The Tavern Collective Soft Launches in Winnipeg: A New Standard in Dining Has Arrived

By: Donovan R. Martin Sr. – Editor in Chief

After years of anticipation and construction, a new culinary destination has officially opened its doors in Winnipeg. Located at 1760 Sargent Avenue, inside the Sandman Hotel property, The Tavern on King Edward made its long-awaited debut this week with a private Friends and Family soft launch—and it’s already generating the kind of buzz most restaurants only dream of. But let’s get one thing straight right off the bat: this is not Tavern United, nor is it affiliated with any other restaurant bearing a similar name. Yes, the name might cause some confusion momentarily, but the concept, execution, and experience? Completely different league.

Backed by a powerhouse team of hospitality veterans with global experience from some of the industry’s most iconic brands—including Sandman Hotels, Moxie’s Grill & Bar, The Shark Club, and more—The Tavern onis anything but a rookie attempt. This is a project spearheaded by operators who collectively manage a workforce of over 13,000 across North America. That’s not just a staggering number—it’s a statement of expertise. These are professionals who know how to deliver memorable experiences, and it shows.

I had the chance to attend their Friends and Family soft launch, and let me tell you: for a soft launch, it felt more like a polished veteran in full swing. The team got every single element right. From food to service, ambience to layout, this was a restaurant that didn’t feel new—it felt established. Comfortable. Familiar. Like it belonged here all along.

Let’s start with what everyone’s really interested in: the food. Simply put, fantastic. Affordable without feeling cheap, well-portioned without being over the top, and thoughtful in its offerings. Whether you’re solo, on a date, wrangling toddlers, or out with friends, there’s something for every appetite. But what really sets this place apart is its inclusivity—yes, even for your pets.

That’s right, The Tavern on King Edward is dog-friendly. But don’t panic, this isn’t a free-for-all. There is a dedicated section on the patio designed for four-legged guests, complete with treats from a local Winnipeg bakery. Even better, a portion of the proceeds from those pet-friendly menu items goes directly to support animal shelters in the area. That kind of forward-thinking, community-mindedness is rare—and absolutely welcome.

And for those wondering, the dogs are never allowed inside the main restaurant space. The outdoor area is completely separate, ensuring health codes and customer comfort remain top priority. Still, the spirit of inclusiveness runs deep here. One of the owner’s dogs—JD, his beloved pooch—is even the unofficial mascot, with subtle homages scattered across the décor.

Now let’s talk vibe. The ambience strikes a difficult balance with stunning ease: it’s open and inviting, family-friendly but still stylish, lively but not loud. The bar is hopping without feeling overbearing, and if you’ve got little ones—or just a love of old-school fun—there’s even an arcade tucked into the space. Yes, an arcade. A restaurant that actually understands how to keep kids (and, let’s face it, adults) entertained without sacrificing sophistication.

And then there’s the music. Oh, the music. Pure nostalgic gold—carefully curated 80s and 90s classics that hit the soul just right. The kind of playlist that brings you back without trying too hard. A little throwback R&B, a bit of synth pop, some rock—just enough to make you tap your foot, smile between bites, and feel like this isn’t just dinner, this is joy. It’s not overdone, it’s not kitsch. It just fits. You don’t even realise how much you’ve missed this vibe until you’re in it. It makes you think, this is it. This is happiness.

The design is steampunk-inspired, but don’t expect a theme park. It’s tasteful and modern, using rustic piping in the light fixtures, creatively designed bench seating that feels like a cross between airplane seating and vintage trunk furniture, and warm wood panelling that gives the whole space a cozy, well-lived-in feel. It’s one of those rare spaces where you notice the attention to detail without it screaming for your attention. It just feels right.

Even the humour is smart. Check the backs of some of the bar staff and hostess shirts—“Soup of the Day: Beer”. Hilariously brilliant. A tongue-in-cheek twist that breaks the ice and becomes instantly memorable. It’s the kind of branding that doesn’t feel like branding—it feels like personality. Like this place is alive, and the people working here are genuinely having fun.

Then there’s the service. Fast. Friendly. Abundant. Yes, I’m using that word intentionally. Because one of the biggest issues in modern dining—especially post-COVID—is the labour shortage and the slow, often frustrating experience that comes with it. Not here. At The Tavern on King Edward, you’ll never feel forgotten. Your server isn’t scrambling to cover 10 tables at once. Drinks are refilled without asking. Questions are answered promptly. Needs are anticipated before you even notice them yourself. It’s a level of service Winnipeggers aren’t necessarily used to—but they better get used to it, because this is the new standard.

Our server, Teresa, deserves special mention. Attentive, charming, knowledgeable, and warm—she was the kind of waitress who actually enhanced the experience. It didn’t feel transactional; it felt like hospitality, the way it should be. And that wasn’t just a one-off. Every staff member I encountered carried the same energy—eager to serve, proud of the space, and genuinely happy to be there. That’s culture, and you can’t fake that.

Behind the scenes, the leadership is just as compelling. Chris Chang, Brand Leader and Vice President of Operations for Shark Club Bar & Grill Canada & USA and The Tavern Collective, flew in from Vancouver to personally oversee the launch. His presence wasn’t just ceremonial—it was involved, passionate, and deeply committed to getting it right. “We wanted to create something accessible,” he said, “especially in a time when affordability matters more than ever. But we also wanted to prove that you don’t have to compromise on experience or quality. This is for families. For locals. For anyone who wants to feel welcome, well-fed, and looked after.”

Then there’s Peter Shelley, General Manager and Aussie expat who now proudly calls Winnipeg home. “I came here for love,” he said, referring to his wife, a born-and-raised Winnipegger. “But I stayed because of the people. There’s a spirit in this city—an honesty. That’s what we’re trying to capture here. It’s not about pretending to be something we’re not. It’s about being real, doing things well, and doing right by the people who walk through our doors.”

Their decision to choose Winnipeg as the first location for this new concept wasn’t random—it was a commitment to people. And that commitment includes jobs. Real jobs. Steady jobs. The kind of employment opportunities this city needs more of. It’s not just about building a restaurant—it’s about helping build a stronger community.

By the time I left, I didn’t just feel satisfied—I felt optimistic. Because The Tavern on King Edward isn’t just a new restaurant. It’s a signal. A signal that Winnipeg’s hospitality scene is evolving, elevating, and rethinking what great service and great food should feel like.

So whether you’re in the neighbourhood, staying at the Sandman, or looking for a new go-to spot for brunch, dinner, or drinks, do yourself a favour: head to The Tavern on King Edward. Sit down. Order a drink. Try the food. Bring your kids. Bring your dog. Bring your expectations—and then watch them get exceeded.

Winnipeg, get ready. The soft launch was just a taste. The doors officially open later this week—and when they do, everything you thought you knew about dining out in this city is about to change.