La Banquise, originally a small ice-cream shop, first opened its doors in May 1968. In fall of the same year, its founder, local fireman Pierre Barsalou, decided to transform the enterprise into a 24-hour snack bar. At the time it specialized in exceptionally good hot-dogs and great fries. Poutine first appeared on the menu at the start of the 80s and originally just two varieties were offered, classic and Italian. However, in response to repeated requests from very satisfied customers, the restaurant’s poutine varieties quickly multiplied. Today we offer no less than 25 different types of poutine. Today, La Banquise remains a family business. Mr. Barsalou’s youngest daughter Annie took over in the 1990s along with her partner Marc Latendresse. Together, they maintain both the tradition of quality and the excellent reputation of the La Banquise Restaurant. In summer 2006, La Banquise underwent major renovations and a much larger dining area was made available. 40 years on, La Banquise is now much more than a simple snack bar or poutine joint. Today it is also a warm, friendly venue where customers can enjoy micro-brewery beers, a complete menu du jour and excellent breakfasts. So here’s to you, our loyal customers, the night owls, the groups of friends, the workers, students, families and more, because all of you have contributed to shaping and enriching the success story that is La Banquise today. Many, many thanks.
At La Banquise, poutine lovers will find a legendary range of toppings, from classic to inventive, piled high on crispy fries with squeaky cheese curds and savory gravy. Generous portions and a lively, welcoming atmosphere make it a go to spot for sharing or a hearty solo bite, with options from traditional to bold specialty poutines and even late night hours. The line often moves quickly and the staff are friendly and efficient, keeping the energy high and the experience memorable in Montreal. A true Montreal staple, it delivers comforting, craveable food that hits the spot after a day of exploring.
One of the most popular poutine spots in Montreal. We tried the classique poutine, but found the gravy a bit too salty & the overall dish wasn't anything special-it felt a bit overrated. We went on Christmas Eve morning, & the atmosphere was warm & cozy. The restaurant is on a charming street, & the service was great-everyone was friendly. I wouldn't recommend coming just for the poutine (the menu is quite diverse, so it's worth trying other dishes & enjoying the small-town vibe.
Déçu de ma première expérience. J'en ai entendu parler depuis si longtemps & j'ai décidé de l'essayer. J'ai pris la poutine "la Mart" & ma conjointe a pris "la Rachelle". Ma poutine étais tiède en surface & froide à l'intérieur & celle de ma conjointe tellement chaude qu'elle s'est presque brûler la bouche.. Le fromage n'étais pas à la hauteur de la SUPPOSÉE "meilleure" poutine à Montréal, sérieusement j'en ai presque honte.
Excellent poutine! They have a variety of toppings. I was expecting more fries than toppings, but it was the opposite! I had the pulled pork with bacon & apples. It was loaded with gravy & curds throughout the dish. Absolutely delicious!
24/7 poutine. We had la classique & la Elvis & I loved the latter more because of the beef & mushrooms. The service was okay. They were very busy at this cozy & lively restaurant.
Dec 17, 2024
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Incredible poutine & that's coming from a Canadian. I ordered the Savoyarde poutine & it was so delicious & filling especially in the cold weather. Highly recommend you checking The Banquise out.
Excellent poutine...& so much choice! I would definitely go back to try others. Just beware that it's a bit heavy, but it helps build up your lipid layer to counteract the cold winter air, which is essential.
You can't visit Montréal without stopping by this protein spot! While the taste is good, what really sets this place apart is the incredible atmosphere. The people here are super welcoming, & the vibe is absolutely wild-in the best way possible. It's the kind of experience you just have to try for yourself. Come for the protein, stay for the energy!
Dec 11, 2024
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I like my poutine. Had to add extra bacon & mushrooms to make it what I wanted. They delivered for sure. Blonde beer is the closest one to lager they had. Good in house option. Salad was interesting. According to my companion it was unusual combination of sour vegetables & sweet apples. She didn't like it though ♂️ Edit: so, I talked to my companion & she pointed out a few flaws at this place. Firstly, it's packed right. Very little space to move around tables. Secondly, plates, menus, tables & tableware are super old, scratched beyond belief & overused. This place does not respect you like a client. Thirdly, serving size is huge & overflows. The food is literally falling off your plate. It's like they refuse to update their tapestry. Lastly, who the hell serves beer in a plastic cup? Bruh.
male host with long curly hair had an attitude with almost every guest (maybe he was having a bad day). service was very nice & food was so quick & delicious. this place definitely lives up to the standards! & you get so much for the price you pay. there was a line, as expected for the quality but it was quick & so worth the little wait time! RECOMMEND!!!
