THE SAMURAI Puts on a show, capturing Best Japanese & Best Unique Dining Experience, too. photo: Kevin Hogarth reigns supreme in this year s Sandwich category. The Don Cherry-approved Quiznos BEST BURGER BEST SEAFOOD comes in second, followed by Subway, FUDDRUCKER S RED LOBSTER Extreme Pita and Bad Ass Jack s. Once again, Saskatoon turns to the While some scoff at the idea of seafood in Fuddburger for their ground beef on a bun Saskatchewan, our readers place their bets fix. Jerry s Food Emporium also retains a on Red Lobster. The 2nd Ave. Grill lands in BEST PIZZA place close to our readers stomachs, taking second place this year, followed by A & W Rizo s and Charlie s Seafood. second this year, followed by Joey s Only, Mr. VERN S PIZZA It s been said that one slice of Vern s Pizza and the Yard and Flagon. is like a full meal. Considering how many toppings they stack onto each slice, and the BEST STEAK BEST SUSHI number of readers who put their gastrointestinal faith in Vern, that may just be true. KEG Whether you re looking for some inari, SUSHIRO Family Pizza takes silver this year, followed The steakmasters at The Keg emerge victorious yet again this year, but John s, the mend off-broadway sanctuary, Sushiro. futomaki or nigiri sushi, our readers recom- by Panago, Pizza Hut and Boston Pizza. Granary and the 2nd Ave. Grill give the Keg a Downtown destination Otowa comes in second this year, followed by the Samurai and good run for its market share. Yohei. For more information visit us at gmcanada.com, drop by your local Chevrolet Dealer or call us at 1-800-GM-DRIVE. We d like you to know more: */ Offer based on 2006 Chevrolet Aveo (R7A) and includes freight of $1,045. License, insurance, registration, administration fees, PPSA and taxes are not included. * Based on 60 month lease with 5.7% lease rate. A down payment of $188 and $0 security deposit is required. Total obligation is $11,444. Option to purchase at lease end is $3,972 (plus applicable taxes). All leases have annual km limit of 20,000 km. $0.12 per excess kilometer. Other lease options available. */ Offers apply as indicated to the purchase of 2006 new or demonstrator models equipped as described and delivered out of dealer stock on or before March 31, 2006. Offer applies to qualified retail customers in the Prairie Chevrolet Dealer Marketing Association area only. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Dealer order or trade may be necessary. Limited time offers which may not be combined with other offers. See your local GM Dealer for conditions and details. Based on 2005 EnerGuide fuel consumption guide ratings. Based on combined R.L. Polk Canada, Inc. 2005 New Passenger Car and Light-Duty Truck Total Registrations in Canada. Whichever comes first. See dealer for details. Based on Available 2006 competitive website information.tm 2005, VANOC. Used under License.Canada, Inc. 2005 New Passenger Car and Light-Duty Truck Total Registrations in Canada. Service contract required. OnStar uses existing emergency service providers as well as cellular and satellite technologies. Vehicle electrical system needs to be operating for features to function properly. TM 2005, VANOC. Used under License. HIGHEST POSSIBLE U.S. GOVERNMENT FRONTAL CRASH SAFETY RATING Chevrolet Aveo received a five-star safety rating for the driver and front passenger in the front crash test. AVEO LT 5 Dr. model shown with optional wheels and spoiler. AVEO CHEVROLET AVEO WON T CRAMP YOUR STYLE. WITH MORE FRONT AND REAR LEGROOM THAN TOYOTA YARIS. INNOVATIVE DESIGN FOR THE WORLD YOU DRIVE IN. CHEVROLET. CANADA S # 1 SELLING BRAND BEST FRENCH Mais, oui! If you re in the mood for a taste of gay Paris, our readers suggest your first stop should be Calories. Your next stop-over should be downtown s St. Tropez Bistro, followed by the Bamboo Bistro. BEST ITALIAN TAVERNA Authentic Italian eatery Taverna s continues to top the spaghetti pile this year. Taverna is joined by the good folks at Chianti s, Poverino s and East Side Mario s. Avanti! BEST GREEK MYKONOS Another favourite in the dining category, our readers thank the gods for Mykonos Restaurant serving up mouth-watering dolmathes, slammin spanakopita and kicking kebabs. Athena is next on the list, followed by Mano s and Nino s. BEST CHINESE MANDARIN For those of you who like your Chinese food authentic, our readers recommend Mandarin Restaurant on 20th St. to fulfil all your Dim Sum desires. Genesis ranks second this year, followed by Tsui King Lau, Saskatoon Asian Restaurant and the Golden Dragon. With a restaurant for every day of the work week, it s a lunch walk-about well worth putting to the proverbial taste-test! BEST JAPANESE SAMURAI JAPANESE Leaning to the flashier side of the Japanese restaurant spectrum, the juggling, joking chefs at the Samurai take first place honours this year. Also worth further cuilinary investigation are the Otowa Japanese gmcanada.com PURCHASE PRICE $ 12,998 $ 188 SMARTLEASE PER MONTH 60 MONTHS $188 DOWN Restaurant, Yohei and Sushiro. BEST THAI KEO S KITCHEN Three-time winners Keo s Kitchen kicks it into high-thai gear this year. The Red Pepper sizzles into second, followed by Saskatoon Asian Restaurant. BEST VIETNAMESE RED PEPPER In a city with so many different (and tasty) Vietnamese restaurants, this category was the site of a pitched ballot box battle. The Red Pepper emerged as the peoples favourite this year. Saigon Rose commands a respectable second place, followed by Saskatoon Asian, the Jasmine and Saigon II. BEST INDIAN TAJ MAHAL Once again, the Taj Mahal takes the trophy for their savory, spicy delights. Also on the list of readers things to do are return trips to the newly-relocated India Palace, which takes second place, followed by Passage to India and Taste of India. BEST UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE SAMURAI JAPANESE Apparently, our readers like a little fire with their meal as the Samurai s culinary acrobats take the prize for Best Unique Dining Experience, a new category debuting this year by popular reader demand. The staggeringly-good Hole In The Wall restaurant finishes second, followed by the Taj Mahal, Calories, the Golden Pagoda and Saba s African Cuisine. Compiled by David Shield HAVE YOUR SAY: feedback@planetsmag.com DOWN LEASE $1,200 $168 $2,250 $148 $3,850 $118 HWY: 6.2L/100km 46mpg CITY: 9.1L/100km 31mpg THING TO DO IN OPTICAL SASKATOON TAKE AN GALLERY OUT OF TOWNER WINTER/SUMMER FESTIVALDESTINATION Of The City LIVE MUSIC LOCAL BAND VOCALIST AUDIO FURNITURE SHOPPING CENTRE SHOE CATERER TRAVEL MENS WOMEN YOUNG ADULT KIDS CLOT HING MLA MP CITY COUNC ILLOR LAWYER 2006 AGENT TV NEWS SPORTS WEATHER COVE RAGE BEST OF Planet S readers' Best Of Saskatoon Readers Choice Poll Results! The Secrets GOLF COURSE ICE CREAM SPROTS UNIQUE GIFT SECONDHAND FIND MAGAZINE BOOK BIKE MOVIE COMPUTER ITALIA N GREEK CHINES EJAPANE SETHAI FRENCH SEXIEST choice PICKUP BREAKUP LINE PICKUP BREAKUP SPOT DATE ACTI VITY NEW USED CAR 12 MARCH 30 06 PLANET S BEST OF SASKATOON PULL-OUT
