Read moreI give it a 5-star review because I am picky, really! Based on my only experience there, so far, I can say: (1) Waiting time, a tad too much but it is not the fault of the restaurant but still needs to be considered (Sat 11 am) (2) Interior: rather tight and small so expect more noise than usual and lots of involuntary eye contact (3) Let's talk coffee, shall we? I got myself a cappuccino. The cup and saucer were not too shabby but just right (a more colorful one, would have even be better). The latte art was usual but well done and a nice touch. The flavor was exquisite and memorable (that is really all that matters to me). The lady who served us also knew which beans they used lol and if you think it is the case every where else, think again or better: try and ask! So to sum it up, their cappuccino was at least at par with my other favorite coffee shop's cup of cappuccino in town. (4) The side dish we got: Beet Tabbouleh, Bulghur, Pomegranate, Macadamia Cream, Herbs, Pistachios. It was an amazing tasteful starter. I can remember all the ingredients listed except the pistachio which is not a big deal at all. The pomegranate juice had infused into the bulghur and gave it a nice color and flavor. Summary: Go for it ;) (5) My main dish was: Squash Shakshouka || Vadouvan Curry, Piquillo Pepper, Pickled Carrots, Poached Egg, Raita, Sourdough. The bread slices (x2) were extremely fresh and tasty (was rubbed with some olive oil or so) The plate was a discovery journey. Going clockwise, I felt like visiting 5-7 different countries :) All the texture and flavors were harmonious, distinct, and well balanced. Even the few microgreens on top was not meant as only eye pleaser but the gate into a whole new continent. It was not too sweet given the ingredient, not sour at all, and not too mushy. It was #JustRight for me. [we also ordered the Tirkich Eggs of which I tasted the humus. It was not only delicious but very silky and not grainy at all. Two thumbs up!] Verdict: The best dish I have had so far in my recent visits to the city. || Misc -- Portion sizes were just right for me. I did not feel too full and did not left the table hungry desiring more. Staff: Courteous and helpful. I ask a few questions including their recommendation and I got a real recommendation not like the one you get in other places. Kitchen: You could see the kitchen and it was not an eye-soar though. I don't have special feeling about it. Chairs/Tables: I would have loved a shorter table or a higher chair so I did not have to put my elbows on the table too often. Water: we got a carafe and glasses immediately with the silverware which was very good. Table cloth: nope, none. Napkins were provided though. Pastry & Dessert: not on the menu. Here you have it ;) Hope you also have a very pleasant experience if you visit them as we...
Essentials: great food, amazing ambience, and stellar service. Below will be a somewhat comprehensive review.
I have only visited Clementine twice, and I can confidently say this is the best breakfast restaurant in Winnipeg. The menu is balanced well, ranging from light breakfast such as porridge, all the way to heavier dishes, like the fried chicken on toast. Plenty of drinks as well, both hot, alcoholic, and non-alcoholic to choose from. The portions are plentiful, with a handful of sides to order from can supplement the table if you're with a group.
I ordered the fried chicken on toast, tamarind lemongrass soda, and the yogurt panna cotta with an interesting granita on top that will be discussed further down.
The fried chicken on toast reminded me of Nashville hot chicken. The chicken has pickled zucchini sitting on top, while the fried chicken sits on top of a bed of lettuce, followed by toast and spicy mayo spread. Great crust, juicy chicken, and appropriately sized proportion.
Clementine has done their own spin on (or was inspired by) Nashville hot chicken, replacing the usual crinkle cut pickles with pickled zucchini, adding (I think) a spicy mayo, and thinly cut lettuce. Instead of drenching the chicken in a hot lard sauce, it's drizzled with it. Fantastic dish! Washing this down with a tamarind lemongrass soda caps it all off. I had only one problem, the bread + mayo combo was not it. First thing that came to mind was that it tasted like paint, but subsided after a bit.
I can't really speak on the tamarind lemongrass soda. I didn't have enough of it to remember it. I should've ordered a gallon.
Next was dessert. I settled for a yogurt panna cotta with green granita, hemp hearts, and cara cara oranges. On the first bite, I was blasted with a familiar flavour from the granita, but one that I could not immediately think of. Very interesting flavour, and definitely a great finisher to a brunch/breakfast. The panna cotta was great, just as I expected. I remember it being smooth and complimented by hemp hearts and oranges.
Clementine has really set the bar for breakfast food here in Winnipeg, and quite possibly for any breakfast restaurant for me. A combination of eclectic food, inviting ambience, nice glasses/cutlery, and efficient service is all I need to highly recommend to anyone I talk to about food. A must visit restaurant to anyone that...
Read moreAfter several friends and colleagues recommended Clementine Cafe for brunch, I recently had the pleasure of dining at Clementine Cafe and I must say, it was an experience that exceeded all expectations. From the cheerful ambiance to the tantalizing flavors, this eatery truly knows how to create a memorable dining experience. I had the following dishes:
Chia Pudding The chia pudding I ordered was a delightful start to my meal. The creamy texture combined with the perfect balance of sweetness made it a refreshing and satisfying choice. Topped with fresh berries and a sprinkle of nuts, it was a light and healthy treat that left me wanting more.
Cauliflower Salad Next up, I savored the cauliflower salad, which was a true revelation. The combination of roasted cauliflower, mixed greens, and tangy dressing created a symphony of flavors. Topped with crunchy cashews, this dish was a delightful mix of textures. The thoughtful composition of ingredients showcased the chef's creativity and attention to detail.
Fried Chicken Toast The fried chicken toast at Clementine Cafe is a standout dish that beautifully blends the flavors of crispy chicken, toasted bread, and a mouthwatering sauce. Each bite was a perfect balance of savory and indulgent.
Braised Bacon Benedict One cannot visit Clementine Cafe without trying their infamous bacon Benedict. The perfectly poached eggs, crispy bacon, and velvety hollandaise sauce amounted to a decadent and satisfying brunch dish. The flavors harmonized flawlessly, and the presentation was simply stunning.
All in all, Clementine Cafe is certainly a culinary gem that should not be missed. Whether you're in the mood for a healthy and refreshing breakfast or a hearty and indulgent brunch, their menu offers a wide array of delectable options to suit every palate.
Disclaimer: This review is purely based on my personal...
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