BEST RESTAURANT OVERALL

WECZERIA FOOD & WINE

820 Broadway Ave.

With their third-straight victory in the top category — taking consideration for service, quality, ambience and menu — Weczeria continues their march toward mainstay-status. But this may’ve been the most torn that Planet S voters have ever been: after a ferocious five-way battle, Prairie Harvest Café serves it up secondbest, followed oh-so-narrowly by The Hollows , The Rook & Raven and Truffle’s Bistro.

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

STATE & MAIN

River Centre, 100 2nd Ave. S.

The paint may barely be dry, but State & Main’s chic atmosphere in the brand-spanking-new River Centre at River Landing  has already impressed voters. Cora Breakfast & Lunch (also barely settled in, at Preston Crossing), the new Rock Creek Tap & Grill (on Betts Avenue), and Root Down Workers’ Cooperative Café and Books (next to Saskatoon Farmers’ Market) were also welcomed with open arms this year.

BEST RESTAURANT FOR A BUDGET DATE

THIEN VIETNAM

123 3rd Ave. S.

Budgeters may not typically bet on the dark horse — but for 2013, maybe they should’ve. Thien Vietnam (downtown) barely penny-pinches out long, long-time favourite Amigos Cantina (10^th Street) for Planet S readers’ go-to place for quality face time that’s affordable too. They also loved stretching their bucks while getting to know each other at Fuddruckers, The Rook & Raven and Broadway Café.

BEST RESTAURANT FOR A LUXURY DATE

WECZERIA FOOD & WINE

820 Broadway Ave.

When the time is right to splurge on the one you love, voters recommend heading down to Broadway Avenue’s Weczeria — also voted Best Restaurant Overall, by the way. You’ll also be made to feel like queens and kings at Truffle’s Bistro on 21st Street, at Carver’s Steakhouse in the Sheraton Cavalier, and at Saboroso Brazilian Steakhouse on 8th Street.

BEST RESTAURANT FOR A ROMANTIC DATE

WECZERIA FOOD & WINE

820 Broadway Ave.

Well, Planet S readers continue their love affair with Weczeria — telling us the Broadway hotspot sets the music, the lighting and the mood just right. They also like playing a little footsie under the tables at Truffle’s Bistro (downtown), Calories Restaurant (Nutana) and Carver’s Steakhouse (Sheraton Cavalier).

FRIENDLIEST RESTAURANT

PARK CAFE

515 20th St. W.

The Riversdale mainstay serves up three straight years with a smile, as they handily hold down top spot for winning us over with grace. And in a super tight free-for-all for second place, Konga Café (Avenue H North) just edges out Rock Creek Tap & Grill (McOrmond Drive; Betts Avenue), The Rook & Raven (2nd Avenue South) and Las Palapas Resort Grill (Victoria Avenue).

BEST UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE

Saboroso Brazilian Steakhouse

#340 2600 8th St. E.

Last year, newcomer Saboroso upset long-time favourite Samurai Japanese Restaurant (Delta Bessborough) for voters’ go-to spot for something more than a little different. This year, their grip on this category tightens as they spear the competition. And in yet another upset, The Hollows (Avenue C) slides into a tie (!) with Samurai for thinking outside the box. Saba’s African Cuisine (22^nd Street) follows right behind.

BEST RESTAURANT TO TAKE KIDS

FUDDRUCKERS

2910 8th St. E.

And the Fudds dynasty continues... Voters have told us time and again that nothing beats that winning combination of choice, space, speed of service and all those nearby activities. Jerry’s Food Emporium (8^th Street), meanwhile, once again makes second-favourite, and voters also let the rugrats run amok at Montana’s Cookhouse Saloon (also 8^th Street) and Amigos Cantina (10^th Street).

BEST RESTAURANT TO TAKE PARENTS

EARLS

610 2nd Ave. N.

Earls picks a fight with longtime winner The Granary, and perennial second-favourite The Keg Steakhouse & Bar, and ekes out a victory by satisfying the experienced palates among us. The Granary (8^th Street) finishes not far behind though, followed closely by The Keg (Grosvenor), Manos Restaurant & Lounge (8^th Street) and Calories Restaurant (Broadway Avenue).

BEST RESTAURANT FOR OUT-OF-TOWNERS

THE HOLLOWS

334 Ave. C S.

This year has seen the relative newcomer in Riversdale make significant strides, and the prize for impressing visitors is no exception, as The Hollows unseats frequent favourite Spadina Freehouse (downtown), who cinches up second spot. Readers also like to brag up Prairie Harvest Café (Brevoort Park) and Weczeria Food & Wine (Broadway).

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT

FUDDRUCKERS

2910 8th St. E.

The 8th Street hotspot is unstoppable when it comes to satisfying noshers of all ages, as Fudds runs away with top Family Restaurant prize yet again. Other places where voters like to bring generations together: Boston Pizza (various locations), Montana’s Cookhouse Saloon (8th Street; McOrmond Drive), Jerry’s Food Emporium (8th Street) and Broadway Café (Broadway Avenue).

BEST RESTAURANT FOR VEGETARIANS

ROOT DOWN WORKERS’ COOPERATIVE CAFE & BOOKS

#117 120 Sonnenschein Way

The new guy next to the Farmers’ Market didn’t need long to make a strong impression on leafmunchers who’ve long lamented a shortage of veg-friendly choices in Saskatoon. Last year’s winner, The Hollows in Riversdale, easily holds second spot — well ahead of 2011 winner Keo’s Kitchen and Amigos Cantina, both in Nutana. Looks like animal lovers in the city are going west!

BEST “OLD STANDBY” RESTAURANT

AMIGOS CANTINA

632 10th St. E.

Undefeated favourite Amigos stands tall with the Best “Old Standby” title yet again, as voters know the big menu in the big venue never disappoints—and seriously folks, these guys are coming up on their 25^th anniversary, an astounding achievement for a restaurant! Planet S readers also told us they never walk away unsatisfied from Riversdale’s Park Café, downtown’s Earls or Nutana’s Yard & Flagon, in that order.

BEST ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT RESTAURANT

GO FOR SUSHI

#31C 2105 8th St. E.

Go For Sushi’s combination of all-you-can-eat sushi and buffets led voters to come back for a third helping, as they award Best AYCE to the 8th Street eatery for the third straight time. But we also love to pack it in at 8th Street’s Saboroso Brazilian Steakhouse (last year’s third place finisher), who overtakes the 2012 silver medallist, New Island Sushi on Quebec Avenue.

BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK STOP

MEG’S RESTAURANT

101 3rd Ave N.

Downtown newcomer Meg’s seems to have found a niche in Saskatoon; readers tell us Meg’s keeps night owls happier with samosas than the nachos of previous favourites 7 Eleven, or the burgers of previous second-place finisher McDonald’s.

BEST FAST FOOD RESTAURANT

WENDY’S

Various locations

The square patty draws a straight line from 2012’s third place result, past usual favourite McDonald’s, to make voters the most satisfied in the least amount of time. Mickie D’s hangs in for a handy second, though, while Subway, A&W and Taco Time do battle for bronze.

BEST CHAIN RESTAURANT

EARLS

610 2nd Ave. N.

Not to be afraid of outsiders, Saskatonians “don’t say bread” for about the hundredth time. We also love the out-of-town offerings from Original Joe’s Restaurant & Bar, who improves on their 2012 finish to land ahead of last year’s second-best, Moxie’s Grill & Bar. Other favourite foreigners are Boston Pizza and The Keg Steakhouse & Bar.

BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT

YIP HONG’S DIM SUM RESTAURANT

#17B 1501 8th St. E.

Yip Hong’s sums it up for a third straight victory in red dragon country. Other voters want wonton at Mandarin Restaurant (20th Street West), who widens the gap over their long-time rival, Genesis Family Restaurant on 22nd Street West, who holds down third ahead of Szechuan Kitchen (Broadway Avenue) and Oceania Inn (8th Street).

BEST THAI RESTAURANT

KEO’S KITCHEN

1013 Broadway Ave.

Broadway mainstay Keo’s ties it up yet again; we think voters may be getting a tad attached to the Siamese service from the former 33rd Street entrepreneurs. Congratulations to Keo’s on their 10th top Thai title! Sawaddee Bistro (2nd Avenue North), meanwhile, says “coconuts!” to their third-place finish of 2012, and overtakes the tom yum at Royal Thai Restaurant (3rd Avenue North).

BEST VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT

THIEN VIETNAM

123 3rd Ave. S.

Downtown’s Thien has been expanding on our voters’ allegiance, and after stealing second spot last year, they absolutely run away with the Vietnamese Victory for 2013. Next-door neighbour Red Pepper retreats to second place, ahead of Spicy Garden Pho House (8th Street), Lien Thanh Restaurant (Avenue A South) and Jasmine Restaurant (Circle Drive).

BEST SOUTH ASIAN RESTAURANT

TAJ MAHAL

#6 157 2nd Ave. N.

Last year’s expansion of this category — so we wouldn’t miss out on our offerings from Burma, Bangladesh and Pakistan — hasn’t done much to loosen the Taj’s grip on it. But Spicy Bite Restaurant (College Park) is taking nibbles out of the competition, as they secure voters’ #2 title handily, ahead of Golden Pagoda (downtown), Mogul Divaan (Pleasant Hill) and Kabab King (Sutherland).

BEST KOREAN RESTAURANT

SEOUL KOREAN RESTAURANT

334 20th St. W.

Riversdale’s Seoul overtakes the more established Ricebowl Fusion in Mayfair for the key kimchi around town. Ricebowl remains popular, though, handily holding down second-favourite position ahead of Koryo Korean Barbeque in the Midtown Mall.

BEST JAPANESE RESTAURANT

SUSHIRO SUSHI BAR

737B Broadway Ave.

Whew! This is always a competitive category, but Sushiro Sushi Bar made it look easy, wrapping up the voter favourite title for the second straight year. The ninjas at Samurai (Delta Bessborough), meanwhile, hang on for a hold on the silver sword, barely ahead of Otowa Japanese Restaurant (2nd Avenue).

BEST FRENCH RESTAURANT

TRUFFLE’S BISTRO

230 21st St. E.

Truffle’s makes it deux: the downtown bistro does le service de table right, say voters for the second straight year. They also appreciate les fines herbes used at Broadway’s Calories Restaurant, le diner served at downtown’s St. Tropez Bistro, and the style français at Weczeria Food & Wine.

BEST GREEK RESTAURANT

MEDITERRANNO

119 3rd Ave. S.

It’s gone through a few permutations in the past handful of years, and voters don’t mind a bit that the latest has an expanded scope that includes Spanish, Italian and Moroccan cooking. So for its first real competition on the Saskatoon Greek scene, Mediterranno gyrates smoothly into first place, ahead of Opa! Souvlaki of Greece, Manos Restaurant & Lounge and Granada House.

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT

TAVERNA ITALIAN RESTAURANT

219 21st St. E.

Taverna (downtown) looks to be tightening its hold on the perfect pesto prize, as voters hand them the victory yet again. Chianti Café is still a favourite, though, as the Idylwyld olive oilers keep second spot cinched up nicely. Relative newcomer Il Salici Ristorante & Lounge (at The Willows Golf & Country Club) makes their first appearance on the podium, serving up third.

BEST LATIN AMERICAN RESTAURANT

LAS PALAPAS RESORT GRILL

910 Victoria Ave.

Maybe opening a food and goods store on Broadway helped broaden their base, because Nutana’s Las Palapas is starting to look untouchable in this category. And in a perfect repeat of the results from our 2012 survey, La Bamba Café (Boychuk Drive) finishes second, followed by EE Burritos (Avenue P South). Special shout-out to Montana’s Cookhouse and Original Joe’s, who somehow garnered a vote apiece. Weird,  but there you have it.

BEST WORLD CUISINE RESTAURANT

KONGA CAFE

204 Ave. H N.

It’s a return to form for the Jamaican chefs at Konga Café (Avenue H North), who seems in a constant to-and-fro with Best World rival Saba’s African Cuisine. The Ethiopian offerings at Saba’s (22nd Street West) will have to settle for second this year, well ahead of Lebanese Kitchen (off 8th Street), Afghan Kabob & Donair (off 2nd Avenue South) and Mogul Divaan (22nd Street West).