2006 Rav4 2007 Camry 2007 Yaris Sedan 2007 FJ Cruiser 285 Venture Crescent 653.5611 www.ens.toyota.ca Thank you for making us your favourite place to buy a new car! We have new vehicles arriving daily. Have a look at the brand new models in our showroom now. AN OPEN LETTER TO THE PEOPLE OF SASKATOON We would like to thank everybody in Saskatoon for voting Ultimo Euromoda SASKATOON S BEST MENS CLOTHING and we are honoured to also receive the award for the BEST YOUNG ADULT CLOTHING. Since opening in 1989 we have had a simple mission statement. To bring the best the fashion world has to offer to our hometown and never underestimate the public's taste level. The competition level in the city is extremely high and there are a lot of excellent retailers in this city who work hard to provide Saskatoon with a wide array of product for every taste level. We salute our friends and competitors in our field and all others whose passion and commitment make this a great place to live and shop. Please support your local retailers and spend your hard earned money with people who have a vested interest in our community. The money you spend in chain stores does not stay in the city. It s in a bank account down east every morning or in the U.S. Keep our city vibrant and our economy robust. Shop locally and we all benefit. THANK-YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND VOTE OF CONFIDENCE. Yours Sincerely, Owner of Ultimo Euromoda 2 MARCH 30 06 PLANET S BEST OF SASKATOON PULL-OUT 204-3rd Avenue South 664-6640 E.E. BURRITOS Readers and critic agree: It s the city s best new restaurant. BEST NEW E.E. BURRITOS Home to some of the most authentic Latin American food in town, E.E. Burritos is putting a spotlight on the west side with its top notch cooking. Pasta place East Side Mario s comes in second this year, followed by the Golden Pagoda and the Sandbar Bistro downtown. BEST OVERALL The crew on 2nd Ave. cleans the grill up in this category for the second year in a row, offering well-crafted cuisine in an urbane atmosphere, both casual and sophisticated. Calories scores second, followed by the Keg and Amigos. BEST PLACE FOR AN AFTER-WORK DRINK EARLS Despite strong competition, Earls bested last year s winner, the Yard and Flagon. The Yard takes second place this year, followed by the 2nd Ave. Grill and the Spadina Freehouse. BEST BREW PUB MAGUIRE S A four time winner, Maguire s continues to be Saskatoon s favourite spot for a freshly brewed pint or two. Fox and Hounds brews their way to second place, followed by O Shea s and the Hose and Hydrant. BEST LOCALLY BREWED BEER GREAT WESTERN BREWERY Saskatoon is justifiably proud the Great Western Brewery calls the Bridge City home. Winner of countless international awards, the city s most discerning palates concur that Great Western is doing pretty well for itself. Coming in second is scrappy upstart photo: David Shield BEST SPORTS BAR JOE DOGS Whether you want to watch the big game or just sit back with a beer, our readers say Joe Dogs is the place to go. The upscale lounge and club Beily s comes in second, followed by Bridges and the Shark Club. BEST NIGHT CLUB BEILY S Since opening last year, Beily s has become one of the city s hot spots a fusion of dance club and high-end lounge. Popular college bar The Pat takes second place honours, followed by country saloon, the Longbranch, and gay club Diva s. BEST PATIO/DECK EARL S Taking it outside, is a good thing at Earl s. With its gas barbecue and classy statuary, the casual upscale restaurant takes this year s Best Patio/Deck award by a landslide. The Yard and Flagon s rooftop deck finishes second this year, followed by O Shea s and Amigos. BEST COFFEE SHOP BROADWAY ROASTERY Boasting three locations, local favourite the Broadway Roastery continues to dominate the chains, thwarting both Tim Hortons and Starbucks. Local Java Joint Tastebuds comes in next, followed by City Perk and the Living Room. BEST DESSERT SPOT Calories serves the best desserts in Saskatoon, say the city s most frequent diners. Other sweet tooth favourites include Tastebuds, Homestead Ice Cream, Alexander s and Truffles. Take the tour and taste for yourself! BEST ICE CREAM HOMESTEAD ICE CREAM With an astonishing array of ice cream, Homestead wins the peoples prize yet again. Ice cream aficionados next stop is Jerry s, followed by Dairy Queen and the ever-popular Bus Stop Refreshments, across from the Bessborough. BEST BAKERY CHRISTIE S MAYFAIR BAKERY From bread to doughnuts, the family behind Christie s Mayfair Bakery continues to make mouthwatering confections sure to please the whole household. Broadway s Nutana bakery, followed by Nestor s, Traeger s and Pleasant Hill, all mark the spots for the city s finest fresh breads and baking. BEST BUTCHER BULK CHEESE WAREHOUSE The Bulk Cheese Warehouse receives top marks this year for their choice cuts of meat. Prairie Meats chops their way to second place, followed by Boryski s Butcher Block and the Saskatoon Co-op. Paddockwood, crafter of some of the tastiest, BEST MARTINI most unique beer in the province. The martini experts at the Grill will be more than happy to set you up with their cleverly named concoctions, including Sex With The Ex and more. Bacchus / Earl s takes second place this year, with Beily s and Tap s Landing mixing up martinis that come club-hopper approved, too. BEST NACHOS AMIGOS Amigos continues its winning streak this year, claiming top honours for their nachos that eat like a meal. O Shea s comes second in this category, followed by Alexander s and the Fox and Hound. BEST WINGS YARD AND FLAGON Broadway brew-house the Yard and Flagon takes flight with the city s tastiest wings this year, according to Saskatoon s most frequent diners. The Yard bests Sutherland s wings specialists Wingnuts, Bridges on the westside and Earl s off-downtown all the makings of a fine excuse for a pub crawl to find out for yourself! BEST SOUP Calories mouth-watering soup waft past the 2nd Ave. Grill this year, but is followed closely by best-of-bowl contenders at the Yard and Flagon and Amigos. BEST SALAD TRUFFLES BISTRO Often nominated, Truffles emerges victorious in the hotly contested category of gourmet salad. Readers also endorse the crispy fare of the 2nd Ave. Grill, Earl s and McNally Robinson s Prairie Ink Restaurant. BEST SANDWICH, ETC PITA PIT Fast food for the 21st Century, the Pita Pit Executive DRY CLEANERS Thank you for voting us BEST DRY CLEANER 2005 & 2006 5 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU 7A - 234 Primrose Dr. 242-5811 9-705 Central Ave. 955-9991 Canarama Shopping Centre 244-4633 Lakeview Square 955-5141 4-301 2nd Ave. North 343-0903 NEXT ISSUE APRIL 13 NOT YOUR EVERYDAY PAPER MARCH 30 06 PLANET S BEST OF SASKATOON PULL-OUT 11
VOTED BEST INDIAN CUISINE in Saskatoon for 3 years in a row. Thank you so much for your continued support. It's been our pleasure! We are proud to introduce our new Sous Chef store in the restaurant featuring: Taj Express delicious heat and serve dishes Taj-To Go You become the chef! Gourmet foods like Sushi and rack of lamb, plus a wide variety of specialty food products. Watch for our second location opening in Erindale this May! 1013 Broadway Ave. 978.2227 spa ahava Thank you Saskatoon for voting us Best Day Spa www.spaahava.com Gift Certificates Available Mon - Sat - 9am-6pm Wednesday - 9am-9pm Thursday - 9am-9pm 978-8111 720 Broadway Ave. 10 MARCH 30 06 PLANET S BEST OF SASKATOON PULL-OUT Mud Wraps Facial Treatments Manicures & Pedicures Body Scrubs & Polishes Reflexology Gel Nails Paraffin Treatments Ear Candling Registered Massage Therapy Waxing & Tinting (Brow/Lash) Hydrotherapy Tub Ultimate Spa Packages Group Bridal Party Bookings Hot Stone Massage Therapy Chocolate Spa Binge Packs Sun FX Sunless Tanning Lash Perming 2ND AVE GRILL Sweeps six categories in 2006, including Best Restaurant Overall photo: David Shield BEST BUSINESS LUNCH Whenever our readers have a craving to do a deal on the side, they place their lunch orders at the 2nd Ave. Grill. John s Prime Rib, Saskatoon Asian Restaurant and Jake s all rank well as downtown deal-closing venues of choice, too. BEST BREAKFAST BROADWAY CAFÉ Saskatoon s shrine to 50s-era diner memorabilia, our readers say the Broadway Café serves up the best breakfasts in town, too. Following at a close second is 8th St. bastion of breakfasts, Grainfield s, followed by Denny s, Smitty s and Mel s. Thank-you for choosing the Saskatoon Inn Hotel and Conference Centre as the Best Brunch in Saskatoon. Meet our Associate of the Year for Chip Hospitality, Angie Colbert who is here to serve you in botanica restaurant. Out of 5000 employees she was chosen as the Best! Come down to the Saskatoon Inn and Experience the INN Difference! 2002 Airport Dr. 668-9621 SASKATOON INN HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTRE FOOD & DRINK BEST VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY Finding a vegetarian menu hard to come by? Our readers recommend Calories as the best place in town for a meatless meal. Amigos fine selection of burritos and veggie burgers places second, with the Red Pepper and Genesis also receiving their share of rave reader reviews. BEST ALL YOU CAN EAT SMILEY S Ever feel like eating Ukrainian, Chinese and Italian all at the same time? Here s your chance. Smiley s delivers on the brand promise, putting a smile on the face of our readers for this year s Best All You Can Eat Buffet designation. Other finalists in this belt-loosening category include the Great Buffet of China, Asian Buffet and Bonanza. BEST BRUNCH BOTANICA Is it just me, or is anyone else disappointed that they haven t invented linner yet? One day one day. In the meantime, the Saskatoon Inn s Botanica Restaurant and Lounge rules the roost as Saskatoon s best spot to combine breakfast and lunch. Station Place takes the number two spot this year, followed by the Willows and the Park Town Hotel. BEST LUNCH UNDER $10 JAKE S ON 21ST Trendy coffee shop and lunch spot, Jake s On 21st, takes top honours this year as Saskatoon s best lunch destination. Coffee giant Tim Horton s takes second place this year, followed by the Nutana Café and Saigon Rose. BEST FAMILY FUDDRUCKER S Fuddrucker s takes the prize as Best Family Restaurant again this year, followed closely by the always-popular Jerry s. Moxie s joins the winners circle as well, followed by Boston Pizza. For the fourth consecutive year, voter turn-out for the annual Planet S Best of Saskatoon Readers Choice Poll has swamped our shop. By fax, by mail, by foot and this year by e-ballot, the votes came pouring in, in ridiculous numbers. Despite a shortened voting period this year, Planet S readers once again cast tens of thousands of votes for the best of the city in over 100 categories. It left its mark: blood-shot eyes, aching brains and a longing for it to just be over. But now the results are in, the people have spoken. and here is what you said: SARAH BECK Is the sexiest Saskatonian of 2006. CITY PEOPLE BEST BARTENDER BEST PROFESSOR/ Ever wonder how actors manage to survive epic sword fights, being lit on fire and long BREEYANN INSTRUCTOR drops off high buildings? Stuntman Daniel Whether she s pouring beer or mixing martinis, the 2nd Ave. Grill s Breeyann takes top DANIEL FORD BEAVIS Ford Beavis knows all about it. Creator of last honours as the city s