Poutine Week kicks off its second year in Montreal February 1st

MONTREAL – When the weather outside gets frightful, most Montrealers know which comfort food will warm their bellies.

Even though you can find poutine all across Canada, there’s no denying, the best combination of cheese curds, fries and gravy can be found right here in Quebec.

While everyone has their own opinion of which casse-croûte has the tastiest poutine, now there’s a contest to crown the best of the best.

The second annual Poutine Week kicks off February 1, where 30 different “poutineries” around the city will be pushing the limits to win the hearts and arteries of Montreal poutine-lovers.

READ MORE: Poutine makes its debut as pizza topping

All week, fans get the opportunity to rank their favourite poutines online.

At the end of the contest, the votes are tabulated and one restaurant claims bragging rights of Montreal’s “best poutine.”

The co-founder of Poutine Week, Na’eem Adam, believes all Quebecers have gravy flowing through their blood.

“It’s the gravy that keeps us together and I love that about Montreal,” said the foodie, known for his blog Le Mechant Mangeur.

While maintaining the foundation and original ingredients, chefs have the opportunity to get creative with the traditional dish.

READ MORE: Poutine flavoured pop?

“People were getting lazy with their comfort food. Maybe too comfortable. I wanted to stir that pot and give chefs and fans a chance to try a whole new level of poutine.”

Restaurants like Imadake Izakaya, Chez Boris, Miss Pret a Manger, Ice House and La Banquise will be among the many involved this year.

Last year Poutineville took home the prize for their original General Tao poutine dish.

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Adam and his partner Thierry Rassam cultivated the “food-festival” in Montreal but have now brought it to different cities in Canada, including Toronto, Ottawa and Quebec City. 

The founders are hoping the popularity grows enough to eventually make February 1 a “National Poutine Day.”