Saskatoon wears its "Foodies Paradise" badge with honour. With so many restaurants to choose from one could spend every day of the year trying a new restaurant and never run out of options! Plus, the great thing about local restaurants is supporting small businesses, farmers and producers in the community. Since most of our produce is seasonal, menus are apt to change every few months, making it exciting to revisit. Not sure where to start? No problem! I have done the heavy lifting for you with a concise list of my favourite local Saskatoon restaurants you need to try this summer!
Best Brunch
Hometown Diner: Located in Riversdale, on 20th Street, each dish is made from scratch with the freshest ingredients. Chef Cole Dobranski and his team are proud to use seasonal and local suppliers as much as possible in their menu offerings.
It is easy to join a waitlist for a table, or while you wait, take a walk by the river or walk around 20th street to delight in various clothing and locally owned stores. Inside it has a friendly and warm atmosphere. My top recommendation? The Huevos Rancheros! Their lattes are also top-notch and just a word of warning to save room for one of their delectable donuts.
Contemporary Pick
Filosophi: Located right across from the University, Filosophi is where humble feasts are inspired by fresh and local ingredients, where authentic meets contemporary and where prairie fresh finds west coast flavours.
The menu hosts a variety of entrees and desserts, and there is something for everyone. The modern atmosphere boasts a spacious interior, while the table arrangements make the experience intimate with your dining partners. My favourite pick is the Night Owl Burger; it is saucy and delicious! Follow it up with a great selection of desserts and cheesecakes that will please any taste bud. Try the baklava cheesecake for a great mix of east meets west. Be sure to check out their newly added patio for the Summer!
Indigenous Cuisine
Wauskewin Heritage Park: They are located right outside the north industrial area of Saskatoon on Penner Road, striving to use local and fresh ingredients in all of their dishes. The menu reflects a mix of traditional Indigenous cuisine infused with a contemporary style.
Aside from the restaurant, the best part of this place is the extensive walking paths, art galleries, adorable Bison (including baby buffalo) and events, like powwows, walking tours and kids camps! Try the Hot Elk on Bannock and the Iced Muskeg Peach tea. It is so refreshing after that long trail walk!
Pasta Place
Primal Pasta: Another notable Riversdale pick creating time-honoured Italian food & handmade pasta using Saskatchewan heritage grains & whole animal butchery.
The restaurant feels cozy and intimate, with modern vibes—an excellent pick for a date night or an upscale supper with friends. And, after your delicious meal, if you are feeling adventurous, mere steps away is a video game bar, Bartari, and a board game cafe, King Me Boardgamery and Cafe. I suggest starting with cheesy garlic fingers with red sauce, then for the main meal, try the spaghetti carbonara, which is so creamy and delicious—finish the meal with the cheesecake feature of the day. I recommend their spiked iced tea for refreshment, but be careful...they go down all too easily.
Traditional Chinese
Number 1 Noodle House: Located just downtown on 3rd Avenue, this hidden gem is sure to delight your taste buds taking you on a delicious experience with traditional Chinese noodle dishes. Feast on the Spicy Chicken Fried Rice, the Sauteed Pork and Egg on Rice, and the Spicy Shredded Pork Fried Noodles!
Easily accessible from hotels, bus stops and the Midtown Plaza. Shanxi knife-cut noodles with shredded pork is hands down the best dish here--like a deconstructed steamed pork bun. The staff is super friendly, and the atmosphere is a quaint diner. It is a must-try destination.
Of course, this list has just scratched the surface of all the fantastic local restaurants in Saskatoon. But if you are visiting, are local to the area or just itching to try a new place, I suggest checking these out. If Saskatoon's delectable food scene has you intrigued to move closer to these hot spots, I am here to help you find your dream home closest to your favourite spots!
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