Best Bartender. Ryan from the Yard and Flagon slings his way into second place, followed by O Shea s Jay Beavis and Sean Johnson. BEST SERVER NATALIE Can t tell your dessert fork from your salad fork? For the second year running, our readers say Natalie from the 2nd Ave. Grill will be more than happy to assist you with any culinary problems you may encounter. Other super servers include Lindsay Hamre, Wendy Chupik and Mike from Calories. BEST / BAR STAFF The Grill continues their sweep of the food and beverage service category, taking top honours as the city s Best Restaurant / Bar Staff overall, too. The crew at the Yard and Flagon weave their way into second place, followed by O Shea s, Amigos and the Granary. Want to be spoiled? You now know where to go and in what order! year s Fringe spectacular The Fight Show and stunt coordinator for Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan s epic swashbuckling battles, Beavis climbs to the top of the teaching heap this year. As always, we received a ton of entries in this highly coveted, campus-town category. Top rankings went to U of S Native Studies professor Dorinda Stahl, U of S Drama professor Pamela Haig Bartley and U of S Pharmacy and Nutrition professor Bev Allen, but no one could touch the ninjascholar! BEST CITY COUNCILLOR OWEN FORTOSKY Outgoing Ward Two Councillor Owen Fortosky retains his title as our readers choice for Best City Councillor. Ward Nine s Tiffany Paulsen filibusters her way into second place, followed closely by Myles Heidt and Gordon Wyant. BEST SASKATOON MLA PAT ATKINSON In a tight race, veteran MLA Pat Atkinson narrowly edges out Saskatoon Silver Springs MLA Ken Cheveldayoff to defend her incumbency as the city s top provincial politician a title she now holds for the fourth consecutive year. Saskatchewan Party MLA Don Morgan places a commanding third, followed by the NDP s Peter Prebble. BEST SASKATOON MP CAROL SKELTON After three years of grumpy voters scrawling in None of the Above, and assorted other items unfit for print, Carol Skelton emerges as the one to sprint ahead of the disgruntled pitchfork and torch wielding mob, taking her place as the first MP in Saskatoon to pass the muster of Planet S readers. But all is not yet well on the federal front. This year, None of the Above still comes in second. Third and fourth place finishes go to Conservative MPs Lynne Yelich and Brad Trost. BEST CITIZEN ACTIVIST DON KOSSICK Currently hard at work on the Station 20 West project (along with a hundred other projects), veteran activist Don Kossick takes top honours as this year s Best Activist. Last year s winner/social entrepreneur Peter Garden finishes a close second, followed by former City Councillor Lenore Swystun. BEST LAWYER BILL ROE Battling barrister William Roe retains his title for the second year in a row as Saskatoon s top litigator. Hotshot lawyer/cfcr host Jennifer Pereira takes second place, followed by Sask. Party MLA Don Morgan. BEST SASKATOON BLADE WACEY RABBIT Currently in his fourth season with the Blades, team captain Wacey Rabbit captures the honours in this new category, speeding ahead of teammates Devin Setoguchi and Joe Barnes. BEST HUSKIE DAVID STEVENS Hut! Star running back David Stevens scores a touchdown this year, winning a place in Saskatonians hearts as our favourite Huskie. High scoring hockey player Dean Beuker skates into second place, followed by Andrew Spagrud and Darren Dove. BEST SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDER COREY HOLMES When Saskatoon cheers on the Riders, they cheer loudest for running back Corey Holmes. Holmes is joined by teammates Matt Dominguez, Scott Schultz and Kenton Keith. SEXIEST SASKATONIAN (MALE) CRAIG NORMAN When Saskatoon wants its back cracked by a sexy, sexy man, the city apparently turns to chiropractor Craig Norman, the sexiest man in Saskatoon. City Councillor Owen Fortosky slinks into second, followed by Jamie Desjarlais and Kurt Soucy. SEXIEST SASKATONIAN (FEMALE) SARAH BECK Whether she s building an IKEA-ready tank at the Mendel Art Gallery or managing the 2nd Avenue Grill, the sultry Sarah Beck is certain to be setting the town ablaze. Sexy Sarah inched ahead of lawyer Jennifer Pereira, chiropractor Nicole Landgraf and city chanteuse Theresa Sokyrka. WHAT THE BLEEP!? DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE Part documentary, part story, and part elaborate and inspiring visual effects and animations. SHOWING APRIL 7-13 (see movie line www.broadwaytheatre.ca) * THANKS AGAIN FOR CHOOSING US AS YOUR FAVOURITE MOVIE THEATRE IN SASKATOON* CLIP THIS AD FOR 2 FOR 1 MOVIE ADMISSION VALID UNTIL APRIL 30. SUNDAY-WEDNESDAY ONLY MARCH 30 06 PLANET S BEST OF SASKATOON PULL-OUT 3
We re Honoured! Visit us on Circle Drive and find out why Planet S readers chose Auto Clearing as Saskatoon's BEST PLACE TO BUY A USED CAR We carry one of the largest inventories of trucks, sport utility vehicles and Dodge Caravans in the province. Our large volume allows us to sell at prices below most other dealers. 331 CIRCLE DRIVE WEST 244-2186 www.autoclearing.com We re back for FOURTH HELPINGS Named Planet S Magazine Readers Poll BEST ALL YOU CAN EAT FOR THE FOURTH YEAR IN A ROW! ROB MACDONALD Is this year s anchor of our eye, again. MEDIA BEST SASKATOON TV STATION CTV CTV continues to dominate, with its cathode ray tractor beam pulling in Saskatonians in every TV-related category polled this year. Global TV comes in second, followed by CBC TV and Shaw. BEST TV NEWS COVERAGE CTV Wouldn t it be cool if Saskatoon s news teams had a huge back-alley brawl just like in Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy? Think about it Keri Ferguson clubbing Rob MacDonald, Jennifer Palma putting the smackdown on Jeff Rogstad In completely unrelated news, CTV emerges unscathed again this year, with Global, CBC and Shaw nursing their bruises again this year. BEST TV SPORTS COVERAGE CTV CTV s jock squad pulls ahead of last year s winners, Global, in a tight race. Trailing behind Global this year is the CBC, followed by TSN and Shaw. BEST TV ANCHOR ROB MACDONALD The velvet voice of Rob MacDonald continues to woo and win Saskatonians as the veteran anchor takes this trophy home for Thank-You for your continued support and patronage over the years. 