Dining Beneath the Northern Lights At Dan's Diner

A culinary experience like no other

Across the frozen Churchill River, far from the town of Churchill, sits Dan's Diner – a unique culinary experience set beneath the dancing northern lights.

How Churchill's Culinary Adventure Started

In 2016, Churchill's culinary landscape took a bold step forward with the launch of RAW: Churchill. This one-of-a-kind winter dining experience was born out of a collaboration between Frontiers North Adventures, Parks Canada, and Chef Mandel from Winnipeg’s iconic RAW: Almond. Set within the historic Prince of Wales Fort, this pop-up restaurant offered an extraordinary blend of history, adventure, and fine dining. For three unforgettable years, RAW: Churchill dazzled guests before evolving into something even more remarkable: Dan’s Diner.

Introducing Dan's Diner

Dan’s Diner is more than a meal; it's a signature experience included in all of our northern lights adventures. Imagine dining on a seven-course feast while the aurora borealis dances overhead. Set in a custom-built dining unit with panoramic windows and skylights, guests enjoy breathtaking views alongside expertly crafted dishes by Chef Connor and his talented team.

For those looking to enhance their evening, an ice bar and fire pit just outside the diner provide the perfect place to sip some scotch whiskey or enjoy the crisp winter  air. Dan’s Diner embodies the spirit of Churchill, offering a rare combination of adventure and luxury.

©Abby Matheson

From Tundra To Table

The food at Dan’s Diner draws inspiration from local and regional ingredients, celebrating the unique flavorsu of the North. Guests can savour dishes featuring local favorites such as elk, bison, and arctic char, complemented by vibrant additions like gooseberries and cranberries. Each bite offers a taste of Churchill’s rich natural heritage, elevating the dining experience into a celebration of the region itself.

Exceeding Culinary Expectations

Many visitors are astonished by the quality of Churchill's cuisine. While they may arrive expecting rustic meals, they leave having experienced dining that rivals the best urban restaurants. It's a testament to the culinary passion and creativity that thrives in this remote northern town.

Who Is Dan?

Dan’s Diner is named in honour of Dan Guravich, a beloved camp cook and passionate photographer who first came to Churchill in 1979. He joined Len Smith, the creator of the original Tundra Buggy®, to document Churchill’s iconic polar bears.

Dan’s love for both cooking and polar bear conservation lives on in Churchill. His legacy extends beyond the diner; the non-profit organization he founded, Polar Bears Alive, has since grown into the globally respected Polar Bears International. Through Dan’s Diner, we carry forward his passion for combining incredible food with Churchill’s natural wonders.

©Fredrica Gamble

Bringing It All Together

Churchill's culinary journey continues to evolve, surprising and delighting guests from around the world. Whether dining under the aurora at Dan’s Diner or enjoying Ptarmigan’s year-round offerings, visitors are treated to an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and cuisine.

Chef Video Insert – Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Chef Connor and his team create magic at Dan’s Diner.

Ready to embark on your own culinary adventure? Discover more about our Northern Lights experiences and dining offerings. 

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Common Questions: 

How many people can dine at once?
22 people.

How many courses?
7 courses.

Can my food restrictions and allergies be accommodated?
Yes, with advance notice, our culinary team can ensure that your food restrictions and allergies are accommodated.

Is there alcohol available?
Yes – signature cocktails and wine are available for purchase throughout the evening.

How do I book an evening?
Dan's Diner is a culinary experience exclusive to Frontiers North Adventures' multi-day northern lights trips.

Will I see the northern lights?

Possibly! As the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, there is never any guarantee. However, equipped with panoramic windows, skylights and located directly beneath the auroral oval, Dan's Diner offers an excellent vantage point to give yourself the best odds for aurora borealis viewing.