We're thrilled to introduce Bella — the newest addition to the Next Stop Cafe family in Winnipeg. Bella is more than a dish; it's a celebration of everything we love about Persian and Mediterranean cooking: fresh herbs, slow-cooked proteins, fragrant rice, and a presentation that turns every plate into something special.
What is Bella?
Bella is our signature Persian-Mediterranean fusion plate — saffron-marinated chicken or lamb served over a bed of dill-and-fava bean rice (baghali polo), topped with sumac onions, charred tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of yogurt-tahini sauce. It's bold, balanced, and unmistakably ours.
Why we created it
Our team wanted a signature dish that captured the heart of our menu in one plate. After months of testing in our kitchen at 333 Pembina Hwy, Bella was born — a dish that pulls together the smoky char of a Persian grill, the freshness of Mediterranean herbs, and the comfort of a perfectly steamed Iranian rice.
How it's made
- Protein: Free-range chicken or tender lamb, marinated 24 hours in saffron, yogurt, lemon, and onion.
- Rice: Aged basmati layered with dill and fava beans, steamed slowly so each grain stays separate and fragrant.
- Toppings: Sumac-cured onions, charred cherry tomatoes, fresh parsley, mint, and tarragon.
- Sauce: A cool yogurt-tahini drizzle with garlic and lemon.
When to order Bella
Bella works as a sit-down lunch, a hearty dinner, or a centrepiece for private catering. It's also one of the most photogenic plates we make — perfect for date nights and special occasions.
Visit us
Bella is available now at Next Stop Cafe, 333 Pembina Hwy, Winnipeg. Dine in, order takeout, or reserve a table to try it tonight.
FAQ
Is Bella halal? Yes — like everything on our menu, Bella uses certified halal meat.
Can it be made vegetarian? Absolutely — we'll swap the protein for grilled portobello and halloumi.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, the dish is naturally gluten-free.