Flagship experience Gourmet discoveries

It’s my favorite aperitif restaurant. Period. As soon as I stepped onto the terrace, I knew I’d found one of the most beautiful spots in Quebec. A country atmosphere, incredible cocktails (allo la Panthère Rose!), and incredible tartars, pizzas and pastas. It’s a place where you feel good and want to come back again.

There’s nothing complicated about this Lebanese pita: it alone deserves a trip to Saint-Jean-Port-Joli. It really is! It’s the kind of simple, heartfelt food that tastes like real happiness. Then it’s on to Ras L’Bock for a platter of beers overlooking the river. Relaxed atmosphere, dreamy views, and a moment of freedom on your bike through the village streets… I can’t tell you how much I love this place!

It’s simple: I’ll be back every six weeks to taste Chef Ariel’s new creations. Every dish is a work of art, every wine and food pairing makes me say “that’s so good! The service is incredibly refined. Everything is well thought-out and mastered, but without pretension. I always come away a little amazed… and a little happier.

As soon as you walk through the door, you’re somewhere else. A little piece of Brittany in the heart of the village. I fell in love with the strawberry-caramel crepes, but also – against all odds – with the sausage and sauerkraut crepes! Brunch slowly, savor it and pick it up.

Psitt… Fleuraissance is right next door, and if the flowers are ready, it’s well worth the detour.

I come back here when I need a generous brunch that feels good. The field grilled-cheese with local bread, melting brie and onion confit… wow. And, in the evening, think of the foodtruck hidden behind – The BBQ chicken poutine? Just dirty enough. For real, I’m holding myself back from going twice a week.

Josiane always welcomes us with infectious warmth. While the kids play with the animals, we savor their decadent menu. Their smokehouse ribs – probably the best I’ve ever had. All this to the sound of a chansonnier, glass of cider in hand. It’s joyful, real and comforting.

We arrived with friends one summer evening. The beet pizza had just come out of the oven, the blueberry-basil lemonade was ice-cold, and the terrace was buzzing with happy people. Even the dogs were part of the party. We finished with a strawberry-maple butter ice cream. Really, if you haven’t been there yet? Go there!

I can still see myself picnicking under the trees, surrounded by free-roaming goats, with a plate of cheeses and a glass of cider in hand. Aagje and Gary always welcome us like friends. A word of advice: don’t leave without L’Agathe et la Faisselle. Everything here is gentle, humble and of rare beauty.

I never thought I’d fall in love with… a hot dog. But this one was something else. And then there’s Sylvie and Jacob: colorful, endearing, and their welcome is as generous as their plate. Their ranch is Yellowstone’s version of a gourmet 5 à 7. We came for the food… and came away conquered.

Between the music of the Pollux Band, the dishes of Chef Louis (who showcases over 70 local producers) and Audrey-Jade’s signature cocktails, there’s plenty to celebrate. And when the evening comes to an end, you go upstairs to bed in this old stone mill. The kind of place you want to stay in.

A fried chicken taco, a Mexican fry, a poutine pimpée just the way I like it, and a cold local beer. Portions? Huge. You can sit on their terrace or take it straight to the dock. I chose the river view at golden hour! Every bite… a real treat!

I could go there every week. This little delicatessen has everything: gourmet sandwiches, imported products, pastries, wines you can’t find anywhere else. The Alicia board is a work of art. And the service? It’s like they treat us like VIPs every time. It’s refined, with no fuss. I’m a little freaked out.