Ker Breizh: Crepes, Galettes and a Warm Atmosphere in the Heart of Winnipeg

At Ker Breizh, the tone is set the moment you walk in. Buckwheat galettes, crepes, cider and cozy decor come together to create a place that invites you to take your time.

The restaurant draws inspiration from Brittany, a region in western France that is particularly well-known for its crepes and galettes. Even if you aren’t familiar with this culture, the experience remains very accessible: the food, the atmosphere and the way you are welcomed there speak for themselves.

In charge are Yvonnick Le Lorec and Ketty Pichaud, a couple who came from that region and settled in Manitoba. They wanted to create a restaurant true to their roots, while showcasing local products. Flags, postcards, cozy furniture and carefully chosen details give the whole place a simple and charming personality.

“We wanted to recreate a little piece of our region here with French flavours, but also ingredients we can find in Manitoba,” explains Yvonnick Le Lorec.

In the kitchen, French tradition meets Manitoba ingredients. Whenever possible, the eggs, seasonal vegetables, meats, flour and smoked products that are being used come from the province. To get a taste of the house specialties, try the La Fermière (the farmwoman) crepe—with sausage, potatoes, cheese and old-fashioned Dijon mustard. It’s an excellent choice. As for dessert, La Gourmandise (the treat), with its caramelized apples and vanilla ice cream, will perfectly round out your meal.

Nonsuch Brewery Company: Where Craft Beer Becomes an Experience

In the Exchange district, the Nonsuch Brewery Co. has established itself as a top destination for those who love lively, well-designed spaces. There, craft beer is at the heart of the experience, with a genuine focus on tasting, pairings and quality.

The project reflects the vision of Matthew Sabourin, a proud Franco-Manitoban and Métis entrepreneur from the Red River Valley as well as the co-founder and CEO of the Nonsuch Brewing Company. His initial interest in wine helped shape the venue’s identity: a brewery where people take the time to discover flavours and savour the moment.

“The idea was to create a place where people would take the time to discover beer as they would wine, in a friendly and trendy atmosphere,” says Matthew Sabourin.

The layout can accommodate different preferences. You could settle in at the bar for a drink, sit at a table for a meal or spend an extended evening in a setting that’s both elegant and relaxed. In the summertime, the terrace offers another way to enjoy this spot.

Among many beers to discover, the Raspberry Sour will charm you with its fruity taste, while the Prairie Common is well-known as one of the house classics. As for the Pils, originally launched under the name Molière in partnership with the Théâtre Cercle Molière, it subtly evokes the venue’s Francophone roots. On the food side, the burger is a must-try.

Resto Gare: A St. Boniface Classic, Still as Charming as Ever

Located in St. Boniface, Resto Gare is an iconic Winnipeg spot. Set in a restored 1913 train station, with an original railcar that was converted into a dining room, the restaurant immediately stands out for its decor.

Owned and operated by the same family since 1983, this establishment offers an experience that blends French cuisine with historic charm. Wood paneling, chandeliers, a converted train car and an elegant dining room create altogether a unique atmosphere, perfect for slowing down and savouring the moment.

The 2024 renovations added a new layer to the venue with the arrival of a white grand piano, which can now be heard on Friday evenings. It further enhances the restaurant’s character, making it especially popular for a date, a celebration or a dinner out from the ordinary.

On the plate, the restaurant remains true to classic, hearty French cuisine. On Saturday evenings, the beef rib roast, served with Yorkshire pudding and horseradish, is a well-known favourite among regulars. But what stands out most is the experience as a whole: distinctive decor, renowned cuisine and an atmosphere that transcends time.

From the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Ker Breizh to the laid-back elegance of the Nonsuch Brewery and to the historic charm of Resto Gare, these three spots offer a great gateway to discovering the francophone influence in the city, whether you’re already part of it or simply looking to experience it over the course of a meal.