4 YEARS RUNNING #1 USED BOOK IN PLANET S READERS CHOICE POLL BEST COMPUTER COMPUSMART The people have spoken: Compusmart remains the reigning champion when it comes to computer equipment. Compusmart edges out OTV Computers, followed by Future Shop and Neural Net. BEST AUDIO EQUIPMENT AUDIO WAREHOUSE For earth-shaking, window-rattling audio equipment, our readers say Audio Warehouse is the best place in town to find your woofers and tweeters. A & B Sound takes second place, followed by Krazy Kiley s and Future Shop. BEST HAIR SALON COMPLIMENTS HAIR DESIGNERS Our readers compliments go to Compliments Hair Designers, winner of this year s Best Hair Salon designation. Haarley s Salon lags behind by a hair, followed by Guru and Ethos. BEST FLORIST NOSEGAY FLOWERSHOP Did you know that, according to Wikipedia, a nosegay is a small bunch of flowers, originating from medieval times, originally worn around the head or on the lapel to mask the unpleasant smells of the age? Well, now you know. The Nosegay edges ahead of Blossoms Florist by a nose this year, followed by Flowers by Fred and Bill s House of Flowers. BEST POOL HALL SNOOKER SHACK Rack em up! Snooker Shack s tables are the playing surfaces of choice for local pool sharks this year. Modern Billiards, Pacific Avenue Billiards and the Q Room all have good leave to challenge for best of 2007. BEST CATERER D REEN S D reen s Catering takes the cake for top caterer this year. Picknic s Restaurant and Fine Pastries finishes second, followed by Jake s and Calories. BEST TRAVEL AGENT TRAVEL CUTS Student discount travel specialists, Travel Cuts, fly away with the top prize again this BEST CAR DEALERSHIP (NEW) ENS LEXUS/TOYOTA Ens Lexus/Toyota drives away with this category yet again this year. Watch for Jubilee Ford, Auto Clearing and Dodge City in the rear view mirror, as they look for their openings to overtake the city s category leader in 2007. BEST CAR DEALERSHIP (USED) AUTO CLEARING Our readers deal the fine folks at Auto Clearing this year s winning hand. Ens Toyota tailgates close behind, followed by Dodge City and Sherwood Chev Olds. SERVICES year, followed by Co-op Travel, My Travel and CAA. BEST DRY CLEANER EXECUTIVE CLEANERS Accidents will happen. And, when they do, our readers rush their stained wardrobes to Executive Cleaners. Other reliable spots to spiffy up your tarnished look include Custom Cleaners, Family Cleaners and Arthur Rose. BEST REALTOR (INDIVIDUAL) RICK BOIRE Despite receiving entries for nearly 50 different city realtors, real estate wizard Rick Boire came out on top of the real estate scene this year. Other top realtors include Kari Fox, Richard Rink, Jack Sandbrand and Henry Moulin. BEST REALTOR (COMPANY) REMAX Our readers choose the company with the big hot air balloon again this year, besting Hallmark, Century 21 and Realty Executives all of which also come well-recommended by Planet S readers. BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP DIAMOND SERVICE Put a dent in your fender? A ding in your door? Survey says: the grease monkeys at Diamond Service on 33rd will have your car up and running in no time. Shirley s Service comes in second this year, followed by Avalon Auto Service and 78 Auto Clinic Ltd. Snooker Shack THE SNOOKER SHACK VOTED BEST POOL HALL We d like to say thanks by doubling up your fun... 3421A - 8th Street East 374-2100 PROUD TO BE SELECTED SASKATOON'S BEST CATERER! View our menu on-line at www.dreens.com or call 934-0047 Open daily for lunch, coffee and dessert DELICIOUS HOME COOKED MEALS IN SECONDS *THE PEOPLES' CHOICE FOR CATERING IN SASKATOON 119 Ave B South 934-0047 www.dreens.com CAFE & CARRY-OUT FOODS Play for 1 HOUR and get 1 HOUR FREE WITH THIS COUPON Offer Expires May 30, 2006. A room without books is like a body without a soul. -Cicero 151 8th St. E in Cumberland Square 382-5252 #1-3311 8th Street E. Phone 955-1100 Banquet Facilities for up to 115 702 Circle Drive Phone 955-1926 Banquet Facilities for up to 250 4 MARCH 30 06 PLANET S BEST OF SASKATOON PULL-OUT MARCH 30 06 PLANET S BEST OF SASKATOON PULL-OUT 9
the fourth year in a row. MacDonald is joined THANK-YOU SASKATOON For voting us BEST ICE CREAM in the city, for the past four years. WE ALSO SCOOP UP THE BEST HOT DOGS, FRIES AND SHAKES IN SASKATOON! Why Did Homestead Ice-cream Cross The Street? to get back to the 50's! WE'VE MOVED! Visit us at 822 Victoria Avenue (yes, that is right across the street from our old location.) Urban Adventure. Also turning heads are Elwood Flynn, Caswell s and Atch and Co. BEST CLOTHING (YOUNG ADULTS) ULTIMO EUROMODA Ultimo makes room in its trophy case for a double win, also snatching the Best Young Adult clothing store award. Other trendy thread dispensers include Old Navy, American Eagle, The Gap and Bootlegger. BEST CLOTHING (KIDS) GAP KIDS Trying to keep up with the Jones kids? Our readers recommend Gap Kids, followed by Please Mum, Walmart, Winners and Old Navy. BEST FURNITURE ASHLEY FURNITURE HOME Whether you re looking for ottomans or recliners, our readers suggest you pull up a chair at Ashley Furniture Homestore. Other notable entries in this new by reader demand category, are Furniture World, Urban Barn, the Brick and Konto Furniture. BEST SHOE ALDO Our shoe obsessed readers (you know who you are) claim Aldo is the best place to indulge their footwear fetish. Payless Shoes steps up to second place, followed by Bricker s, Durand s and Pedestrian Shoe Fitting Centre. BEST OPTICAL POINT OPTICAL The master opticians at Point Optical come into focus first, followed closely by Optika this year. Other Saskatoon visionaries include Costco, Shoppers Optical, Atrium and Vogue. BEST BOOK MCNALLY ROBINSON McNally Robinson s amazing selection and knowledgeable staff continue to keep our readers reading. Broadway s radical little bookstore, Turning the Tide, marshals its activist cadres to come in second, followed by Coles and 8th Street Books and Comics. BEST MAGAZINE READERS NOOK Despite stiff