Best Poutine in Kingston

When searching for the best poutine in Kingston, the options are plentiful and irresistible. There are dozens of restaurants, fast food chains and chip trucks offering some form of Canada’s signature dish on their menu, however Kingston boasts only one true poutinerie specializing in all things fries, cheese curds and gravy. The gut busting menu at Smokes has over twenty heaping varieties of poutine ranging from vegetarian to Mexican and pulled pork topped variations. In spite of Smokes’ solid reputation amongst the late night set, debates regarding the best poutine in Kingston often point to another, longstanding deep fry bonanza. Bubba’s has two popular locations in downtown Kingston alone, both of which serve up traditional and Italian-style poutine in not so environmental, but totally practical styrofoam containers. Beyond the greasy hangouts after last call, high end establishments such as le Chien Noir also tempt diners with their own recipe which happens to be well appointed with shredded duck confit and green peppercorn-cognac jus. With only a handful of the best local options in mind, this week’s poll asks:

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When it comes to the best poutine in Kingston, I gravitate towards traditional offerings, which consist of delicious fries topped with real cheese curds and gravy. It helps if those fries are hand cut, with skins on and perfectly seasoned. As basic a formula as traditional poutine is, many establishments have gotten it wrong over the years thanks to the use of shredded cheese, poorly made brown sauce that fails to substitute as gravy and the list goes on. Of course, lousy fries can also be a deal breaker, due to measly shoestrings, over-sized wedges or awkward waffle variations. That said, I once rejoiced when I discovered a rogue onion ring in the midst of my Bubba’s order; an unexpected and delicious treat.

Poutine has become such a staple in Canadian culture, that the American import Five Guys are now trying their hand at making Canada’s national dish.  McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Burger King and Harvey’s have all included poutine on their menus, and as soon as Tim Horton’s starts serving fries, it will only be a matter of time until they start poutinizing things. What ingredients and elements are essential to you when ordering poutine? Better yet, which local spot to you think makes the best poutine in Kingston?

Photo Credit to Mitch.