
How to portion: 1 burger can provide 4 to 6 tastings
Address: 1 Forks Market Rd #131, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4Y3, Canada
Hours: Saturday 11:30AM–9PM
Sunday 11:30AM–8PM
Monday 11:30AM–8PM
Tuesday 11:30AM–8PM
Wednesday 11:30AM–8PM
Thursday 11:30AM–8PM
Friday 11:30AM–9PM
Website: www.ilovenuburger.com
Instagram: @ilovenuburger
The Mack from Nuburger
photo credit @ilovenuburger
The Original Pancake House
Must try: Apple pancake
DIY Food Tours: The Original Pancake House’s Apple Pancake is a legendary Winnipeg breakfast experience. This “giant” pancake lives up to its name, arriving as a fluffy, golden-brown disc generously studded with tender, cinnamon-spiced apple slices. The batter itself is light and airy, offering a delightful contrast to the sweet, juicy apples. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a popular choice for sharing or a decadent solo indulgence. Served with a side of maple syrup and perhaps a dollop of whipped cream, this apple pancake is a must-try for any breakfast enthusiast visiting Winnipeg.
How to portion: 1 Apple pancake can provide up to 10 tastings, baby apple pancake can provide tasting for up to 7 people
Address: 1 Forks Market Rd #131, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4Y3, Canada
Hours: Wednesday 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
Thursday 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
Friday 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
Monday 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
Tuesday 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
Website: https://www.originalpancakehouse.ca/
Instagram: @pancakehousewpg
Macaroons from Jenna Rae Cakes and Sweet Treats
photo credit @jennaraecakes
Jenna Rae Cakes
Bakery
Must try: Macaron (you pick the flavour)
DIY food Tours: Jenna Rae Cakes at The Forks is a delightful bakery known for its visually stunning and delicious treats. Located on the second floor above The Common, it offers a curated selection of their signature items. While the menu rotates seasonally, you can expect to find a variety of their legendary macarons in unique and mouthwatering flavors like Earl Grey Pistachio or Cotton Candy Raspberry. They also offer decadent cookie sandwiches, featuring creative combinations like Monster Oatmeal and Chocolate Lovers, and irresistible cookie dough cups in flavors like chocolate chip and peanut butter cup.
How to portion: One macaron can provide 1 to 2 tastings
Address: 1 Forks Market Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4L9, Canada
Hours: Monday 11AM–8PM
Tuesday 11AM–8PM
Wednesday 11AM–8PM
Thursday 11AM–8PM
Friday 11AM–8PM
Saturday 11AM–8PM
Sunday 11AM–8PM
Website: https://jennaraecakes.com/en-us
Instagram: @jennaraecakes
Lomito from Simon’s Steaks
photo credit @simonssteaks
Simon's Steaks
Steak house
Must try: The Lomito (Grilled steak, lettuce, tomatoes, chimichurri, mayo, and horseradish sauce)
DIY Food Tours: Simon’s Steaks offers a casual yet satisfying steakhouse experience. They specialize in high-quality cuts of beef, grilled to perfection and seasoned simply to allow the natural flavours to shine through. Ribeye, New York strip, and Flank steak, are available. Beyond beef, they also have a chicken Parm, Philly sandwich and a handful of other non-steak dishes.
The lomito, a beloved street food in Argentina and Uruguay, is a hearty and satisfying steak sandwich. Imagine a soft roll piled high with a thin, tender slab of grilled beef, typically sirloin or filet mignon. Toppings are where the lomito truly shines. The “completo” version, meaning “complete,” gets loaded with classics like tomatoes, lettuce, onions, and a vibrant chimichurri sauce.
