PASSERO

A true Winnipeg gem, Passero tastefully bridges Postmodern charm with a dash of the 70’s; harmonizes taste and style; and brings fine Italian dining to the forefront in an effortlessly chic and yet unpretentious space.⁠

PHOTOGRAPHY Stationpoint Photographic

Passero emerged in 2017 at The Forks and witnessed such love from this city and steady growth, that it needed to expand to a new location. Looking to connect the food to its location, Passero’s new home now resides in Winnipeg’s Little Italy. 

When approaching this space, Design Shop’s vision was to take a Postmodern, old-world feel and marry it with a nod to the design aesthetics of the 1970’s, creating a timelessly chic space. The 70’s interior design aesthetic was characterized by a blend of various styles and trends that reflected the cultural and social shifts of the era: bold earthy colours, patterns and textured walls, a focus on comfort and open floor plans, avant-garde and experimental design concepts, and of course a touch of disco. These references can be seen in the pearly coloured, swag shears; oversize statement mirrors; bold graphic and floral wallpapers; earthy toned palette of cognac and warm browns; and textured surface walls, by Prairie Plaster, that reflect a hint of shimmer to pay homage to the glitz of the 70’s disco era.

Postmodernism in interior design emerged as rejection of the strict design rules of modernism and is often marked by a more maximalist, playful, and eclectic approach, while embracing historical references and nostalgia. The Passero design incorporated details like classic columns that repeat itself throughout the space, framing the bar area, as well as, behaving as anchors to create intimacy where zones of long spanned seating lay. Anchored between the columns DS created custom hickory shelving that are eclectically, and yet intentionally, furnished. Wine, serving ware and vessels which are needed throughout service are thoughtfully styled, as well as sentimental objects and books to give it a more lived-in, collected and approachable charm.

At the forefront of owners Amanda Coe and chef Scott Bagshaw’s vision was to bring together the energy of the kitchen with the dining experience. Behind Passero is a team of people who love playing around with food and wine, and bringing attention to every detail of service. Keeping an open view into the kitchen visually invites diners into chef Mitchell Man’s work, while also allowing the staff to view those enjoying their passion brought to life. This flow connects people with the story of each dish and the people (not so) behind the scenes pouring their love into these small plates, with big impact.⁠ The very heart of Passero, centred in the space, stands the kitchen, embellished with a bold, Kelly Wearstler wallpaper to echo the vibrant energy of the magic inside. This show-stopping graphic paper can be seen from the quaint bar area. Complete with full height wine storage, oversize brass pendant fixtures, and a uniquely installed heritage tile detail on the bar front, diners are drawn in as soon as one enters through the door.

Passero tastefully bridges Postmodern charm with a dash of the 70’s; harmonizes taste and style; and brings fine Italian dining to the forefront in an effortlessly chic and yet unpretentious space.