BEST RESTAURANT FOR DIETARY RESTRICTIONS

THE GRIFFIN TAKEAWAY

#10 3311 8th St. E.

It’s tough enjoying a night out of your own kitchen when you can’t take part in the majority of the city’s food offerings, so voters are grateful for the sensitive touch at The Griffin — who takes this category for the second straight year: pretty good for a shop that’s barely been open two years! You can also let your stomach guide you to The Hollows, Root Down Café, Woodfire Grill and La Bamba, say readers.

BEST RESTAURANT THAT WENT OUT OF BUSINESS

JOE DOG’S

Sports haven Joe Dog’s was a casualty of the demolition of The Patricia Hotel this year, and fans are already wishing there’d be another season. Honourable mention goes to last year’s winner, John’s Prime Rib — who’s now reincarnated as John’s Victorian Steak & Seafood House in the Riviera Motor Inn — as well as Scratch, Saskatoon Sous Chef, and D’reen’s.

BEST WINGS

WING WORLD

706B Central Ave.; 3322 Fairlight Dr.

With tons of flavours and to-your-door delivery, voters loved the poultry offerings from Wing World (Fairhaven and Sutherland) for the second straight year. Perennial contender Yard & Flagon (Nutana) flies easily into second spot, while Somewhere Else Pub & Grill (Avalon) overtakes last year’s bronze medallist, Maguire’s Irish Pub (Grosvenor).

BEST NACHOS

AMIGOS CANTINA

632 10th St. E.

No one loads ‘em up like the tex-mex champions at Amigos, who have been shredding the competition for eons. And in an all-out battle for second and third places, Original Joe’s (Grosvenor) chips in ahead of Fox & Hounds Pub & Brewery (River Heights), who in turn defeats Yard & Flagon (Nutana) and O’Shea’s Irish Pub (downtown).

BEST LUNCH

SOULEIO FOODS

265 3rd Ave S.

We may have trouble spelling it, but Saskatonians sure have warmed quickly to Pineview Farms’ Souleio grocery/bistro, who garnishes the lead lunch prize this year — after not even even appearing on 2012’s podium! Amigos (Nutana) and Jake’s on 21^st (downtown), meanwhile, wage an all-out noontide war for first runner-up, but call it a draw. The Rook & Raven (downtown) rounds out the podium.

BEST BUSINESS LUNCH

THE ROOK & RAVEN

154 2nd Ave S.

There are a lot of considerations when you’re heading out for a business lunch: you can’t look cheap, and you can’t look snooty; you need to relax a bit, but stay professional; and a bit of privacy is good, but too much will make you look desperate. With all that in mind, voters unseated long-time victors 2^nd Avenue Grill in favour of newcomers The Rook & Raven. They also liked the wheeling and dealing at Earls, Souleio Foods and Rock Creek Tap & Grill.

BEST BUDGET LUNCH

THIEN VIETNAM

123 3rd Ave S.

Thien’s successful bid for Best Budget Lunch comes after their second try — they made headway in 2012, but 2013 makes their ascension complete, as previous winners Jake’s on 21^st (downtown) and Subway (various locations) settle for a distant second and third.  The Underground Café (Riversdale) and Earth Bound Bakery & Deli (8^th Street) will also save you some bread, say voters.

BEST BRUNCH

POACHED BREAKFAST BISTRO

259 2nd Ave. S.

Their downtown spot may only be a part-time bistro (Flint Saloon takes over in the evenings), but Poached has a full-time lock on offering the best of breakfast and lunch, as voters hand them another landslide. And you can also get egged at Park Café and The Hollows (both in Riversdale), who handily take silver and bronze ahead of Botanica (Saskatoon Inn).

BEST DIM SUM

YIP HONG’S DIM SUM RESTAURANT

#17B 1501 8th St. E.

Last year, you told us Best Dim Sum was the Category We Missed — so this year, we listened, and you spoke! Yep, Yip’s got “Dim Sum” in the name, so they’d better do it right. Voters say they definitely do, handing them a sum-ptuous (sorry!) victory. They also liked the delectable selections at Mandarin Restaurant (20^th Street West) and Genesis (22^nd Street West).

BEST TAKE OUT OR DELIVERY

PANAGO PIZZA

2002 8th St. E.; 3000 Diefenbaker Dr.

Are you dubious when you’re told that Saskatoon’s growing into a proper city, with help from new Canadians and a variety of cultures? Well, how’s this for proof: Best Food That’ll Make Me Happy When I’m Desperate: Panago (Italian, duh), Spicy Bite (Indian), Thien Vietnam (that place in southeast Asia). Take that, naysayers! Honourable mentions to Pizza Pirates and Keo’s Kitchen.

BEST APPETIZERS

DUCK DUCK GOOSE

616 10th St. E.

Planet Sreaders know a good appie when they taste one: you can make a meal out of one (or four) if you like, or let it warm you up to a fuller plate later. Either way, they choose Nutana’s Duck Duck Goose, ahead of The Rook & Raven (2^nd Avenue South), 6Twelve Lounge (Sheraton Cavalier) and Earls (2^nd Avenue North).

BEST BURGER

FUDDRUCKERS

2910 8th St. E.

Meaty, juicy, tender and topping-o-licious (not to mention, on good bread) — that’s what a Fudds burger is, say voters. Seriously, we’re pretty sure they took out a copyright on this title. Slightly less regal patty-makers Park Café (Riversdale), Yard & Flagon (Nutana) and Earls (downtown) also grill you up right.

BEST VEGGIE BURGER

YARD & FLAGON

718 Broadway Ave.

Juicy, tender, topping-o-licious and decidedly un-meaty — yup, veg-heads elevate the Yard from third-place meatburger to top-notch beanburger. Their perennial rival for Best Veggie, Amigos (Nutana), locks in second place nicely, ahead of Park Café (Riversdale) and Spadina Freehouse (downtown).

BEST BURRITO

AMIGOS CANTINA

632 10th St. E.

Broadway-area mainstay Amigos steals back the title from last year’s burrito baron, Las Palapas (Victoria Avenue). EE Burritos (22^nd Street West), meanwhile, maintains their bronze-place finish, wrapping it up ahead of La Bamba Café (Boychuk Drive).

BEST DESSERT

CALORIES RESTAURANT

721 Broadway Ave.

Unless you’re one of those weirdoes who looks down on sweets — and maybe even then — here’s betting you’re not surprised that Calories’ reign of velvety, voluptuous victory shows no signs of letting up. McNally Robinson’s Prairie Ink Restaurant smoothes into second, ahead of Alexander’s Restaurant. Oh, and hey: who voted for Scott’s Parable? Is there something going on we need to know about?

BEST FISH AND CHIPS

GIBSON’S FISH AND CHIPS

1501 8th St. E.

Simple, ol’-fashioned Gibson’s (Cumberland Mall) is hard to beat for that artery-arresting British style, and 2013 is no exception. Jerry’s Food Emporium (8^th Street) settles for second spot once again, ahead of Joey’s Seafood Restaurant (8^th Street; Worobetz Place). Honourable mention to The Rook & Raven (2^nd Avenue).

BEST FRIES

YARD & FLAGON

718 Broadway Ave.

And in yet another dynasty, the Yard stays strong with the finest in Saskatoon’s fries — taking their sixth straight title. Voters also loved sampling the spuds at McDonald’s (various locations), Earls (2^nd Avenue North), New York Fries (Midtown Plaza) and Jerry’s Food Emporium (8^th Street).

BEST POUTINE

THE HOLLOWS

334 Ave. C S.

The Hollows takes the prize for Perfect Poutine for the second time in a row: pretty good for only two “Best Of Saskatoon” issues of existence! And in a ferocious Fransaskois fray for the silver medal, it’s Duck Duck Goose who makes the most mess — ahead of Yard & Flagon, Schryer’s Smoked BBQ Shack and New York Fries.

BEST MILKSHAKE

BROADWAY CAFE

814 Broadway Ave.

The 1950s-style diner may not have a five-dollar shake, but voters would gladly shell out the dough for the shark of shakes, Uma Thurman or no. Really, we think that chalice of victory is so frosty the Broadway’s hands are stuck to it! Fuddruckers and Homestead Ice Cream & Cappuccino will also help you forget you’re an adult, say voters.

BEST ICE CREAM

HOMESTEAD ICE CREAM & CAPPUCCINO

822 Victoria Ave.

We at Planet S don’t think ice cream season will ever again be upon us, but voters are so adamant about the supremacy of Homestead, we think a new standard for ice cream season is in order. If ‘tis warm enough to melt, then ‘tis the season, we say! Honourable mentions to Jerry’s Food Emporium (8^th Street) and Marble Slab Creamery (McOrmond Drive).

BEST NOODLE BOWL

THIEN VIETNAM

123 3rd Ave S.

Thien doubles up to make two helpings in a row from Planet S readers, who appreciate a tender noodle, a crispy roll, fresh veggies and a touch of heat in an excellent noodle bowl. They also savour sucking it up at Nutana Café (Broadway Avenue), Spicy Garden Pho House (8^th Street), and Red Pepper (3^rd Ave South).

BEST PASTA

CHIANTI CAFE

102 Idylwyld Dr. N.

Downtown’s Chianti does it up awesomely al dente again, ahead of the fabulous fusilli at Taverna Italian Restaurant (21^st Street East), the luscious linguine at East Side Mario’s (8^th Street), and the ravishing ravioli from Earls (2^nd Avenue North).

BEST PIZZA

CHRISTIES IL SECONDO

802 Broadway Ave.

Christies makes it two straight for piecing together the perfect pie. For second and third, voters reverse their 2012 decision — giving Aroma Resto Bar (Radisson Hotel) the silver Sicilian, and Panago Pizza (8^th Street; Diefenbaker Drive) the bronze bianca.

BEST RIBS

MONTANA’S COOKHOUSE SALOON

1510 8th St. E.; 1840 McOrmond Drive

Your grip at Montana’s may be messy at times what with all that ribby goodness, but their hold on the Best Ribs title stays firm. Tony Roma’s (Stonebridge; North Industrial) comes out just ahead of Schryer’s Smoked BBQ Shack (Hudson Bay Industrial), Doc Hollandaise (Sutherland) and Konga Café (Caswell Hill) in the battle for second place.

BEST SALAD

EARLS

610 2nd Ave. N.

If you’re gonna gorge on those ribs, better add some years to your life with some super salad. Think salad’s boring? Ask our voters, who duked it out between Earls (City Park), Prairie Ink (Brevoort Park), and Rook & Raven (downtown). In the end, Earls shows the most Popeye-style spinach power, outmuscling Prairie Ink, who in turn outlasts Rook & Raven.

BEST SANDWICH

SOULEIO FOODS

265 3rd Ave. S.

It’s been a staple of our lunches for generations, and readers will make a pickle of a great one. And in a fierce battle for noontime supremacy, it’s downtown’s Souleio ahead of 8^th Street’s Earth Bound Bakery & Deli — but only by a crumb! Jake’s on 21^st, meanwhile, is not far behind either.

BEST PITA/WRAP/PANINI

PITA PIT

142 2nd Ave. S.; #5B 1501 8th St. E.

Pita Pit’s got it perfected, as they pack the prize into yet another pocket. In their first appearance on this podium, Jake’s on 21^st (downtown) wraps up second, just ahead of a mash-up between Christies Il Secondo (Broadway Avenue), Extreme Pita (51^st Street; 8^th Street) and Souleio (3^rd Avenue South).

BEST SEAFOOD

RED LOBSTER

2501 8th St. E.

That lobster looks more gold than red, as voters peel ’n’ eat yet another win for the franchise. And, farming last year’s results, Joey’s Seafood Restaurant (Confederation; Grosvenor Park) takes silver scallop over Sushiro Sushi Bar (Nutana). Honourable mention to The Keg Steakhouse & Bar (Grosvenor Avenue).

