Gourmet’s Pleasures

The best of country-style dining

In a picturesque country setting, a warm and friendly atmosphere prevails... mouth-watering fragrances do justice to the warm hospitality. Exquisite dishes on elegantly set tables await all fortunate guests. Stunning scenery coupled with a delectable culinary experience make dining in the countryside as great as an event as anywhere in Quebec.

Menu regional fare

What exactly is a "Table champêtre" or "country-style dining"? First, only the finest Quebecois ingredients are selected to flatter the palettes of the most demanding connoisseurs. Authentic, varied and polished produce reflect the colours and traditions of the region.

Bison and rabbit are celebrated in the Laurentians in the same manner that red deer, salads and Knowlton duck are in the Eastern Townships. Top it all off with a fine wine and voila! In the Charlevoix region, lamb and trout are prepared in a multitude of ways and garnished with the freshest market produce. Renowned for its chocolate and apples, the Montérégie region also specializes in duck, pheasant or quail. And don’t forget ostrich : a medallion with onions -- simply divine! Also, the ’’one-egg’’ omelette -- a true challenge!

Quality above all

Country-style dining is, in essence, a guarantee of quality. Managed by the Agricotours du Québec Federation, the Tables champêtres are now a registered trademark. There are currently 24 accredited locations around the province. To offer "country-style dining," as opposed to offering a regular country meal, is to assure the quality of hospitality, location and meal. "Quality, taste, originality, surprise, variety, friendliness and sharing is what you can expect," says Anne Marchard, spokesperson for the federation. Is that your stomach we just heard rumble?

Guillaume Rivard
Photos: Photos: Fédération des Agricotours du Québec
2009-08-25