competition from McNally Robinson, Readers Nook holds on to its title as the city s Best Magazine Store. Given the wide (and sometimes weird) selection of magazine titles at Readers Nook, it s little wonder. Turning the Tide s rearguard action in this category lands it the bronze medal for magazines. BEST SECONDHAND BOOK WESTGATE BOOKS It s four years of victory for the undisputed heavy-weight champions of the city s used book world, Westgate Books. Also getting the nod from Planet S readers are the White Cat Book Company, Tramps and 8th St. Books and Comics. BEST CD/RECORD A & B SOUND Staying alive and on top, despite a few harsh years for the record store industry, A & B Sound once again captures the hearts and ears of our readers. HMV, Vinyl Diner and Tramps are all frequent stops for the aurallyfixated, too. BEST HOBBY/CRAFT MICHAELS Whether you re looking for a big bag of googly eyes or 700 metres of lace, our readers say Michaels is the place to go. Model rocket/airplane/helicopter emporium Hobby World comes in second, followed by Wool Emporium and Handmade House. BEST UNIQUE GIFTS TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES Once again, fair trade rules the roost in Saskatoon as Ten Thousand Villages takes the prize for best unique gift store. Trading Post comes in second, followed by Twisted Goods, Sask. Made Marketplace and Alternations. BEST PLACE FOR A SECOND-HAND FIND VALUE VILLAGE Saskatoon s bargain-finders say their favourite tickle-trunk for second-hand finds is used-clothing superstore Value Village. The (sadly) closing Ragtime Clothing Co. comes in second, followed by the Village Green Thrift Shop and the Mennonite Clothes Closet. BEST LOCALLY-OWNED (NON CHAIN/ FRANCHISE) BULK CHEESE WAREHOUSE Broadway stores dominate this category this year with fine food purveyors Bulk Cheese Warehouse climbing to the top of the retail pile. Other distinctive shops with loyal fan followings include the Steep Hill Food Co-op, used record shop Vinyl Diner and downtown tween destination Frakas. BEST SKATEBOARD SHOP NINE TIMES Skateboarding is not a crime. And, according to our readers, neither is shopping at Nine Times. Perennial favourite. Undergrind comes in second this year, followed by Momentum and Dunas Clothing. BEST BIKE SHOP BIKE DOCTOR The cycle specialists at the Bike Doctor put the pedal to the pedal this year, regaining their title from second place taker Doug s Spoke n Sport. Also on our readers list of places to spring into spring are City Park Cycle and Bike Universe. BEST SPORTING GOODS AL ANDERSON S SOURCE FOR SPORTS Whether you re looking for hockey sticks or football helmets, Al Anderson s has got it best covered once again this year, say Planet S readers. Other stores on their shopping lists are Sport Chek, Doug s Spoke n Sport and Sport Mart. BEST MOVIE RENTAL BLOCKBUSTER Saskatoon s video vultures agree: Blockbuster video is the best place to get your video fix. Rogers Video hits the special features button at second, followed by the dearly departed 49 Cent Video and VHQ. in the winners circle by CTV counterpart Trish Cheveldayoff and Global s Keri Ferguson. BEST TV REPORTER JENNIFER JELLICOE For the second year in a row, CTV s Jennifer Jellicoe takes top honours as the city s best TV reporter. Scoop Jellicoe is joined by the CTV s Jeff Rogstad, Craig Wilson and the CBC s Kaveri Bitera. BEST WEATHER FORECASTER JEFF ROGSTAD Whether it s sleeting, snowing or shining, Saskatonians turn to CTV s Jeff Rogstad to get their weather info. Other notable forecasters: Brad Grass, Global s Paul Sundher and CBC s Claire Martin. BEST SPORTSCASTER KEVIN WAUGH CTV Sports guy Kevin Waugh wins the MVP award this year for his sporting local coverage. Waugh is joined by Shaw TV s Curtis Anderson and Global s Chris Harris and Esther Madziya. BEST RADIO STATION CFCR Armed with a stronger transmitter and an army of faithful listeners-fans-volunteers, CFCR refuses to lose in this category, winning top honours for the fourth year in a row. C95 settles in at second place, followed by Rock 102, CBC and CKOM. BEST RADIO PERSONALITY RAMBLIN DAVE While we received a ton of different entries in this category again this year, C95 morning man Ramblin Dave is the chart-topper once again this year. Talk radio institution John Gormley finishes second, followed by CFCR s Jenn and Kurt and Magic 98 s Brad Grass. BEST PLANET S WRITER DAVID SHIELD Local freelancer David Shield rises to the top of the Planet S talent pool this year, followed closely by dining diva Noelle Chorney, science columnist David Suzuki, film critic Jorge Ignacio Castillo and politics columnist John F. Conway. When asked for comment, Mr. Shield would only say that the cheques were in the mail. BEST THING ABOUT PLANET S EVENTS LISTINGS While we received a very wide range of entries in this category (dining reviews, music reporting, the annual Best of Saskatoon poll and special issue, independent journalism, etc.) you just can t beat good old fashioned utility value. Apparently, it doesn t hurt that the paper s free for pick-up, either. Gracias!! We're proud to be Saskatoon's FAVOURITE NEW! MENDEL ART GALLERY ARTS Leads the art-scene, once again. BEST LOCAL BAND MOBADASS Rising from the (sorta) ashes of Wide Mouth Mason, former WMM Bassist Earl Pereira and company have made a sonic splash with their funk-rock fusion. Playing backup this year are one-piece campus and community radio fave, Maybe Smith and classic rock cover band Stars on Strike. BEST VOCALIST THERESA SOKYRKA Even though the buzz surrounding her Canadian Idol performances has subsided, Theresa Sokyrka overwhelmingly claims the hearts of Saskatonians. Others fighting for the city s Reigning Diva status include multimedia maven Andrea Menard, Carrie Catherine and country crooner Brad Johner. BEST AUTHOR GUY VANDERHAEGHE It s been a few years since Mr. Vanderhaeghe has graced the literary world with a novel, making the acclaimed local scribe s latest Best of Saskatoon victory all the sweeter. (Consider, too, that this is a write-in ballot, which means he had to carry a plurality of voters both willing and able to tackle