The Wood Tavern at the Norwood Hotel is just one of several changes to the St. Boniface property. (HANDOUT)
WINNIPEG — The Norwood Hotel is cooking up something special with a completely transformed bistro and tavern set to open this weekend.
The Marion Street hotel has undergone seven months of extensive renovations to complete 10,000 square feet of new dining space.
“When people walk through the doors, they’ll feel instantly impressed and also instantly at home,” said Ben Sparrow, CEO of Sparrow Hotels.
“We’ve brought a new level of sophistication to both the food and the design, while retaining the cozy, casual atmosphere our patrons have always loved.
While first impressions may only show a cosmetic improvement to the St. Boniface landmark, Sparrow says it’s much more than that. The redevelopment also includes a whole new menu and new culinary equipment.
Pauline Bistro is among the new additions at the Norwood Hotel, serving guests breakfast and brunch with a French-inspired twist. The space took its design elements from the 1920s era and used well-known St. Boniface artist and actor Pauline Boutal as its inspiration.
Pauline Bistro (HANDOUT)
“The concept is a nod to the surrounding Francophone community,” Sparrow says. “It’s a place with broad appeal, but with those special touches that take it to the next level.”
The Wood Tavern is among the renovated additions to the property, perfect for lunch and dinner dining. The space maintains the casual bar atmosphere regulars will familiarize themselves with, while new decor creates an outdoorsy vibe.
As guests walk between both The Wood and Pauline, they will be treated to a view of the new show kitchen with a seven-foot-wide wood-fired grill being the centrepiece of the space. The grill is said to be the largest of its kind in Winnipeg.
Carousel Gaming Lounge (HANDOUT)
“It’s an amazing piece of equipment, creating the look of a fireplace and the incredible tastes and aromas of open fire cooking,” Sparrow added.
On the gaming side of the Norwood, the Carousel Gaming Lounge has been upgraded with its own remodelled bar with comfortable new seating.
The Norwood has also opened new private meeting spaces adjacent to the tavern to cater to presentations and receptions. A sliding wall turns the 985-square-foot space into a more intimate setting for smaller groups, whether it be for corporate gatherings or a private dinner.
New intimate gathering spaces at the Norwood Hotel can cater to those seeking a private dinner or the setting for a special event. (HANDOUT)
The Wood Tavern and Carousel Gaming Lounge are open daily from 11 a.m. to late. Pauline Bistro is open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Sparrow Hotels also owns and operates the Inn at The Forks, Smith restaurant, Riverstone Spa, Mere Hotel and ERA Bistro and Catering.
