Sam's Place

The open mic night is pretty cool. I suggest people come and check it out! The coffee is good too. I going to try more drinks here. Love how all the different kind of talent that is here.

Last year I wrote about my favourite cookbook, More with Less. A Mennonite cookbook it contains many great recipes along with displaying a concern for using earth’s resources well. Combining good food and social concern is a hallmark of many Mennonite ventures, and Sam’s Place cafe on Henderson Highway certainly fits that model.

This is one of my favourite places in Winnipeg. First off I will declare my bias. My daughter volunteers here. And if you happen to go when she is volunteering, and she has time, she will do something artistic for your latte or hot chocolate just for that added touch. Yes, I said volunteers. Sam's is a not for profit establishment that puts its profits back into social service projects and so relies on a whole bunch of volunteers to help bring about what it does. As a result, you might find that it's not the quickest place in town. That's okay. It's also a used bookstore, so grab your cappuccino and browse around and enjoy this little bubble in your day and just breathe. Or if you're in a hurry, phone ahead and ask for a take out. They'll do that.

The food is great. It is not the same old stuff you get in every other restaurant in Winnipeg. Different flavours and tastes to try and lots of healthy options. Great coffee, teas and desserts, too. And absolutely grab a chocolate bar to store in your desk for a nibble later in the afternoon. It's really good chocolate.

Last time I was there with a group from work and one co-worker had celiac disease, most of the menu was available to her as they can substitute gluten free bread on the sandwiches and relatively few of the other menu items have ingredients with gluten.

I love the atmosphere of the place. I often come just to have coffee with a friend because it's such a good place to talk. My only warning is you probably won't leave without something you want to read.

Amazing food, great service. I've gone to Sam's Place many times and love the casual atmosphere and fantastic food. They aren't perfect, as they work with youth and volunteers, but that's one of the reasons I go. The whole place just feels real. Volunteers serve you because they care, not because they are trying to get money out of you. And their Roast Beef sandwich is delicious!

Favourite lunch spot!. Love this place! I have come here a handful of times for lunch and have loved my meal every time. The sandwiches are really creative and delicious. They use seasonal and local ingredients. I think they make their own bread for the sandwiches...it is amazing! This place is a perfect atmosphere to get some work done during the day. It's usually pretty quiet and something about being surrounded by books makes me feel productive. This is not a place to come if you are in a rush, but it's a great place to pass a couple of hours working, reading, or chatting with friends.