With many travel restrictions still in effect, my 2021 plans have continued to focus on exploring the most breathtaking sites that Canada has to offer. While I would have loved to hop on a plane and indulge in warm weather and tropical drinks this winter, I must say that the past year has given me a newfound appreciation for how much beauty I have yet to discover domestically.
My most recent trip brought me to Regina, Saskatchewan, where I stayed at the luxurious Hotel Saskatchewan. This hotel is owned by Marriot, but has a completely boutique look and feel. From the grand chandeliers throughout the main floor and lobby, to the luscious fabrics that adorn the furniture and the unique amenities including a yoga studio, you would have no idea this hotel was part of a chain. Not only was the hotel in a great location for exploring the city, but the accommodations were perfect—since I did have to spend a bit more down time in my room due to some things around the city still being closed, it was nice to have so much space and really make myself at home during my stay.
So, what does one do in a new city when the weather is frigid and many indoor attractions are still closed? Naturally, I had to explore all of the greatest food I could find.
Right inside the hotel was the contemporary Circa 27 Lounge which offers delectably savory and beautifully plated brunch and dinner options.
My first stop outside the hotel was The Everyday Kitchen, a unique little bakery and coffee shop that makes, hands down, the greatest donuts I’ve ever tasted. They use a sourdough recipe with the most flavorful icing unlike anything else I’ve ever had before. This location is a must-visit regardless of whether you have a sweet tooth—it’s really impossible to not love these donuts.
Another must-do for dessert lovers is Dandy’s Artisan Ice Cream and Luxe Artisan Chocolates—a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Everyone in Regina loves their handcrafted ice cream that is offered in modern flavours using local and seasonal ingredients, Canadian dairy, and made-from-scratch toppings. I would recommend getting a sundae or milkshake, and you can’t really go wrong with any of their amazing flavors. They recently released a new line of premium quality bonbons in flavors like toasted coconut, espresso almond biscotti, blueberry pie crumb, and so many more that make uniquely delicious souvenirs for your loved ones—or even just for yourself!
For a mouth-watering dinner in a sleek atmosphere, check out Avenue Restaurant and Bar. There are some amazing shareable snacks and small plates offering heavenly bites of everything from smoked wings to baked brie to tempura prawns, but the large plates have some truly decadent options that I can’t stop thinking about. The pierogies, Korean fried chicken and mushroom stuffed agnolotti are among the crowd favorites here.
If you happen to be in town for business or are fitting in some quick networking while on vacation, 20ten City Eatery offers a great ambiance along with an impressive lunch menu. I tried the poke bowl, which was a perfectly light and delicious explosion of flavors. Paired with a carrot gin cocktail, this provided a tasty midday treat.
If you’re throwing a party or even just having an intimate celebration, you absolutely cannot go wrong with Queen City Cakes. The shop itself is a beautiful location here you can browse through their equally eye-catching selection of treats. The cake truffles were remarkably flavorful, and the macarons were similar to ones I’ve tried in Paris! Queen City Cakes also sent me an amazing smash cake that I was able to enjoy back at the hotel—these would really make both a delicious and insta-worthy addition to any party you’re throwing in the area!
Is your mouth watering yet? I was so impressed with Regina’s seemingly never-ending selection of both savory and sweet treats, and absolutely cannot wait to get back there to try even more!