Must-try Dishes
Hashbrown Casserole - A hearty mix of shredded potatoes, creamy soup, and cheese, baked until bubbly and golden brown. This is a breakfast favorite, often served at family gatherings or potlucks, bringing everyone together over a filling start to the day.
Saskatchewan Bison Burger - Juicy bison patty topped with local cheddar, lettuce, and a tangy sauce, served on a toasted bun. This is a popular lunch choice, typically enjoyed during summer picnics or at food festivals, showcasing Regina’s farm-to-table scene.
Tourtière - Meat Pie - A savory pie filled with seasoned minced pork, beef, and spices, encased in a flaky crust. Locals often serve it during holiday gatherings and family dinners, making it a comforting staple to enjoy through the colder months.
Perogies - Varenyky (cheese dumplings) - Soft dumplings filled with creamy cheese, often served with sour cream and crispy onions. These are a beloved local specialty at community events and Ukrainian festivals, where everyone shares and enjoys them around a communal table.
Ginger Beef - Crispy strips of beef stir-fried with a sweet and zesty ginger sauce, often served with steamed rice. Many locals enjoy this dish for dinner, especially when it’s made with a personal family recipe, giving it that homey touch.
Poutine - Poutine (fries with gravy and cheese) - Golden fries topped with rich gravy and cheese curds that melt together for a comforting dish. It’s a popular late-night snack around Regina’s bars, but I’ve found it’s best enjoyed on cold evenings after a long day.
Butter Chicken - Tender pieces of chicken in a creamy tomato sauce, served with aromatic rice. This dish shines during local potlucks, and it's a funny custom to compete over who makes it the spiciest—good luck taking a bite!
Beef Stew - Borscht (beet soup) - A hearty beet soup served hot, often with a dollop of sour cream. It’s especially enjoyed during winter months, warming the soul, and many families have their own secret ingredient to make it special—just ask before you dive in!
Desserts & Drinks
Caesar - Caesar (cocktail) - This classic cocktail combines vodka, clamato juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, garnished with a celery stalk and lime. You’re likely to find it enjoyed during brunch on weekends, with locals often debating the merits of extra garnishes like pickles or bacon (a true touch of Saskatchewan spirit!).
Honey Lemonade - 레몬에이드 (refreshing drink) - A delightful mix of fresh lemons and local honey, this drink is served cold, often with a sprig of mint. Perfect for quenching your thirst during hot summer days, it’s particularly refreshing when served at outdoor festivals.
Butter Tart - Butter Tart (sweet pastry) - This is a flaky pastry shell filled with a gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs, sometimes featuring raisins or nuts. Beloved as a classic Canadian dessert, it’s often enjoyed at family gatherings and bake sales, with the best ones having that perfectly caramelized filling.
Ice Cream Sandwich - 아이스크림 샌드위치 (frozen dessert) - Typically made with locally crafted ice cream sandwiched between two homemade cookies, this treat is a favorite summer indulgence. Typically found at fairs or local markets, you can’t go wrong with the classic chocolate chip and vanilla combo.
Shortbread Cookies - 쇼트브레드 (traditional cookies) - Buttery and crumbly, these cookies are a holiday staple, often enjoyed during special occasions and family celebrations. They hold sentimental value for many locals who love to bake and share them during festive gatherings.