Calories on Broadway a provincial institution
Calories is a Saskatoon — and really, a Saskatchewan — good food fixture.
It opened more than 30 years ago and the hardwood floors of the quaint spot on Broadway Avenue have felt continuous footsteps ever since. Whether you’re coming in to take home a breathtaking dessert from the cooler, sip a glass of wine over a locally sourced dinner or take in a sumptuous brunch spread, it’s truly a spot that celebrates Saskatchewan’s vibrant food system. And children are always welcome.
In 1986, chef Remi Cousyn’s vision to open a coffee shop that focused on real ingredients and flavour changed Saskatoon’s culinary scene. Calories has evolved over the years into the restaurant and community gathering place it is today.
Cousyn’s ethos was built on simple, local and delicious food that Calories’ new owners will continue to promote and support.
Longtime staff members Taszia and Karan Thakur bought Calories in early 2019 when Cousyn retired.
“I have the same vision Remi has had over the years — local, organic and keeping it in the community,” says Taszia, Calories’ executive chef.
“That’s what Calories has always been about and that’s what I’m about, too.”
Calories’s commitment to sustainability, community and health means the chefs maintain relationships with Saskatoon-area producers and food suppliers, sourcing organic as much as possible. Everything is made from scratch with raw ingredients in the Calories kitchen.
Additives or preservatives are never used. The baking is chock full of real butter. It makes Calories an ideal place for anyone with dietary restrictions, since staff know exactly what’s in each dish.
Taszia’s feature sheets change every two months, based on what’s in season from her food-producing suppliers. It keeps things fresh for guests and renews her cooks’ culinary passion.
The serving staff maintain a high level of professionalism, thanks to Karan’s proficient management style. This is a place where you’ll find an unpretentious, educated staff that make the dining experience one to remember.
“We stress on the quality of service and knowledge every server has about our menus,” he explains.
The couple, who met when they worked at Elk Ridge Resort at Waskesiu, say that for any independent business to work, it has to be a community effort.
“We keep the money in the Saskatoon market and it’s important to us that our money stays here,” Karan says. “It’s important to us to build that relationship with local people.”
“In turn, we hope the locals of Saskatoon keep coming in,” adds Taszia.
If you both keep doing what you’re doing, there’s no fear Saskatonians will ever stop supporting Calories. Make reservations and view a sample menu online at caloriesrestaurant.ca.
Jenn Sharp is a freelance writer in Saskatoon. Her first book, Flat Out Delicious: Your Definitive Guide to Saskatchewan’s Food Artisans, will be published by Touchwood Editions on April 28. Follow her on Twitter @ Jennksharp, Instagram @flatoutfoodsk, and Facebook.