5 Best The Forks Restaurants That Winnipeggers Love Most
I once told myself I’d just “walk through The Forks to get some steps in.” Big mistake. Ten minutes later, I was holding a bison burger in one hand, mini donuts in the other, and questioning every fitness goal I’ve ever set.
Honestly, if this place had a loyalty card for impulse eating, I’d have earned a free meal by now. Living in Winnipeg, I’ve eaten my way through The Forks more times than I can count.
So, if you’re wondering which restaurants here are actually worth sitting down for—and not just snapping a photo of—here are the best diners that Winnipeggers really stand behind. Or more accurately, stand in line for.
1. Aroma Bistro
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Website: https://aromabistro741.com/
Phone: +1 204 691 6364
Business hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 11 am – 9:30 pm
Must-order: Red Chili Oil Wontons
It’s easy to walk past Aroma Bistro if you’re not looking, but once you’ve had their Red Chili Oil Wontons, it’s game over!
I’m talking silky pork dumplings swimming in a house-made chili oil that brings just enough fire to make your nose run—but not enough to make you cry in public. The scallions and chili powder on top is Chef’s kiss!
They opened in 2019 with a small menu centered around hand-wrapped wontons, noodles, and rice bowls, but everything’s elevated with Sichuan and Hong Kong-style cooking that keeps things bold without going overboard.
The portions are generous enough that I once considered splitting it with a friend… and then changed my mind after the first bite.
Pro Tip:
The space is tiny. Call ahead if you want a shot at a table.
2. BASTA! Filipino Kitchen
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Website: https://www.instagram.com/basta.filipinokitchen?igshid=MmVlMjlkMTBhMg==
Business hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11 am – 9 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 11 am – 10 pm
- Sunday: 11 am – 9 pm
Must-order: Pancit Bihon
If you’re craving Filipino comfort food in Winnipeg, you should add BASTA! to your personal hall of fame. It’s only right that we’ve got a place that feels like your auntie’s kitchen just moved downtown.
I usually drop by for their silog—basically a beautiful trio of garlic rice, fried egg, and your choice of meat. You can opt for sweet (like longganisa) or savory (like tapa)—can’t go wrong either way.
It’s technically a breakfast eat, but let’s be real, I’ve devoured one for dinner more times than I care to admit.
I also can’t skip the Pancit Bihon—a noodle dish loaded with sautéed vegetables and delicious flavor. This is a nice option for vegetarians or anyone looking to cut down their meat intake!
They’ve also got desserts and meriendas (small snacks) on hand, so whether you’re hungry-hungry or just want something sweet on the go, you’re covered.
Pro Tip:
Lunch here is no joke. Try swinging by before 11 am or after 2 pm to skip the crowd and get your food faster.
3. Danny’s All Day Breakfast
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Website: https://www.theforks.com/eat-and-drink/dine/dannys-all-day-breakfast
Phone: +1 204 956 2227
Business hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 am – 6 pm
Must-order: Lumberjack Special
Danny’s has been flipping pancakes and frying up eggs since 1989, and you can tell. This place knows its way around a griddle!
The menu is full of Canadian breakfast staples, served all day like they’re daring you to order pancakes at 4 pm.
Whenever I’m here, I always order their Lumberjack Special. It’s a full-on breakfast parade: homemade hash browns (and double the portion, no less), crispy bacon, sausage links, and eggs cooked however your sleepy brain desires.
It’s a kind of meal that takes you to a very long nap!
Pro Tip:
Avoid peak brunch hours (10:30 am – 12:30 pm on weekends) for quicker service.
4. Fergie’s Fish N Chips
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Website: http://www.fergiesfishandchips.ca/
Phone: +1 204 942 9444
Business hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 am – 9 pm
Must-order: Pickerel & Chips
At Fergie’s, I always go for the Pickerel & Chips—crispy Lake Winnipeg pickerel in a light beer batter, with fries that somehow vanish before I even notice. No complaints here!
It doesn’t stop there—they’ve got other picks too, like seafood chowder that warms you up fast or deep-fried desserts if you’re feeling bold. But honestly, once you’ve had my favorite, it’s tough to look anywhere else.
The setting’s casual, quick, and always buzzing—especially if you’re ducking in between market errands.
Pro Tip:
Skip the weekend rush if you can! Weekdays or early evenings are your best bet for grabbing a seat without standing in a line that snakes out the door.
5. Fools & Horses Coffee Company
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Website: http://foolsandhorses.ca/
Phone: +1 204 415 3902
Business hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 am – 9 pm
Must-order: Lavender Latte
Fools & Horses is a favorite of mine when I’m looking for a cafe. The Forks location, in particular, has a clean, minimalist look that still feels homey, as if it’s meant for slow mornings and quiet company.
I usually go for a pour-over, yet their Lavender Latte really surprised me in a good way. A delightful blend of Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and a hint of vanilla. The mix is soft, floral, and comforting.
Oh, and I once paired it with their Prairie Chick toasts, topped with local cheese and fruit preserves. It was so good, I secretly hope they never take it off the menu!
Pro Tip:
The best time to go is between 7 and 9; it’s still quiet, and the pastries haven’t been picked over yet.