The Proper Eats & Drinks has won a 2026 SaskTel Small Business award, putting the Lloydminster restaurant in the provincial spotlight.
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The Border City establishment was one of 10 businesses across Saskatchewan to compete for the recognition, which celebrates entrepreneurship and community impact.
2026 SaskTel Small Business award. Taylor Weaver photo
“Honestly, surprised! I think we were all very surprised (to find out we won),” said Nader Yasin, owner of The Proper. “We’re just a small restaurant on the border of Saskatchewan and I figured nominees in the larger centres would have it won for sure … surprised and excited.”
The Proper offers steaks, burgers, seafood, pasta and daily specials, and has become a favourite dining destination for residents and visitors alike. Local residents and supporters voted to secure the win.
“It’s a huge accomplishment. To be nominated and then to win, and by quite a bit, from what they tell us, against businesses from across all of Saskatchewan, is amazing,” Yasin said. “The city of Lloydminster rallied behind us in a massive way, and we’re so thankful. We owe this win to everyone in Lloydminster.”
The award comes with $4,000 in billboard advertising, a spotlight video and a feature article courtesy of SaskTel. For Yasin and his team, the recognition validates years of hard work behind the scenes.
“It means the world. Running a restaurant is relentless work that most people never see, and everyone here pours their heart into this place,” Yasin said. “Recognition like this tells us that effort is seen and appreciated. That’s about as meaningful as it gets.”
Also winning in the same category was T&D Amisk Camp, a fishing destination on the south shore of Amisk Lake in northern Saskatchewan.
The recognition marks another milestone for Lloydminster’s local business community, which has seen growing support for hometown entrepreneurs over the years.
“Thank you so much for everything! Not just for supporting us through this award, but for eight years,” Yasin added. “For all the incredible support and the kind words people share online and in person, and for standing with us through everything. It’s incredible.”
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