BEST SOUP

EARTH BOUND BAKERY & DELI

1820 8th St. E.

Best Soup is a title that’s always tough to hand out for voters, who are continually torn between so many wholesome, fresh and flavourful options year after year. After the marathon, it’s Earth Bound that’s got it in the bowl for 2013, while Yard & Flagon and Souleio Foods settle for a second-place tie! Calories Restaurant rounds out the podium, a spoonful ahead of Prairie Ink Restaurant.

BEST SPRING ROLLS

THIEN VIETNAM

123 3rd Ave. S.

Let’s face it: a Vietnamese meal is not the same without the crunchy, deep-fried goodness of spring rolls. And for a usually competitive category, Thien Vietnam again makes 2013 look easy, finishing ahead of second and third favourites Nutana Café (Broadway Avenue) and Red Pepper Restaurant (3^rd Avenue).

BEST STEAK

THE KEG STEAKHOUSE & BAR

1110 Grosvenor Avenue

The Keg’s been making a habit of tenderizing the competition ever since we started asking the question — and this year is no exception. The Holliston-area bastion of beef is followed by the succulent sirloins of Carver’s Steakhouse (Sheraton Cavalier) and the rapturous rib eye of Saboroso Brazilian Steakhouse (8^th Street).

BEST SUSHI

SUSHIRO SUSHI BAR

737B Broadway Ave.

Nutana’s sensei of sashimi doesn’t miss a beat on its way to the podium, all the while pursued by Louise Avenue’s Nagoya Japanese Restaurant (silver sushi-meshi winner) and 8^th Street’s Go For Sushi Buffet (bronze bento box winner). Honourable mentions to Otowa Japanese Restaurant (2^nd Avenue South) and New Island Sushi (Quebec Avenue).

BEST TAPAS

DUCK DUCK GOOSE

616 10th St. E.

The relatively recent venture (from the proprietors of Sushiro, by the way) built its premise around tapas — and boy, have voters noticed! Nutana’s Duck Duck Goose takes it in a landslide, although voters say you also can’t miss with the charcuterie of Flint Saloon (2^nd Avenue South) and the share plates of 6Twelve Lounge (Sheraton Cavelier).

BEST BBQ

SCHRYER’S SMOKED BBQ SHACK

2830 Millar Ave.

And here’s more testament to Saskatoon’s growing maturity: another relative newcomer with a unique concept, who quickly builds a loyal following. Few voters hesitated in making the call on this one, as Schryer’s positively sops up the competition when it comes to barbeque. Settling for second and third are Saboroso Brazilian Steakhouse (8^th Street) and Woodfire Grill (2^nd Avenue).

BEST SHAWARMA/DONAIR

LEBANESE KITCHEN

1206 Emerson Ave.

Brevoort Park’s Lebanese Kitchen takes two in a row — making them 2-and-0, as 2013 marks only the second appearance of the Best Shawarma/Donair category. But they’ve got plenty of competition, as slow-roasted awesomeness from H67 Donair and Pizza (22^nd Street West), Afghan Kabob  & Donair (2^nd Avenue) and Super Donair (33^rd Street) all comes in not far behind.

BEST CUPCAKES

THE CUPCAKE CONSPIRACY

157 2nd Ave. N.

If this is a conspiracy, it’s at least as convincing as the moon landing. The downtown dwellers moonlight for the title on the way to their second straight win, while Broadway’s Crave Cupcakes puts some fine frosting on a second-spot finish. In third spot, Sliced Decadence (Saskatoon Farmers’ Market) and Sugar Moon Cakery (2^nd Avenue) call a truce.

BEST CHEF

DAN WALKER, WECZERIA FOOD & WINE

Chef Dan makes it four in a row, but each year, voters have a tougher time making this call — as 2013 sees The Hollows’ team of Kyle Michaels and Christie Peters just barely having to settle for second. And just a sprinkling of seasoning back is Chef Erin Daniels from Poached Breakfast Bistro. Other masters of culinary arts include Prairie Harvest Café’s Mike McKeown and Sheraton Cavalier’s Robin Andres. We deem them all good, and say that the growing competition in this category is awesome for the city’s dining scene!

BEST BARTENDER

CHRIS ENNS, 6TWELVE LOUNGE

There’s a new winner at the podium, and Planet S readers say he shakes, muddles and stirs like no other from his den at the Sheraton Cavalier. Bud’s on Broadway’s Curtis Ulmer, meanwhile, keeps up his medal-winning streak while securing the silver stein. Bronze bottlecap goes to last year’s most boastable barkeep, Amigos Cantina’s Mike Eva.

BEST FEMALE SERVER

DARA HARDY, AMIGOS CANTINA

Diligent Dara recaptures the Most Courteous crown in yet another absolute free-for-all to identify the most friendly, efficient and gracious among our gals. Careful not to step on any toes here, girls, ‘cause the line is crowded: Lindsay Adams (The Rook & Raven; Yard & Flagon), Esther Casey (6Twelve Lounge), Leah Sperle (Tusq Restaurant; 6Twelve Lounge), Lenore Maier (The Woods Ale House) all also received much love from our voters for their sterling service.

BEST MALE SERVER

AMAN SALEH, DUCK DUCK GOOSE and SUSHIRO SUSHI BAR

Aman turns his badge of service into a streak, bringing to your table his third straight commendation. Not far behind him, though, are co-worker Nathan McKinnon (Sushiro), JJ Glazebrook (Saboroso Brazilian Steakhouse), and Garnet Lindsay (Rock Creek Tap & Grill, McOrmond Drive).

BEST BARISTA

JACKSON WIEBE, COLLECTIVE COFFEE

Let Jackson help you with your morning kick — of caffeine, that is. Collective’s first first lands Jackson just ahead of another 20^th Street coffee artist, Dallyn Guenther at The Underground Café. Foaming up to third is Broadway Roastery proprietor Jennifer Lee. Crème de la crème!

BEST STAFF OVERALL

6TWELVE LOUNGE

Last year’s all-around award winners, Windows, make way for their boozier 6Twelve sisters to keep the prize in the Sheraton family. Holding onto their 2012 placement, Park Café maintains silver for their stellar staff, while cousins The Rook & Raven and Yard & Flagon agree on the bronze.

BEST AFTER WORK DRINKING

YARD & FLAGON

718 Broadway Ave.

It’s gotta be comfortable, centrally located and casual, so it’s no surprise that Nutana’s The Yard keeps up their reign of relaxation. Also helping you inject some fun into your after-work day are The Rook & Raven (2^nd Avenue South) in second, Winston’s English Pub & Grill (21^st Street East) and 6Twelve Lounge (Sheraton Cavalier) in a dead heat for third, and The Woods Alehouse (2^nd Avenue South) in fourth. There — I give you permission to put this day behind you!

BEST BEER MENU

WINSTON’S ENGLISH PUB & GRILL

243 21st St. E.

For years, it’s been hard to be surprised by Winston’s sudsy supremacy — but 2013 sees a new hoppy hotspot in town, and The Woods Alehouse (2^nd Avenue South) makes a strong showing accordingly, easily making voters’ second favourite bringer of beer. In a fierce battle for third, Yard & Flagon (Broadway Avenue) grabs the bronze Bohemian.

BEST COCKTAILS

6TWELVE LOUNGE

Sheraton Cavalier, 612 Spadina Cr. E.

In previous years, we asked voters to elect Best Cocktails/Martinis in one fell swoop, so the cleaving of the 2012 results seems fitting — last year’s silver sunrise, 6Twelve, clearly claims the Best Cocktails cup, with 2012’s victor Flint Saloon (2^nd Avenue) settling for second. The Hollows (Avenue C South) takes third. Honourable mention to “Bruce,” whose friends somewhat unwisely gave us his address. See you at happy hour, Bruce!

BEST MARTINI

FLINT SALOON

259 2nd Ave. S.

...And in the other half of the divide, Flint claims martini mastery, leaving 6Twelve Lounge in second. So there: now you can see where their strengths lie. Aren’t you glad we clarified that for you? The flavourful potions at Earls Restaurant (2^nd Avenue North), meanwhile, maintain their bronze place finish from 2012.

BEST CAESAR

6TWELVE LOUNGE

Sheraton Cavalier, 612 Spadina Cr. E.

6Twelve clamps down on the clammy concoction, as voters hand them Sassiest Caesar yet again. Saboroso Brazilian Steakhouse (8^th Street) also keeps it up, wrapping up another second place finish with (yes!) a strip of bacon. In a spicy set-to for third, it’s The Keg Steakhouse & Bar (Grosvenor Avenue), ahead of our Best New Restaurant, State & Main (River Centre).

BEST LOUNGE

6TWELVE LOUNGE

Sheraton Cavalier, 612 Spadina Cr. E.

The Sheraton’s lounge lizards lap up yet another laidback laurel, in a landslide victory for Best Lounge. You can also ease off your troubles at Earls’ Bacchus Lounge (2^nd Avenue North) or kick back with a cocktail at The James Lobby Bar (Spadina Crescent). Honourable mention to Flint Saloon (2^nd Avenue South).

BEST PUB GRUB

YARD & FLAGON

718 Broadway Ave.

When you’ve got a few pints in you, a generous dose of calories is in order. Voters are grateful for the combination of satisfaction, creativity and freshness at The Yard, whose supremacy shows no sign of flagging, as well as at Yard offshoot The Rook & Raven (2^nd Avenue), O’Shea’s Irish Pub (2^nd Avenue) and Winston’s English Pub & Grill (21st Street).

BEST PLACE FOR A WICKED BENDER

AMIGOS CANTINA

632 10th St. E.

Pent-up frustration? Money to burn? Birthday? Even if you’ve no particular reason for tying one on, Amigos offers everything voters need to do so — like darkness, accessibility to cabs, and lack of judgment. And in a wicked battle for second, Colonial Pub & Grill (8^th Street) and Yard & Flagon (Broadway Avenue) agree to keep their cookies. The Hose & Hydrant Brew Pub (11^th Street) takes third, not far behind. Just stay safe while you’re at it, folks!

BEST SPORTS BAR

SPORTS ON TAP

2606 Lorne Ave.

The odds-on favourite among Planet S readers is still Sports On Tap, in the former Emerald Casino, where the dynasty makes for a wide spread — ahead of Red Zone Premium Sports Bar (Circle Drive West) and last year’s bronze medallist, Shark Club (Sandman Hotel).

BEST WINE LIST

CARVER’S STEAKHOUSE

Sheraton Cavalier, 612 Spadina Cr. E.

The Sheraton sommeliers make it a four-year vintage, holding the grapes to pair with whatever your stomach desires. The Silver Syrah goes to Broadway’s Calories Restaurant by a nose, forcing 8^th Street’s Saboroso Brazilian Steakhouse to settle for Bronze Beaujolais.

BEST LOCALLY BREWED BEER

PADDOCK WOOD BREWING CO.

#B1 116 103rd St. E.

Sutherland’s Paddock Wood does brewing best for the fourth straight year, say voters — who are particularly fond of their London Porter, Bete Noir, 606 and Red Hammer offerings. Great Western Brewing Co. — for whom voters took note of GW Light and Original 16 — improves on last year’s second-place tie, securing the silver six-pack more handily for 2013. Earls Restaurant, meanwhile, heads for third.

BEST OFFSALE

COLONIAL COLD BEER & WINE STORE

#10 1301 8th St. E.

A great offsale joint has a lot of things going for it: variety, accessibility, price, and really, really long hours. So readers thank gawd for Colonial Square Inn’s Cold Beer & Wine Store, but they also choose the juice from The Hose & Hydrant (11^th Street East) and Ingredients Artisan Market (2^nd Avenue North).

BEST BASIC BREAKFAST

PARK CAFE

515 20th St. W.

The Park’s sinfully simple sunny-side-ups are hard to beat for Planet S readers, who surely appreciate a good start to their day! Also putting you on the right side of the bed are perennial contender Broadway Café (Nutana) and brand-newcomer Cora Breakfast & Lunch (University Heights).

