One of my favourite things about driving down the Gaspesie peninsula is how many options are available to try food that is grown, produced, or prepared locally. Be sure to take the time to stop and taste at these local stop for an authentic experience of what the region has to offer and pick-up some picnic provisions! Here is a food guide to the best food stops:
Locally Grown Produce
If you are in season (July), then make sure to stretch your legs by going raspberry picking. Les Framboisier Lepage (864, rue Bellerive, Sainte-Anne-des-Monts) have lovely fields with a beautiful view of the Saint-Lawrence river. Organic, ripe raspberries make the perfect (and healthy) snack to munch on while driving down the coast. For a different take on local produce, Gaspesie Sauvage is known for their cultivation of mushrooms and other wild products.
Freshly Brewed Beers
You will find excellent beer at any of the microbreweries in the area, there is a convenient local guide outlining the different ones in the Eastern part of Quebec (and new ones are always popping up!). Personally, I would head to Pit Caribou ( 182 route 132 ouest, Percé) as they have a tasting room in downtown Percé. It’s the perfect place to end a day visiting the charming town and making a trio to Bonaventure island. For my more information on the local breweries and the guide check out my post!
Ethically-sourced Fish and Seafood
Matane shrimps are known for their small size with a sweet and delicate flavour. They are also free from nitrites. Drop by Poissonerie Boréalis (985 Avenue du Phare O, Matane) to pick up a container. I like to eat them in a salad or mixed with mayo in a bread bun. For a different take on fish and seafood, stop at Atkins et Frere (1 rue Chanoine-Richard, Mont Louis). The product being showcased is undoubtedly the locally sourced smoked salmon. But that is not the only product for sale, I was intrigued by the smoked mussels and other white fish (mackerel, cod). If you cannot make your way to Mont Louis, then you can still sample their products with a store in Montreal (1217 Avenue Mont-Royal Est).
Artisanal Foods
The cheese at Fromagerie du Littoral (200 Rte 132, Baie-des-Sables) is locally made from cows that are raised by the owners. They offer fromage frais, classic cheddar, and an aged cheese. I am always partial to older cheese, so I recommend the aged cheddar. Another great addition, especially for the BBQ during the summer months are the sausages found at Les Cuisines Nicolas (1359, route 132 Ouest, Cap-d’Espoir). Forget about your Italian sausages and get ready to enjoy creative flavours. I was instantly hooked on the combination of foie gras, pear and apple cider.
Sweet Treats
I believe no meal is ever complete without a dessert to close. I recommend picking up a bag of caramel popcorn at Pâtisserie-boulangerie MARIE4poche (111 Boulevard Ste-Anne Ouest, Sainte-Anne-des-Monts) for a sweet treat that is easy to share with your fellow travel mates. They also have baked goods if popcorn is not your thing. Make sure to check out my guide to the best dessert stops for more options!
