12 Best Diners in Winnipeg That Local Families and Foodies Rave About
I love a fancy Italian dinner or a chic Parisian bistro now and then, but honestly, nothing beats the charm of a good old Winnipeg diner.
The second I walk in, I’m always greeted with warm smiles. Add to that endless coffee, plus huge portions of pancakes, crispy bacon, and pies, and I know I’ll be inhaling top-tier comfort food without the premium price tag.
If you’re also craving cheap, delicious eats that make every dollar count, here are the best diners in Winnipeg you should visit ASAP.
2 Kelly’s Cafe
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Website: https://2kellyscafe.ca/
Address: 81 Garry St #3
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 8:15 AM – 3 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 1 PM
Contact: (204) 942-4020
Must-Order: The Classic Breakfast
2 Kelly’s Cafe is a quaint diner tucked away downtown behind the iconic Fort Garry Hotel. I love that the staff knows most of their regulars by name (including me!).
It’s not surprising that breakfast lovers flock here, since they’ve actually been voted Best Local Breakfast in the Winnipeg Free Press Munch Madness.
They serve homemade breakfasts all day, and my favorite is their Classic Breakfast. For only $14.95, you’ll get two eggs, your choice of bacon, ham, or sausage, homemade hash browns, and a slice of Gunn’s Bakery toast.
Not a breakfast person? They’re also known for killer homemade burgers—you can keep it classic or load it up by adding cheese for $1.99 or bacon for $2.50.
Pro Tip:
Save room for dessert! 2 Kelly’s offers amazing Farmers’ Market apple pies and grilled cinnamon buns from Gunn’s Bakery to cap off your visit perfectly.
WanaBees Diner
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Website: https://www.facebook.com/WannaBeesDiner/
Address: 639 Broadway
Hours: Tue – Fri: 7 AM – 2 PM
Contact: (204) 772-6969
Must-Order: Langside Style Eggs Benedict
WanaBees Diner has been serving the real city diner experience since 1992. Trust me, this place is a local favorite for a reason—actually, make that several reasons.
If you want to try something that locals swear by, go for their delicious Langside Style Eggs Benedict. This dish is rich, comforting, and provides good value since it’s served with a side of hash browns and a hot cup of coffee.
They also offer a range of sides you can add for a small fee if you’re extra hungry (or maybe nursing that hangover). Fries, poutine, onion rings, chili, and gravy? Yes, please.
As for the vibe, the diner is very welcoming without trying too hard—think checkerboard floors and bright green walls. This is definitely a friendly, non-assuming place you’d want to hang out in.
Pro Tip:
WanaBees Diner also has vegetarian options. If you’re skipping the meat, you can dig into fluffy pancakes and plenty of sides without feeling left out.
Clementine Cafe
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Website: http://clementinewinnipeg.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clementine.winnipeg/
Address: 123 Princess St
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 2 PM
Contact: (204) 942-9497
Must-Order: Fried Chicken on Toast
Clementine Cafe is a lower-level diner known for offering delicious breakfast and morning cocktails. It has just the right amount of charm that’ll make you want to stay for that second (or third) cup of coffee.
One of my favorite dishes here is their Fried Chicken on Toast. We’re talking crispy buttermilk fried chicken, jerk-spiced honey, smoked onion dip, and pickles—yum!
In the mood for something a tad exotic? Go for their Turkish Eggs, a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast that comes with creamy, flavorful eggs and toast.
What makes this diner unique is its range of delicious breakfast cocktails. In fact, their mimosa menu is epic, with options like Grapefruit, Jasmine Blood Orange, and Lychee Rosewater—perfect for a boozy brunch.
Pro Tip:
If you’re not into mimosa, Clementine Cafe also serves beer and cider. Try local favorites like Barn Hammer Final Draft Lager, Sookrams Cosmos Dry-Hopped Sour, or a bold Low Life Blood Cut IPA to pair with your meal.
White Star Diner
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Website: https://www.facebook.com/whitestardiner/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/white-star-diner/
Address: 258 Kennedy St
Hours:
- Mon – Wed: 10 AM – 4 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday: 10 AM – 7 PM
Contact: (204) 947-6930
Must-Order: Pulled Pork and Slaw Sandwich
Tucked into a downtown corner, White Star Diner is a retro spot that blends two passions of the founder, Bruce Smedts—classic diner food and legendary ocean liners.
The menu is packed with diner staples like hearty Canadian breakfasts, grilled cheese sandwiches, and poutine. But my favorite is their Pulled Pork and Slaw Sandwich—the pork is dry-rubbed, slow-roasted, and tossed in their signature White Star BBQ sauce.
