Leons Headlines May 6: Oil prices plunge on report US and Iran closing in on a deal to end war; Brent crude down to $100 Thursday morning, pump relief could follow as early as the weekend.
-Canada’s international student enrolment down to pandemic levels: StatCan.
-Prairie Mountain Health adds 2 physicians, in Russell & Brandon, through an accelerated Practice Ready Assessment program, with four more expected by Fall.
-Brandon City Council gives first reading on digital street parking payments by smartphone, while still allowing coin payments.
-RCMP arrest a 31yr old AB man during a traffic stop in the RM of Sifton after seizing 4.5 kg of cocaine worth $350K from his SUV.
-A man was sent to hospital after a pickup truck collided with a school bus near Portage Monday; 2 teens on the bus & the driver were not injured.
-Canada’s Future Aircrew Training program at Southport Portage, will expand military pilot training with new aircraft & simulators, bringing investment to the region.
-Hermanos South American Steakhouse to open its first location outside Wpg next month in Brandon’s historic Firehall on Princess Ave.
-Surgeries have been temporarily suspended in Carman while health-care officials deal with an “ant problem” in the southern MB hospital.
-With one week to go, the inaugural Keystone Centre Foundation Legacy & Lights benefit dinner with NFL alum Israel Idonije & comedian Dave Hemstad has sold out.
-Big hit to Canada’s auto industry as Honda indefinitely suspends plans to build a $15B EV plant in Ontario.
-Alert Ready TEST today at 1:55.
Handout from Brandon Downtown Biz
BRANDON’S NEW STEAKHOUSE: Hermanos Steakhouse is set to open in Brandon’s historic downtown Firehall this June, bringing a steakhouse, lounge, cigar space, and future comedy club to the landmark building. The project is being highlighted by the Brandon Downtown BIZ as a major boost to downtown revitalization, supported by the City of Brandon and community partners. Launch events in June will include fundraising nights such as the June 18 opening and the Firefighters Ball on June 21. What’s the one in Winnipeg like?
RESTAURANTS PEOPLE WANT TO COME BACK to BRANDON! Brandon continues to see strong interest in restaurants that draw repeat visits and local loyalty. The focus is on building dining spots that create memorable experiences people actively return to. Turns out the #1 restaurant missed in the city according to hundreds of food fans on the Tyler Glen Show would pick………….BONANZA!
Top 10
#1 Bonanza (and Ponderosa)
The clear winner by a huge margin. People raved about the salad bar (perogies, potato cubes, bacon bits, etc.), all-you-can-eat steaks, and family-friendly vibes. Multiple comments called it a childhood/adult favorite and the original one was especially missed.
#2 Gullivers / Gulliver’s
Extremely popular. Many people named it hands-down or their top pick. Comments highlighted the food, focaccia bread, and overall experience. Several expressed regret that it’s gone.
#3 Tequila Willie’s / Tequila Willy’s
Tons of love — deep-fried ice cream, atmosphere, and great memories. Multiple people said they worked there or miss it dearly. Often tied with others as a top choice.
#4Beef and Barrel / Beef n Barrel
Frequently mentioned for good food and nostalgia. A solid classic that came up consistently.
#5 Five Guys
Strong showing, especially for the burgers, fries (peanut oil), and busy opening days. Some were surprised it was in Brandon, but many fondly remembered it.
#6 Venice House
Barrel booths, French onion soup, pizza, and corner location (9th & Princess / 10th & Princess) got lots of mentions. Pure nostalgia.
#7 The Suburban (including Suburban 2)
Great food, onion buns, and overall quality stood out. A few said it was their pick or they wished they’d tried it.
#8 Tokyo Zone
Highlighted for great food and being safe for allergies. Several “no questions” or top-pick votes.
#9 Jerry’s Bistro
Intimate atmosphere, great view, cozy/tropical vibe, and excellent food (especially original Rosser Ave location). Multiple strong endorsements.
#10 Moxies (with honorable mentions to Burger Ranch, Kelsey’s/Kelseys, and Allessio’s)
Moxies got repeated nods. Burger Ranch had strong fans (especially former employees), Kelsey’s was popular, and Allessio’s had dedicated fans for Friday nights/Greek food.
Other Notable Mentions:
Aunt Sarah’s (cinnamon buns, liver & onions)
Golden Perogie
DK’s
Salisbury House
Astoria Pizza
Wildflower Café
Soup Kettle
Roll’n Pin
Kokanos / Kokonas
Remington’s
Double Bar S
Benny’s
The thread was full of warm nostalgia — Bonanza and Gullivers dominated, but almost everyone had a personal favorite they truly missed! Many people struggled to pick just one.
ONE OF the TOUGHEST Businesses to be involved with in 2026. A new report in Canada says over 1/3 of Restaurants are either breaking even or losing money today. If you love the place you eat, it’s best you support them as much as you can. Things are brutal in the industry right now.
CFL JUMPS ON THE ALL YOU CAN EAT concession bandwagon! The CFL is expanding its stadium experience by introducing all-you-can-eat concession options. The move is aimed at enhancing value and improving the game-day experience for fans.
LATEST on the Dutch cruise ship with a hantavirus outbreak on board. A Dutch cruise ship experienced a serious health situation involving a suspected hantavirus outbreak during its voyage from Argentina. The World Health Organization reportedly coordinated with Spain to manage the situation involving the cruise ship. Authorities arranged for the vessel to proceed to the Canary Islands for medical response and containment measures.
Delta Eliminates Food and Drink service on some flights as COSTS SOAR! Delta is scaling back food and drink service on certain flights as operating costs rise. The change reflects broader pressure on airlines to reduce expenses while maintaining profitability.
Chic Fil-A joins White Castle with Vending machines for its food. Chick-fil-A is exploring automated vending-style options for serving its food in select locations. The idea follows a growing trend of fast-food brands experimenting with more self-serve and automated models.
