SHAUNAVON’S HARVEST EATERY NOMINATED FOR TOURISM AWARD
Shaunavon has got it going on.
The southwestern town is a Saskatchewan culinary destination thanks to Harvest Eatery, recently named a finalist in the Canadian Tourism Awards.
Husband and wife duo Garret “Rusty” Thienes and Kristy Thienes opened Harvest Eatery in 2013, a welcoming place where they offer an eclectic mix of Saskatchewan comfort food made from locally grown and raised products. Chef Rusty’s menu is inspired by classic Saskatchewan recipes (some from his family’s handwritten cookbooks).
“He pulls inspiration from his world travels and culinary experiences to enhance dishes using innately Saskatchewan and Canadian ingredients to make them unlike anywhere else in the world,” said Kristy.
Rusty added: “We know who’s growing the food, how they’re taking care of it, what their methods are. That is what’s going to keep the restaurant (and our food system) functioning.”
Think Speckle Park beef (raised by a rancher who also owns the butcher shop across the street), Lake Diefenbaker trout, Hunter Brothers lentils (the country music band farms just outside Shaunavon), Daybreak Mill flour and Sierra Colony duck, to name a few.
“This not only helps to stimulate the local economy, but it supports and promotes our partnerships while creating a bandstand for those who are just as passionate about producing as we are about creating a spectacular dining experience,” added Kristy.
This year, Kristy grew fresh herbs and edible flowers for the restaurant in garden boxes built by one of the servers and her husband.
In addition to supporting Saskatchewan producers, Kristy is a big cheerleader for Saskatchewan’s
small-town life. She has a part-time gig as the Economic Development Officer for the Town of Shaunavon.
“Shaunavon is a place of opportunity, where you can be an entrepreneur and develop a business you are truly passionate about — and succeed.
“Cost of living is low, real estate is affordable, the community is safe, welcoming and becoming more and more progressive.”
Although you can’t hop on a plane to get to Shaunavon, you can take an epic prairie road trip through rolling hills, rugged badlands and fields dotted with herds of deer and pronghorns.
“One thing that is so spectacular about coming to Harvest Eatery is you get to experience southwest Saskatchewan on your journey here. The drive is part of the experience. And that experience is truly an adventure.”
In August, they expanded and opened the Blind Boar cocktail lounge. This is the place to come to experience Saskatchewan libations. Open Friday and Saturday nights, the speakeasy (accessed through a hidden door by the washrooms) has a cosy and moody vintage vibe thanks to furniture collected over the years. A shelf is dedicated to Lucky Bastard spirits, while all draught taps pour local craft brews.
Harvest Eatery is hosting an Italian Winemaker Dinner on Nov. 8 and 9, showcasing homegrown ingredients combined with Chef Rusty’s inspirations from travels in Italy.
Watch for the annual Block Party next summer, where hundreds gather to listen to Saskatchewan bands while enjoying food from local restaurants, along with Saskatchewan beer and spirits.
Chef Rusty also offers Chef at Home, custom catering experiences where diners can enjoy a Harvest Eatery dinner party in the comfort of their home.
Visit eatharvest.ca for details.