Star Grill at the Conservatory
The Conservatory at Assiniboine Park has been a long time destination of my family’s. When my Polish Grandma (with an incredible green thumb) would come for a visit, we would often take her there. You had to keep your eye on her though or she would try to steal a slip of a favourite plant. When in her later years (she lived into her 90s) she finally acquiesced and allowed indoor plumbing to be installed, she placed a hoya on the edge of her bathtub. A soak in her tub was jungle- like when the little plant climbed and twisted itself all over that corner of the bathroom. The plant itself outlived my Grandma and I have been the caretaker of one of its babies for 23 years-isn’t life amazing?
As is my habit-I digress…. I still go to the Conservatory whenever I can drop in for a quick visit and see the seasonal displays outside of the Star Grill which is the reason I write today. The park is situated about half way between the homes’ of a friend and business collaborator so is a perfect spot to meet for lunch. On this day we sat in the beautiful terrace and enjoyed the sun.
Since I am of Aboriginal descent wild rice is a natural craving and because it is so nutritional, we try to include it in as many recipes as possible. The Wild Rice Bowl is a salad selection on the Star Grill’s menu and includes a delicious mixture of sun-dried cranberries, grated carrots, cucumbers, red onions, lettuce, roasted peanuts & peanut sauce.
The regional menu also features local pickerel served a vaiety of ways and bison, another treat tyipcal of the prairies. The next time I’m there for lunch, I already know that I will chose the Open Faced Mediterranean sandwich -smoked turkey with artichokes, spicy eggplant , black olives, Feta & Swiss. The life of a foodie-always anticipating the next meal……
Kath’s quote: “The discovery of a new dish does more for human happiness than the discovery of a new star.” Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin (1755-1826)
Leaving town again and never did get the chance to visit Star Grill in the park. It was on my wish list. Thanks for the post. I’ve been noodling about how wonderful wild rice cabbage rolls (golumki in Polish) would be but have yet to start working on the recipe. Any thoughts?
This is one of my favorite patios in Winnipeg. It’s somewhat of a hidden gem though, I think. Everytime ive been, most of the patrons are eating inside. What’s lunch/dinner in the park if you’re eating indoors?
You’ve inspired me with that thought. I may work on it with Sis #3 who tests recipes on an on-going basis.
It occurred to me yesterday that the park is no where near a half way point for you and I-you are driving very far. Hope it still works as “our” meeting place.