GOLD MEDALIST
PERFECT-10 POUTINE
THE RUSHTON
Some of Chouinard’s earliest memories of growing up in la belle province are of family excursions for poutine: “My dad would buy it for the whole family … we’d all dig in,” she says. The Rushton’s version of the Quebec staple is not exactly authentic — it’s topped with braised lamb and mushrooms — but Chouinard doesn’t mind. If she weren’t so mindful of her figure, this would be her regular dish of choice. Price: $12 740 St. Clair Ave. W., 416-658-7874
Click here to watch Chouinard pick her favourite poutine
SILVER MEDALIST
The Miller Tavern, 3885 Yonge St.
Lamb ragout smothered over fries and cheese is “definitely not what I grew up with … but the taste is really good,” she says. Were it not for being a bit salty, this would stand atop the podium. Price: $15.95
BRONZE MEDALIST
Poutini’s, 1112 Queen St. W.
“I like fancy, but I also like not fancy,” says Chouinard. And this simple layered poutine, with properly “squeaky” curds and smooth gravy comes closest to true Quebec poutine. Price: $8.84
PULLED PORK PARADISE
Smoke’s Poutinerie, 203 Dundas St. E.
From fancy to not fancy and back again, but the pulled pork poutine from Smoke’s tests well with Chouinard. The pork mixes well with the fries, she says. Price: $8.95
FOOTBALL FRIES
King Henry’s Arms, 9301 Yonge. St.
With shredded cheddar, gravy and bacon bits, “this one has a baked potato look,” says Chouinard. A solid bet for a Super Bowl–sized appetite. Price: $6.99