BEST FANCY BREAKFAST

POACHED BREAKFAST BISTRO

259 2nd Ave. S.

Poached’s hold on hollandaise shows no sign of letting up amongst voters, who hand them another avalanche of Americanos. Voters also suggest letting The Hollows (Avenue C South) ornament your omelette, or asking Cora Breakfast & Lunch (Preston Avenue North) to fancify your frittata.

BEST EGGS

POACHED BREAKFAST BISTRO

259 2nd Ave. S.

Voters once again had a tough time making the call between Poached (Best Fancy) and Park (Best Basic), but after they cracked it open, Poached made it two in a row. The Park settles for the Silver Scrambled, well ahead of the Bronze Boiled at Cora Breakfast & Lunch. Special kudos to whoever voted for “omelettes.” At least they could spell it, I guess...

BEST HASH BROWNS

PARK CAFE

515 20th St. W.

More than a holder for yolk and syrup, a fine hash brown stands tall on its own — and voters agree that the perfect potatoes at Riversdale’s Park Café still reign supreme. And in a mash-up sprint for the rest of the podium, the heaping helpings at Mel’s Café (11^th Street West) score second, ahead of Nutana’s Broadway Café and downtown’s Poached.

BEST BREAKFAST BUFFET

BOTANICA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

Saskatoon Inn, 2002 Airport Dr.

It’s nothing to sneeze at — keeping those eggs hot and tender ain’t easy! Voters appreciate the morning spread at Botanica most of all, for about the millionth time, while fellow hoteliers Garden Court Café (Delta Bessborough), Windows (Sheraton Cavalier) and Four Seasons (Park Town) also hold firm.

BEST COFFEE SHOP

BROADWAY ROASTERY

614 Broadway Ave.

Long the king caffeinator, Broadway Roastery keeps it strong yet again, but relative newbie Collective Coffee (at The Two Twenty) is still percolating, making an impressive run for the title. Established City Park-area bean-squeezer City Perks also shows a loyal following, ahead of The Underground Café (Riversdale) and Starbucks.

BEST COFFEE SHOP FOOD MENU

CAFFE SOLA

38 23rd St. E.

Exquisite desserts, cookies and lunches make a great coffee shop into a destination and a neighbourhood nucleus. So rather than passing through, stay for a while in the warehouse district (Sola), City Park (City Perks), Riversdale (The Underground Café) and Nutana (Christies Il Secondo).

BEST CUP OF PLAIN OLD COFFEE

TIM HORTONS

Various locations

You may not be surprised at voters’ choice, but what if we told you this was not a cinch for super-chain Tim’s? Pouring it almost as smooth and dark are Broadway Roastery, Collective Coffee (20^th Street West), Starbucks and McDonald’s.

BEST FANCY SCHMANCY COFFEE

STARBUCKS

Various locations

Here’s another caffeinated corporation who’s a longtime favourite, but who’s been given a run for their money — er, beans. Collective Coffee (Riversdale) settles for another second place, while Broadway Roastery (Nutana), Museo Espresso (Mendel Art Gallery; Nutana) and Caffe Sola (warehouse district) will also serve it with style.

BEST PLACE TO BUY BEANS

BROADWAY ROASTERY

614 Broadway Ave.

Broadway bean counters the Roastery and McQuarrie’s Tea & Coffee Merchants continue their clash for the coffee catalyzer crown — and 2013 sees the café unseat last year’s victor, the shop. Voters also start their day in a DIY way at Collective Coffee (20^th Street West) and Museo Espresso (Spadina Crescent; Broadway Avenue).

BEST COFFEE SHOP TO WORK/STUDY

BROADWAY ROASTERY

614 Broadway Ave.

What to look for when your desk isn’t keeping the juices flowing: quiet corners, good tables and a gentle jolt. Voters rediscovered their productivity at Nutana’s Roastery once again, but they also got ‘er done at Collective Coffee, The Underground Café, Starbucks and Museo Espresso.

BEST PLACE FOR TEA

DAVID’S TEA

The Mall at Lawson Heights; Midtown Plaza

With so many flavour options in the tea world — spicy, fruity, herby or pekoe-y — it’s a steep order to satisfy a party of tea-sippers. But David’s Tea has it in the bag, as they go 2-and-0 for Best Tea in their second year of competition. Broadway Roastery maintains their “hot drink heavyweight” status, keeping the silver kettle whistling, while Caffe Sola and McQuarrie’s Tea & Coffee Merchants can also satisfy the un-coffee needs in you.

BEST PLACE FOR A SPECIALTY DRINK

BROADWAY ROASTERY

614 Broadway Ave.

Now that you’re wired on all that caffeine, it’s time to think about imbibements of a different variety. Back away from that buzz with something milky or juicy from, yes, that good ol’ Broadway Roastery — or voters also suggest giving Starbucks, The Underground Café or Collective Coffee a try.

BEST BAKERY

CHRISTIES MAYFAIR BAKERY

420 33rd St. W.

Christies has always lured the most voters with the most heavenly aroma, and this year’s no exception. Earth Bound Bakery & Deli (8^th Street), though, appears to have a growing fanbase that sees them creeping ever closer to that evasive loaf loot. Christies’ spinoff Il Secondo and Nutana Bakery (both on Broadway Avenue) will also satisfy, say voters.

BEST CATERING

PICKNIC’S CATERING

210 33rd St. W.

Whatever your event, when you haven’t the time or the capacity to put out a spread on your own, Planet S readers recommend Picknic’s (Mayfair), who takes the caterer crown from last year’s winner, D’reen’s Catering (Avenue B South). Also impressing your guests are Calories (Broadway Avenue), The Hollows (Avenue C South) and Root Down Workers’ Cooperative Café and Books (Sonnenschein Way).

BEST DELI

BULK CHEESE WAREHOUSE

732 Broadway Ave.

Be it meats, cheeses or a combination of both, the Bulk Cheese smokes the competition time and again. And in the race for second, Souleio Foods (3^rd Avenue South) outlasts Sobey’s, Ingredients Artisan Market (2^nd Avenue) and Boryski’s Butcher Block (Millar Avenue), in that order.

BEST LIQUOR/WINE STORE

INGREDIENTS ARTISAN MARKET

618 2nd Ave. N.

Cava Secreta (R.I.P.) used to have a lock on the Best Liquor laurels, but where Cava left off, Ingredients picked up — and voters noticed! And in second and third spots once again are “The Liquor Church” (8^th Street Board Store) and 2^nd Avenue Liquor Board Store. Honourable mention goes to Lucky Bastard Distillery.

BEST SPECIALTY GROCERY

TIE: DAD’S ORGANIC MARKET (1820 8th St. E.), BULK CHEESE WAREHOUSE (732 Broadway Ave.)

Wow — this was quite the battle! In 2012, Dad’s made strides with voters — who still elected old favourite Bulk Cheese to the title. And 2013 sees voters completely unable to settle! And on top of this toss-up, the battle for second is decided by a single vote: Ingredients Artisan Market comes ahead of Souleio Foods for second best! We think these votes are telling us it’s time to get out and try something different from any one of these awesome options...

BEST BUTCHER

BULK CHEESE WAREHOUSE

732 Broadway Ave.

The Bulk Cheese captures the cleaver cup once again, while other readers suggest that Prairie Meats (Millar Avenue), Boryski’s Butcher Block (Millar Avenue), and Pineview Farms (available at various stores) make the cut, too.

BEST ARTY AMBIENCE

SPADINA FREEHOUSE

608 Spadina Cr. E.

The Freehouse’s colourful and funky display brings back the artiest award for our 2011 winner. Calories Restaurant’s display of local art puts them just a shade behind, landing in second. Last year’s winner, Duck Duck Goose, as well as 6Twelve Lounge and Flint Saloon, are not far behind.

MOST COMFORTABLE RESTAURANT

PARK CAFE

515 20th St. W.

Here’s another title that`s been re-captured: after settling for second in 2012, Riversdale’s Park Café is back to reclaim the cozy aura of Most Comfortable victory. The Rook & Raven (downtown), meanwhile, comes out just ahead of a mash-up between Earls (City Park) and Rock Creek Tap & Grill (Blairmore; University Heights).

BEST DECOR

DUCK DUCK GOOSE

616 10th St. E.

With so many restaurants, and so much subjectivity involved, there were an awful lot of contenders for Décor Distinction — 53, to be exact. Wow! Whatever your tastes, the majority of voters prefer either the quirky antiquities of Duck Duck Goose (Nutana), the chic class of 6Twelve (downtown) or the Chinese heritage at The Hollows (Riversdale).

BEST PATIO

YARD & FLAGON

718 Broadway Ave.

And the award for best thing we’ll never be able to use again goes to... Hey, I’m kidding!(I hope…) When that one week of warm weather  in early August hits, be sure to head real early to one of the following: Yard & Flagon (Broadway Avenue), O’Shea’s Irish Pub (2^nd Avenue South), Earls (2^nd Avenue North), or Spadina Freehouse (Spadina Crescent) — like really, really early, because the whole province will be thinking the same thing! I wonder if they’ll take reservations...

BEST BATHROOMS

MOXIE’S GRILL & BAR

3134 8th St. E.

A few of our voters may have scoffed, but the majority appreciated the value of a fine facility. Moxie’s keeps the supremacy — but not the odour — strong, as they finish first once again, ahead of Earls, Souleio Foods and Duck Duck Goose. And hey, who voted for the U of S?

CATEGORY WE MISSED

BEST LOCALLY SOURCED RESTAURANT

There are more and more of them around — and whether they go to nearby farms for meat, grains or veggies, to farmers’ markets for produce, or to area artists for art, they deserve our kudos! There: you have a year to ask what’s local on the menu every time you eat out, so get out there and locavore it up!

Looking for Best of Saskatoon 2012?  Read on!

City Arts

Best Author

Yann Martel

It’s been a great year for Yann — first a stellar movie (by Ang freakin’ Lee!) on Life of Pi, and now a third straight coronation by Planet S readers! His latest, Beatrice & Virgil, is available at Indigo and McNally Robinson, where you can also pick up our second-place prince’s latest, Cherry Blossoms. Yup – Wes Funk vaults ahead of last year’s silver medallist, Guy Vanderhaeghe.

Best Live Music Venue

Amigos Cantina

Surprised? You shouldn’t be. Amigos has been music to the ears of our voters for at least as long as we’ve been asking ‘em. But there is a surprise on the podium: the new ownership at The Odeon seems to have sold more than a few tickets — while Lydia’s rounds things out to shut out the big players.

Best Live Theatre Company

Persephone Theatre

They’ve built a stellar set over the last few years, but our old pals at Persephone have been ruling this category for far longer than that. Before you catch their The Light in the Piazza (opens October 24), slide your seat over to The Refinery for Live Five — Planet S silver medallist — member Broadway Mime’s Farragut North (closes October 28). But you’ll have to wait a while to catch the next performance of the bronze bard, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan.

Best Movie Theatre

Galaxy Cinemas

They’ve got capacity, location, technology, blockbusters and big business — so it’s no surprise that five strong traits make for five straight Planetary Awards for Galaxy. But a big change comes from Planet S readers, who elect Roxy Theatre to best supporting theatre, just ahead of perennial podium placer Broadway Theatre.

Best Private Art Gallery

Rouge Gallery

Wanda Underhill’s cool new digs across from her old spot on 3^rd Avenue haven’t changed a thing with our readers — who for the fourth straight year crown Rouge with gold. Catch Kathleen Slavin’s Uprooted there until October 23. Darrell Bell, meanwhile, pulls a switcheroo to overtake last year’s second place overtaker, Stall Gallery, who’s also found a new home.

Best Art Exhibit

Edo: Arts of Japan’s Last Shogun Age (1603-1868)

We thought this exhibit (Mendel Gallery, June 22 – September 16) was breathtaking, and voters agreed — with its combination of art and history, glamour and simplicity, weaponry and entertainment. Also attention-grabbing and thought-provoking were Paper Doll (Mendel Gallery, March 30 – June 10) and School Art 2012(Mendel Art Gallery, March 30 – June 3).

