Cheers to the Bella Vista

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Phil Hossack / Winnipeg Free Press Green Leader James Beddome at his favourite Winnipeg place, showing off seeds the party gives away to voters.

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There is a place in Winnipeg, that is home away from home for many. A place where everybody knows your name and portraits of the regular patrons adorn the wall behind the bar. The Bella Vista restaurant, located at Maryland Street and Wolseley Avenue. The Bella is a staple of the West Broadway/Wolseley neighbourhood, and one of my favourite places to be in Winnipeg.

Of course there are many great establishments on the Sherbrook and Maryland strip, such as the Standard, Cousin's, Boon Burger, the Nook, Stella's, and so many others. The entire strip is always alive with activity, and I frequent many of the local establishments, but the Bella has a familiar feel for me. It reminds me of a small-town Manitoba restaurant. Having grown up on a mixed-livestock operation near Rapid City, going to the Bella is like a mini-voyage back to my youth.

I enjoy the many regular patrons, and the political banter enjoyed over local beer served on tap. Their famous pizza is great, made with real cheese and homemade ingredients, and reasonably priced too. The large murals of famous scenic Italian views also add to the ambiance.

The Bella also boasts a regular lineup of great local musical talent. Open jam night, which often features the bluesy musical stylings of Tim Butler & Co. is always a blast.

It is no surprise then, that the Green party chose to host its election-night roundup at the Bella Vista restaurant. Come down on Oct. 4 after 8 p.m. and watch the election results come in with the Green team. We hope to be celebrating the historic election of Manitoba's first Green MLA(s).

James Beddome is leader of the Green Party of Manitoba

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition October 2, 2011 A8