Spice Enroute is a tasty choice

North End

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This article was published 21/06/2023 (1023 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Harry Sandhu was born in India but grew up and was educated in Dublin, Ireland. The personable owner of Spice Enroute remembers that his three year-old business suffered heavily during the COVID-19 pandemic and didn’t recover until October 2022.

Situated on the northwest corner of McPhillips Street and Murray Avenue, he regularly sees thousands of cars streaming by on the way to the beaches, and says that “many stop in on their drive back.”

Sandhu said many of his customers hail from Gimli and West St. Paul – in fact, 70 per cent are “out-of-towners.”

The Irish citizen, who arrived here with his wife and two children in 2016, says he chose Winnipeg because extended family and friends reside here. Once the family arrived, he was surprised to find that Winnipeg has a large Indian community.

Sandhu, in his 40s, also owns two Papa John’s pizza restaurants including one at the northwest corner of Sheppard Street and Inkster Boulevard.

“I am blessed,” he declared. “Winnipeg is really a friendly city.”

To be a true fan of Spice Enroute, you must taste some of the proprietor’s seven sauces, which include onion, ginger, garlic and turmeric. Most Indian dishes are based around turmeric, which is known for its health benefits.

“I cook according to European tastes, because I’ve always wanted to cook food my way,” Sandhu said.

His menus offer north Indo-Chinese (Hakka) cuisine, with both meat and vegetarian options. The house specialities are butter chicken, chicken marsala, palak paneer (made with a rich tomato, spinach gravy), and dal makhini (made with lentils, spices and sauce).

As we chatted, I noticed a long table with about 18 young men of assorted ages who seemed to be enjoying a feast. In short order, countless bowls of sauces, plates of food and rice as well as platters of freshly-baked naan were consumed.

The aromatic fragrance of spices filled the small restaurant and were so enticing, that I decided to sample the menu. I requested, “Lightly spiced please.” Afterwards, my critique was a heartfelt 10 out of 10.

For those who opt for snacks, there are many small-plate choices, such as samosas (potato-filled pastries) or other favorites, at a reasonable cost. The restaurant also offers a full liquor menu inside. Only non-alcoholic drinks are served on the outside patio. Hours are from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and closing time is 11 p.m. on weekends. For large parties call ahead at 204-306-6600.