Ashton Poutine Arrives in Montréal: A Taste of Quebec City in the Heart of the City

For years, poutine enthusiasts in Montréal had a recurring dream: to enjoy a genuine Ashton experience without leaving the island. That dream has finally become a reality. The legendary chain, famous for its roots in the Capitale-Nationale region, has officially opened its first location on the island of Montréal, and the reception has been nothing short of electric.

The Perfect Location: Complexe Desjardins

Strategically positioned in the food court of Complexe Desjardins, right in the vibrant heart of the Quartier des spectacles, Restaurant Ashton Montréal is perfectly placed to attract both office workers and tourists. On opening day, the buzz was palpable, with long lines forming well before noon, proving that the craving for this specific style of poutine transcends city borders.

For many, the attraction isn’t just the food, but the nostalgia. With many employees from the Mouvement Desjardins headquarters in Lévis working at the Montréal complex, the restaurant serves as a delicious bridge between the two cities.

What Makes Ashton Poutine Stand Out?

In a city as competitive as Montréal—the poutine capital of the world—Ashton isn’t relying on its name alone. The secret to their success lies in an uncompromising commitment to freshness. Unlike many fast-food alternatives, Ashton prides itself on a “zero frozen” policy:

• Hand-Cut Fries: Prepared fresh on-site every single morning.
• Fresh Daily Cheese: Ensuring that signature “squeak” in every bite.
• House-Made Sauce: A proprietary recipe that delivers the authentic flavor of Quebec City.

Whether you are ordering the classic poutine or the fan-favorite sausage poutine, the verdict from early visitors is unanimous: “It tastes just like it does in Quebec City!”

A Growing Empire: From La Banquise to New Horizons

The expansion of Ashton into Montréal is a strategic move by owners Émily Adam and Jean-Christophe Lirette. The duo is no stranger to the Montréal food scene, having acquired La Banquise, one of the most iconic poutine institutions in the city, back in 2023.

This opening at Complexe Desjardins is just the beginning. The chain, founded in 1969, continues to grow rapidly. With 24 branches already in operation, Ashton has plans to further expand its footprint by the end of the year, with new openings scheduled for Saint-Georges and Saguenay.

Plan Your Visit

If you’re looking for a quick, high-quality meal in downtown Montréal, head over to the Complexe Desjardins food court. For those who prefer dining at home, online ordering and delivery services are set to launch soon, making it easier than ever to satisfy your poutine cravings.

Want to explore more of the best eats in the city? Check out the Tourisme Montréal guide to discover the culinary gems of the Quartier des spectacles.