CRAVING CURRIES
Neighbourhood: Charleswood
Address: 3116 Roblin Blvd
Phone: 204-415-7707
Entrees: $10 – $30
In Winnipeg’s ever-expanding Indian dining scene, Craving Curries has quietly carved out a place worth noticing. Tucked into the former Capital Grill space in Charleswood, it’s the kind of suburban spot that justifies the drive west, led by the promise of bold flavours.
The kitchen is guided by Vijay Sharma, alongside sons Vishal and Rahul, whose experience traces back to Delhi’s prestigious Taj Hotels. That foundation shows in a menu rooted largely in northern Indian traditions, where tandoor cooking, flat breads, and richer gravies define much of the offering. Southern influences appear in select dishes, bringing brighter, spice-forward contrast and a welcome sense of range.
The menu rewards curiosity and a willingness to share. Street food–inspired starters set the tone: crispy corn lands hot and lightly spiced, while chili chicken momo, served on a sizzling platter, sends up waves of garlic, onions, and chili across the table. Gol gappe leans playful, inviting diners to fill crisp shells with a chickpea-potato mix and herbaceous liquid before eating them as one-bite flavour bombs.
Tandoor and richer sauces define Northern focused entrées. Saffron malai chicken tikka, cooked in the tandoor, balances smoky char with gentle creaminess and routinely turns heads on nearby tables. Chicken labab dar, a slightly sweet tomato-based curry, feels comforting and unexpectedly light. Vindaloo prawns shift the tone, delivering a sharper, spice-forward edge that nods to southern influence.
Vegetable dishes are given equal attention. Aloo gobi masala delivers warmly spiced potatoes and cauliflower in balanced satisfying bites, while sarson da saag, a robust and creamy bowl of mustard greens, turns leafy greens into something indulgent. Hearty morsels of spiced lamb add layered warmth. Naan, in any variation, is essential; a basil-dotted version brings a subtle aromatic lift for scooping and gathering sauces.
Dessert keeps things traditional. Gajar halwa, made with carrots, milk, and ghee, provides a warm, gently sweet finish that neatly rounds out the meal.
Craving Curries successfully balances familiar comforts with regional variety. It’s a welcome addition to the neighbourhood, and a destination that reaches well beyond it.