home for the holidays

a country restaurant and Saskatoon-berry farm sitting right on the river south of the city, the kind of place that is the destination as much as the meal. the kitchen is known for its berry pie, and the grounds carry a greenhouse, a gift shop, a u-pick patch and ice cream hut in season, and a little fun zone for small kids. it is an easy, scenic drive out of town, with riverbank views to walk off lunch. families and grandparents both love it. a proper Sunday-drive afternoon, no agenda needed.

a pinball hall and cafe on the west side that, unlike a bar, you can bring the whole family to. rows of machines old and new line the room, with coffee and snacks at the counter and no minimum to nurse. it is Métis-owned, friendly, and the kind of low-key spot where kids and pinball nerds happily coexist. a great rainy-day stop, or a relaxed afternoon hang with a tableful of friends. grab a coffee, get a roll of plays, and see who tops the leaderboard.