BERNSTEIN’S DELI
Neighbourhood: Corydon
Address: 1700 Corydon Avenue
Phone: 204-488-4552
Entrees: $8 – $18
Bernstein’s, the bustling deli-grocer in Corydon Village mall buzzes with vibrant chatter of friends and neighbours gathering over hearty homestyle cooking. The sunny space has collected its fair share of regulars in forty years, with a menu of deli classics and traditional Jewish specialties that are nonpareil.
Whereas a décor makeover upgraded its furnishings and comfy factor last year, thickly layered sandwiches piled with housemade corn beef, chopped liver or gravy smothered turkey are as good as ever.
Alongside traditional nosh are some fun and fresh additions. Aaron Bernstein, son of founding owner Marla Bernstein, is the driving force behind expanding reimaginations. Under the guidance of head chef Mike Fardoe, items like housemade jams and potato latke fries meld DIY spirit with culinary prowess. Other dishes play on trend food, like the fried chicken and waffles inspired pairing of chicken fingers and pancakes and big salads loaded with mixed veggies.
Middle Eastern dishes such as shakshuka is another popular pick. This breakfast hero has been showing up on menus all over town, but this hearty version – stewy, spicy tomato dotted with chickpeas, spinach, and saline crumbles of feta – gets bonus points for perfectly sunny runny yolks and an attractive trail of spice and sesame blend za’atar.
The chicken schnitzel sandwich puts a new twist on comfort food. A flash fried crisp chicken breast kissed with harissa mayo, tomato and lettuce in a whole wheat bun delivers exciting bites.
Traditional fare is time tested- from buttery lox and a thick smear of cream cheese on a Gunn’s bagel or in a tortilla with a scrambled egg – to crispy-fried latkes. Opt for a latke stacker and prepare to open wide for two latkes layered with deli meat (or grilled veggies) eggs and cheese.
With a knack for making diners feel at home, extended hours and a liquor permit this bright deli has aged into an even more appealing comfort zone.