How to portion: One order can provide 4 to 6 tastings
Address: 1 Forks Market Rd #132, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4Y3, Canada
Hours: Wednesday 11 AM–9 PM
Thursday 11 AM–9 PM
Friday 11 AM–10 PM
Saturday 11 AM–10 PM
Sunday 11 AM–9 PM
Monday 11 AM–9 PM
Tuesday 11 AM–9 PM
Website: https://www.simonssteaks.com/
Instagram: @simonssteaks
The Classic from Red Ember Common
photo credit @redembercommon
Red Ember Common
Pizza Restaurant
Must try: The Classic (Mb tomato sauce, Berkshire pepperoni, roast mushroom, mozzarella)
DIY Food Tours: Red Ember Common is a pizzeria known for its delicious wood-fired creations. Inspired by their popular food truck, The Red Ember, they focus on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Their pizzas are the star of the show, cooked to perfection in a hand-built stone oven imported from Naples. From classics like the Margherita to unique options like the Roasted Beet Salad (featuring local beets, butternut hummus, green apple, chèvre and zaatar), there’s a pizza to satisfy every craving.
Berkshire pork, often referred to as “Kurobuta” in Japan, is a premium cut of meat known for its exceptional flavor and texture. This heritage breed, recognized by its black and white coat, produces meat that is heavily marbled with intramuscular fat. This characteristic results in pork that is incredibly juicy, tender, and bursting with a distinctive porky flavour. Unlike the leaner pork found in most grocery stores, Berkshire pork is redder, sweeter, and boasts a richness comparable to Wagyu beef.
How to portion: One pizza can provide up to 8 tastings
Address: 1 Forks Market Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4L9, Canada
Hours: Saturday 11:30AM–9PM
Sunday 11:30AM–8PM
Monday 11:30AM–8PM
Tuesday 11:30AM–8PM
Wednesday 11:30AM–8PM
Thursday 11:30AM–8PM
Friday 11:30AM–9PM
Website: www.redembercommon.com/
Instagram: @redembercommon
Center item, Eggplant Curry from Taste of Sri Lanka
photo credit @tasteofsrilanka.ca
Taste of Sri Lanka Restaurant
Sri Lankan restaurant
Must try: Eggplant Curry (Savory with a hint of sweetness)
DIY Food Tours: Nestled within the bustling Forks Market in Winnipeg, Taste of Sri Lanka Restaurant offers a vibrant culinary journey. This restaurant boasts a menu brimming with authentic Sri Lankan dishes, catering to both meat lovers and vegetarians. From aromatic curries simmered with fragrant spices to flavourful rice dishes like string hoppers, the restaurant offers a symphony of flavours and textures. Their signature roti pockets, filled with savoury fillings like chicken curry and potatoes, are a popular choice, while their baked samosas and crispy patties provide delicious snack options. Whether you’re a seasoned Sri Lankan food enthusiast or simply curious to explore new flavours, Taste of Sri Lanka offers a welcoming and delicious experience at The Forks.
How to portion: An order can provide 2 to 5 tastings
Address: 1 Forks Market Rd #132, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4Y3, Canada
Hours: Saturday 11:30AM–9PM
Sunday 11:30AM–7:30PM
Monday 11:30AM–8PM
Tuesday 11:30AM–8PM
Wednesday 11:30AM–8PM
Thursday 11:30AM–8PM
Friday 11:30AM–9PM
Website: https://tasteofsrilanka.ca/
Instagram: @tasteofsrilanka.ca
Cinnamon bun Tall Grass Prairie
photo credit @tallgrassprairiebakery
Tall Grass Bakery
Bakery
Must try: Tall Grass Cinnamon Buns (fresh milled organic whole wheat flour)
NOTE: if fresh (baked within 30 minutes) eat immediately, otherwise you have the option to take home.
DIY Food Tours: Tall Grass Bakery is a haven for those seeking fresh, organic bread and baked goods. They prioritize local ingredients and daily milling of whole grains, including ancient varieties like Red Fife and Spelt. This dedication to quality shines through in their diverse selection of breads, pastries, and treats. From sourdough loaves and baguettes to croissants, cookies, and seasonal specialities, Tall Grass offers something for every taste bud. Their commitment to sustainability extends beyond ingredients, with baked goods sold in reusable metal plates, encouraging a mindful approach to consumption. Located within the historic Forks Market, Tall Grass Bakery provides a delightful stop for a fresh-baked treat or a loaf of bread to take home, all while supporting local farmers and responsible practices.
