La Souche Limoilou - Québec

The atmosphere at this restaurant was charming and inviting, but unfortunately, my experience was marred by the extremely rude server. My mom's wine had turned bad, and although she never usually sends things back, I encouraged her to do so since she couldn't even drink it. The server's reaction was so harsh that it almost made her cry and embarrassed her over a minor issue. Additionally, the food was disappointing and none of us enjoyed it. I ordered the vegan poutine, but I would recommend going to Poutine Ville if you're in search of a better poutine.

We chose to dine at this restaurant based on the positive reviews on Happy Cow, which mentioned good vegan options and a vegan poutine with vegan cheese. Unfortunately, when we arrived, the vegan poutine did not have any vegan cheese. The only other item on the menu marked as vegan was the onion rings, but they were served with a honey dip, which was disappointing. Despite this, we found the poutine to be delicious even without the cheese, thanks to the flavorful sauce. The beer was also tasty. (This review has been updated from a previous review posted on August 12, 2023.)

The vegan cheese alternatives usually come grated and melt in the sauce. Not at La Souche! They have their own homemade poutine cheese made with large chunks of marinated tofu that enhances the experience of a good squick-squick poutine. Topped with shallots and the option to add kimchi on top, it fills you up completely. As a bonus, their beers are excellent and they have a nice little terrace with wooden logs as stools. It's a good thing this restaurant isn't right across from my place, or I'd be there all the time!

I have to mention that the poutine at this restaurant currently has the most delicious vegan cheese curds I have ever tasted. Vegan cheese curds can be difficult to get right, often having a texture that is off and lacking the slight bitterness of good dairy cheese curds. However, La Souche has exceeded expectations with their homemade, tofu-based curds. If you're a vegan missing out on good poutines or simply want to try an exceptional one, you musts try this one.

Although the vegan options are limited, the ones offered are excellent. I had the seitan burger with vegan poutine on the side (which was very generous by the way!) and it was delicious. There are several beer choices (and a cider) that will satisfy all tastes, even for people like me who don't usually enjoy beer. I appreciated that there was a shop right next to the restaurant where you could buy their canned beers.