The Poutine Showdown (Part 2 of 4): The Fancy One
Introduction:
This is the second of a four-part series pertaining to my trip to several places throughout Montreal that specialize in poutines, ultimately picking the winner in the final chapter. Poutine is the official food of Canada, and is a major staple in Montreal cuisine, as you’ll find dozens upon dozens of eateries that specialize in the dish that’s surprisingly young when compared to classic cultural staples like New York City’s pizza or even Ybor City’s Cuban sandwich.
The Classic poutine is essentially fresh fries, squeaky cheese curds, and brown gravy---and those recipes of course can vary. In the United States, my only poutine experiences include the Daily Poutine in Disney Springs (it used to be much much better before, I no longer recommend) and Le Cellier in Epcot (absolutely delightful).
For the record, I wasn’t disappointed in any of these places in Montreal, these are all recommendations even if I pick a “winner.” All of these spots deserve a visit, deserve all the love and success that Montrealers and tourists can possibly hand to them. On to the second pick!
The Fancy: Au Pied De Cochon
Want your poutine with some French class? Welcome to Au Pied De Cochon. Now, I have never had stuffed duck liver, otherwise known as foie gras for personal reasons related to the controversial procedure. Although I do enjoy me some meat, including duck, I just can’t get on board with the concept of basically over-feeding ducks on levels that’s considered animal cruelty. But I broke this rule because you can’t really have French cuisine without at least one experience with foie gras.
And of course, in an upscale French restaurant full of foie gras options, they have a poutine version. In the midst of its very extensive wine menu and French options you’ll find in your best French spots, sits a poutine that according to sources is world-renowned.
Easily the most expensive fries I’ve ever purchased, this baby is over $30 of fries (fried in duck fat by the way) stuffed with cheese, gravy, and foie gras pieces. Even though it is pricy, I’m not complaining because you’re definitely getting your money’s worth, especially with the foie gras. And yes, this is sharable, and yes I’m once again alone so I’m battling this monster on my own.
Now, I’m going to be honest, foie gras would normally not be my thing, but I know what I consumed here is not the norm. Their duck melts before you can even get the first bite in, those duck liver pieces are among the richest things I’ve ever eaten, an absolutely wild burst of flavor. However, their gravy is what truly sets it apart, its this decadent thick sauce that reaches every single fry. The cheese curds are at the bottom, so with every forkful of fries you’re going to be guaranteed at least a portion of cheese.
This poutine is the A24 version of poutines, it may not be for everyone and might be beyond your normal palette but you will appreciate the effort and attention to detail. The dish entirely is an experience, and just fits perfectly with the vibe, the price tag, the upscale Michelin-esque quality of the establishment. There’s a lot of love here, and if you have the funds, this place has my strongest recommendation. Easily one of the standouts in the Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood.
