In the few short years since Justin LaBrash came into the Canadian country music scene, the Saskatchewan-based musician has already established himself as a talent to take note of. After receiving both commercial and critical acclaim for his first two albums along with a wealth of accolades, LaBrash released his latest EP, Home Sessions this past April.
After releasing a successful album in the heart of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Prairie-born performer decided to do what none had done before him (in the province) and embarked on a drive-in concert tour through his home province of Saskatchewan.
In addition to providing much-needed entertainment for more than 3,000 fans during the 12-show tour, LaBrash--an official ambassador for Teddy Bears Anonymous--showcased a different local charitable organization at each show, raising awareness, food, and funds for more than a dozen initiatives close to his heart.
Recently, the talented farmer-turned country artist dished on where he loves to go for food and drink around Saskatchewan.
Breakfast
Nicky’s Cafe in Regina is the place for breakfast. Servings are huge and when my whole band gathers there for breakfast they don’t bat an eye with the amount of food us guys eat! You can also buy fresh olive oil and dried herbs from Nicky’s garden in Greece now that he has retired and his son has taken over the breakfast tradition in Regina!
Lunch
Luiggi’s Pasta House in Regina serves the best pasta around and you can customize your meal. They also have the largest gluten-free menu in Regina. And their Sunday brunches with the chocolate fountain...need I say more?
Dinner
I love Memories Fine Dining in Regina and now seasonally in Regina Beach, which is just up the road from my farm. I grew up going to Memories for a special dinner at the end of each school year. And to this day, the strawberries peppercorn on their dessert menu calls my name.
Drinks and live music
On a Saturday if I am in the area, driving to Forget, Saskatchewan for one of Canadian’s best kept secrets, The Happy Nun where they serve food prepared with fresh, local ingredients and promote local Saskatchewan musicians and wine/beer/spirits. For coffee dates, Roca House on Rochdale in Regina is the best!
On the road
I am very lucky to be able to take a piece of home with me while on the road (which was for over six months in 2019!). Hillside Smoke ‘N Que loads us up with the best southern BBQ and fixin’s, Simple Spoons Nutrition Studio keeps us healthy with balanced frozen meals and snacks, while Duck Mountain Roastery keeps us awake with amazingly fresh roasted coffee.
