MATT CHEETHAM
Arts Writer

Few bars in Saskatoon capture the essence of a secret hideaway that the Somewhere Else Pub and Grill does. It is located near the end of Broadway in the Avalon shopping centre.

While not as well known as other local establishments reputed for their music or food, Somewhere Else offers a unique quality in that you may be one of the select few that knows of its existence. While some may argue that being hidden prevents the bar from expanding on both clientele and presence, I think that the bar revels in this fact and plans to keep it that way.

When one first encounters this gem you may have to look very closely as it is nestled between two other business that make up part of the strip mall. As you walk through the glass doors you are transported — as the title suggests — to somewhere else. The bar itself is pretty small and only has room for a few large groups, but the friendly atmosphere and ambience cement it as a nice fixture in the city. If you want to get away from crowds or noise, this the perfect place.

The menu has a nice selection of perfect pub food — everything from wings, chicken fingers, nachos or the occasional salad that are great to not only partake in alone but also for get-togethers. I have not been there recently so the menu may have changed but I don’t think people will walk away disappointed.

My only complaint of this great place is the service. The service is like a sliding scale of good days and bad; there seems to be no middle ground. There have been days where everything is efficient from both food delivery to service but then there have been other days when the service has been slow as molasses. While this may deter a few people I highly recommend it. Even on a bad day it’s still unlike any other place in the city.

The bottom line is if you’re looking for something a little different that is tucked away, isn’t noisy or crowded and has good food, then step into Somewhere Else Pub and Grill and you won’t regret it.

– –