Best Public Art Gallery

Mendel Art Gallery

No RAGS to riches story here: say what you will about the upcoming gallery, Mendel is still number one for Planet S readers. Fall exhibitions, including Beneath a Petroliferous Moon and The Names of Things, are on display ‘til January. And don’t miss Every Line & Every Other Line at runner-up PAVED, and theSCYAP Staff Art Show at second runner-up SCYAP Art Centre.

Best Solo Artist

John Antoniuk

Having dropped his pseudonym Smokekiller for his latest release, Always With You, John has struck a chord with voters. Hot on his heels is someone who went the opposite direction when it comes to pseudonyms, Reignwolf (formerly known as Jordan Cook), who’s followed closely by 50 per cent of The Duo contest winner, Kirby Criddle, who’s pursued by a veritable slew of other great local talents.

Best Singer

Jen Lane

It’s a couple of medals for the John ‘n’ Jen couple! Her latest effort, For the Night, has her going places... but Planet S readers are delighted that she stays here at the same time. 2012 Duo-winner Kirby Criddle and 2011 Duo-winner Kaitlin Heather Lauren round out the podium — making for a complete upset over last year’s voter favourites. Nice pipes!

Best Public Art Installation

Guerrilla Libraries

Urban art collective Finding City began this project this summer, with the help of a huge book donation from Shaunna Raycraft. They may not last through winter, so look for them now around the Broadway, University and Train Bridges. Readers also loved Kevin Quinlan’s “Saskatoon Cougar” (under the 19^th St on-ramp), and the graffiti soundwall on Warman Road — which is actually privately owned, but we’re not going to quibble because it’s super-cool.

Best Poet

Charles Hamilton

This makes two in a row for Tonight It’s Poetry’s Charles — and deservedly too, as he’s running the show at the brilliant CFSW even as I write this. Voters sent additional cheers out to Ryan J. Bradshaw (look for his “wordlesque” at Rosebud Burlesque Club shows) and Nicole Almond (another Tonight It’s Poetry regular).

Best Album

Shooting Guns — Born to Deal in Magic: 1952-1976

Our newest indie darlings were honoured with a Polaris Prize longlist nomination this year, having won fans across the country for their 2011 debut of instrumental sludge metal. You can find Born to Deal in Magic at teargasrecordingtree.com, record stores or at music.cbc.ca. Side B goes to The Sheepdogs’ new self-titled release, just out this September, which debuted at #1 on the Canadian SoundScan charts.

Best Theatre Production

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan

This year’s double-bill of Hamlet and As You Like It was a smash with Planet S readers, who also recommended East of Berlin by Know Tomorrow Theatre (a Live Five company) — congrats on the SATAward for ensemble work! — and Persephone Theatre’s Edgar Allan Poe take-off Nevermore.

Best Actor

Kim Coates

Kim did us a solid by standing up for the Saskatchewan Film Employment Tax Credit, and voters haven’t forgotten. Kim’s been awfully busy lately – so look for upcoming releases Ferocious (filmed in Saskatoon!), The Truth, Rufus (written/directed by Dave Schultz!) and Robosapien: Rebooted. Accolades also go out to last year’s winner Heather Morrisson (onstage now for Farragut North, The Refinery) and Jenna-Lee Hyde (last year’s A Christmas Story).

Best "Other" Instrumentalist

Veronique Poulin (Violin)

It seems at least one great new band emerges in this city every year, and this year Planet S readers were swayed by Ms. Poulin’s violin pizzazz onstage as frontwoman with Young Benjamins. We also loved the stylings of saxomophonist Sheldon Corbett, who you can catch onstage with the likes of Kim de Laforest, Martin Janovsky, BC Read, Don Griffith and Absofunkinlutely.

Best Artist — Traditional Media

Don Sparrow

Voters were drawn in once again by illustrator Don Sparrow, drawer extraordinaire of playbill, poster and album art — see it on covers for TM of JPZ, Lady Deathstryke and The Fjords. Painter Zachari Logan (see his work now at The Mendel’s The Names of Things) ties for second with Cate Francis, whose latest (and, possibly, last show here, as she’s moved to Montreal  sob!) show was up at Unreal City until October 12.

Best Artist — New Media

Don Sparrow

It’s three-peat in this category for Don, as well as twice in a row taking both Best Artist categories! Yup, Don is also a graphic designer, comic book artist and playwright. (That’s his design on the Amazing Stories sign on 8^th St.) Readers were also amazed by the recent works of Biliana Velkova (Artists by Artists with David LaRiviere; “Attack of the sign-eating woman”) and Adrian Stimson, who just last month took us through his 20^th St studio as part of Culture Days.

Best Band

The Sheepdogs

Just because we’re not surprised doesn’t mean The ‘Dogs don’t deserve it! They’ve been touring and recording relentlessly since making the cover of Rolling Stone, and their new release opened at #1 on the Canadian charts. Last year’s second-place finishers The Deep Dark Woods hold on for silver, just ahead of last year’s third, Shooting Guns — making for a perfect repeat of last year’s results!

Best Bass Player

Enver Hampton

It’s fitting that Enver makes it a double by repeating his Best Bass Player title from last year — the man’s busy in double the bands, after all, serving as the backbone for both Reform Party and Young Benjamins. Catch the Benjis at Vangelis on October 24. Voters also dug the grooves of Graham Tilsley (Graham Tilsley Group) and Earl Pereira (The Steadies).

Best Drummer

Jim Ginther

We had a tough time calling this race, as sticks were flying until the bitter end. Eventually, it was Shooting Gun Ginther shooting back to the top, retaking the golden stool over last year’s winner, Sam Corbett (The Sheepdogs). Voters also caught the beat from Arlan Kopp (Brett Balon Quartet, Joel Grundahl Band) and 2011 SCMA winner Hal Schrenk.

Best Guitarist

Jordan Cook

He may have gone farther afield, but voters admiring the feverful fretwork still call Jordan — aka Reignwolf — their own, as he hangs on for yet another Best Guitarist title. Last year’s runner-up came close though, since Tim Vaughn is our readers’ clear second-favourite. Chris Laramee rounds out the podium, with a slew of hot axe-slingers on his heels.

Best DJ

Charly Hustle

This year’s runner-up at the 2012 Red Bull Thre3style DJ competition in Halifax had no problem scratching his way into voters’ hearts for the second-straight year, ahead of veteran The Gaff. Catch them both in action at the monthly all-vinyl night Flat Black Plastic, October 25 at Staqatto. Wired 96.3’s DJ Anchor, meanwhile, slides into third, ahead of Factor.

Best Keyboardist

Don Griffith

That’s two sharps for Bassment staple Dr. Don, having taken the Best Keyboardist prize last year, too. Also in the key of awesome: 2010’s Best Keyboardist champion Finn Day-Wiggins (Fountains of Youth, The Ne’erdowells) and Steve Reed (Shooting Guns).

Best Concert

Feist

Wow — Planet S readers absolutely adored this year’s SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival! To jog your memory, just check out the 2012 Best Concert heroes: Feist with Timber Timbre, The Roots, Michael Franti and Spearhead, and Janelle Monae with Keys N Krates. Considering the past year of great shows in Saskatoon, this is quite a feat. Non-jazz kudos to Kings of Leon with The Sheepdogs, and Slash with Myles Kennedy.

City People

Best Alternative/Holistic Practitioner

Mark Hoe

Voters feel great about acupuncturist Mark Hoe (315 20^th St E), handing him top prize for the third straight year. Naturopath Dr. Alana Barmby (1814 Lorne Ave) also took away the pain this year, just edging out last year’s second-place finisher, holistic practitioner T. Dolphyn Boschman (Inphynite Phreedom, Delta Bessborough Hotel).

Best Esthetician

Veronica Lynne-Swirsky

There’s a ton of estheticians out there, so discerning readers know what they’re talking about when Veronica Lynne-Swirsky’s (Spa Academy, 511 33^rd St W) gorgeous nails scratch out a victory in a pitched battle with Katie Martin. Get prettified with Katie’s amazing make-up at Pretty Little Things Esthetics Studio (158 2^nd Ave N).

Best Lawyer

Bill Roe

Planet Sreaders find criminal defence lawyer Bill Roe (Roe & Company, 3^rd Ave S) guilty of being awesome for the umpteenth time, just ahead of another perennial voter favourite, litigation lawyer Jennifer Pereira (Robertson Stromberg). Just behind are Tyler Dahl (general practice) and Michael Derbowka (estates, immigration and real estate), as well as Brad Mitchell (criminal, environmental, labour, litigation and real estate).

Best MLA

Cam Broten

The NDP leadership race may be just heating up, but Planet S’ Best MLA race has been hot for years — as Cam Broten (Massey Place) steamrolls the competition for his third straight victory. Cathy Sproule (Nutana) wins the second-place battle in her first year as an MLA, just ahead of David Forbes (Saskatoon Centre) and Don Morgan (Southeast).

Best MP

None

Voters have a perennial problem with this category, and have handily elected “zero” for about the gazillionth time — even excluding all the votes for “NOT so and so”, “I wish it had been so and so,” and some for actual MLAs. Still, I guess it’s fitting — what with a legal battle over robocalls and election tampering in seven ridings across the country, including good old Saskatoon Rosetown Biggar — that second place went to winner Kelly Block, just ahead of loser Nettie Wiebe.

Best Real Estate Agent

Ashley Turner

It’s a seller’s market, and our readers are sold on the service they got by Ashley (Century 21), last year’s third-place winner, as they hand her the Best Title title. Previous top seller Lacy Watson (Re/Max) closed the second spot, while another Re/Max-er, Kindra Sowden, seals the deal for third.

Best Tattoo Artist

Graeme Burke

Here’s hoping blood’s thicker than ink: Graeme grabs the nod for top skin art over brother — and longtime winner — Pat (both at Rites of Passage Tattoo). Breaking up the fight is readers’ second-favourite, Mike Thompson-Hill (Tantrix Body Art), who also gave us a great reason to show some skin, with Pat inking the deal just behind.

Best Veterinarian

Dr. Haider Elbermani

When your pet’s peeved, readers say there’s no one better than Dr. Elbermani (Prairieland Veterinary Clinic, Ruth St), who wins Best Vet for the third straight poll. Voters also rewarded the tender loving care of Dr. Teresa Chu (All About Cats and Dogs, Taylor St) by moving her up from last year’s third-place finish, just ahead of a mash-up between Cumberland Vet’s Dr. Chotowetz, Orchard’s Dr. Orchard, and All West’s Dr. Rabuka.

Best Teacher K-12

Randeen Durette

Students at Holy Family Elementary School give top marks to Ms. Durette — a high honour since a great teacher is worth their weight in gold! This is a highly competitive category, though, and the battle was long, with Laurel Clark (Forest Grove School) and Kim Diebert (St. George School) coming second and third, respectively, ahead of a heap of awesome educators.

Best City Councillor

Mairin Loewen

There’s a new politician in town! After positively schooling the competition for the past five years, Charlie Clark (Ward 6) gives an “aye” to relative newcomer Mairin Loewen (Ward 7). Ward 1’s Darren Hill comes in second, just ahead of Pat Lorje (Ward 2) and Tiffany Paulsen (Ward 9).

Best Dentist

Dr. Carman Rabuka

Voters know the value of a great dentist — and now that they’ve found one, they’re not letting go of Dr. Rabuka, who makes it three straight even while changing clinics to Broadway Dental Group. Dr. Doug Woo (Associated Midtown Dental) can also put a cap on it, say readers, who also like the sweet, sweet fillings of Dr. Nina Moe (Avalon Dental Clinic).

Best SIAST Instructor

Michael Pidwerbeski

A great teacher makes the difference between amazing and basic, and voters elect Michael Best Instructor for his outstanding efforts in basic education. Hot on his heels is last year’s victor, Kurt Soucy, followed by Jeff Hehn — both mechanical engineering instructors.

