CORNWALL, Ontario – What do you get when you combine crispy French fries, deep brown gravy and squeaky cheese curds with a couple of local nuts?

It’s Poutine Love, of course, brought to you by the Taste Buds!

Poutine Love is a 10-day event, running from May 18 to 27, where participating local restaurants put their unique spin on a traditional Canadian classic.  Local foodies, poutine lovers and anyone with an empty stomach are encouraged to try as many local poutine options as possible and vote for their favourite at www.yourlocaltastebuds.ca.

“Wake up and smell the Poutine!  For breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack in between, we encourage you to get out and support these local restaurants. Whether it’s by yourself or with a group of friends going on a Poutine Tour, trying as many as you can.  Don’t forget to vote for your favourite at www.yourlocaltastebuds.ca and share your experience with us on Facebook & Instagram @yourlocaltastebuds” – Patrick Larose, Taste Buds Co-Founder.

Participating local restaurants include: plus 4 new taste bud event participants

• Schnitzel’s European Flavours
• ESCA
• Tilly’s Eatery and Delicatessen
• The New Pitt
• Chef in a Bun
• Wedges
• Seguin Patate
• Carrot & Dates
• King George
• Billy K’s

“We are so incredibly excited to revive this event after a long hiatus.  It’s been a rough couple of years for everyone, and the restaurant industry took a big hit. We want to do everything we can to make sure these restaurants get the spotlight they deserve and what better way to do that than with a crowd favourite, Poutine Love. Let’s get fat together!” – Matthew Girgis, Taste Buds Co-Founder.

The Taste Buds have also added a new face to their team.  After spending 20+ years in the restaurant industry, Justine has shifted to a new career.  However, she will continue to support local restaurants with her expertise through the Taste Buds events.

“I’ve worked with the Taste Buds team in the past on many events as a restaurant participant. With lifelong hospitality and food and beverage experience, I bring a different dynamic to the team! I’m excited to connect with the community again, and see what creative and downright deliciousness the restaurants have to offer this year! Bring on the POUTINE LOVE!” – Justine Viray-Levac, the newest Taste Bud.

Poutine Love is proudly sponsored by Cornwall Tourism.