Welcome to White Star Diner, a beloved family-run diner in the heart of downtown Winnipeg at 258 Kennedy Street, just off Portage Avenue. Founded by Bruce Smedts — a passionate chef and ocean liner enthusiast — the diner has been a downtown institution for over 15 years, originally opening on Albert Street in the Exchange District before relocating to its current 44-seat Kennedy Street location in April 2017.
Our menu delivers everything you expect from a world-class diner — done from scratch with real, quality ingredients. The kitchen produces 17 sandwiches, 11 burgers, and over 40 milkshake flavours — all made fresh to order. The pulled pork is slow-roasted and hand-pulled in-house, the meatloaf is spiked with horseradish and served with mushroom gravy, and even the BBQ sauce and coleslaw are house-made.
White Star Diner is known not just for its food but for its warm, personal service. Bruce and his niece Hannah are often on-hand to personally greet guests. Whether you're joining us for dine-in, takeout, delivery, or catering, we're committed to providing homemade comfort food and a memorable dining experience right here in downtown Winnipeg.
From our signature smash burgers and slow-roasted pulled pork to homemade poutines with real beef gravy and over 40 milkshake flavours, everything is made fresh from scratch in our kitchen.
Step into our unique nautical world inspired by classic ocean liners. The walls are adorned with photographs, memorabilia, and keepsakes from iconic ships of the early 20th century, including the RMS Titanic.
Owner Bruce Smedts and his niece Hannah personally greet guests daily. Their motto: know you, acknowledge you, and thank you as a customer — connecting with roughly 95% of every person who walks through the door.
Regular Customer, Winnipeg
" The White Star Diner is such a gem in downtown Winnipeg!! My absolute favourite is the Salisbury steak, topped with fried onions, mushrooms and homemade gravy with a side of fries!! Each and every time I eat at White Star the food is consistently amazing and the service is unparalleled!! A must try restaurant if you're in downtown Winnipeg! "
Visitor, Liberty Lake
" Owner is super friendly and offers great service. Decent selection. The poutine is all homemade and very flavorful. Wife had the pork added and made it a meal. The split pea soup is very hearty and delicious. The burger is flattop style with a nice crust. Fresh bun and veggies. Fair prices. "
Local, Winnipeg
" I had the opportunity to check them out at their new digs and am very pleased to report that all is well. The food is still great and the shakes traditional. For those who don't know, this place has one of the best burgers in the city, and definitely the best shakes! "
Regular Customer, Winnipeg
" I can't believe I haven't reviewed this place already. I've been going to this place since it first opened on Albert St. The 'Double Oink' has changed — it now has a burger patty added on to it, so it's really going to fill you up. If you're looking for a heart attack on a bun, then order the Grilled Cheese section of the menu. "
Corporate Client, Winnipeg
" My company picked up pulled pork, slaw and Greek salad for a company BBQ for 15 people. The food was wonderful and everyone enjoyed their meal. The pulled pork was flavorful and tender — many went back for seconds! The price was fair. I would order from them again for a company event! "
