Ange and the sweet springtime at the Bistreau d’érable

Spring has finally officially sprung! A visit to the sugar shack is the perfect way to celebrate the return of fine weather and enjoy the best of our local produce.

I admire people who dare to revisit the classics in their own way, and at Bistreau d’érable, it’s definitely a success! It’s the perfect blend of tradition and modernity, with organic certification and a focus on promoting local products.

Le Bistreau d’érable is in Ste-Lucie-de-Beauregard, in the heart of the magnificent Parc des Appalaches, not far from Mont Sugar Loaf. Cross a covered bridge, and let yourself be carried along the path through a forest and then a maple grove before arriving at the pretty wooden cabin where you can feel the festive atmosphere even before you enter.

On the porch, colourful wooden chairs invite you to sit back and enjoy the moment, while outside you can hear the music, the lively discussions and the laughter inside. Then, as you open the door, the sound of the accordion draws you into another world and a mixture of delicious aromas wafts through the air.lange of delicious aromas, sweet, savoury and spicy, are already making our mouths water.

The large tables covered with gingham tablecloths, the rustic-looking plank walls and the light fittings created by Noémie (the co-owner) using old syrup braids add a personal charm to the place! Take a seat in these warm surroundings and start with a refreshing mimosa terroir made with sparkling cider and elderberry juice, followed by a delicate woodland sparkling wine from Domaine Acer (made from maple sap, to be thematic).

The generous menu features a dozen dishes made entirely in-house. Pea soup, homemade bread, cretons, crispy ears, beetroot and apple salad, tourtière and fruit ketchup, coleslaw, maple smoked ham, omelette, hash browns, bines, pancakes in syrup and maple verrine, a real feast!

They take the time to explain each course, mentioning where the carefully selected products come from, giving neighbouring producers a chance to shine, and adding to the conviviality of the place. Nothing is generic at Bistreau d’érable; each dish has its own story to tell, and you can really feel the spirit of the community coming together.