L'Outaouais au Menu culinary festival returns

Tashi Farmilo

Outaouais Tourism has announced the return of L'Outaouais au menu, a culinary event that will celebrate its second edition this fall. Following the success of its inaugural run last year, the gastronomic experience is set to run for three weeks, from October 31 to November 16, with events taking place from Thursday to Saturday evenings.

Geneviève Latulippe, President and CEO of Outaouais Tourism, expressed excitement for this year’s edition, highlighting the event's role in promoting local gastronomy and boosting tourism during the region’s off-season. “Our team is thrilled to be able to present L'Outaouais au menu for a second consecutive year. The event generated significant interest last year, helping showcase local products and restaurants while attracting new customers,” said Latulippe. “Tourisme Outaouais is delighted to continue its collaboration with the region’s restaurateurs to offer this culinary experience.”

The event will feature over twenty participating restaurants spread across the City of Gatineau, Petite Nation, Collines-de-l'Outaouais, and Vallée-de-la-Gatineau. Many establishments from last year are returning, while new additions have been welcomed into the fold, enriching the gastronomic diversity on offer. Each restaurant will present a three-course evening menu, specifically designed for the event. This year introduces two price points—$54 and $74 per person, before taxes and tips—allowing diners to choose based on their preference and the offerings of each establishment. The organisers aim to provide a range of culinary experiences, showcasing local ingredients and regional specialties.

One of the participating venues is The Squadra, located at 114, rue Montcalm in Gatineau. Francis Baribeau, the restaurant’s director, expressed enthusiasm for this year's event. "We’re thrilled to be part of L'Outaouais au menu again this year and look forward to welcoming both new and returning guests," Baribeau stated. The Squadra will be offering a specially curated menu that reflects the spirit of the event and highlights the best regional flavours. For more information on The Squadra and its offerings, diners can visit their website: lasquadra.ca.

Other notable venues include Blue Bird Market-Cafe in Chelsea and The Bistro Montebello, each offering distinct menus curated for the event. These establishments, located throughout the Outaouais region, reflect the diversity and richness of the area’s dining scene. From intimate bistros in Gatineau to charming countryside venues in Montebello and Chelsea, the event promises to cater to a variety of tastes and dining preferences.

Diners interested in attending can explore the menus and reserve tables directly through the event’s official website: www.outaouaisaumenu.ca