The Cochon Dingue: A Review

When I was in Quebec City I was looking for a fabulous place for breakfast. I was hoping to try Sunday brunch at the Chateau Frontenac, but it was not being offered (due to start in mid-September). I debated between two spots the Cochon Dingue (46, boulevard Champlain) and the Clocher Penché. I finally opted for the former because they have a few restaurants in the Quebec City area and the menu seemed to have a greater variety. I went to the Champlain location and opted to eat outdoors and do some people watching. The service was prompt and very friendly. I debated on what to order before settling on the Délicieuse du Terroir which included French crêpe stuffed with duck, leek and onions served with hollandaise sauce, cranberry French toast, poached egg (1), and fried potatoes with onions. When the dish was served I realized I should have asked for hollandaise sauce on the side as it makes the crepe soggy. The filling of the crepe was tasty, the poached egg was sublime, and the potatoes were warm and crisp. However, I was disappointed with the French toast as it was soggy and the accompanying maple ‘cream’ resembled cold diluted maple syrup mixed with a dash of cream. It was not very good and felt that the my dish was mediocre at best.  The saving grace was the bowl of cafe latte that was included in the price of the meal.  The restaurant also offers unlimited filtered coffee, or a mug of authentic hot chocolate instead.  While I didn’t love the food I was served I did get to check out what other customers were ordering and I think all is not lost. A lady next to me ordered the Good Start dish that arrived with heaps of fresh fruit, cottage cheese, toasted English muffin, and a poached egg. It looked delicious and she seemed quite content.  Additionally, a young girl had their Early Morning Poutine and also seemed very satisfied. Overall, I recommend this place due to its accessible locations and hours (they open at 8AM on week-ends), menu variety, and strong service.  Just chose wisely and ask lots of questions about how the meal is prepared.

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