Where to Get the Best Poutine in Old Quebec City in 2024
Old Quebec City, a place steeped in history and culture, is also home to some of the best poutines you can find. If you're on the hunt for this quintessentially Canadian dish while wandering the charming streets of this historic city, here are the top spots to consider:
1. Le Chic Shack: Known for its gourmet approach, Le Chic Shack serves poutine with house-made sauces and smashed Yukon Gold potatoes, mixed with large chunks of fresh cheddar cheese. The braised beef topping comes highly recommended, and the view of the Château Frontenac adds to the experience.
2. Poutineville: This place takes a creative spin on the classic poutine, allowing customers to create their own mix. With options ranging from smoked meat to Philly steak, feta, and goat cheese, Poutineville caters to all tastes. They even offer a 15-pound 'Heart Attack' plate for the truly adventurous.
3. Brasserie Artisanale La Korrigane: A beer lover’s delight, La Korrigane pairs its poutine with a unique beer-flavoured gravy, perfectly complementing its Kraken brew. The combination of fresh cheese curds and this special gravy makes for a memorable meal.
4. Chez Gaston: Located in downtown Saint-Roch, Chez Gaston is a tiny greasy spoon dishing up decadent poutine. Its golden, crispy fries are smothered in a rich beef-flavoured sauce, with generous additions of griddled sausages, onions, and meat.
5. Frite Alors!: For those who prefer the classic rendition, Frite Alors! in the Montcalm and Limoilou districts offers just that. Their poutine features crispy fries, hearty stock, and big chunks of fresh squeaky cheese, all in a setting with charming cartoon decor.
6. Casse-croûte Pierrot: A popular late-night eatery, Casse-croûte Pierrot stands out with its small, slowly melting cheese curds and dark, savory beef sauce over sweet, caramelized fries. This spot is perfect for satisfying those after-hours cravings.
7. Chez Ashton: Last but not least, Chez Ashton is a must-try, known as the most popular poutine in town. It's a go-to meal for many locals returning from travels abroad, capturing the essence of Quebec’s poutine scene.
Each of these locations offers a unique take on poutine, ensuring that whether you're a fan of classic styles or more inventive versions, Old Quebec City has a poutine that will satisfy your cravings.
Why Poutine is Better in Quebec
1. Authenticity and Tradition: Originating in rural Quebec in the 1950s, poutine in Quebec is rooted in authenticity and tradition. This historical connection often translates to recipes that have been perfected over generations, offering a depth of flavor that is hard to replicate elsewhere.
2. Quality of Ingredients: The quality of cheese curds—a crucial component of poutine—is paramount in Quebec. Freshness is key, and Quebec is known for producing some of the freshest, squeakiest cheese curds, which are a product of the province's rich dairy farming heritage.
3. Culinary Expertise: Quebec's culinary scene is diverse and vibrant, contributing to innovative and varied poutine offerings. From classic recipes to gourmet variations, chefs in Quebec often bring a level of expertise and creativity to their poutine that elevates the dish.
4. Cultural Significance: In Quebec, poutine is more than just a dish; it's a part of the cultural fabric. This cultural significance is reflected in the care and passion that goes into preparing it, making it a true comfort food for both locals and visitors.
Overall, the combination of historical roots, quality ingredients, culinary expertise, and cultural significance makes Quebec's poutine stand out as a truly exceptional version of this beloved dish.
