Bailey's Restaurant & Bar

Stellar! I always try to stay away from the chains when visiting new places so I can experience something unique. This was no disappointment. Don't want to read my verbose review? Summary: cool atmosphere, fancy if you want it and relaxed if you don't, good pricing, excellent food, good wine list, awesome server. Some of my love was obviously influenced by this building being built in 1900 so it reminded me of a home I lived in and loved that was built in 1914...and I'm a sucker for good prime rib. I was on a short work trip so didn't have my fanciest duds so was really hoping I wouldn't be underdressed. From the entrance lobby with its brass lion and exquisite wooden panelling and staircase I feared I was going to be too shabby. If I had gone upstairs to the fancier dining room I may have been. However, my business partner and I stayed down in the very well re-purposed lower bar/lounge which had an amazing feel. Comfy lounge chairs with appropriately low tables achieved the required relaxation. Our server (I'm sorry I'm awful with names) was also from Edmonton and was the perfect amount of respectful but laid back, adapting to the environment perfectly. Her conversation was a great addition to the evening. The wine, Henry of Pelham Baco Noir, was well balanced and great value while allowing me to stick to my quest to always support a VQA winery. Despite not having the baked oysters I wanted, her alternate suggestion of the escargot or scallops was well received and the resulting scallops in mushroom caps that I ordered were simple yet mouthwatering. Prime rib was tender and only subtly spiced to allow enjoyment of the natural meat flavour. Potatoes and housemade cream of mushroom soup were very welcome additions. My ONLY complaint was that my yorkshire pudding, although delicious, was deflated and a bit soggy from perching atop my steak. But that doesn't even warrant a half star deduction. I will remember this place fondly and will very likely break my "no repeats" rule should I land myself in Winnipeg again.