How to portion: A cinnamon bun can provide 2 to 4 tastings
Address: 1 Forks Market Rd #132, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4Y3, Canada
Hours: Saturday 7AM–7PM
Sunday 7AM–7PM
Monday 7AM–7PM
Tuesday 7AM–7PM
Wednesday 7AM–7PM
Thursday 7AM–7PM
Friday 7AM–7PM
Website: https://tallgrassbakery.ca/
Instagram: @tallgrassprairiebakery
other nearby tours
Exchange District Diy food tour
Beef tartare from Amsterdam Tea Room and Bar (photo credit @amsterdamtearoomandbar)
The Exchange District is a National Historic Site of Canada in the downtown area of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
Number of stops: 7
Number of tastings: 9 (8 entrées, 1 beverage)
Tastings: Beef Tartare (Shallots, Parsley, Capers, Dijon Mustard, Egg, Bread), Morocco Empanada (Vegan option)(chickpea, carrot, red pepper, zucchini, and onions), Beef Empanada (ground beef, onions, olives, roasted red peppers), and Salmon Empanada (smoked salmon, pickerel, spring onion, and feta cheese), Braised Bacon Benedict (Thick Cut Braised Bacon, Brown Butter Hollandaise, Dill, Poached Eggs, Buttermilk Biscuit), Kouign-Amann (pastry is a croissant-like dough, laminated with butter and sugar for a flaky, rich treat with a caramelized outer crust), 1919 Belgian Pale Ale (“1919” is made using the traditional German kräusening, or double-fermentation technique, which cleans up beer flavours, naturally carbonates the beer, and gives it better head retention), Makhani Murgh (Butter Chicken – house roasted tandoori chicken cooked in a homemade tomato and butter sauce), and Carolina BBQ Braised Beef (house braised beef with homemade Carolina gold bbq sauce, fresh sliced apple, thin-shaved red onion + arugula all on thick, hand-cut rye)
St. Boniface Diy food tour
Muffaleta sandwich from Pasquale’s Italian Restorante (photo credit @diyfoodtours)
St. Boniface neighbourhood is home to the largest francophone community in Western Canada.
Number of stops: 10
Number of tastings: 10 (9 entrées, 1 beverage)
Tastings: Beet Grilled Cheese (golden beets, red beets, candy stripe beets, arugula, mayo, whipped feta, honey, pistachio spread, house made sourdough), Green Onion & Sesame Sauce Takoyaki (House Made Sesame Sauce, fried yam, green onion, sesame seeds, and parsley flakes), Almond Croissant, Reuben (Eatery made corned beef, sauerkraut, braised onions, Eatery made thousand Island dressing, Bothwell white cheddar, grilled marble rye), Goat Roti, Spicy Chocolate Drink, Tourtière Pie, Butter chicken, Muffaleta (Assorted Italian meats, provolone cheese with olive vegetable spread on home focaccia bread)
West end DIY Food Tour
Satay Beef Noodle Soup from Ha Long Bay (photo credit @diyfoodtours)
The West End is a multicultural area known for colourful street art and Vietnamese, Filipino, Ethiopian, Indian and other regional based restaurants.
Number of stops: 10
Number of tastings: 14 (13 entrées, 1 beverage)
Tastings: Beef and Rice Noodles in Sate (lemongrass satay broth, beef, rice noodles, topped with crushed peanuts), Bacalhau com natas (Cod and potatoes), Linguiça/Chouriço (sausage), Spring roll, Pain au chocolat (60% dark chocolate in a sourdough butter croissant), Satay beef rice noodle soup (spicy), Nopales taco (nopal strips, pico de gallo, Panela cheese), Chicken Mole taco (contains peanuts, cream, sesame seeds), Pork Pastor style taco (pineapple, cilantro, onion), Pork Papusa (corn flour pocket filled with seasoned pork) , Marañon beverage (cashew juice), Bánh mì heo nướn (grilled pork sandwich), Bún bò huế (Hot and Spicy Beef & Pork Noodle Soup, beef, thin slices of pork hock with thick vermicelli noodles, herbs, rich and spicy lemongrass broth), and Garlic Sauce.
COMMENTS/QUESTIONS/RECOMMENDATIONS/UPDATES
other nearby tours
Email: Matt@diyfoodtours.com
