© la banquise Behind its unassuming façade, La Banquise has been a true Montreal institution since May 1968. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, this iconic spot is always bustling. Tourists, students, and night owls flock here at all hours for one simple reason: to enjoy a generous plate of poutine, Quebec’s signature dish that warms the soul just as much after a long night out as it does in the depths of a freezing winter.
The star of the menu: poutine
For the uninitiated, poutine is made of crispy fries, topped with rich brown gravy and garnished with cheese curds, that famous “squeaky” cheese that makes a sound when you bite into it. Born in the 1960s, this humble dish has become inseparable from Quebec’s identity, and La Banquise has played a huge role in spreading its reputation well beyond Canada’s borders.
From snack bar to culinary legend
When it first opened, La Banquise only served hot dogs and fries. But it wasn’t long before poutine took over, and the menu grew richer and more inventive. Today, you’ll find over thirty variations, ranging from the classics to the wildly extravagant. Among them are the Elvis Poutine (ground beef, mushrooms, green peppers, and onions) and the mighty T-Rex (ground beef, pepperoni, bacon, and sausage), true calorie bombs that attract hungry diners seeking indulgence.
The fame of La Banquise has crossed international borders. It has been featured in countless travel guides and even welcomed Anthony Bourdain during one of his TV shows.
My experience at La Banquise
For me, La Banquise has become an almost mandatory stop whenever I host friends in Montreal. The portions come in two sizes, but the regular size is more than enough, thanks to their trademark generosity. Personally, I often go for the T-Rex or the Fred Caillou, two hearty meat-lovers’ options.
As for the taste, the fries are golden and flavorful, but some of the other ingredients lack refinement: meats are often overcooked and of average quality. It’s not a place I’d recommend for fine dining, but rather for the unique experience it offers. The atmosphere is lively, rustic, and communal, tables are close together, conversations overlap, and the vibe is unapologetically casual.
© Lord Eurel