The temperatures are rising and Montrealers know what that means – it’s time for the city’s tastiest festival, Poutine Fest! This annual celebration of Quebec’s iconic comfort food is returning July 19-30, 2023 at the Old Port of Montreal.

Poutine Fest brings together over 130 types of mouthwatering poutine from local restaurants and food trucks. From the classic fries, cheese curds and gravy to more creative variations with pulled pork, lobster, nachos and more, you’ll find the ultimate poutine to satisfy your cravings. Beyond sampling poutines, the festival has cooking demos, contests, live music, and fun for the whole family.

A Brief History of Poutine in Montreal

While poutine is now considered a quintessential Quebec dish, its origins are shrouded in some mystery. Most accounts trace it back to 1950s rural Quebec, where different towns claim to have invented the hearty combo of fries, cheese curds and gravy. The first recorded mention of “poutine” was in 1959 in Drummondville, but referred to a stew rather than the poutine we know today.

Poutine in its familiar form likely originated in the Centre-du-Québec region in the late 1950s or early 1960s. In 1964, La Petite Vache restaurant in Warwick began selling fries, curds and sauce under the name “poutine.” It started gaining popularity in the 1970s in nearby Victoriaville.

Soon poutine made its way to Montreal. Various local diners and greasy spoons in the city claim to have been the first to serve poutine in Montreal in the 1970s, including La Banquise, L’Gros Luxe on Mont-Royal, and La Paryse on Ontario Street.

By the 1980s, poutine had become a popular snack across Quebec, available at casse-croûtes, cantines and family restaurants. It was even on the menu at McDonald’s and Burger King locations in the province by the end of the decade.

The first Montreal restaurant exclusively dedicated to poutine, Chez Claudette, opened downtown in 1987. It became so popular that huge lines would often stretch around the block daily.

Over time, poutine has evolved from a simple rural dish into an iconic Quebec creation, celebrated both for its crave-worthy flavor and as a symbol of Quebec’s cultural identity.

The Many Variations of Montreal Poutine

While the basic ingredients of fries, cheese curds and gravy remain at its core, poutine has branched out creatively since its early days. Here are some must-try variations you can sample at this year’s Poutine Fest:

• Classic: The OG poutine allows the simple ingredients to shine through. A perfect classic has crispy fries and creamy curds drenched in rich, salty gravy.
• Italian: This adds meatballs or spicy sausage and warm marinara sauce. Sprinkle on parmesan for extra flavor.
• Mexican: Spice it up with ground beef, salsa, jalapeños, guacamole and sour cream for a tasty Tex-Mex twist.
• Pulled Pork: Smokey, sweet pulled pork and BBQ sauce lend this a delicious flair.
• Lobster: Luxurious chunks of lobster meat and butter bring decadent richness.
• Jalapeño Popper: Mix cheese curds with creamy cheddar and top with crispy jalapeños for a loaded nacho vibe.
• Breakfast: Eggs, bacon, sausage and hollandaise sauce transform it into a hearty morning meal.

The possibilities are nearly endless! Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings and flavors.

Tips for Attending Poutine Fest

To make the most of Montreal’s ultimate poutine party, keep these tips in mind:

• Come hungry! Pace yourself so you can try poutines from several vendors without getting full too quickly. Split with friends.
• Wear casual, stretchy clothing. Leave the tight designer jeans at home.
• Bring small bills and change to make transactions easy for vendors.
• Have water or sparkling water between poutines to cleanse your palate.
• Ask for samples before ordering a full size, so you can test new flavors.
• Share photos of your poutines on Instagram and tag @poutinefestmtl to join fellow poutine lovers!
• Bring napkins, utensils and wet wipes to deal with messes.
• Dress appropriately for Montreal’s unpredictable summer weather with layers and rain gear.
• Make pit stops at rest areas with hand washing and bathrooms.

With the right preparation, you’re all set to indulge in Quebec’s iconic comfort food!

The Poutine Fest runs from July 19-30 at Montreal’s Old Port. Don’t miss Montreal’s tastiest festival celebrating this classic Québécois dish. Grab your stretchy pants and appetite to join the poutine frenzy this July! Your taste buds will thank you.