Best U of S Prof

Pamela Haig Bartley

Drama students give the Tony to Professor Haig Bartley, who’s directing her students in Arthur Miller’s All My Sons (Greystone Theatre until October 20) as I write this. Also loving the learning are students of Anne-Marie Wheeler (linguistics), David McGrane (political science), Todd Morrison (psychology) and Peter Hynes (English). A-plus!

Best Doctor

Dr. Cyprian Enweani

Saskatoon Sports Hall of Famer Dr. Enweani (Lenore Dr) may have been known for his sprinting (1988 Seoul Olympics!), but readers decree he keeps their pulse from racing. Finishing just behind him is our 2011 silver medallist, Dr. Aaron Friggstad, and Dr. Kelly Peesker Dyck.

Best Veteran Activist

Peter Garden

This year he brought us talks on Palestine-Israel relations, Québec student strikes, protest organizing and tons more — so it’s no surprise this tireless worker (and operator of Turning the Tide bookstore and Root Down café) gets readers’ accolades once again. Voters also stand up for the standing-up of Don Kossick and Nettie Wiebe. Way to fight the good fight!

Best Young Activist

Melissa Gan

Melissa’s work has not gone unnoticed by readers: it includes Room For Improvement Youth Development Inc. (disadvantaged youth at home and abroad), We Are Many (environmental justice) and Next Up (youth leadership). We’re also still thankful to Ellen Quigley, kick-starter of WAM, and Karen Rooney, Ward 8 candidate, contributor to Next Up and delegate to the 2012 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Local Media

Best Arts Reporter

Jeanette Stewart

StarPhoenixreporter (and alter-ego Jeans Boots) Jeanette Stewart interviewed and critiqued her way onto voters’ Best Reporter lists for the first time this year, narrowly topping last year’s winner and Planet S writer/blogger Craig Silliphant. CBC TV/radio mainstay Brittany Robinson rounds out the podium.

Best Local Radio Hosts

Rob and Shauna

C95’s Rob and Shauna (The Rob & Shauna Show) steal the show this year, taking the bow over perennial favourite John Gormley (News Talk, John Gormley Live) and a newcomer to the podium, Heather Morrison (Magic 98.3).

Best Local Radio Station

CFCR

With diverse programming and some kickass community campaigns (thank you, FM-Phasis!), and with a truly local focus, it’s probably no surprise that 90.5 has never not won this contest. (In fact, it’s never not won it handily.) So, the real competition’s for second spot — this year going to C95, who overtook longtime silver mic-holder Wired. Rock 102, meanwhile, pulls in just ahead of The Bull.

Best Local TV Station

Global TV

It’s an upset! After 9 years, CTV has been unseated as sultan of the Saskatoon small screen, barely losing the primetime slot to Global — by a mere handful of votes! CBC (not entirely a local station) takes third ahead of Shaw.

Best Meteorologist/Weather Person

Jeff Rogstad

For CTV’s Rogstad, the forecast is crystal clear — it’s seven straight victories for it calling it like it is! Newcomer Kevin Stanfield at Global calls it pretty well, too, as voters place him squarely in second spot, ahead of Jesse Beyer, also at Global.

Best Political Reporter

David Hutton

StarPhoenixwriter David Hutton cracked the Planet S podium for the first time last year, landing third, but 2012 has seen him politick his way to the top! The CBC’s Stefani Langenegger holds on to her runner-up finish of last year, well ahead of podium newcomer Sherri Clark at Global TV.

Best Radio Morning Show

The Rob and Shauna Show

The morning radio race is always interesting here at Planet S, and this year’s no different. After years of nipping at the heels of CFCR’s Green Eggs and Ham, The Wired Morning Show got voters up first last year — but this time C95 makes a mighty showing, leaving CFCR in second and flipping Wired down to third. Hey, when you’re not a morning person, you need all the help you can get!

Best Reporter

Devin Heroux

And here’s another upset! After years of CTV victories, last year’s voters saw Global’s Danny Grummett stick closest to the facts — so a CBC reporter overtaking the general Reporter category is unforeseen indeed! Finishing second is StarPhoenix’s Charles Hamilton, followed closely by a dead-on tie between CTV’s Jennifer Jellicoe and Global’s Lisa Dutton.

Best Sports Reporter

Kevin Waugh

In a return to form, CTV’s perennial all-star Kevin Waugh gave it 110 per cent to take back the golden highlight reel from Global TV. Readers also appreciated the score-calling by Kim Thue at Global, Kevin Mitchell atStarPhoenix, and Pat McKay at CTV.

Best StarPhoenix Writer

Charles Hamilton

Voters like their local newspaper to cover all the bases, but stellar writing and a dedication to the story is always paramount. This year, they’ve handed first and second places to Charles Hamilton and Jeanette Stewart respectively. Longtime columnist Les MacPherson, meanwhile, fittingly lands on page three.

Best TV Anchor

Lisa Dutton

Whoa — for years Planet S readers have preferred their news to be read to them by CTV’s Rob MacDonald, but Lisa Dutton at Global TV has definitely been telling it straight. Rob’s still a clear favourite at second place, though, followed by Chantel Huber, another CTV-er.

Best TV News

CTV

When you put together weather, sports, reporting and anchors, you’ve got the whole TV news package. And with our readers’ network preferences spread across the three biggies, this victory was anybody’s guess. But when the smoke cleared, it was CTV on top, a click ahead of Global — who had second place squared away ahead of CBC.

Best TV Sports

Global TV

Voters impressed with the team effort at Global handed the squad a three-peat for the golden scoreboard award. CTV, meanwhile, stickhandled around CBC to take the point. Our favourite vote in this category: “curling.”

Best Website/Blog

Ominocity

When we asked voters, they pointed and clicked at Ominocity.com for the second year in a row, while handing us at planetsmag.com a second spot once again (aw — thanks guys!). A pitched battle for third, meanwhile, ended in a dead heat between food blog BSInTheKitchen.com and Spareparts’ online magazine TheRooster.ca.

Best Planet S Writer

Craig Silliphant

Readers who love music and food — and who doesn’t, really? — love to look for Craig’s music interviews, restaurant reviews and all-around Hits & Disses. More well-earned accolades go out to Chris Morin’s music previews, Noelle Chorney’s foodie reviews, editor Chris Kirkland’s intros, blogs and cut-lines, and Lisa Johnson’s news and politics coverage. Nice going, crew!

City Living

Best Place for a Reading/Book Launch

McNally Robinson

Publishing a book is an amazing accomplishment — and the best place to show it off is at McNally Robinson (8^th St), where there’s a welcoming space, tons of copies for sale, and a great place to sit and peruse a newly signed treasure over a cup of java. Other great places to sit and listen are Indigo Books (8^th St) and Broadway Roastery (Broadway Ave, 8^th St).

Best Saskatoon Festival/Event   

SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival

The Jazz Festival has always had tons of fans, but I think this year they made a few more. With a sweep of the Best Concert category, and a lock on some great venues, it’s no wonder Jazz has locked up Best Festival yet again. But when the time comes, Saskatoon folk are pretty happy to patronize Folkfest and the PotashCorp Fringe Theatre Festival, too.

Best Employer

University of Saskatchewan

For five straight years, the U of S has been pleasing faculty and staff alike, according to voters —loss of teaching positions or no. Saskatoon Health Region, last year’s third spot, moves up to second best this year; and everybody’s favourite, “Myself,” makes a decisive comeback to land in third.

Best Dance Studio

Free Flow Dance Company

Whether you’ve just got to move, or love to watch someone who does, you appreciate a great dance studio for its combination of grace, verve and creativity. Free Flow has all that in spades, hosting Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art School, Culture Days events, and tons more. Catch their latest production, Cryptogram, October 20 at La Troupe du Jour’s Studio 914. Voters also got their move on at La Danse School of Dance and Saskatoon Salsa.

Best Golf Course

The Willows Golf and Country Club

The beautiful Willows, with its well-appointed clubhouse and Il Salici restaurant, makes for voters’ number one tee time yet again. Also above par are Valley Road’s Moonlake Golf & Country Club, Whitecap First Nation’s Dakota Dunes Golf Links, and the City-owned Holiday Park.

Best Gym

Motion Fitness

The re-branded World Gym may have a new sign out front — but Planet S readers tell us Motion Fitness (in Willowgrove, Stonebridge and Blairmore) still helps them feel the burn. They also run, don’t walk to GoodLife Fitness on 8^th St, the U of S’ Physical Activity Centre, and Mawson Fitness (105^th St), in that order.

Best Pool Hall

Snooker Shack

Lots of space, good-quality tables and cues, a low-key atmosphere and nice service make a pool hall worth rediscovering how much you suck at pool ...or maybe that’s just me. Whatever it is, Snooker Shack on 8^th St has got it, say voters, who also bank on 1^st Ave’s Pacific Billiards and Central Ave’s Modern Billiards.

Best Yoga Studio

One Yoga

Readers have handed it to Ryan Leier and One Yoga again, even while they work on renovating a new space at 20^th St and Idylwyld Dr. Look for it to open in January — or head to other voter favourites Hot Yoga on 20^th and Moksha Yoga (1^st Ave).

Best Hobby

Cycling

Yes, Saskatoon cycles indeed! Our favourite hobby has grown to encompass transportation, parades, sharrows and a mayoral candidate, and it’s our perennial winner for Best Hobby. But readers also love mind-clearing yoga and sharing their point of view with photography. In a mash-up just behind is dancing, running and jogging, and knitting and sewing.

Best Playground

Kinsmen Park

Whether you’ve got kids with energy to burn, or — let’s be honest — you’re a playful child trapped in an adult’s body, a great playground is heaven. With the new Kinsmen Park master plan underway, voters are betting what makes this park the best won’t change. While parts will remain open, look for new rides, a water park and ice skating in the future. Or monkey around at The Forestry Farm, Isinger Park (at Saskatoon Farmers’ Market) or Shaw Centre.

Best Place to Take an Out-of-Towner

The Riverbank

Whatever you think of the Traffic Bridge or bike rentals in city parks, here’s betting you find the riverbank is your number-one place to impress — with great views, an amphitheatre, lovely Meewasin Trails, River Landing, glimpses of wildlife and some fine (still admissible!) bridges. Other recommended places to impress your snooty cousins: Berry Barn, Broadway Ave, Western Development Museum and Wanuskewin Heritage Park.

Best Thing to Do in Saskatoon

Walk the Mighty Meewasin

Or ditch the cousins and do it by yourself! Who says you need an out-of-towner to take it all in? And if Meewasin Valley Authority can pull off trail extensions all the way to Wanuskewin and Whitecap, all the better, we say! Another reader favourite is noshing, drinking, dining and generally hanging out with friends on patios — and when you’re done all that, taking in some live music.

Best Political/Social Issue to Argue About

Traffic Bridge

Yup, we’re still ironing this one out — that poor old hunk o’ rust has been voters’ favourite thing to argue about for three straight years. And with no money coming for council’s plan — and demolition of the southern span underway — don’t expect this humdinger to cool off any time soon! Also pissing people off this year: the state of roads, bike infrastructure, housing and homelessness, the Remai Art Gallery of Saskatchewan and curbside recycling. En garde!

Best Excuse For Being Late For Work

Traffic

Hmmm, this was a tough one wasn’t it? According to tons of our voters, “traffic” is all you have to say to get your boss off your back — although some might expound a little more with “crazy road construction,” “there was an accident on Circle,” or “first snow of the year and people forgot how to drive in it” (don’t try that one more than once, folks). Voters also got off the hook by pointing at trains, wild animals, late busses or plain old sleeping in. Or how about this one: “Drinking with Darian Durant and Diefenbaker’s Ghost”? Tough to argue with that one...

Best Animal Found in City Limits

Moose

Still kinda rare, awfully funny looking and often dangerous, moose are indeed a sight to behold. Other reader favourites include manbearpig, agriculture students, conservative voters and Hungarian komondor — and a special shout-out to the following individuals whose friends-slash-enemies are goofs and submitted them in this category: Skot Hamilton, Don Atchison, Chris Morin, Derek Little, Matthew Stevens, Ryan Drabble, Sean Grant, Brad Wall, Theo Kivol and Your Mom.

