Food vendors gear up for Mosaic Stadium test event

Whether it’s a big appetite or a creative one, Mosaic Stadium should be able to satisfy the stomachs of those attending Saturday’s Regina Rocks Mosaic concert.

The second test event at the new venue will also serve as a trial run for a number of food and beer vendors, many of whom will be moving into and trying out their assigned kitchen space.

“I think everybody would like more time. It’s a test event so we get to put our equipment in place and you test it for the first time. You design something in your head, does it come out perfect? Not always, but we’re pretty excited to give it a go,” said Darren Carter with Beer Bros. Gastropub.

Beer Bros., Coney Island Poutine Cafe, Western Pizza, Wok Box, Rock Creek Tap & Grill and Sweet Ambrosia Bakeshoppe are some of the concessions that will be up and running for the event. The menu will be diverse, from stadium staples like burgers and pizza to items a bit more uncommon like a two-foot long hot dog or pulled pork poutine.

“It’s neat to see the local restaurant community come together and everybody have an opportunity to share in what this is … they’re employing local people, they’re using local products, I think it helps everybody,” said Carter.

“I’m excited about the stadium and obviously the challenge of serving 9,000 meals in about three hours,” said Lloyd Frank, the executive chef at Rock Creek.

Evraz Place CEO Mark Allan said while most of the work is done, they are still finalizing which vendors will be a fixture moving forward. He hoped to have those agreements in place by July 1. Allan estimated about 12 local vendors will eventually call Mosaic home.

The stadium will also test out part of its beer distribution system, which is essentially a large pipe that moves the alcohol throughout the building. The full lineup of beverages won’t be available at the event.

Allan also said they are working with the Saskatchewan Craft Brewers Association to see if some kind of side deal can be worked out on the delivery of microbrewery products to compliment the exclusive pouring rights Molson has obtained.