deer + almond
Popcorn, Cinnamon, Garlic, Cayenne, Salt
Barbeque Carrots, Celeriac Puree, Hazelnut Butter, Mimolette Cheese, Granola
Pickerel, Bacon, Dashi Grits, Roasted Pumpkin, Jalapeno Feta
Apple, Pumpkin Ice Cream, Spiced Pavlova, Cranberry, Oat Crumble
Not know as a destination city for dining, or really much but wildlife and hockey based on research while planning a three day visit, it was around 8:00pm on Wednesday that walk-in availability was found at Winnipeg’s deer + almond, one of only two Manitoba Restaurants on Canada’s “Top 100” in addition to Segovia which would be experienced the following evening.
Located downtown near the Exchange District, a low-slung building amidst modest skyscrapers easily found as it appears to be the only inhabited space in the area after dark, guests approaching deer + almond will start to notice the thump of bass from some three meters out, the opening of doors immediately telling of just what sort of “experience” the Restaurant is trying to create.
Toqued by Chef Mandel Hitzer and considered avant-garde for Winnipeg, the menu best described as fusion and presented as “Tapas” by servers, it was immediately upon seating in a room built for 68 but holding just seven that specials were described, the server pleasant but unpolished as she recited directly from a blackboard clearly visible to the left.
Certainly no place for those skeptical about big flavors or loud sounds, thumping Rap seemingly growing louder as time progressed, it was with a small bowl of heavily-seasoned Popcorn and Water that nearly twenty minutes passed before the arrival of requested plates, the first a tangle of charred Carrots whose intrinsic sweetness found balance in Hazelnut Butter and grated Cheese plus crunchy specks of Granola while earthy Celeriac thankfully took a backseat.
Deciding next amongst diverse items ranging from Soba to Weiner Schnitzel, Mandel’s German first name which translates to Almond explaining both the Restaurant’s name and dish, it was mostly childhood memories of Walleye that led to a selection of Pickerel amidst umami, the Grits a bit watery on their own but a nice contrast to Pumpkin and Pickled Vegetables plus lightly spiced Cheese.
Intentionally saving room for Dessert, the meager Canadian Dollar offering three choices at bargain prices, it was on the Waitress’ recommendation that “From the Earth” was selected, a blend of textures and flavors befitting early Autumn proving better than both savories largely on the strength of an elegant Pavlova and creamy housemade Pumpkin Ice Cream.
www.deerandalmond.com
