The highly coveted guilty pleasure referred to as poutine was, indeed, created in Quebec, Canada. Meaning there's no other better spot to try it compared to location of its origin – right? Right!
Although it might seem easy to fry up some tasty french fries, cover them with cheese curds, and a layer of decadent gravy, it's actually not everything easy. Many establishments all over the world have tried to recreate the original poutine hailing in the north, and also have done this unsuccessfully. However, in Quebec, it continues to be just like it was during the late 1950s, commonplace in Canadian cuisine and in virtually every full-service restaurant. Here's where visitors can find probably the most beloved local spots for this favorite dish.
However, A History Of How Poutine Was Created
Warwick, Quebec, was where poutine was first created. The year was 1957, along with a man by the name of Fernand Lachance did something simple, yet life-changing. With the addition of cheese curds to hot fries and dousing it with gravy, a brand new dish was born with a quite simple action. The specific dish is actually slang for 'mess,' which pretty accurately describes what it's prefer to dig right into a pile of hot fries, gravy, and cheese.
The key sign of poutine is undoubtedly how a cheese curds squeak when eaten; if poutine claims to be this without that squeak, then it is not truly authentic. While there are no specific rules about the gravy or the kind of cheese curds (as is observed in many of the best restaurant poutines), the classic addition must always be genuine cheese, having a delicious gravy topping.
La Banquise
When you are looking at authentic poutine along with a variety of options, La Banquise is the one place where visitors and locals alike can bond over their favorites. Recption menus includes at least 30 kinds of poutine, each having a different twist. Each dish varies from the kind of meat accustomed to the kind of gravy that's poured over the top, and they are all delicious themselves. There are even vegan options for people who do not eat meat, making that one of the very most versatile restaurants in Montreal, too. Ready for the best part? La Banquise can also be open 24/7, that makes it an unbelievably great stop for anybody seeking to satisfy that poutine craving at 1 AM.
- Must-Try Dish: The classic poutine and also the Greek salad
- Hours: 24/7, everyday
Patati Patata
It's worth browsing line at Patati Patata for some of the best poutine in Montreal. As the line might cover the building, a plate of the original-style poutine is only the thing to warm you on a cool day. There is limited seating within the restaurant therefore if tourists are adventurous enough to try this, make sure to fall into line early and pick a day once the weather conditions are in your favor. Poutine at Patati Patata is made from fries which are skinnier than most, fresh cheese curds, along with a healthy dose of gravy. It's nothing beats anything poutine fans are likely to have ever endured before, and they have got quite the signature dish.
- Must-Try: Patatine with mushrooms, peppers, and onions
- Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 1 PM
Frite Alors!
When considering how many various kinds of poutine there truly are out there, it's almost tough for one to wrap their minds around. This is correct of establishments for example Frites Alors! which not only includes a full menu of poutine but is serving up international twists on them, too. The poutine here's also hailed as some of the best in the world using its Belgium-style french fries and delicious gravy. Frites Alors! also provides vegan options, therefore it is an excellent location for meat-free eats, too.
- Must-Try: La Frite Alors!, vegan poutine
- Hours: Hours vary based on location
Au Pied de Cochon
For fancier poutine, take a look at Au Pied de Cochon. This is actually the kind of poutine that calls for a good soaking-up with some freshly fried fried potatoes, as cheese curds just start to melt into this delicious mashup. It's fancy food done correctly (messy) with just the right amount of flavor and appeals to anyone who's seeking something elevated, but still comfort food-like. The signature dish from the restaurant showcases foie gras in a manner that not one other has: as the centerpiece atop a plate of traditional poutine.
- Must-Try: Poutine de luxe with foie gras
- Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 5 PM – 11 PM, closed Monday & Tuesday
