Dirty Words, Good Food in Montreal

So this is the deal, Morris is away in Argentina romancing the locals, devouring delicious bovine, and drinking decadent wines. I am here in New York awaiting the return of my trusty companion, the Jekyll to my Hyde. In the meantime, I’ve decided to share with you an adventure from our gastronomic past, the poutine at a famous little 24 hour place in Montreal called la Banquise located at 994 Rachel East, corner of La Fontaine Park.

Poutine may sound like a dirty word and if you are at all concerned with your arteries or blood pressure it very well might be. But if it is the “good death” that you seek then poutine will be a delectable treat on your ferry ride across the river Styx.

What is poutine, you ask? Well it is a French-Canadian dish, imagine glistening pommes frite or French fries, topped with fresh cheese curds and a dark, heavy brown gravy. For the adventurous eater la Banquise offers 25 variations with a slew of toppings, from Bolognese sauce to bacon, peppers and mushrooms.

The place has a wonderful neighborhood feel to it and due to its local fame attracts droves of Montréalers, a quick glance around and you see teenagers on dates, truck drivers on break from miles on the road, and families enjoying a warm plate on a cold Montreal night. The staff is friendly, the prices affordable, and the portions are intense.

The potato may have originated in the Andes, but it fits in just fine in Quebec. If you ever find yourself in Montreal la Banquise offers a wonderful taste of French Canada. - Alex

For more info visit : http://www.restolabanquise.com/index.php?langue=an