Vegetarians shouldn’t feel left out. They offer a delicious veggie take on the classic Reuben that swaps corned beef for juicy tomato slices—I mean, I’m not a vegetarian, but I’ll totally eat this.
Don’t miss their yummy sides, either. You can choose their carrot and potato stampot or a deli-style coleslaw tossed in a zesty vinaigrette.
Pro Tip:
White Star Diner is known for their 40+ unique milkshakes! From Mexican Vanilla to Chocolate Raspberry Balsamic, these creamy treats are definitely worth the calories.
Kendel’s Diner
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Website: https://kendelsdiner.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kendelsserviceanddiner/
Address: 1157 McLeod Ave
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 8 AM – 3 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 2 PM
Contact: (204) 667-6021
Must-Order: Early Morning Breakfast
Kendel’s Diner is a family-run gem that has been serving the community since 1959. From all-day breakfasts to hearty sandwiches and homemade pies, they keep things simple and satisfying—just the way a diner should.
One of my go-to orders here is the Early Morning Breakfast, a no-fuss plate with two eggs and crispy hash browns. You also get your choice of bacon, ham, pork sausage, farmer sausages, or good old-fashioned kielbasa.
I love that I can sip on a bottomless cup of coffee here with any order over $5. For me, this is perfect on days when I need a little extra fuel.
Families will love it here, too. Their Kids’ Menu has something for every picky eater: pancakes, French toast, chicken fingers, hot dogs, grilled cheese—you name it.
Pro Tip:
Here’s something you don’t see every day—Kendel’s Diner doubles as a car repair shop. Yep, it’s a one-stop shop where you can grab breakfast and coffee while your car gets fixed or cleaned.
Red Top Drive Inn
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Website: https://www.redtopdriveinn.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redtopdriveinn/
Address: 219 St Mary’s Rd
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 8 AM – 8 PM
- Fri – Sat: 8 AM – 9 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM – 2 PM
Contact: (204) 233-7943
Must-Order: Special Breakfast
Opened in 1960 by Gus Scouras, Red Top Drive Inn offers classic diner old-school charm. Their aesthetic is complete with bold red accents and cozy booths, along with delicious comfort food.
Breakfast is a big deal here, and they serve it until 4 PM. I love their Special Breakfast, which comes with two eggs, hashbrowns, and toast, plus your choice of ham, bacon, or sausage.
If you’re feeling famished, you can pile on breakfast sides like more eggs, hash browns, or bacon—because why not?
Their burgers are another huge draw. Their patties are made fresh daily from local lean ground beef. A crowd pleaser is their Lot-O-Burger, which is stacked with melted cheese, mustard, chili sauce—the works.
Pro Tip:
Red Top Drive Inn also serves milkshakes for kids and adults. Their thick and creamy offerings come in Chocolate, Strawberry, Vanilla, and Root Beer.
Junction 59 Roadhouse
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Website: https://www.junction59roadhouse.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/junction59roadhouse/
Address: 1615 Regent Ave W # 200
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Fri – Sat: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Contact: (204) 654-3345
Must-Order: Philly Cheese Steak
Junction 59 Roadhouse combines the best of an American roadhouse, a Mexican cocina, and a classic Winnipeg diner—all the good stuff under one roof.
One dish I can never pass up is their Philly Cheese Steak. Imagine shaved house-roasted beef, gooey provolone, and banana peppers—yummy, right?
If you’re heading there with a group, do yourself a favor and order the Bucket Nachos, served bucket-style with salsa and sour cream. It’s a towering feast of nacho cheese, house-made queso, black beans, jalapenos, and pico de gallo.
Planning an event? They offer three unique spaces—a harvest table area, a private lounge, and a private dining room. Simply call them up to book in advance.
Pro Tip:
Junction 59 Roadhouse offers a Daily Happy Hour deal, which runs from 2 PM to 5 PM and again from 9 PM until close. This is a perfect excuse to grab drinks and nachos without breaking the bank!
Olympia Diner
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Website: https://www.olympiadiner.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olympiadiner
Address: 3253 Portage Ave
Hours: Wed – Sun: 11:30 AM – 9 PM
Contact: (204) 888-8884
Must-Order: Greek Ribs
Olympia Diner is owned by Dexter, who brings his Greek and Italian roots to every dish. He’s also a Red Seal chef, which I think is pretty impressive.
I go here whenever I’m craving their amazing Greek Ribs—a half-rack of charbroiled back ribs glazed with tangy lathorigani sauce. It’s smoky and fall-of-the-bone tender; basically, it’s everything you want in a rib dinner.
Unlike other diners, they serve a wide range of pizzas. Be it Hawaiian, pepperoni, Italian, or Canadian, you’ll love their hand-tossed crust and generous toppings.
Looking for the perfect foodie gift? They offer gift cards that you can easily buy online.
