Hermanos steakhouse expands brand to Brandon

BRANDON — Hermanos South American Steakhouse is preparing to open its first location outside Winnipeg — in the historic Brandon central fire station — next month.

Plans include a full steakhouse and lounge, a cigar lounge in the building’s hayloft and a 50-seat comedy club in the basement.

The expansion marks a significant milestone for the nearly two-decade-old restaurant brand, known for its South American-inspired cuisine and roots in the Exchange District.

Hermanos co-founder Noel Bernier said the move into Brandon reflects both growth ambitions and a careful search for the right fit.

“After nearly 20 years of success in a difficult market, we were looking for a new place to grow and fully express our brand,” Bernier said. “Brandon checked all the boxes.

“We’re a downtown brand that thrives in historic buildings,” he added. “The firehall (built in 1911) allows us to stay true to that identity while becoming part of a city that’s clearly on the move.”

Leading day-to-day operations will be Bernier’s son, Riley Bernier, who will serve as operational executive chef and co-owner alongside his wife, Juliana. The family plans to relocate to Brandon permanently.

The restaurant is expected to employ between 50 and 70 staff once fully operational, with hiring already underway.

“The steakhouse itself will seat roughly 130 guests, with an additional 40-seat patio and a smaller lounge space upstairs,” Noel Bernier said. “Though licensed for larger capacities, the design allows flexibility for both daily dining and occasional large-scale events.”

Despite that flexibility, Bernier said the business will remain focused on its core identity: “We’re not event-driven, we’re a steakhouse first.”

The restaurant and lounge are targeting a mid-June opening; the comedy venue is expected to launch in the fall.

— Brandon Sun