Best Thing to Happen in the Last 12 Months

Canadian Country Music Association Awards

Well, you stunned us with that one, voters — having given the top four concerts of the year to the Jazz Festival — but who’s to say you can’t be eclectic? Following the CCMAs, voters were tickled about the near-completion of the south bridge, a nice summer and winter, Jazz Fest, curbside recycling and having babies (presumably their own...).

Best Public Restrooms

Moxie's Classic Grill

A good restroom is clean and dry, and a good restroom is important when you gotta go. But a great restroom makes you stand there rubbing your eyes and wondering who to tip. For this feat of wonder, voters take the tinkle at Moxie’s, the perpetual favourite, as well as Earl’s/Bacchus, Midtown Plaza, and the outdoor facilities near the Bess.

City Loving

Best Pick-up Line

“Hi, my name is.....”

Planet Sreaders are a friendly bunch, aren’t we? Other interesting options to consider while scoping out hotties:  “I’m not Stephen Harper”, “I don’t wear water wings in the deep end”, “Aren’t you in Slow Down, Molasses?” (see, ‘cause there’s so many of them!), and “You done with that sandwich?”

Best Love Shop

Positive Passions

With workshops, lectures, support groups and even an art gallery, it’s little wonder the positively passionate offerings at Positive Passions (3^rd Ave) have won the hearts and... er, naughty bits of readers yet again. And in a perfect repeat of last year’s results, For Lovers Only and Lil’ Devil Video (both on Idylwyld Dr) polish off the pleasure-ful podium.

Best Place for a 1st Date

The Riverbank

The river once again takes voter’s choice for first dates; maybe it’s the ample space for running away if necessary, combined with that obvious natural beauty. It was the runaway favourite, but in an intimate battle for second choice, it was Broadway Roastery (Broadway Ave, 8^th St) on top, followed by Flint Saloon (2^nd Ave), Calories (Broadway), Duck Duck Goose (10^th St), Rook and Raven (2^nd Ave) and Saboroso (8^th St).

Best Place to Buy/Get Condoms

Shoppers Drug Mart

When it comes to lovin’, voters don’t mind paying for quality, as Shoppers takes the golden glove yet again over Sexual Health Centre Saskatoon’s freebies, Positive Passions’ selection and Walmart’s economy models.

Best Couples Activity

Walk the Mighty Meewasin

Voters’ preference for the magnificent Meewasin Valley Trail system shows no sign of slackening, with trail and River Landing improvements getting better every year. They also told us they grow fonder while biking, bowling, watching movies, farmers’ market shopping, and going to concerts.

Best Public Smooching Spot

Down by the River

A beautiful view, a cozy bench in the woods, maybe a pelican or muskrat — what’s not to love? Given the choice, we love the riverbank for gettin’ it on, as well as the weir, Diefenbaker Park, Bessborough Park and Broadway Bridge.

Best Place to Break Up

Down by the River

It must be the stranglehold that the river has on us when it comes to all things romantic — that or the tidiness of ending it where it began, maybe. Second place for cutting the ties goes to home, followed by text (yikes!), the train bridge and Broadway Roastery. But if you’re going “down by the river” to end that relationship, please please stay out of a van — and the river itself...

Best Place to Meet a Sexy Someone

U of S

Yup: no matter what you find sexy, you can find one of them on campus — preferably if you have a legitimate reason for being there. Voters also hooked up at Amigos (Dufferin Ave), online, at gyms, down by the river, and at Hudsons (21^st St) and Diva’s (3^rd Ave).

Best Place to Propose

Down by the River

Be it the weir, Bessborough Gardens, a riverboat tour, River Landing or Cranberry Flats, that peaceful setting won’t let your beloved say no, voters tell us. Other suggestions include on a hot air balloon, nowhere, at Amigos, in Regina, in a public washroom, in the back of a van outside Lydia’s, at Band Swap (we remember that one!) or “anywhere super cute.”

Best Reason to Divorce

Cheating

No contest here — infidelity’s always been the number one no-no among voters, followed by abuse and downright hatred. Some ballots were a little more curious, however: Facebook; likes Nickelback; lawyers; and arguing over the Planet S Best of Saskatoon Readers’ Poll. Ouch!

Shopping

Best Part of Town to Shop In

 Downtown

Businesses based in our central business district took a lot of accolades from voters this year, so it’s fitting that downtown should make it two in a row for Best Shopping. Broadway Avenue sits comfortably in second — but the new block in town is up-and-coming Riversdale, whose expanding selection wins them enough fans to tie up third spot.

Best Accessories Store

Frakas

Frakas (downtown, Erindale) scores the golden earring yet again, adding that extra something to your ensemble. Readers were also delighted to nab some silver at Ardene (Midtown Plaza, Circle Centre, Lawson Heights), Etceteras (21^st St) and Hats and That (Broadway).

Best Bath and Beauty Shop

Lush Cosmetics

Voters wanting to get luscious can’t fail by heading straight to Midtown Plaza, where the facial-mud-slinging got ferocious this year! In a nail-biter, it was Lush with the finest finish — narrowly followed by The Body Shop and Sephora, in that order.

Best Bicycle Store

Bike doctor

When readers keep choosing cycling as their Best Hobby, you know they demand the finest in bicycle health care. And they’ve spoken, giving Bikedoctor (on Broadway) their ninth (yes, ninth) straight bicycle title. Other readers push their pedals over to Doug’s Spoke N Sport (8^th St), Bike Universe (20^th St) and City Park Cycle (7^th Ave).

Best Book Store

McNally Robinson

Prairie pageturners McNally Robinson (8^th St) made it another textbook finish this year, closing yet another Best Book Store chapter. Indigo/Chapters (also 8^th St) showed a large-print finish to ink second place once again, followed by Broadway’s Turning The Tide.

Best Car Dealership — New

Ens Lexus Toyota

Voters got revved up on this question, pitching a feverish battle between the Japanese giants. In the end, it was Ens (Venture Cr), a frequent favourite of past polls, crossing the finish line a nose ahead of Meidl Honda (Circle Dr). Voters also liked the service of Jubilee Ford in Stonebridge and Saskatoon Motor Products on Circle.

Best Car Dealership — Used

Ens Lexus Toyota

...and with even more Japantagonism, the Best Used Dealership gets increasingly fierce! Meidl Honda raced valiantly, but once again it was good ol’ voter fave Ens that runs away with the golden key. Finishing just behind Meidl is Saskatoon Motor Products, O’Brian’s Sales and Finance, and Merlin Ford.

Best Clothing Store, Gals: Hip and Trendy

Tonic

With Tonic’s ferocious hold on this category — this is three straight for Tonic, and we’ve only run the category three times — readers won’t be surprised their expansion to Broadway has been a success. Other fave spots to help you show off your chic: Frakas (2^nd Ave, Ludlow St), Luna and Hill (3^rd Ave) and Guys and Dawls (1^st Ave).

Best Clothing Store, Gals: Professional or Formal

Tonic

Yes, Tonic reigns supreme once again — but newcomer Era Style Loft (downtown) made a feisty showing to sew up the silver suit in a tight battle for second. Following Era are Ricki’s (Midtown, Lawson and Circle malls), Le Chateau (Midtown, Lawson and Market malls) and Frakas.

Best Clothing Store, Guys: Hip and Trendy

Banjo by Tonic

Saskatoon’s menswear scene is getting increasingly competitive, so it’s fitting that the voting in this category did as well. Tonic’s expansion into dude duds, Banjo (2^nd Ave), eventually came out on top, just ahead of Luna and Hill, Manhattan Casuals and Guys and Dawls.

Best Clothing Store, Guys: Professional or Formal

Anthony’s Fashion for Men

Anthony’s, last year’s bronze blazer winner, cuts it up for 2012 to cinch the gold, just a thread ahead of Moores. Not far behind, other voter favourites were Ultimo Euromoda, Banjo and Manhattan Casuals — all, like the Hip/Trendy winners, situated downtown.

Best Comic Book Store

Unreal City

There are three great comic book options in Saskatoon, and fans had a seriously tough time deciding between them this year! Relative newcomer Unreal City (2^nd Ave) takes their first ever golden cape, with 8^th Street Books and Comics in hot pursuit, followed by Amazing Stories (8^th St).

Best Computer Store

OTV Technologies

Downtown’s OTV upgrades to 5G with its fifth-straight cinching of the Best Computer title. And in a perfect back-up of last year’s drive, Neural Net (Preston Ave) nabs second spot once again, ahead of Campus Computer Store. Other voters appreciate the offerings at Best Buy and Computer Trends, both on 8^th St.

Best Eco-friendly Store

The Better Good

Going green proves to be a perpetual motion machine for Broadway’s Better Good, who craftily re-uses their bragging rights from last year’s results. Voters were also sold by the eco amenities at Dad’s Organic Market (8^th St), Escape Sports (Ave A) and Luna and Hill (3^rd Ave).

Best Fair Trade Store

The Better Good

It’s a fair-and-square upset for the best fair trade offerings, with The Better Good trading last year’s second-place finish for a first. Planet S readers also consumed with a conscience at old favourite Ten Thousand Villages (2^nd Ave, 45^th St) and Dad’s Organic Market. Thanks for playing nice, winners!

Best Florist

Blossoms

Blossoms’ Best Bouquet title shows no signs of wilting, in yet another perfect pluck for the 8^th St florist. Voters also stopped to smell the you-know-what at Flowers by Fred on 22^nd St, and Bill’s House of Flowers on Broadway.

Best Furniture Store

Urban Barn

No pillow-punching here — Urban Barn on Clarence furnishes their mantle with another Best Furniture win, after a tense battle that saw Furniture World (2^nd Ave) sew up second spot, followed narrowly by Leon’s (Cardinal Cres) and Ashley Furniture (Clarence Ave).

Best Hobby Shop

Hobbyworld

Putting together a perfect model of 2011’s results, Hobbyworld on Faithfull takes top tinkerer ahead of Michael’s (Preston Crossing). Readers also loved to piece it together at Louise Ave’s Dragon’s Den Games.

Best Home Decor Store

Homesense

It’s a three-peat for Stonebridge’s Homesense, where voters by far most loved to pick up pieces of flair. But they decorated with daring at Urban Barn (Stonebridge), Metric Design Centre (downtown) and Home Outfitters (Preston Crossing), too.

Best Home Electronics Store

Best Buy

They’ve taken back the A/V accolades from 2010, but just behind Best Buy (8th St) is rival setup Future Shop (Preston Ave), who had taken the prize last year. Voters also dug the digital digs at Visions (Faithfull Ave, 1^st Ave) and Krazy Kiley’s (Ave D, McOrmond Dr).

Best Jewellery Store

Heinrichs Jewellery

Readers who go for gold go to local jeweller Heinrichs (8^th St), who’s taken Best Jewellery for three straight polls. Peoples (Confed, Lawson, Circle and Midtown malls), meanwhile, moves up a slot to claim the silver spangle over Frakas.

Best Locally Owned Shop

The Better Good

Those sellers of sustainable stuff, The Better Good (on Broadway Ave), have clearly managed to establish themselves in the hearts of local ‘Tooners — as they’ve taken the Toontown trophy four times in a row! Voters also loved to keep their dollars around by spending them at Luna and Hill (3^rd Ave), Turning the Tide (11^th St), Frakas (2^nd Ave, Ludlow St) and Better Off Duds (33^rd St).

Best Musical Equipment Store

Long & McQuade Musical Instruments

L&M (43^rd St, 8^th St) had the instrument achievement wrapped up last year with the acquisition of Mother’s Music, and they did it again this year. But newcomer Village Guitar & Amps (20^th St) made a fine upstart showing, taking a second-place tie with longtime band supplier St. John’s Music (Broadway Ave).

Best New Store

Sephora

Planet Swas opening last year’s poll when word came out that a Sephora store was coming to town — and before it had even opened in Midtown Plaza, it took a sizable number of votes for Best Bath and Beauty Shop. So we’re not surprised the chic cosmetic concept had Best New Store cinched. Voters also got excited this year for Luna and Hill (3^rd Ave) clothing and Beaumont Film & Record (20^th St).

