Top 5 Sask Recommendations from Curling Legend Ben Hebert
When he had finished schooling the Saskatchewanderer in a game of table-top curling, we asked Ben about his all-time favourite things to do whenever he finds himself back in Saskatchewan.
5. Catch a game at Mosaic Stadium
Home to the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Regina’s Mosaic Stadium puts on an incredible show each and every game day. Featuring a unique sunken bowl design, a wide variety of local food vendors, and multiple private event spaces, Mosaic offers a worldclass experience right here in Saskatchewan.
Ben grew up playing football at the old Taylor Field and continues to be blown away anytime he attends a game at Mosaic.
“It’s the closest I’ve seen in Canada to a genuine NFL-style facility. Whether you’re going to a game with your buddies, your spouse, or your kids, you’re going to have a good time. As someone who now lives in Calgary, I can tell you Mosaic is 100 times better than McMahon Stadium.”
Pro tip: On Saturday afternoons beginning in May, take the official stadium tour for a journey of sights, facts, and trivia covering both public and behind-the-scenes areas.
4. Play a round at Golf Kenosee
Ben has attended many golf trips to Golf Kenosee, an 18-hope resort found on the southeast's highest plateau, amidst the forests of Moose Mountain Provincial Park. When you’re not hitting the links, you can visit the many campgrounds and beaches in the area or try your luck at the Bear Claw Casino in nearby White Bear.
“The golf course is amazing. Great food, great staff. We’ve had a lot of great times at Golf Kenosee. It’s one of my favourite places to play when I get home.”
3. Chow down on some Regina-style pizza
This one isn’t tied to a specific spot, and there are plenty of options across the province (but particularly near Regina). Regina-style pizza has a distinct composition featuring generous layers of toppings under a thick crust of caramelized cheese. The style was developed by Greek immigrants to Saskatchewan who put their own unique spin on this classic comfort staple.
“That Regina-style thick boy pizza is how I got my frame as a kid. As far as I’m concerned, it’s the best pizza in the world.”
If you can make it to Regina, try Western, Trifon’s or Juliana Pizza. If you’re visiting Moose Jaw for the BKT World Men’s Curling Championships, you can get your fix at The Mad Greek or Houston Pizza on Main Street.
2. Try a smoked Old Fashioned at the Hotel Saskatchewan
The Circa 27 Lounge at the Hotel Saskatchewan has been in operation for nearly a hundred years and will transport you to a world of timeless elegance. Whether you’re staying at the hotel or just popping in for a drink with friends, Circa 27’s signature cocktail is an absolute must-try according to Ben.
“No questions asked, not even close, the best cocktail in the province is the Hotel Sask’s Smoked Old Fashioned. It is epic.”
This sophisticated sipper comes encased in a veil of aromatic smoke that enhances the rich flavours of whiskey and bitters within. If you’re stopping in on a weekday around 5 o’clock, don’t miss the famous “5 o'clock Ritual” - if you know, you know. If not, you’ll just have to visit to find out!
1. Relax and unwind at Regina Beach
Just 40 minutes outside Regina (an hour from Moose Jaw), the resort town of Regina Beach is perched on the shores of Last Mountain Lake. The Regina Beach Recreational Site offers a beautiful beach area, playground, service centre and picnic areas.
Though he grew up in Regina, Ben says he essentially lived at his grandparents’ cabin in Regina Beach during his childhood summers.
“There are a lot of memories. Butlers (now the Blue Bird Café), the ice cream place across the street, the mini golf course, the campground… But mostly just days spent playing volleyball and hitting the water. I still take my kids there whenever I’m back. It’s a special place.”