Top 3 Places to Eat in Churchill

Captivating image of a polar bear walking through the snow in Churchill, Canada.
Brian Hydesmith, Pexels

Churchill's culinary landscape, while compact, offers a distinct taste of the sub-Arctic, featuring local ingredients such as Arctic char, bison, and elk, catering primarily to visitors drawn by its unique wildlife and natural phenomena.

1. Dan's Diner

Cuisine: Fine dining with regional and local fare

Imagine a truly unparalleled dining experience beneath the captivating Northern Lights. This unique pop-up restaurant, accessible by a Tundra Buggy ride across the frozen Churchill River, presents a meticulously curated seven-course meal. Chefs are inspired by the surrounding land and sea, incorporating local delicacies like elk, caribou, and Arctic char, sometimes even fresh greens grown hydroponically. The setting, with its panoramic windows and skylights, allows for direct aurora viewing, making it an unforgettable adventure. Stepping outside onto the snowy ground after dinner for a clearer view of the aurora is also an option. This experience is seasonal, typically offered in February and March.

Price: From $379 CAD / $276 USD per person (excluding taxes and gratuity, 2024 pricing).

Getting There: Requires transportation via a specialized Tundra Buggy from Fifty Eight North in Churchill, included as part of the dining experience.

2. Ptarmigan

Cuisine: Canadian, inspired by local and regional flavours

Stepping into Ptarmigan, Churchill's newer dining establishment, I found a warm and inviting atmosphere with a modern touch. The menu skillfully highlights local ingredients, offering delicious dishes such as perfectly cooked Arctic char, hearty bison burgers, and tender elk medallions. For brunch, their eggs Benedict come highly recommended. Friendly service and barista-made lattes complete the experience, making it an excellent choice for both casual meals and special occasions throughout the year.

Price: Main dishes typically range from CAD $20 - $40.

Getting There: Conveniently located at 26 Franklin Street, it is within walking distance from many accommodations in the main area of Churchill.

3. Tundra Pub

Cuisine: Home-cooked meals and comfort food with a regional twist

The Tundra Pub is a lively local favourite, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The atmosphere is social and welcoming, frequented by both residents and visitors. I enjoyed their home-cooked meals, especially the popular Borealis Burger, and found a good selection of other comfort food classics like poutine, chicken fingers, and pierogis, alongside regional Arctic options such as pickerel or bison tacos. They often feature daily specials and host weekly evening events with live music and open mic nights, adding to the vibrant energy. Note that it operates seasonally, typically July-August and October-November.

Price: Estimated cost per person CAD $14 - $34.

Getting There: Located at 23 Franklin Street, it is easily accessible on foot from the central area of Churchill.