When Chef Sachin Fernandopulle accepted the role of executive chef at Grandpa’s Café in December 2024, he saw it as more than just a career move – it was a personal challenge. Having honed his culinary skills in Winnipeg’s five-star hotels and institutions, Fernandopulle was eager to bring his expertise to a smaller community.
“It was my first time working in a small community,” he says. “I took it as a challenge, and I’m loving it so far.”
Fernandopulle’s culinary journey began in 2003 as a line cook at The Pancake House. He pursued formal training at Winnipeg Technical College (now MITT) and Red River College, earning his Red Seal certification in 2011. His career includes roles at various hotels and restaurants in Winnipeg and a tenure as Head of Culinary Arts at the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology starting in 2017.
A menu that marries cultures
Under Fernandopulle’s leadership, Grandpa’s Café has embraced a fusion-inspired menu. “We are very diverse,” he explains. “If you look at our menu, you’ll see there is something for everybody.”
The café offers a range of dishes, from pasta and fish to steaks. Notably, the menu features Mexican-Canadian influences. “We do have some burritos, tacos, and quesadillas,” Fernandopulle notes. “We do have a bit of a Mexican fusion mixed into that.”
One standout creation is the Mexican Eggs Benedict, which features homemade guacamole, chorizo salsa, poached eggs, and a chorizo hollandaise sauce. “It’s a unique dish that actually just tells about me,” he says. “I’m a unique person. I like to do stuff that not many people have done before.”
Building community through cuisine
Grandpa’s Café is more than just a place to eat; it’s a community hub. The restaurant boasts a welcoming atmosphere with a new patio and dining room. “We have great customer service and fresh quality food,” Fernandopulle emphasizes. “We do use many of the local vendors. We do buy from Blumenort and Steinbach, and we like to support our community.”
Since taking over, Fernandopulle has introduced a Sunday brunch aimed at attracting the post-church crowd. “It’s been a big hit,” he says. “It’s a great place for the family to go after church and can become a family tradition.”
Additionally, the café offers personalized fine dining experiences. “Depending on what your needs are, you can sit down with me, and I’ll create your menu based on your expectations and likes,” Fernandopulle explains.
Looking ahead
“Getting to know the clientele has been a bit of a challenge for me, especially coming from Winnipeg,” Fernandopulle admits. “But slowly, after six months, we are getting to know each other.”
Looking to the future, he hopes to make Grandpa’s Café a go-to venue for special occasions. “We are hoping to attract the locals,” he says. “I would like to concentrate on graduations, weddings, and birthday parties. If anybody wants to have their special event, we would love to cater it.”
Ultimately, Fernandopulle wants every guest to feel valued. “I want to let them know that they will be taken care of just from the moment they walk in the front door until they leave,” he says. “From the servers to great food, good quality – they can expect five-star service.”
Grandpa’s Café is located on Provincial Road 311 in the heart of Blumenort. To learn more, follow them on Instagram, visit their website at www.grandpascafe.ca, or call 204-381-4992.