Pro Tip:
Olympia Diner offers a full catering menu, perfect for special events—birthdays, weddings, work events, what-have-you. They offer budget-friendly packages with souvlaki, salads, skewers, and more.
The Diner’s Grill
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Website: https://www.thedinersgrill.com/
Address: 405 Turenne St
Hours: Mon – Sat: 9 AM – 2 PM
Contact: (204) 257-7427
Must-Order: Our Signature Reuben
The Diner’s Grill has been a local favorite since it opened in June 2015. The owners saw a chance to bring hearty, homemade meals to the working crowd in the area—and I definitely think they nailed it.
One menu item I’ve been dreaming about constantly is Our Signature Reuben. This beauty is stacked with grilled corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and their house sauce—all sandwiched between thick-cut marble rye.
If you like variety and value, you can check out their Daily Specials, too. Fridays mean Nacho Cheese Dogs, while Saturdays are all about Drive-Thru Cheeseburgers.
This place is definitely kid-friendly as well, so make sure to bring your little ones. Their Kiddos Menu is for ages 12 and under, complete with fries and a drink (milk or juice).
Pro Tip:
The Diner’s Grill serves breakfast only until 10:45 AM on weekdays and 11:45 AM on Saturdays. So, if you’re craving an early bite, get there in time to start your day right.
The Nook
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Website: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The%20Nook%20Diner/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenookdiner/
Address: 43 Sherbrook St
Hours:
- Mon – Tue: 7 AM – 3 PM
- Wed – Sat: 7 AM – 6 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM – 5 PM
Contact: (204) 774-0818
Must-Order: Eggs Benedict
The Nook is a lovely, no-frills spot owned by Mr. and Mrs. Parasidis for over 25 years. They’re proud of using local ingredients and supporting community producers.
I swear to you, their Eggs Benedict is legendary—perfectly poached eggs, rich and well-seasoned hollandaise, golden hash browns, and a fresh orange wedge. Honestly, it might ruin you for any other Eggs Benny in town.
If omelets are more your thing, you’ll be blown away by their wide selection. They’ve got everything, from Spanish to Western, plus creative picks like spinach and feta.
And let’s not forget the service—regulars like me swear that they have the friendliest servers in town. You’ll have to see it to believe it.
Pro Tip:
If the weather’s nice, make sure to grab a seat at The Nook’s streetside patio. It’s the perfect place for a lazy breakfast or a casual lunch.
Johnny’s Marion Restaurant
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Website: https://johnnymarion.com/
Address: 382 Marion St
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs, Sun: 8 AM – 3 PM
- Fri – Sat: 7:30 AM – 9 PM
Contact: (204) 237-6219
Must-Order: 2 Eggs Any Style
Since 1977, Johnny’s Marion Restaurant has been a family-run diner serving delicious and affordable Winnipeg diner staples.
They offer breakfast specials Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 11 AM (except holidays). My favorite is the 2-Egg Any Style, with hash browns, toast, and your choice of bacon, ham, or sausage—you can add a coffee, small milk, or juice for just $3.25.
Hearty specials are also offered throughout the week. For instance, Pizza Fridays are when you can grab a 10-inch two-topping pizza for only $12.95 after 11 AM, while steak lovers should visit during Prime Rib Saturdays.
Keep in mind that the building shows its age, so this is definitely a “hole-in-the-wall” in the most authentic way. But don’t worry, the food more than makes up for it.
Pro Tip:
Celebrating something (or just need a drink after a long day)? Johnny’s has a full beer and wine list inside the menu, so grab a glass and make it a proper night out.
Dave and LaVerne’s Modern Diner
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Website: https://www.daveandlavernesdiner.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daveandlavernesdiner
Address: 15 Lakewood Blvd
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Fri – Sat: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Contact: (204) 594-9015
Must-Order: Oklahoma Smash
Dave and LaVerne’s is a tribute to co-founder Darin Amies’ parents, who grew up in an era where entertaining was everything. I love its retro 1950s diner vibe, with mid-century modern touches and a hint of industrial design.
Their menu takes everything you love about diner comfort food and elevates it with fresh ingredients and modern techniques. So, think of your local neighborhood diner, but make it a tad fancier.
My go-to order here is the Oklahoma Smash burger, and soon, it might also be yours. It has two juicy smashed patties layered with American cheese, grilled onions, and burger sauce—all stacked on a soft potato bun.
And if you’re coming on a Sunday, don’t miss their Send-Off Sunday. Here, mimosas flow and brunch vibes hit just right—a weekend treat that’s always well-deserved.
Pro Tip:
Planning to splurge at Dave and LaVerne’s? Pair your meal with premium spirits like Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon or Decor Cabernet Sauvignon.