Robin Wasicuna made his name in Yellowknife selling artisinal burgers from a food truck, helping spearhead the then-fledgling local roadside food scene. He’s since moved into brick and mortar, but his spirit’s the same: Big meals, big flavour, big personality. At Twin Pine Diner, you can still get the classic burgers he’s known for, but he’s breaking out of his stereotype with one of the meanest brunches in town and a drink menu of original bourbon cocktails.
Like his diner—both ‘50s-themed and Northern rustic, with a punk/doo-wop playlist and a chalkboard menu—his ingredient lists buck conventionality. The flavours—peanut butter, bacon, jam and cheese on a burger, for instance—might not seem like they’d mix. But if you open your mind, you won’t be disappointed. If you want basic, though, he’ll whip you up some mac ‘n’ cheese just like your momma would’ve made it.