After taking over her family-owned bakery in 1999 and launching a sister restaurant concept that served Saskatoon’s first wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza, chef Tracey Muzzolini set out to learn from the best in the business at the Bread Bakers Guild of America.
Since then, not only has chef Muzzolini become a member and educator of the same Guild from which she initially sought to learn from, she and Christies Bakery have set the standard in Saskatchewan for artisan, European-style sourdough breads, Italian pastries, and of course, Neapolitan pizza for more than two decades.
More recently, chef Muzzolini took up fellow Saskatoon chef Christie Peters’ former mantle as the sole Saskatoon representative on the Wall of Bakers judging panel.
Since we’re now at roughly the halfway mark of the inaugural Food Network Canada cooking competition series, we decided it would be a perfect time to chat with the iconic Saskatoon chef about her favourite food and drink spots in her hometown.
Breakfast
The people of the Park Cafe are what make it so special. The experience is real and the food and service has been consistently great for decades and that is why this cafe is an institution in Saskatoon. It is what you expect from a vintage diner and so much more.
They source local ingredients and smoke their own salmon. I have so many fond memories of meeting friends for brunch, sharing stories and eating too much of my favorite Smoked Salmon Benny with tomato and spinach. The Park Cafe will always have a special place in my heart.
Lunch
What can I say, I love a classic! The Yard and Flagon has been a staple of the Broadway Community since the year 2000. It is an old timey Irish pub with a warm, friendly and comfortable atmosphere. It has a fantastic rooftop patio which is a popular destination for locals and is buzzing with activity during the warm Saskatoon months.
I particularly enjoy and appreciate the selection of house made veggie burgers and my nephew made a regular habit of the chicken bites with buffalo sauce and, of course, don’t forget the beer! Who doesn’t love a great local pub?
Dinner
[Odd Couple is a] Hip and stylish family-owned and operated Asian Restaurant that successfully combines Asian flavors with Saskatchewan ingredients. The mid-century modern decor is a compliment to the blend of classic Asian and modern Canadian cuisine elements.
The food is thoughtfully constructed, beautifully presented, and the flavours are delectable. They have a really nice selection of vegan and gluten-free dishes and my favourites are their signature” Vietnamese spring rolls,” “Kung Pao Cauliflower Wings” and their to die for, ”Crispy Ginger Shiitake Mushrooms.” A Saskatoon favorite!
Drinks
Freshly popped, Pop Wine Bar is the newest creation of dream team Christie Peters, Kyle Michael, and sommelier Adrian Chappell of Saskatoon's beloved Primal and The Hollows. The atmosphere is easygoing and the vibe of the bar is chic retro-styled classic chalet.
You can enjoy a glass of wine from the amazing selection of natural wines, share oysters, or try some elevated bar snacks in the form of beautifully articulated, constructed, and delicious sharing plates. The fries are reminiscent of “poolside fries” in a great way!
I am also a fan of the “Crudo of steelhead trout, albacore and whitefish with capers, shallots, olive oil and roe”. It is a colourful plate, beautifully balanced and a treat to eat. The service is great and the staff are knowledgeable of the wines and the fun menu of food. My new happy hour haunt.
Watch: Wall of Bakers - Food Network Canada
Tune in to Wall of Bakers Mondays at 10 p.m. ET/PT on Food Network Canada.
