Indulge in the Most Unique Poutines Across Canada on National Poutine Day
Hockey, maple syrup, beautiful scenery and polite personalities are synonymous with Canadian culture. When it comes to food, there’s nothing more Canadian than poutine. What began as a humble dish of french fries, cheese curds and gravy has since evolved to incorporate unexpected and exquisite flavours. But don’t worry — great, original poutine is still widely available for those looking for a traditional version. In celebration of National Poutine Day, we have put together a list of unique poutine dishes from across Canada.
Before digging in, it’s important to appreciate the history behind this beloved dish. Though there’s no consensus as to who first united these delicious flavours, there’s an understanding that its origins lie within the Centre-Du-Quebec area in the late 1950s. Since then, it has become a Canadian late-night snack of choice, appears at hockey arena concession stands nationwide, and even graces the pages of high-end restaurant menus. Without a doubt, poutine is a favourite among Canadians, tourists and international markets.
Poutine for Dinner or Dessert (or both!) at Edible Canada in Vancouver, BC
Edible Canada is authentically Canadian. They pride themselves on their use of local, sustainable and seasonal cuisine. Their Famous Duck Poutine breaks tradition. This staple menu item combines duck confit, Quebec cheese curds, duck egg, crispy onions and of course french fries for an upscale twist to a traditional dish.
Did we mention that they also offer a delectable dessert poutine as well? Visiting this west coast hotspot is a must for locals and visitors looking for an unparalleled poutine experience.
Try Elk Poutine at the Bison Banff in Banff, AB
The Bison Banff offers a truly Canadian inspired menu alongside breathtaking mountain views. Despite this restaurant’s name, it is the elk poutine which will pique the interest of poutine connoisseurs. This taste-bud tingling experience is thanks to a combination of braised elk ragu, truffle gnocchi, ricotta, cheese curds, crispy onions and french fries.
Say “Good Morning” with Poutine for Breakfast at the Hollows in Saskatoon, SK
Though poutine remains a favourite for those partying late into the night, it has also found itself on the menus of some high-end restaurants as a lunch or dinner item. At the Hollows, you’ll also find a one-of-a-kind poutine dish on its breakfast menu. Their tia style breakfast poutine uses french fries as a base layer, and adds Quebec cheese curds, miso gravy, a poached farm egg, and sautéed greens to get your morning started on the right foot.
Immerse your Taste buds in Tourtiere Poutine at Le Garage in Winnipeg, MB
Located in Winnipeg’s French Quarter, Le Garage combines tourtiere and poutine, two “Quebec” inspired dishes, to create one unique menu item. This dish is a meat lovers dream, stop by this restaurant for lunch or dinner and be sure to order their tourtiere poutine. Promising to “hit the spot”, this special dish includes a mix of ground beef, pork or veal with diced onions, and of course, french fries.
Are you a fan of live local music performances? Le Garage has you covered, thanks to regular entertainment to complement their extensive menu.
Get Creative at NomNomNom Poutine in Toronto, ON
Made from re-purposed shipping containers, Market 707 in Toronto is home to many local entrepreneurs serving both national and international street foods, year-round. Among the many great options is NomNomNom Poutine, founded in 2011 by Marc Perraut, originally from Montreal, Quebec.
Bringing variety and homemade cheese curds to the plate, this spot offers authentic tasting poutine to locals and visitors of southern Ontario. In addition to traditional poutine, check out other variations that include hot dogs, Montreal smoked meat, pulled pork, and even bacon.
Pick-up Some Original Poutine at Le Chic Shack in Quebec City, QC
Centrally located within Old Quebec’s Place d’Armes, Le Chic Shack will have hungry history buffs and sightseers well prepared for the next part of their exploration. Offering up menu items that feature Canadian-sourced ingredients, and sodas made in-house using real fruit purees, it is there 2.0 poutine that is a must-try.
Made using homemade sauces, local cheese and hand smashed potatoes, Le Chic Shack offers up three types of poutines. In addition to the classic, guests are invited to try La Braisée, which includes red ale – braised beef or La Forestière, which includes wild mushroom ragout. Each dish combines several unique ingredients to explode taste buds and fill stomachs.
Enjoy More Than Fish & Chips at Ches’s in Newfoundland & Labrador
In 1951, Ches Barbour and his wife began a fish and chips restaurant that would later become highly-regarded, and even growing to seven locations across Newfoundland. The menu at Ches’s Famous Fish and Chips has also expanded to include many east coast delicacies and some Canadian favorites as well.
Their regular poutine dish, including traditional ingredients like french fries and gravy, are made in-house from start to finish. For those looking to add a French-Canadian twist to an east-coast specialty, Ches’s menu allows for guests to turn their hand-cut golden chips into poutine, for the ultimate fish and chips dish.