After releasing two full-length studio albums in 2021 with a handful of songs that didn’t quite fit into either record, Winnipeg-based musician Ariel Posen decided to put them all together in one cohesive collection for his forthcoming EP, Downtown EP.
The first two singles, “Downtown” and “Always Saw Coming” showcase the celebrated singer and guitar player’s signature style and sound, while exploring new territories, which Posen describes as “like there were some extremely exciting musical things happening. Therefore, it felt right to make the Downtown EP. I love each of these songs, and they really have a cohesiveness.”
With the anticipated EP dropping online and on 10” vinyl on July 29, we decided to catch up with Posen to talk about his local food and beverage scene before he resumes his international tour later this month.
Breakfast
In Winnipeg, my hometown, there are a lot of staples and favourites for certain meals, especially breakfast. I’m the type of person that has a really hard time picking one, so I’m going to have to be that guy that picks a few of my favourites.
Clementine, Falafel Place or The Nook are my top 3 that come to mind. All very different, but all have the similarities that make for a wholesome breakfast experience.
Lunch
For lunch, it's endless but I’m going to have to go with the Tallest Poppy. It has character and it has a little bit for everyone. I don’t eat meat anymore, but when I did the brisket sandwich was the only thing I would ever order and it was amazing every time.
Dinner
I’m a big sushi guy, and there are a lot of great sushi spots in town—considering that Winnipeg is right in the middle of Canada. My favourite is Sushi Ya on Corydon.
My friend Danny took it over a number of years ago and every time I’m there it's just a lovely experience and the food is great too. I used to live right around the corner and I would make a point of doing as many meals there as possible.
Drinks
I’m not much of a drinker, never have been, but since I’m a musician, all my favourite spots to go have a beer are music venues like Times Change(d). Some honourable mentions that aren’t venues are the Langside Grocery and The Yellow Dog.
