Summary
Poutine is a quintessential Canadian dish that can be found all over Toronto. Traditionally, poutine consists of French fries topped with rich gravy and squeaky cheese curds. The combination results in a gooey, cheesy, and comforting bowl of goodness. Moreover, many restaurants put their own creative spin on poutine, offering both traditional and unconventional options. If you’re craving poutine, here are ten of the best places to try it in Toronto.
Poutini’s House of Poutine
You can satisfy your poutine cravings at two locations of Poutini’s (one on King West and one on Queen West). The fries here are hand-cut daily with the potato skin on, then fried twice, Belgian style. Perfectly golden fries are topped with house-made gravy (vegetarian option available) and cheese curds from Maple Dale Farms, delivered every other day for optimum freshness.
Fancy Franks
As the name suggests, Fancy Franks specializes in hot dogs, but their menu features a diverse array of poutine (11 varieties!). Each poutine starts with fresh-cut fries, and notable options include the loaded potato with bacon and cheddar, the fancy schmancy with Korean beef ribs, and the ultimate grilled cheese topped with cheese curds and gravy.
Beast
Beast focuses on local Ontario produce, with a creative menu. Their twist on traditional poutine features fried gnocchi, topped with the day’s gravy, cheese curds, and crème fraîche, creating a rich and indulgent dish.
Nom Nom Nom Poutine
Located near Dundas and Bathurst, Nom Nom Nom offers a dozen poutine varieties, including vegetarian and halal options. Their traditional option features red potato fries, Quebec-style gravy, and cheese curds, while creative twists include seasoned chicken and green peas, deep-fried Brussels sprouts, or duck confit.
Holy Chuck Burgers
While Holy Chuck is renowned for its excellent burgers, their poutine is also worth a mention. The classic version includes Quebec cheese curds, but for a luxurious option, try the foie gras truffle poutine, featuring seared foie gras, cheese curds, and truffle oil.
Smoke’s Poutinerie
With numerous locations, Smoke’s Poutinerie makes it easy to grab a hot plate of poutine. Choose the traditional fries, curds, and gravy or explore decadent options like butter chicken poutine or steak and beef poutines.
Lady Marmalade
At Lady Marmalade, poutine is served for breakfast. This popular brunch spot offers a.m. poutine made with home fries topped with cheese curds and miso gravy or hollandaise. For an extra breakfast touch, add poached eggs.
Leslieville Pumps
The poutine at this cozy east end spot features rich, dark gravy and cheese curds from Ontario. Diners can opt for the traditional version or enhance it with additions like pulled pork or baked beans, ensuring a satisfying meal.
Prohibition Gastrohouse
Another place to enjoy poutine, Prohibition Gastrohouse offers a unique twist by using deep-fried tater tots instead of fries. This dish is topped with soft poached eggs, house-smoked bacon, béarnaise sauce, and cheese curds, making it a memorable breakfast option.
BQM
Known for their handcrafted burgers, BQM (Beer and Quality Meats) has three locations across the city, each serving delicious poutine. Choose the classic version or explore options like the palmer poutine with caramelized onions and bacon or the meat poutine with onions and beef.
