BRAZEN HALL
Neighbourhood: Fort Rouge
Address: 800 Pembina Hwy
Phone: 204-453-7980
Entrees: $14 – $35
More than five years after emerging on the food scene, Brazen Hall lures with its lively setting and wins fans for its bold, brash food. This bi-focused brewery and spirited gastropub straddles its casual vibes and obsession with details. Décor is relaxed yet smart; salvaged wood covering walls and beams above give a rustic barn feel, finishes and seats are chic and comfortable.
While city breweries with onsite tasting rooms are luring avid beer drinkers to the heart of the craft beer buzz, Brazen Hall takes the lead for its playful enjoy yourself menu. Popular multi-culti classics that fit the new generation of urban foodsters seeking out global flavours are packing in diners of all ages.
Unmistakably though, beer provides focus for what to eat here. Brew bins, visible through glass, make the connection. Burgers with a pint are an easy sell yet the dedication to boundary pushing creations has earned the restaurant a big fan base and routine wins in the annual “Le Burger Week” promotion.
The lineup features past winners and classics. Pillowy, lightly toasted potato buns, sandwich most versions, including the Krakow burger, covered with bacon peach ketchup, herbed sour cream, potato vodka aioli, cheese sauce, pickled red cabbage, and potato sticks. Habanero horseradish is diners choice.
Globally inspired bowls are another staple at this brew pub. Ramen with pork belly, a poached egg and brimming with sweet potato noodles in mushroom broth is steeped in umami. The vegan option holds its own among leading Japanese bistros.
Meaty entrées satisfy big appetites. Beef brisket, rubbed in house seasonings and front yard smoked for 14 hours, is as tender and succulent as it promises. Garlic mashed potatoes and charred veggies round out a luxurious plate.
End with s’mores chocolate cheesecake for a playful mixture of textures and flavours. Toasted marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate and caramel sauce punctuate the dining experience with a lasting impression.
