Three elements are imperative in the making of a great poutine: crispy fries, rich, flavourful gravy, and oozy cheese curds. Not only have the places on this list mastered the cheese-and-gravy combo, some have even put their own unique spin on this French Canadian classic. Jerk chicken poutine, anyone? C’est magnifique!
The folks at the Crooked Goose are so into poutine that they’ve created an entire section dedicated to it on their menu! That’s good for us, because they have some of the best classic poutine in Victoria. Their fries are always crisp and the cheese is always warm and gooey. The best part about their poutine, though, is the amount of meaty flavour they get into their gravy. It’s simply divine. Stick to the usual or mix it up a little by adding their slow-braised pulled pork or bacon and blue cheese.
If you’re searching for the best pulled pork in town, you have to check out Pig. These guys do right by pork. Their meat is smoky, sweet, fall-off-the-bone delicious. Throw some of their amazing pulled pork on crispy fries, top it off with a hot gravy and cheese, and you have the best Pulled Pork Poutine in the city. Added bonus? Pig’s poutine is a full meal by itself – no sides or burger required.
La Belle Patate doesn’t get much recognition because many locals haven’t even heard of it. But they should! They’re dishing up authentic Quebecois poutine right here in Victoria. They have over a dozen different styles to choose from aside from the classic gravy-and-cheese. For a spicy kick, try their Charlie Special. Trade secret: go on a Tuesday, bring a friend along, and grab two spectacular poutines for only $9.75!
Have you ever wanted to order poutine for breakfast, but you didn’t want to be ‘that person?’ Never fear! Spoons has you covered with James’ Breakfast Poutine. Crispy, deep-fried potatoes tossed with bacon, mushrooms, caramelized onions, and cheese curds and then smothered in gravy and chipotle hollandaise sauce. All the greasy, cheesy, crispy goodness without the side of guilt. Good morning, indeed.
While you’re wandering among the many shops on Government Street, make sure you take a quick break for a Guinness at the Irish Times Pub. This authentic Irish pub offers a multitude of genuine fare from Ireland as well as their own twist on Canadian classics. Their Irish Poutine is an unbelievably rich combination of bacon, cheese curds, Guinness cheddar cheese, and their house-made gravy. Although the pub claims otherwise, we certainly think a bottle or two may have made their way into the gravy. Try it yourself and see if we’re wrong!