The Côté Est restaurant in Kamouraska was crowned the big winner of the seventh edition of the Aliments du Québec au menu restaurateur prize. The distinction, which reflects an exceptional commitment to promoting local products and the richness of the Quebec region, was presented recently during the presentation of the celebrations surrounding the 10th anniversary of the competition, in Longueuil.
This recognition highlights Côté Est’s unique and immersive approach, which combines regional flavors and culinary creativity. “The real victory is feeling surrounded by a common mission, that of promoting local products,” says Perle Morency, co-owner of Côté Est, founded in 2012 with her partner, chef Kim Côté.
“Côté Est celebrates the unique flavors of Bas-Saint-Laurent, in harmony with the natural wealth of Kamouraska between coastline, agricultural land and forest. Thanks to close partnerships with local producers, the restaurant offers dishes that reflect the diversity of the terroir, from seed to plate. Through a varied offering that includes a gourmet refreshment bar, a summer canteen, an artisan boutique and culinary experiences combining foraging and gastronomy, the Côté Est ecosystem offers an immersive experience, where each dish becomes an encounter with know-how. make it local. This restaurant embodies passion, creativity and the excellence of regional flavors,” we read in the description of the restaurant presented by Aliments du Québec on the menu.
“Côté Est is a remarkable example from which the entire industry can learn. Putting Quebec on the plate is the best way to support our producers and processors,” notes Mathilde Laroche-Bougie, manager of the Aliments du Québec au menu program.
A challenge taken up with passion
The challenges of sourcing local products — including the money and time involved — are great, but Perle Morency believes the effort is worth it. “There is an element of risk in choosing different products, but it is also a rewarding process. Participating in consumer education and cultivating a taste for local flavors is energy-intensive, but essential work,” explains the woman for whom the objective goes beyond the plate.
“It’s about food sovereignty. This does not mean giving up products from elsewhere, but rather offering consumers the priority choice of local products. We can never do without coffee, chocolate or olives, but what is important is to be able to choose local products first before turning to those from elsewhere. This is what would allow us to ensure real food security, while strengthening our culinary identity,” she explains. This vision clearly illustrates the balance sought between openness to the world and promotion of local wealth.
An inspiring recognition
This award is added to an impressive list of distinctions obtained by Côté Est over the years, from the Lauriers de la gastronomie to Aliment Québec. These honors, although appreciated, are not an end goal for Perle Morency. “I hope this will inspire other restaurateurs to join this mission to develop local products. »
Aliments du Québec also highlighted the efforts of the two other finalists of this edition: in Sainte-Adèle, the restaurant Recto Verso, and the Auberge des Glacis in L’Islet, under the direction of Nancy Lemieux.