spelling his last name!) Rounding out the celebrity-filled category: Booker Prize winner Yann Martel, U of S Historian Bill Waiser, children s book author Art Slade and a three-way tie between mystery writer Anthony Bidulka, Shelley Leedahl and Don Kerr. BEST ACTOR BRAD GRASS Not content to perform morning man duties at Magic 98, Brad Grass continues to dominate this category appearing most recently in the CBC biopic Prairie Giant: The Tommy Douglas Story. Other notable thespians include Kristina Hughes, Andrea Menard, Andrew McDonald and Gordon Tootoosis. BEST LIVE THEATRE COMPANY PERSEPHONE THEATRE As the Persephone gets set to sail to their new digs at River Landing, some things E.E. BURRITOS B-102 Ave. P South 343-6264 remain the same. Once again the casts, crews and support staff that keep the good ship Persephone afloat and moving in the right direction have been voted Saskatoon s Best Live Theatre Company for the fourth year in a row. Also trodding the boards this year: the Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company, The Saskatoon Soaps, the Gateway Players and the Live Five Theatre Collective. BEST THEATRE PRODUCTION DRY STREAK Persephone s production about a streaking punk rock girl in small-town Saskatchewan took top honours in this year s best of balloting. Next up is Persephone s coming-of-age story Trying, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan s A Comedy Of Errors and Wide Open Theatrical Escapades Double Dutch. BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE AMIGOS The city-stage to hear Canada s best upand-coming bands this year, is Amigos. So says the most music-savvy audience in the city. Formidable competitors Lydia s, Buds and the Odeon rank well, too. BEST MOVIE THEATRE BROADWAY THEATRE The little community-run theatre that could jumps from its position as a Broadway mainstay into first place this year. Pacific Cinemas is Saskatoon s next favourite place to catch a flick, followed by Rainbow Cinemas and the historic (and super-cool) Roxy Theatre. BEST ART GALLERY MENDEL There seem to be a few certainties in life death, taxes and the fact that the Mendel will consistently dominate this category. While our readers overwhelmingly voted the Mendel Best Gallery again this year, ballots were also cast in sufficient numbers to justify honourable mentions for the Pacif ic Gallery located off-broadway, the artist-run AKA Gallery and the Kenderdine Gallery on campus. FORCING my staff to submit hundreds of entries each paid off!! Thanks Saskatoon for voting us BEST LUNCH SPOT (UNDER $10) 307-21st Street East 373-8383 OPEN 8 TO 5 MON. - FRI. CLOSED WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS NEXT ISSUE APRIL 13 NOT YOUR EVERYDAY PAPER 8 MARCH 30 06 PLANET S BEST OF SASKATOON PULL-OUT MARCH 30 06 PLANET S BEST OF SASKATOON PULL-OUT 5
FOUR IN A ROW THANK YOU Winner of the 2006 Planet S Magazine Readers' Choice award for THE BEST FAMILY It all began with three points of difference. The butcher shop, the bakery and the produce bar. Fresh & Bountiful are key drivers in our concept. It's like a construction site where you come to participate in creating the World's Greatest Burger, we provide the product & tools to create a great dining out experience. We have to be fast, fresh and our burgers have to be off the chart! And we re more then just burgers, our menu features a wide variety of chicken sandwiches, salads, super thick shakes, cookies & brownies, fresh cream pies and a full breakfast menu is available everyday. THANKS AGAIN FOR CHOOSING FUDDRUCKERS. We look forward to seeing you soon! CELEBRATING 20 YEARS IN SASKATOON TAKE ME TO THE RIVER It s the thing we like most about Saskatoon. CITY LIVING BEST THING TO DO IN SASKATOON WALKING ALONG THE RIVER The South Saskatchewan has become one of Saskatoon s defining characteristics over the years, supported by an amazing network of parks and trails each guaranteed to be packed during the summer months. While there were a number of creative entries in this category (unicycling, jigging, getting drunk), biking takes second place honours this year, followed by going out to dinner, shopping and golfing. BEST NEIGHBOURHOOD TO LIVE IN NUTANA While practically every neighbourhood in the city was represented on this list, the ever-trendy Nutana/Broadway district took this year s top prize, followed by City Park, Avalon, Caswell Hill and College Park. BEST PLACE TO TAKE AN OUT OF TOWNER WANUSKEWIN There were lots of creative entries in this category as well, but Wanuskewin Heritage Park managed to edge its way into first place, followed by Saskatoon s riverbank, the uber-quaint Berry Barn and the Western Development Museum. BEST SUMMER DESTINATION IN SK WASKESIEU Once again, Prince Albert National Park wins top marks as Saskatonians favourite summertime getaway destination. Other sizzling summertime destinations include Emma Lake, Candle Lake, the Cypress Hills and the Berry Barn. BEST WINTER DESTINATION IN SK WASKESIEU Despite some clever answers like Cancun, Anywhere Warm and The Airport, from the winter-hating but still have a sense of humour constituency, Waskesieu takes top marks for the province s best winter getaway this year, too. Table Mountain ski hill comes in a close second, followed by the toasty waters of Manitou Springs Mineral Spa, Blackstrap Ski Hill and Moose Jaw s Temple Gardens Mineral Spa. BEST CITY FESTIVAL FRINGE FESTIVAL Despite a valiant effort by Saskatoon s jazz aficionados, Broadway s annual street festival / theatre-fest The Fringe takes top honours in this category once again. The Taste of Saskatchewan, the Folkfest, the Northern Saskatchewan International Children s Festival and the new kid on the city festival block, the Saskatoon Blues Festival, all follow the runner-up, the Jazz Festival, at a respectful distance. BEST GOLF COURSE WILLOWS GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB Fore! Once again, the Willows scores a hole in one. The Whitecap Dakota First Nation s Dakota Dunes course ranks second, followed by Saskatoon s Riverside Course and Holiday Park. BEST FITNESS FACILITY YWCA Whether you want