Living downtown means having an ever-evolving list of favorite places—those cozy spots and go-to eateries that made our days (and nights) a little brighter. In 2024, we found ourselves constantly drawn to a few gems around the Exchange District and beyond. From early morning coffee to late-night dinners, these places consistently delivered. Here’s a look back at the spots we couldn’t get enough of in 2024—and we can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store.
Rose Coffee & Wine
There’s something magical about walking into Rose Coffee & Wine. Maybe it’s the intoxicating aroma of fresh coffee or the soft glow of the vines hanging overhead, but this spot quickly became a favorite for weekday meetings and lazy weekend brunches. The atmosphere? Perfectly Instagrammable without trying too hard. It’s the kind of place where you order “just one more” because you don’t want to leave.
Chosabi
You know those days when you’re too busy to sit down but still want something fresh and delicious? That’s where Chosabi came through, time and again. Their sushi burritos and poke bowls were the quick meals we needed to power through the workday. And let’s be honest—there’s something fun about eating sushi in burrito form.
Earls on 300 Main
Earls is a classic for a reason, but Earls on 300 Main felt like our second home this year. From post-work happy hours to Saturday night catch-ups or a spontaneous dinner, it always delivered. The menu was just familiar enough to be comforting but offered enough variety to keep things interesting. And don’t even get us started on their seasonal cocktails—they were practically designed to be sipped while overlooking the downtown lights.
Thom Bargen Coffee & Tea
When it came to coffee runs, Thom Bargen was the spot we found ourselves frequenting over and over. With its minimalist interior, consistently great brews, and genuinely friendly baristas, it became more than just a place to grab a cup—it was a ritual. Whether you were in need of a morning caffeine boost or an afternoon pick-me-up, Thom Bargen never disappointed.
Xing Fu Tang
Bubble tea is serious business, and Xing Fu Tang knows how to do it right. Their fresh brown sugar pearls were a thing of beauty—warm, chewy, and just sweet enough. It was an experience. The open kitchen, where you could watch them stir the pearls, added a little extra magic to each visit. It’s safe to say we were more than a little obsessed.
Blue Fish
For those nights when only sushi would do, Blue Fish became our go-to. It’s the kind of place that takes something simple—fresh fish, rice, and creativity—and turns it into art. Every roll was crafted with care, and the cozy atmosphere made it feel like a well-kept secret, even though plenty of people already knew how good it was. Dinner at Blue Fish never failed to hit the spot, whether it was a quick meal or a long night of sharing plates with friends.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we say goodbye to another year of good eats and great coffee, we can’t help but wonder: What new spots will we fall in love with next year? Downtown Winnipeg always has a way of surprising us with new gems. But one thing’s for sure—these places will always hold a special place in our hearts (and our stomachs).
Here’s to another year of exploring, eating, and enjoying everything downtown has to offer.