Best Optical Store

Optika Eclectic Eyewear

The rain has been gone for six years, to be precise (work it out, people...), as voters have seen clearly to elect Optika Best Optical for six straight titles. But a great selection can also be had at Point Optical (downtown, Confederation) and Atrium Eye Care (1^st Ave).

Best Pet Supply Store

Critters Pet Health Store

You could say longtime favourite Critters (Ruth St) has become a voter’s pet, if the pun weren’t so obvious. (Oh, crud — I guess I did just say it!) With lots of pet-care options in town, there was a ferocious …er, tame battle for second spot, which eventually settled on Pet Planet (McOrmond Dr) and Petsmart (Preston Ave) for second and third, respectively.

Best Place to Buy Magazines

McNally Robinson

For those of you asking yourself “Best Place to Buy a Magazine? Really?” I have only one thing to say — just ‘cause Planet S is free, doesn’t mean they all are! Readers looking for serial reading other than Planet S turn the page to McNally Robinson (8^th St), as well as Indigo (8^th St) and Turning the Tide (11^th St).

Best Mall

Midtown Plaza

Nothing beats a mall for kids on escalators... and nothing beats the Midtown, who once again elect the downtown shopping centre their one-stop-shop of choice. Other voters prefer the Mall at Lawson Heights (in second place) and The Centre at Circle & Eighth (third).

Best Recorded Music/Film Store

Beaumont Film and Record

Showing the sheer strength in numbers of Saskatoon’s indie music lovers, Riversdale-area shoppers and vinyl collectors, new guy in town Beaumont (20^th St) schools the vets on how it’s done, eking out a victory over Vinyl Diner (Broadway Ave). Meanwhile, Vinyl Exchange (2^nd Ave) takes bronze over HMV (Midtown Plaza, Mall at Lawson Heights).

Best Shoe Store – Gals

Swank Shoe Lounge

By the narrowest — and we mean narrowest — of heels, it’s King George Hotel’s Swank a toe ahead of 23^rd St’s Fixation. Other gals looking for their footwear fix are heading to Aldo (Midtown Plaza), Traxx Footwear (8^th St) or Durand’s Fine Footwear and Accessories (2^nd Ave).

Best Shoe Store – Guys

Aldo

Aldo knows what voters want, as the spot is once again the favourite shop for putting boots on boys. Others found snappy sneakers at Broadway Shoe Repair (Broadway Ave), Traxx Footwear (8^th St) and Swank Shoe Lounge (2^nd Ave).

Best Skateboard Store

Ninetimes Boarding

In a flawless repeat of last year’s results, Planet S readers settled on Ninetimes (8^th St) as their stop of choice for decks, gear and merch, with Undergrind Skates (2^nd Ave) popping into second and Escape Sports (Ave A) holding onto third.

Best Specialty or Used Book Store

White Cat Book Company

Make it two in a row for White Cat (2^nd Ave), where voters like to find something a little different to read. Others looking to be surprised head to Turning The Tide (11^th St), who turns the page Westgate Books to take second. Further favourites include Tramps (1^st Ave), 8^th Street Books & Comics, and Books Unlimited (College Dr).

Best Sporting Goods Store

Escape Sports

This race was so close, we had to go upstairs for the call — and the ruling was Escape (Ave A), edging out last year’s champion, Sport Chek (Midtown Plaza, Centre at Circle & Eighth). Rounding out the podium is Saskatoon standby Al Anderson’s Source for Sports (Avenue B).

Best Store for Second Hand Finds

Value Village

While you’re scoping out potential Halloween costumes, readers recommend looking long-term at the goods at Value Village (Faithfull Ave, Cope Lane), who once again fills up your cart with amazing castoffs. But you can also find incredible youth clothes at Plato’s Closet (115^th St) and awesome attire and kitsch at Better Off Duds (33^rd St).

Best Vintage Store

Better Off Duds

Whether it be clothes, decor or houseware, you can find some crazy kitsch at Mayfair’s Better Off Duds, say voters — who also love the retro styles at Divine on Broadway almost as much. One-of-a-kind bragging rights can be found at Value Village and Flashback Clothing Collective (3^rd Ave), too.

Best Youth/Children’s Clothing Store

The Children’s Place

Readers with young ‘uns to clothe or bestow gifts on adore the selection and styles at The Children’s Place (Midtown Plaza, Centre at Circle & Eighth), which never seems to grow out of the number one spot. And in a momzilla-like battle for silver, Once Upon a Time (Gray Ave) finds the perfect fit, just ahead of Cravings Maternity (8^th St) and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo (Central Ave).

Services

Best Auto Body Repair Shop

Kavia Auto Body

Last year’s second-place finisher Kavia (1^st Ave) closes the door on that result to take the top trophy this year, ahead of 2011 favourite Parr Auto Body (Packham Ave). Perfection Paint and Body (Faithfull Ave) finishes up in a third-place tie with Millar Ave’s Mark’s Auto Body.

Best Auto Repair Shop

Avalon Auto Service

Whatever you drive, voters will steer you toward Avalon Auto to care of those clunks, hisses and drips, as the Nutana mainstay buckles up for five straight wins. They’ll also take care of your wheels at Glenwood Auto on Jessop Ave and Shirley's Service on Spadina Cres.

Best Bank Branch

Affinity Credit Union (Broadway Branch)

A combination of reasonable hours, decent rates and ample and friendly staff makes for a great bank, and voters say Affinity on Broadway’s got it in bills. TD Canada Trust at Attridge and Heal takes the silver dollar away from the 2011 recipient, TD on 8^th St, who hangs in for a shiny copper penny.

Best Carpet Cleaner

Diamond Carpet Cleaning

They hold it up to a gold standard at Diamond (652-3638), who takes Best Carpet Cleaner three years in a row. Readers also liked the cleanliness left behind by Brothers in Grime (229-3639) and Ultimate Carpet Cleaning (384-3722).

Best Cellular Service Provider

SaskTel

You can get the most bars for your buck from SaskTel (2^nd Ave, Clarence Ave), say voters, who elect the crown corporation to number one network for their third straight win an absolute landslide. Telus (2^nd Ave, Midtown, 8^th St) also told it straight to subscribers this year. Virgin Mobile (Midtown Plaza, Centre at Circle & Eighth) rounds out the winning platform.

Best Dry Cleaner

Arthur Rose/Custom Cleaners

Call them what you will — voters call them the cleanest! The downtown mainstay got us all spiffed up this year, but coming in hot on their heels was The Clean Shoppe on 8^th St, followed by Family Cleaners on Ave B.

Best Electrician

Sommerfeld Electric

We didn’t realize there were so many masters of power out there, but with a huge force-field of results the winner really stands out. Sommerfeld (933-2896) makes it two in a row, while voters were also thankful for un-crossed wires from Stein Electric (242-6577) and Sam's Electric (384-2438).

Best Financial Services

Investors Group

Don’t ask me for financial advice — I just ask the voters, who resoundingly prefer Investors Group (McOrmond Dr, Stonebridge Blvd, 2^nd Ave) for some solid advice and positive results. Other nest eggs turned golden at Brian Mallard and Associates (2^nd Ave) and RBC Dominion Securities (22^nd St).

Best Hair Salon

Magnolia Salon

The salon biz suffers from plenty of puns already, so I’m just going to give this one to you straight: Magnolia Salon downtown makes it a winning streak with two straight. For second spot The Lemon Tree on 8^th St takes the prize, ahead of Chop Chop Salon on 22^nd St.

Best Home Renovation Store

Home Depot

Publicly traded Home Depot (Circle Dr, Clarence Ave) handily locks up three Home Reno victories in a row. Other voters prefer the perfect plywood at Rona (Preston Ave) and the fine fixtures at Metric Interior Design (2^nd Ave).

Best Insurance Agency

Cherry Insurance

No sleazy salesmen here — voters had a tough time deciding on the friendliest brokers, but in the end settled on Cherry (3^rd Ave, McOrmond Dr), who was also the 2011 favourite. Not far behind came Galon Insurance (2^nd Ave), up a slot from last year, and new-to-the-podium Cooke Insurance (Confederation Dr).

Best Interior Designer

Metric Interior Design

Metric, near the downtown bus mall, was last year’s new arrival — and has seemingly redesigned the opinions of voters, having put a glossy finish on first place. Still coming in as hot favourites are Curtis and Trevor at Atmosphere Interior Design (3^rd Ave), and Chantelle at Funktional Space (Madden Ave).

Best Landscaper

Vision Landscape and Design

When you’ve got a blank brown slate, the weeds are out of control or there are tree roots in your basement, voters suggest you give Vision (373-6716) a call. The landscaper grows up from 2011’s third place finish to cinch the gold thumb this year, just ahead of City Gardens (280-6609) and DMS Landscaping (652-4161).

Best Mortgage Broker

Ryan Mollberg

Voters say Ryan (Your Mortgage Link) pulls no punches in getting you the best mortgage to be had, as he’s a three-time runaway favourite for Best Mortgage Broker. Others liked the fine print they got from Scott Trainor and Lynn Trost (both at The Mortgage Group) — making a carbon copy of last year’s results.

Best Movers

Need It Moved? Moving and Delivery

Readers may appreciate the catchy design on the Need It Moved? (261-6188) truck, but they really like the fact that Need It Moved? has moving skills that don’t require catchiness. They also got it home all in one piece from Jay’s Moving (249-3777) and The Piano Guys (251-0186).

Best Piercing Shop

Schmatta

It’s tough putting a hole in their hold on this title, as Schmatta (21^st St, Broadway Ave) closes it up for four years in a row. You can also appreciate the equipment at Tantrix Body Art (Central Ave), say voters, as well as Eye of the Needle (3^rd Ave).

Best Plumber

Perfection Plumbing

They’re prompt, friendly and efficient — voters liked the style of Perfection (652-9556), who takes the plum spot over last year’s victor, Centennial Plumbing and Heating (222-8466). Centennial stays on for second-favourite, though, followed by Harmony Mechanical (292-7109).

Best Photographer

Lauren Winter Photography

When you want it picture perfect, head to www.laurenwinterphotography.com, say readers who refined Lauren’s 2011 finish from matte to gloss. They further recommend Maki Fotos (www.makifotos.com) and Glow Foto (www.glowfoto.ca).

Best Spa

Spa Ahava

The Broadway business is bliss, as voters once again find Spa Ahava the number one place for pampering. And without any mud-slinging, Edgewater Spa (University Dr) lines up for second sanctuary, ahead of Just For You Day Spa on 8^th St.

Best Tattoo Shop

Rites of Passage Tattoo

R.O.P. (Dufferin Ave) reclaims the prickly throne from the 2011 princes of poke, Tantrix Body Art (Central Ave). But Tantrix takes a comfortable second prize, ahead of third-place Eye of the Needle (3^rd Ave).

Best Travel Agency

Uniglobe Carefree Travel

Uniglobe proves there’s benefits to not booking with a website, as their three locations (Central Ave, 21^st St, Circle Dr) take top travelmaster over last year’s champ, CAA (1^st Ave, 8^th St, Millar Ave). Last year’s silver medallist Marlin Travel (Primrose Dr, Idylwyld Dr, 1^st Ave), meanwhile, touches down on third.

Best Massage Therapist

Mallory Jaster

Mallory’s independent massage therapy business (Mallory Jaster RMT, Pinehouse Dr) has voters competely unwound. Other preferred purveyors of healing: T. Dolphyn Boschman (Inphynite Phreedom, Delta Bessborough Hotel) and Brittany Chyz (Just For You Day Spa, 8^th St).

Best Hairstylist

Keith Bastian

Keith at Chop Chop Salon (22^nd St) cuts up the competition with his amazing ‘dos. Voters would also like to remind you of the stupendous styles of last year’s bronze highlight Shelby Gaudet (Magnolia Salon, 2^nd Ave), as well as upstart Terese Epp (Studio Roots, 12st St).