to run a few laps or log some miles on the treadmill, our readers say the YWCA is the best place to burn off a few pounds. The recently completed U of S PAC Centre comes in at a close second place, followed by California Fitness Centre, the Fieldhouse and the YMCA. BEST BEAUTY SPA SPA AHAVA Want to freshen up your look? Maybe drain some of your stress away? Our readers say Broadway s Spa Ahava is your best bet. Other day-trips our readers recommend include Paramount Day Spa, Sunsera, Visions, Ethos and Just For You Day Spa. BEST EMPLOYER UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN This little campus town knows where its bread is buttered, treating its University of Saskatchewan scholars and support staff best of all, according to Planet S readers. Strong HR performances were also turned in by the much smaller 2nd Ave. Grill, law firm Robertson Stromberg Pedersen, and Superior Cabinets. And Viva O Shea s pub, which gets an honourable mention for taking their entire staff to Las Vegas! BEST EXCUSE FOR BEING LATE FOR WORK CAR WON T START While car trouble ranked as our readers best excuse for tardiness, it certainly wasn t the most creative. Some of the best of the alsorans include: My dog ate the car keys; I was up late humping your mom; and I was trying to explain to my girlfriend from Ontario why it s called a bunnyhug not a hoodie. Let us know how those answers actually worked with your boss. CITY LOVING BEST DATE ACTIVITY DINNER AND MOVIE The old standby was, rather predictably, followed by walking along the river, live theatre, and, if everything goes according to plan, sex. Less predictably, would you believe: bowling and mini-golf? Oh, it s a kinky city, baby. BEST FOR A DATE Want to cook up romance? Place your order here, say the readers who never lie. Planet S readers also raise their glasses to date-faves Calories, Mykonos, The Cave, John s Prime Rib and Steak House and Mr. Rizo s. BEST PICK UP LINE HOW YOU DOIN? It s hard to imagine this line has worked for anyone, ever. Still, How You Doin? took top honours this year in this debut gonzo category. Like bowling and mini-golf, it does go to show that Saskatonians like a good laugh with their loving. Our favourite lines from the fringe include: You have the most beautiful teeth; Can I drive you to work in the morning?; I ve lived here all my life and I thought I d done all the girls in Saskatoon; and, our favourite, I wish I was your derivative so I could lie tangent to your curves. Math? So. Incredibly. Geeky. BEST PICK UP SPOT U OF S According to our readers, the hallowed halls of academia are alive with a lot more than the pursuit of scholarship. From the booths at Louis to the lawn at the Bowl, the U of S is majoring in the makeout arts and sciences. In a less experimental milieu, Overdrive nightclub ranks second this year, followed by the Broadway Roastery, The Pat and Jax. BEST BREAK UP LINE IT S NOT YOU, IT S ME. Let s save ourselves all the pain and just skip to the fun answers; shall we? Answers like: I m not gay, but I ll learn; Welcome to Dumpsville. Population: You; I just remembered that I m married; and I don t like your cat. Nice, people. Very nice. BEST BREAK UP SPOT EMAIL Welcome to the latest killer-app! Why bear the brunt of the inevitable emotional explosion when you can just point and click your failed relationship to that great recycle bin in cyberspace? Other entries in this category range from scenic (Victoria Bridge, the weir) to strategic (her place) to stupid (City Dump) and stupidly suicidal (in bed). ULTIMATE IN FASHION Barry Flynn with staff at Ultimo Euromoda LOCAL SHOPPING BEST SHOPPING CENTRE MIDTOWN PLAZA Downtown shopping mecca Midtown Plaza gets the nod yet again from discerning shoppers. The Centre at Circle and 8th takes second this year, followed by Lawson Heights and Market Mall. BEST CLOTHING (WOMEN) TONIC According to our readers, Saskatoon s tres chic go to Tonic to lather up into the latest styles. Other ranking women s wear outlets cut a broad swath from Ultimo Euromoda to Reitmans to Manhattan Casuals to The Gap. BEST CLOTHING (MEN) ULTIMO EUROMODA Locally owned and operated Ultimo Euromoda takes top billing as this year s Best Men s Clothing Store, edging out last year s winner, PLAY our nationally ranked courses. Still 36 Holes Open To The Public Voted Saskatoon s Best Public Golf course Five New Holes Opening In 2006 Including A 2nd Island Green Considered Saskatchewan s Premium Golf Tournament Facility For Groups Of 24 To 180 Individual, Family & Corporate Memberships Public Driving Range & Practice Facility SPRING FEVER TEE TIME SALE WEEKDAYS Passes Selling Fast...Get Yours Now! tax incl $132 SAVE $80 475/1000 Tee Times* Valid Weekdays Anytime PRIME TIME tax incl OR MORE 190/400 Prime Tee Times*- Weekends & Holidays before Noon $170 TEE TIME PASSES INCLUDE: Green fees for four players, four large buckets of range balls and 20% Golf Shop discount on soft goods merchandise *Cannot be used for tournaments or groups larger than 20 players SAVE $80 OR MORE SWING INTO SPRING SPECIAL WILLOWS DINING ROOM FOR LUNCH OR DINNER For every two entrees purchased in April, 2006 receive ONE FREE ROUND OF GOLF *some conditions apply EASTER BRUNCH & BUFFET APRIL 16TH Brunch 10 am - 2 pm Buffet 5 pm - 8 pm Kids 5 & Under Eat Free Reservation Recommended. Call 956-1100 ext. 231 The Willows...more than just golf 956-1100 www.willowsgolf.com AUDIO WAREHOUSE PROVIDING EXTRAORDINARY ENTERTAINMENT BY Thank You Saskatoon for making us your BEST Audio Equipment store for the second year! Proud to be celebrating over 40 years of customer satisfaction. 664-8885 1601 Quebec Avenue Saskatoon here s looking at you saskatoon Located at Scotia Centre 664.4636 & Conferation Mall 975.1630 Saskatoon's BEST Thai food with the friendliest service! From our kitchen to yours, thank you Saskatoon. Keo and her family invite you to try authentic Thai Cuisine. It's the real thing at a reasonable price, with just the right spice. Keo's Kitchen 516 33rd St. West 652-2533 6 MARCH 30 06 PLANET S BEST OF SASKATOON PULL-OUT MARCH 30 06 PLANET S BEST OF SASKATOON PULL-OUT 7