Oct/Nov 2015 Apr/May 2015 | Page 37

stand out for its tender steaming meat and crackling , well-seasoned crust .
The lunch menu bursts with sandwiches , burgers , and soups with wide appeal . In the suddenly sharp competition on Sherbrook Street for tastiest sandwich ( those in the ring include Stella ’ s , Boon Burger , and newly opened Sherbrook St Deli ), Syrie holds her own with succulent and tender beef brisket piled with tomato and horseradish aioli on thick cut bread .
The space itself is equal parts living room and gallery . Paintings by local artists , wall-sized murals , and a colourful tiled ceiling reminiscent of Mondrian are thrown into the mix with mismatched chairs and decorative antiques that transform this pre-loved , hard living space .
The penchant for soul food is clear on the dinner menu , which radiates comfort . Brisket and crispy fried chicken make an appearance in entrée form , as do Southern styled
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cornbread-topped tamale pie and roasted ham served with baked beans .
Bison meat loaf blends this homestyle cooking with local flavour . Beautifully juicy , thick slices come drizzled in rich signature gravy , with a boatload more on the side . A bean and pepper loaded sausage stew , served over rice , riffs on jambolaya , hitting all the right smoky notes .
Swoon-worthy collard greens , rarely seen this far North , are perfectly prepared , the sour , tangy notes of the greens balanced by salty cubes of pork .
A seductive glass dessert case is loaded with oft-changing varieties of pie , like mellow sweet potato , shot through with brown sugar and cinnamon . The perfect end to a hearty , homestyle meal , a generously cut slice imparts the happily overstuffed feeling that signals good hospitality .
The Tallest Poppy is open Tue & Thu 11 am-11 pm , Fri & Sat 8 am-11 pm , Sun 9 am-9 pm .
DE LUCA ' S Neighbourhood ..... Downtown Address ... 950 Portage Avenue Phone ......... 204-774-7617 Entrées ............. $ 4- $ 11
Imagine a Mediterranean market with imported Italian specialties where neighbours gleefully chatter amongst rustic , made from scratch cuisine . This is De Luca ’ s .
The market meets café delivers meats , cheeses , herby sauces and coveted sausages made fresh in the deli . Oven ready cannelloni and lasagna prepared by in-house cooks are go-to pairings with De Luca family brand of marinated tomatoes , olives and roasted red peppers . Enticing shelves hold bottles of aged balsamic vinegars and extra virgin olive oils . Five bottles
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enough you can touch her ( but you probably shouldn ’ t ).
Join Elvira Kurt at fusion grill on April 8 , 6pm for dazzling comedy and a delicious 5 course dinner before the show . Dinner Show tickets $ 150 . Menu online or call for details .
Tuesday to Saturday - Lunch and Dinner . Reservations appreciated . Walk-ins welcome . 550 Academy Rd . at Lanark St ., 204.489.6963 www . fusiongrill . mb . ca
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