Poutine Week 2013

The first week of February was the first edition of Poutine Week, where 30 participating restaurants served their most creative poutine and the customers vote for the best poutine. Sadly, I didn't go wild and tried all of them. For me, a poutine consists of three main components: potato fries, brown gravy and cheese curd.

The Syrian poutine and the Real Hangover Poutine were definitely my Top 2. Which poutine is the crème de la crème? I can't decide since both of them have the essential of a poutine with unique and creative flavours. Here are my thoughts on each one of them.

Syrian Poutine at Tazah - Beautifully presented and unique poutine,soft potato fries, fresh herbs, subtle and aromatic brown gravy sauce. Replicates well the flavours of Mediterranean cuisine.

Lamb Shank, Syrian Cheese Akkawl, Pomegrenade, Garlic, Parsley, and Lemon Juice

The Real Hangover Poutine at Burger Bar Crescent - A pleasant truffle oil smell is noticeable when the poutine arrived on the table. Crispy fries, subtle gravy blends well with the sautéed mushroom and the gooey egg yolk. I can definitely

Potato Fries, Cheese Curd, Brown Sauce, Sauteed B.C. Wild Mushrooms, Truffle Oil and Fried Egg

Pulled Lamb Poutine at Miss Prêt à Manger - An all-organic poutine, tender lamb gravy contrast well with the floral garnish. Delicate gravy sauce with herbs and spices used are distinguishable.

Pulled Lamb Poutine - Yukon Gold, Sweet Potatoes, Cheese Curds, Lamb Shank, Jus Gravy, Edible Floral Garnish

Breakfast Poutine at Fabergé - I'm not sure if I can consider this as a poutine since hollandaise sauce and brown sauce are two distinct mother sauce. I see this so-called poutine as a full breakfast meal in a bowl. I have to say that the hash brown were well roasted and crispy, nicely caramelized bell peppers and onions, properly made hollandaise sauce with a nicely poached gooey egg.

Poached Egg, Hash Brown, Caramelized Onion and Bell Peppers,Cheese Curd, Hollandaise Sauce

Lola Poutine at Lola Rosa Park - An all-vegetarian poutine consists of a thick black bean and mushroom gravy served with a mix of crispy potato and sweet potato fries.

Lola Poutine - Potato and Sweet Potato Fries, Black Bean and Mushroom Gravy and Chives

Italian Sausage Poutine - This is probably the poutine that I was less impress. The sausage was served as a whole piece instead of cutting it into bite-size. The veal gravy was ordinary, caramelized onions and bell peppers were slightly off in the seasoning.