Winnipeg’s Most Elegant Italian Dinner? Vida Cucina Italia at The Fort Garry Hotel

Posted on by The Posh Foodie

Looking for one of the best Italian restaurants in Winnipeg? Vida Cucina Italia at The Fort Garry Hotel offers fine Italian dining in a truly grand setting — elegant, welcoming, and led by Chef Fabrizio Rossi.

I spent a lovely evening there with friends, and let’s just say: between the signature lasagna and the 20-year tawny port, we’re already planning our return.

A Fine Dining Experience with Italian Flair

Tucked inside The Fort Garry Hotel, Vida Cucina Italia blends old-world Italian charm with modern culinary elegance. The menu is led by Chef Fabrizio Rossi, originally from Rome, whose cooking is a heartfelt tribute to his mother’s recipes and the fading traditions of authentic Italian cuisine. Every dish reflects his refined technique and deep-rooted passion for flavour.

Chef Rossi is joined by Chef Rosanna Marziale, renowned for her innovative approach to Italian cooking. Her signature 2013 Michelin-starred dish, Pizza al Contrario, is featured on the menu. She partners in the restaurant alongside Ida Albo, owner and managing partner of The Fort Garry Hotel.

The Atmosphere

The space has a soft glow, perfect for a relaxed yet elevated night out. It was a little warm inside (thanks, Winnipeg summer), but the ambience and food more than made up for it.

A huge thanks to our server Christal and other staff — warm, witty, and full of great suggestions. And very patient with our photo and video ops.

What We Ordered

We went all in. Research, right?

Appetizers / 前菜

  • Caprese di Burrata – Creamy burrata with tomatoes and basil. Simple and spot-on.
  • Calamari e Gamberi – Lightly fried squid and shrimp. I had it as a main, but it’s definitely a sharezies — the portion is very generous.
  • Cesare e Modo Nostro – House-style Caesar salad with a twist. The full size is MASSIVE!
  • Brushette al Pomodoro – Tomato-garlic bruschetta. Always a classic.
Cesare e Modo Nostro
CDN$24
Sea Leggs
CDN$18
Brushette al Pomodoro
CDN$15

Main Courses / 主菜

  • Gnocchi Sorrentina – Pillowy soft gnocchi in rich tomato sauce.
  • Filetto alla Romana – Tenderloin steak, beautifully done.
  • Lasagna Vida – Their signature lasagna.
  • Pappardelle al Cinghiale – Wild boar ragu over wide ribbon noodles. Earthy and unforgettable.
  • Pollo Ripieno alla Cacciatora – Stuffed chicken with hunter-style sauce. Comforting, elegant.
Gnocchi Sorrentina
CDN$32
Lasagna Vida
CDN$36
Pollo Ripieno alla Cacciatora CDN$38

Desserts / 甜点

  • Torta al Cioccolato Fondente – Dark chocolate cake. Decadent.
  • Torta della Nonna – Lemon custard tart with pine nuts. Light, zesty, nostalgic.
  • Tiramisù in Tazza – Tiramisu in a cup. Disappeared fast.

Dessert Wine / 甜酒

  • Quevedo 20yr Tawny Porto – Smooth, rich, and a perfect finish.

Want a closer look at the dishes and the prices? Here’s a 1-minute video of our dining experience at Vida Cucina Italia — come along for the full spread and vibe:

Final Thoughts

Vida Cucina Italia is a standout when it comes to Italian food in downtown Winnipeg. The restaurant recently earned a 2025 Wine Spectator Restaurant Award, and it’s easy to see why. From house-made pasta to a thoughtful wine list, everything is done with care and class.

Whether you’re celebrating something special or just in the mood for handmade gnocchi and great cocktails, Vida deserves a spot on your list.

📍 222 Broadway, Winnipeg, MB – Lobby level (left), inside The Fort Garry Hotel
🌐 https://vidacucinaitalia.com/
🚗 The Fort Garry Hotel offers both valet and self-parking. For more details, visit fortgarryhotel.com/faqs. Street parking is also available nearby. I often park on Garry St. or Broadway
🔌 The Fort Garry Hotel offers two Tesla charging stations in the lower parkade. Parking for non-Tesla EVs, visit the front desk to borrow an adapter.

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